The secret everyone wants to know, well, I'm here to tell you it's not a secret! It's really easy if you put in time and effort! This blog will simply be about how to get started as an influencer, I will publish another blog talking about how to get paid!
Now I'm in no way a huge influencer who lives off social media (maybe one day!), but I'm gonna share some tips and tricks on how to get started!
Don't be scared to put yourself out there by posting photos with a product, even if it's not an #ad. If you love something, share it! A lot of the time companies will look at photos they are tagged in. Always use hashtags that the company might use as well. Do some research on their page, take note of what they're looking for. And if you are in a location rather than using a product, tag the location on posts and stories. A lot of places will share your story on their story if you tag them!
Have a niche but don't stick to one thing. I like to mix things up so I have more opportunity to work with more companies! I like to focus on fashion, entertainment and interests. That way I can work with a clothing company but also a theme park.
Have an aesthetic. A lot of Instagram users are drawn to pleasing photos. You can find presets for as low as $5 on Etsy, and I've never had an issue with them! Play around and find something that works with your photos and style.
Now the fun part...working with companies. I used to be considered a part of something called "a Disney community" on Instagram posting nothing but Disney style, parks and merchandise. After a while I realized it wasn't for me and I wanted to focus on other aspects. I'm not saying Disney isn't for everyone. There are a ton of Disney influencers that are killing it! But I wanted to work with companies outside of Disney. Once I stopped posting Disney, so many doors opened. I got noticed by other companies like TOMS, Charlotte Russe, Fabletics, etc...I started using hashtags like #lifystyleblogger and #styleinspo, things like that which really helped me get found
It's very important to take collaboration offers ONLY from companies you actually want to work with. Don't do it because its free merch. That's not the point of influencing. Be genuine, not fake. People will be able to tell when you aren't in it for the pure joy of the item. If you do get a company that reaches out and you don't like what they are offering it's okay to say no. Be polite, tell them why. They wouldn't want someone to "use" them for their product, so don't. Also, if you have a funny feeling about a company, I'd go with your instincts. There are a lot of scams out there so be cautious! I usually ignore them or report them as spam. And never pay to work with a company. Ex: If the companies want you to post their product but you have to buy the product at a discounted price...no ma'am.
Don't be afraid to be yourself on your page. Swear a little, have a drink. We're all adults and companies know that. But be professional. Sometimes I have a hard time with this because I'm so outspoken but I've learned to tone it down because I want my brand to be taken seriously but I'm still my loud, salty self!
Bottom line; put in the work. Companies have social media reps that go out and look for influencers to work with and they will notice your efforts! Now depending on your following, companies will pay in product or money. We ALL start with products, that's what builds your page. Don't expect money at first. And you absolutely do not need to have the "K" by your number. I have seen some companies work with people who have 1,200 followers! Of course the bigger companies come with time and some of them only work with bigger accounts but we all started at bottom and can only go up!
Be on the lookout for a blog talking about charging and payment with companies! I'll also go over what is worth your time. Don't over do it if it's too much work or impossible to create.
Hope this helps friends! Don't be afraid to reach out on Instagram, @golden_aimeee, if you have more questions!
xoxo,
-Aimee
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