I really wish there was a one size fits all approach to working with brands, but there isn’t.

In fact the first year I started creating content I did work for free or on a gifted basis. I do think doing so allowed me to build relationships with brands and prove to them my value and affinity.

Working with brands often times means being in alignment with their values and products. For example I would really have a hard time trying to work with Home Depot if I only post content about thrifting or fashion.

Here are 3 things brands look for when working with influencers.

  1. Authenticity- Brands want to know that what you share is authentic, that the recommendations you give your audience in niche are valuable. They want to partner with those who genuinely care about and use their products. Think about it who can relay a message better than someone who is already using a product they would rather not partner with someone who just wants to get paid to post, you have to be able to convey why a brand should work with you.
  2. High quality content- This is a big deal and is something i discuss with brands often. Influencer marketing is growing rapidly and isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Which means there is a lot of content out there and really good content. Brands aren’t necessarily looking for perfection but they do like imagery and video that has good natural lighting. I’ll share at a later date the camera setting I use but keep this in mind and it also makes your Instagram page more appealing and interesting. This is how you stand out.
  3. Storytelling- Being able to communicate and convey a message is important especially when it comes to writing a caption and pitching an idea to a brand. Before you pitch to brands you should be able to keep your audience engaged with a good story or caption this could lead to them purchasing a product that you swear by! Brands sometimes ask me to share a recent caption I wrote in order for them to see that I can write effectively and clearly! I’ll share a pitch template soon so keep an eye out for it. I’ll be sure to share via stories and my newsletter so keep an eye out.

I will share more insight on content creating and other tips that will help you be seen this year as a creator and to hopefully land you paid collaborations.