Who are informal opinion leaders?

• A. People with clout due to celebrity or special knowledge
• B. Government officials with formal authority
• C. Journalists and reporters who cover news
• D. Ordinary citizens with no influence

Answer: (A)

Informal opinion leaders are people who influence others without holding formal authority, typically because they have visibility, credibility, or expertise that others trust. Their influence comes from recognition within a community, whether they’re celebrities, recognized experts, or respected peers, and they often shape attitudes and behaviors through word-of-mouth, social media, or personal networks. In PR and media strategy, tapping into these figures can help spread messages more authentically because audiences see them as credible sources.

That’s why the best choice points to individuals with clout due to celebrity status or special knowledge. Government officials with formal authority rely on official channels rather than informal influence, journalists act primarily as information gatekeepers, and ordinary citizens with no influence don’t have the reach to sway opinions.