The rise of social media has given content creators unprecedented opportunities to partner how to find brand deals. However, for beginners in the field, securing that first deal can feel like a daunting task. Understanding where to start and how to position yourself makes all the difference.
Build a Strong Portfolio
Brands want to see what you bring to the table. Your profile should reflect the type of content you produce, your style, and your niche. Focus on creating high-quality content that aligns with your target audience. Statistics show that 87% of marketers prioritize content quality when selecting influencers. A consistent posting schedule and cohesive feed can make your profile more appealing.
Highlight your engagement metrics. Data like average likes, comments, and shares per post is far more convincing than a large follower count alone. Micro-influencers, those with 10,000 to 50,000 followers, have engagement rates three times higher than macro-influencers, making them particularly attractive to brands.
Research and Identify Brands
Start by looking at brands that align with your niche and values. Beauty, fitness, and lifestyle niches typically attract brands keen on influencer partnerships. According to a survey by HubSpot, 89% of marketers find influencer marketing effective, making it a priority in their plans.
Explore smaller, more niche brands for the highest chance of success starting out. Large corporations often work with established creators, while smaller companies are more willing to take a chance. Tools like AspireIQ and Upfluence are designed to help influencers find brands actively seeking collaborations.
Maintain Professional Outreach
Your outreach matters. According to Influencer Marketing Hub, 68% of successful influencer partnerships begin with a personalized pitch. Craft a compelling email or DM introducing yourself, highlighting your niche, engagement rates, and what makes your audience unique.
Avoid generic pitches. Instead, mention why you’re excited to work with the brand and suggest a collaboration idea tailored to their goals. Demonstrating genuine interest and a clear understanding of the company increases your chances of landing the deal.
Leverage Existing Relationships
If you already have favorite products or services you use, consider reaching out to those companies. Authenticity is key, with 82% of marketers citing it as a critical factor in influencer collaborations. Documenting your organic experiences with a brand makes you a more trustworthy partner from their perspective.
The Key to First Success
Finding brand deals as a new content creator takes persistence, strategy, and focusing on quality over quick wins. By building a strong portfolio, identifying and approaching brands strategically, and presenting yourself professionally, you can unlock new opportunities and grow your career. Though it might seem challenging at first, the effort is worth the payoff.