The Value of Follower vs. Question Rewards

In the age of social media and the internet, the concept of follower rewards and question rewards has gained significant traction. Both options provide different incentives, and the choice between them often reveals personal priorities and market value. This article explores the nuances of both options and the implications for individuals and businesses alike.

A Penny for Every Follower or a Dollar for Every Question? A No-Brainer

The question itself is straightforward: Would you rather have a penny for every follower you have or a dollar for every question you've answered? Let's consider a few examples to make the decision clearer.

For instance, if you have 11200 followers, you'd be looking at $112, which, in New York City, wouldn't even cover one nice dinner for a family of four. However, if you've answered 19400 questions, you'd be earning a much higher $19400. This stark contrast underscores the significant difference in reward potential.

Personal Experiences and Calculations

Let's dive into some personal experiences and calculations to bring the discussion to life.

For someone with 16 followers as of 21 May 2018, the calculation is simple: 16 followers x $0.01 $0.16, or 16p. In contrast, if they've answered 379 questions, then 379 questions x $1 $379, or ￡283. This makes the choice clear: $379 is a much more substantial sum.

Math and Real-World Examples

Calculating the values can sometimes be as daunting as it is enlightening. For instance, a person with 2299 followers might think they'd earn 22.99 dollars, but this is based on a follower count that includes decimals. In reality, 2299 followers x $0.01 $22.99, which is significantly less than the 1644 answers that bring in 1644 dollars.

As of today, with 3948 followers and 6366 answers, the ratio is almost half a follower per answer. Even if the ratio were parity, earning $1 per follower versus $1 per answer, the latter would still be the better option. This scenario highlights why the so-called 'attention economy' can be disadvantageous for many.

The Choice: Dollars or Dimes?

Many choose the dollar for every question for the simple reason that it yields a much higher return. For instance, with 605 answers, you'd earn 605 dollars, and with just one more answer, you'd hit 606! Such a sum could indeed provide a valuable supplementary income.

Market Dynamics and Personal Choices

It's crucial to consider the market dynamics and personal circumstances. As one respondent notes, almost nobody will have a favorable follower to answer ratio to the extent that they should choose the penny per follower option. This applies especially to those with 32 followers and 535 answers, where the latter clearly outshines the former.

For others, like those on platforms like Quora, the choice might be even clearer. Answering questions is often the easier and more reliable path to earning, compared to growing a following, which can be more challenging and less predictable.

Conclusion

In the balance of follower rewards versus question rewards, it's clear that the latter is often the more lucrative choice. This choice not only reflects on the value of individual contributions but also provides a stark insight into the economics of attention in the digital age. Whether you're a social media influencer or a content creator on platforms like Quora, understanding the value of your contributions can make a significant difference in achieving your goals and generating income.

TAGS: follower rewards, question rewards, attention economy