The role of social media influencers in shaping destination image and intention to visit Jordan: The moderating impact of social media usage intensity

Social media influencers have become important motivators in shaping tourist attitudes and behaviors. This study analyzed how exposure to influencer content impacts key outcomes for the destination Jordan. A survey of tourists who visited Jordan in the past 3 years measured their perceptions of influencer credibility, content quality, awareness/interest, trust/engagement, destination image, general tourism behavior, and intentions to revisit. Results of SEM analysis found significant positive effects of influencer marketing on both destination image and visit intentions. Awareness/interest and trust/engagement were most impactful, highlighting influencers' role in sparking early motivation. Content quality additionally predicted visit intentions by informing decisions. Perceived credibility made recommendations more persuasive. Furthermore, usage intensity positively moderated the mediated relationships, amplifying effects among heavy social media users. Findings provide theoretical validation of how influencers act as digital opinion leaders. By enhancing destination image through compelling portrayals, influencers shape audience travel interests and behaviors. Managerial implications suggest destinations should invest in influencer campaigns for reach and inspiration while ensuring content quality. Performance tracking informs optimal platform and demographic targeting. Overall, influencer marketing demonstrated significant persuasive appeal for potential tourists. This quantitative study pioneer’s measurement of influencer marketing's tangible impacts on key tourist metrics. The results empirically substantiate the ability of strategically leverage influencers to motivate visitation and guide decision-making. As practitioners refine partnerships for audience growth and branding, academic research must also advance a nuanced understanding of this emerging phenomenon at the confluence of social media and tourism consumer behavior.