Klout aims to be “the standard for influence” and they have the numbers to prove it.

Online influence and effectively measuring online influence has been a popular discussion since the social web was born. The buzz about the almighty Klout score is getting louder these days, and with good reason. Over 2,000 companies are using the startup’s API, which measures online influence across Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.  Chances are you’re using one or more of these social networks, so this important Klout update is for you.

Klout, one of the most popular names in online influence measurement, launched a new site. The company states, “The new site is the start of many features designed to put the control of your influence where it belongs — with you.”

New Klout Overview

1. Everyone has Klout: The new profile design provides enhanced insight into your Klout score and persona.

2. Compare Your Klout: Compare your Klout profile to more than 75 million other profiles scored by Klout.

3. Understand Your Klout: The improved analysis shows more relevant topic and influencer data and a clearer view of how your Klout is changing over time. Klout analyzes more than 3 billion relationships and 250 million pieces of content every day to accomplish this.

4. Use Your Klout: Your Klout should work for you.  Browse the showcase of perks to see the incentives awaiting.

5. Own Your Klout: Your influence should be in your hands. Klout is giving you control over the display of your influencers and who you influence, and you can expect even bigger features like these in the near future.

As brands become more educated on measuring online influence, Klout will become more important to people who want to work with brands.  Many tools of the trade incorporate Klout into their analysis, so it’s a good idea to become familiar with your Klout and develop a social media strategy that will help you raise your score.