Keep reading to know more how to get sponsored on Instagram even you are just getting started your Instagram journey.
4. Use hashtags and geotags.
Hashtags make your content more discoverable, so they’re necessary for growing your following. You can add up to 30 hashtags per post, but TrackMaven found nine to be the optimal number for boosting engagement.
You’ll want to use hashtags as relevant to your content as possible. Always check to make sure the hashtags you use aren’t broken or banned (take a look at this list of banned hashtags if you’re unsure).
You must choose hashtags that aren’t too broad. #Healthyliving, for example, has over 20,000,000 posts, while #healthylivingtips only has 13,000. The less competition, the easier it will be for your content to get discovered.
When you peruse a hashtag’s page, you can also get a deeper sense of what types of content your post will be up against. #Healthylivingtips might typically feature posts with food recipes, while your post is about cycling — this could defer you from using that hashtag.
Geotags are equally important, but for a different reason. Geotags can help people find you if they’re interested in a certain location. This helps you gain more followers, and it also helps you appeal to brands that are interested in reaching a certain demographic. For instance, maybe a boutique sees you often post fashion tips from the California area, and they’re looking to appeal to people in that region — it’s a win, win.
5. Tag brands in your posts.
Okay, now you’re ready to start reaching out to brands. You’ve defined your brand’s identity and your targeted audience and have created some quality, authentic posts. Now, you should have a pretty good idea of what types of businesses would benefit from a partnership with you.
It’s important to start small. If you’re interested in skincare, don’t go straight for Estee Lauder — instead, try tagging small skincare start-ups you’ve seen across Instagram already.
Let’s take a look at an example — @Tzibirita, a travel influencer, posted this image of herself wearing a Paul Hewitt watch. The image is high-quality and fits with her brand, and she tags @paul_hewitt in her description. Even if you’re not paid by Paul Hewitt, you can still post the same type of content and tag their brand in the post. Ideally, it will at least put you on their radar.
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You should start with small brands and tag them in your descriptions. Engage with your audience by reacting and responding to comments like “Where can I get one?” or “How much?” and the brand will soon realize that you’ve proven yourself a suitable sales partner.
6. Include contact information in your bio.
Consider your bio an opportunity to signal to brands your interest in becoming an influencer. Include an email or website so they can reach you, and include a press kit if possible.
For instance, @tzibirita doesn’t waste her bio space. She includes her email and website, and even adds a title — “content creator”. Brands will have no doubt she’s open to doing business with them.
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Furthermore, you should use a website or blog as your chance to expand on your brand and demonstrate your versatility. Think about adding a Press Page to your website, so brands can take a look at your services. Right when you begin sponsoring brands, you can add them to this page so brands can see you have influencer experience.
7. Pitch paid sponsorships.
There’s nothing wrong with reaching out to brands and offering your services. With the right pitch, you might be able to land some gigs without waiting for brands to find you.
Look for brands that spend their time and money to improve their Instagram presence. You might start by researching what similar influencers in your industry already sponsor. Remember, it’s okay to start small. Working with smaller brands will allow you to build a good portfolio and then have more chances to get sponsored.
Once you’ve curated a list of brands that might want to partner with you, send them an email. In your pitch, clearly and briefly outline to show who you are, what you do, and any achievements you have in the field that make you an expert. Then, explain why you’re suitable for the brand and include data such as follower count and average engagement rate.
Alternatively, you may think that you will send a brand a DM straight from Instagram. It’s certainly more relevant to the job you’re vying for, but it might get lost if a brand gets hundreds of DMs a day.