That’s why this post is going to answer the questions every new influencer asks like, “What is a media kit for influencers?” “How do you make one?” and “Why do you need it?” I got you, boo.

We’ll be discussing what NOT to include in your content creator media kit template.

Ready? Let’s dive in!

P.S. All these tips are based on my personal experience and my Instagram influencer course students’ experiences with landing paid brand deals.

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Disclaimer: Hey explorer! This post contains affiliate links which means I earn a small percentage of each purchase made through my links. I only ever recommend products I believe in and appreciate your support if you decide to use my links—thank you!

What is an Influencer Media Kit + Example

A media kit for influencers is a professional document that influencers send to potential clients and brand sponsors.

A media kit will describe more about who the influencer is, their social media stats, and what previous clients they’ve worked with.

In other words, it’s an essential tool for pitching brands. Simple, right?

Below is a quick example of an influencer media kit.

The Media Kit Mistake Influencers Make

The real purpose of a media kit is to help you sell yourself to brands.

A media kit needs to convince brands to work with you.

Your media kit needs to highlight the ROI you can get sponsors when they work with you.

That’s why one-page media kits are a great start, but they’re not going to move the needle if you want to start landing bigger contracts (like 4 and 5-figures).

That’d why I love one-page media kits for beginners, but recommend something like a multi-page influencer media kit when you want to really get brands’ attention.

In the next sections we’ll talk about how to create an influencer media kit!

How to Create an Influencer Media Kit 

To create an influencer media kit, you need:

1. About Me Section
2. Stats Section
3. Clients Section
4. Audience Section
5. Photos and Work Examples

It doesn’t matter whether you’re making an Instagram influencer media kit, a TikTok media kit, a micro influencer media kit, or some other content creator media kit.

What should be included in your media kit is all relatively the same, give or take.

I’ll break that list of elements elements down now!

#1 The About Me Section

Of course, we want you to tell potential brand sponsors a little bit about who you are!

We just don’t wanna turn this into a 60 Minutes segment, k?

Here’s what to include in your about me section when thinking about how to create an influencer media kit.

• Your Name—Duh! What’s your name? Do you or your brand go by something different? For example, I’m Dani, but my brand name is Dani The Explorer.
• Your Home Base—This is more important than you might think—include where you’re based! Just let the brands know what city, state, or country you’re in.
• Your Contact Info—Include your primary social handle or email address—or both!

#2 Stats Section

Ahhhh, the coveted social media statistics section of the influencer media kit. Let’s dive in.

• Number of Followers—Include the number of followers you have on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, etc. Don’t include it if you don’t use a specific social media channel!
• Reach/ Views—Reach is the number of unique accounts that have seen your content at least once. If you do a lot of videos or create viral Instagram Reels, I’d put views in there too! Same with Instagram Story views!
• Engagement Rate—I know this is a concern with the Instagram algorithm, but engagement still matters! What percentage of your followers actually interact with your content? Calculate this as a percentage and put that in there too!
  • The Engagement Rate Formula I Use: (Post Likes + Comments + Saves + Shares) / Number of Followers

#3 Clients Section

I like to also provide a list of paid Instagram sponsorships in my influencer media kit.

This is great for showing social proof and building trust with brands!

• List of Clients—Who have you worked with in the past? Brands love to know!
• Services You Offer—What can you do for the brand?

P.S. You should check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#4 Audience Section

As an influencer, brands will pay you for access to your audience.

That means your audience should be their ideal customer. AKA, their target audience.

• Gender—Include the percentage of male and female followers.
• Age—How old are most of your audience? Age can play an essential role in buying power.
• Locations—Where is your audience located? Do they even have access to the brand’s products?

#5 Photos & Work Examples

Now I will cover some “beyond the basics” items that should be included in your influencer media kit.

• Photos—We want our media kit to look good, DUH. Therefore, you should include photos throughout your media kit!
• A Headshot—This is primarily for the bio section! What better way to introduce yourself than with a biiigggg smiling face?

Snag my secret weapon: My Influencer Starter Pack— pitch brands with confidence, and create content to grow a vibrant following!

How to Make an Influencer Media Kit

A popular way for folks to make a media kit is to use an app like Photoshop or Canva.

Essentially, you would want to decide on a design and plug in all of the above information.

So how in the heck are we supposed to take allllllll of this information and put it together? 

