Instead of 'renting' influence from human creators, companies should build proprietary AI-generated virtual influencers. This AI persona becomes an ownable asset and a competitive moat, providing consistent and controllable brand representation without the high costs and risks of human influencers.

To avoid generic AI-generated illustrations, commission an artist for a single concept piece. Then, feed that unique artwork into an AI model like ChatGPT as a style reference. This combines human creativity with AI's iteration speed, producing a mascot that is both distinct and scalable into infinite variations.

The future of influencer marketing is not a binary choice between humans and AI. Brands will likely use a "1 out of 100" model: one real, authentic human influencer complemented by 99 AI-generated avatars whose intellectual property they fully control.

A personal brand has limitations in reach and appeal. Creating a universe of characters (IP) allows for the teaching of core values like patience or kindness to a broader audience, similar to how Jim Henson used the Muppets for social good.

The influencer economy is facing its own disruption from AI. Brands will soon leverage completely fictional, AI-generated personalities for marketing, which is a natural evolution from human influencers taking brand deals away from traditional Hollywood celebrities.

Owning the intellectual property of a well-known historical figure is a powerful asset. Use generative AI to "bring them back" as a virtual influencer. This character can create new content and engage modern audiences, but with the massive head start of pre-existing fame, authority, and credibility.

The next evolution of influencer marketing will be AI-generated personalities. These "fake people" will combine the durable appeal of intellectual property (like a Disney character) with the engagement model of a human influencer. This will create a new class of celebrity owned by companies and creators.

AI-generated personalities, owned by entrepreneurs, will become a legitimate business securing brand deals just like human influencers. Existing creators should adapt by learning to create their own AI characters to diversify their income streams and stay competitive.

Small companies that can't afford a full-time creator can use a consistent AI avatar as the face of their brand across all channels. This creates a recognizable personality and brand connection, much like a sports team's mascot.