At this point, our press kit will be an autobiography—HA. JK. I got you. 

If you’re like me, you ain’t got TIME to sit there and learn how to make fancy documents in Photoshop. NOPE. NEXT. 

That’s why I love Canva. It’s like an online version of Photoshop but BETTER because it’s super user friendly, drag and drop style, customizable to your brand, and FREE.

If you don’t have an account already, I recommend creating one: Canva.com.

I personally have a premium Canva membership because I created a whole Dani The Explorer brand kit that has my graphics, colors, logo, hehehehe.

It’s $12.95 a month, which is worth it to me!

Insider Tip: Need help charging for sponsorships? Read my guide on How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts.

The Problem with Canva Media Kits

Now here is the thing: I would not recommend using one of Canva’s media kit templates.

They’re okay as a starting point if you’re completely lost, but honestly, they don’t cover nearly half of what we discussed in this blog. 

In other words, a pre-made template from Canva will not help you stand out amongst the saturation when you’re trying to work with brands. 

Insider Tip: If you use the pre-made Canva kits, your media kit will end up looking like the thousands of other influencers who used the same free templates—ew!

The Influencer Media Kit Template That Works

So if you want a done-for-you, 100% customizable media kit made the right way, grab my 6-page influencer media kit template inside my Influencer Starter Pack. 

This media kit is going to help you sell your services to brands, save time designing one (especially if you’re not design savvy), AND will help you turn brands into paying clients.

It’s the same template me and my students use to pitch brands with confidence!

It includes EVERYTHING we just discussed, is entirely customizable on Canva (so you get easy drag and drop edit features), AND includes fill-in-the-blank copy too! 

What a Media Kit is NOT

An influencer media kit is not quite a bit. Let’s discuss.

An Autobiography 

“Four score and seven years ago—” no. Stop right there.

This is not the time for epic speeches or an autobiography.

Your media kit is not the place to spill your beans and tell potential clients useless information about you that would better serve your Tinder profile.

Insider Tip: Make sure you read my guide on How to Make Money as a Content Creator Regardless of Follower Count.

A Spreadsheet

Yes, you should include stats in your media kit, but not every single one is important.

Your Instagram influencer media kit template is not a spreadsheet with formula SUM=(.

So when thinking about how to create an influencer media kit, consider what kind of services you’ll be offering brands.

For instance, if you’re doing video posts, they’ll probably care about views!

A Rate Card

Stop putting your rates on your media kit, please.

We can discuss a better way to do this later, but I need you to understand that you are seriously diminishing your negotiating power when you put your rates on your media kit.

A better way to show off your rates is with an influencer rate card—these can help you upsell brands too!

Insider Tip: If you want an easy way to put one together, you’ll want to snag my influencer rate card template inside the Influencer Starter Pack!

Media Kit FAQ

Let’s cover some lingering questions you might have on your media kit.

How Long Should It Be? 

I think public relations folks and influencer marketers have very conflicting thoughts on this.

Honestly, my best brand deals have come from sending a multi-page influencer media kit template.

If I was at an event and needed a printout of my media kit, I could totally just use a one-page media kit.

Truthfully, it all just depends on who you’re sending it to and your needs.

What Should The File Format Be?

PLEASE, for the love of whatever divine being you do or do not believe, save your media kit as a PDF.

NOT A JPEG. NOT A PNG. A PDF.

That’s just standard and much more shareable between folks.

Because yes, your media kit is likely to get passed around to multiple people after you send it.

How to Send Your Influencer Media Kit

I actually have an entire blog on how to get paid Instagram sponsorships that goes into pitching brands and all that fun stuff.

You can read it in there for my tips on when to shoot your media kit out.

When Should You Make One? How Often Should You Update It?

Every influencer needs a media kit. Create one now if you haven’t already!

I like to update mine every month.

Now, if I have brands reaching out to me every week, I’ll go ahead and glance over my media kit to see if anything needs to be updated.

From there, I’ll make the necessary changes.

Final Influencer Media Kit Tips

Let’s cover some additional media kit tips to cap things off.

Creating a Nano or Micro Influencer Media Kit

Where are my nano and micro influencers at? There you are! I see you!

K, so I know sometimes small creators maybe don’t have a ton of brand experience or don’t feel like they have the “numbers” to show off to brands, but here is the thing— you deserve to get paid for your work, and you CAN.

Micro and nano influencers are in such high demand right now.

Therefore, nothing should really be THAT different when it comes to your media kit.

It’s just as important for you to include all the elements we just went over.

Because you have a smaller following, you essentially have to persuade brands that you bring value to the table.

Insider Tip: Small creators can benefit from having a one-page media kit — I have one of these in my Influencer Starter pack!)!

Never Include Prices

So as I already mentioned before, your media kit is not your rate card.

Think of your media kit like your influencer resume.

When you send a resume to a company, do you include your ideal salary? Of course not!

What if the company gives you a higher number than what you had in mind? Same goes for influencers!

I save my rate cards for when I’m deep in negotiations; as in, a brand is interested in working with me and wants to see my rates for some deliverables.

Trust me, just leave your pricing off your influencer media kit!

Think Like a Storyteller

When writing in your media kit, think like a storyteller!

Think about the story your unique brand tells and how it can benefit the brand you’re sending it to!

Keep the Brand in Mind

Remember, media kits are really for brands.

Therefore, you want to decipher what information a brand would find useful and include that in your media kit! Keep the extra stuff out.

Grammar Check

Please check your influencer media kit for typos. Check it twice if you have to.

There is no better way to tell a brand, “I’m not detail-oriented,” than a whole bunch of typos on your media kit.

Compress Your Media Kit

This isn’t really a must, but I like to compress my media kit before sending it.

The quality stays the same, but the compression helps reduce the file size.

I think it’s so annoying when a file won’t load because it’s too big, so I figured I’d help potential clients out and do the compression myself!

Next Steps for Creating Your Influencer Media Kit

I hope you enjoyed this guide on how to create an influencer media kit and how to make a successful media kit. I love writing about this stuff, and I love helping all of you!

If you haven’t made a media kit by now, you need to! Use the tips I mentioned above to get started.

Here are a few influencer tips blogs I recommend reading next:

• How to Become and Instagram Influencer
• How to Make Money as a Content Creator Regardless of Follower Count
• How Much to Charge for an Instagram Post

The post How to Create an Influencer Media Kit to Land Brand Collabs appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

If you feel like you’re on the struggle bus and understanding how to beat the 2023 Instagram algorithm is bringing you down, it’s time to rethink your strategy. Developing a fool-proof content strategy goes BEYOND just posting pretty pictures and videos.

You’ve come to the right place!

In this post, we’re going to cover the techniques I used to beat the Instagram algorithm and maintain 100,000 Instagram followers—I know they work because I teach these to my Instagram influencer course students too!

Let’s start by quickly covering how the Instagram algorithm works in 2023.

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Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

First, What is the Algorithm?

“Algorithm” is just a fancy term experts use to describe decision-making technology. Or as head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, puts it, “The algorithm just means a process.”

Algorithms make apps we love more enjoyable!

Instead of us sorting though THOUSANDS of content pieces to find what we like, the algorithm does most of the filtering for us.

It’s a process.

It curates content it thinks we’ll like—helpful, right?

I need an algorithm to clean my apartment, sheesh!

Recently, Adam Mosseri let everyone know that there is no one god-almighty algorithm, “At Instagram there are actually many, many algorithms that we use to try and predict what you might be interested in at any given moment.”

That means there’s an algorithm for Instagram Stories, viral Reels, and so on.

Now, we don’t need to worry about that, and I’ll explain why.

To make things easy in this blog, we’ll continue to say “algorithm.”

You should also read this: How the TikTok Algorithm Works

How the Instagram Algorithm Works in 2023

The Instagram algorithm works by noting what content you enjoy and aims to show you similar content pieces.

We know this! And the more ya know about the algo, the more you grow!

From my experience, while there are multiple algorithms, the same basic principles can be applied to your overall content strategy.

All you have to understand is how Instagram ranks content.

Knowing how Insta ranks content can help you create photos, videos, etc., that your ideal followers will love, all while nudging the algorithm to show it off.

And when you create content your followers love, that helps improve your relationship with your audience—paid Instagram sponsors love that!

So let’s talk about the ranking factors below!

Insider Tip: If you’re a content creator wanting to work with brands, you should also read this post: How to Pitch to Brands.

How the Instagram Algorithm Ranks Content

Four primary ranking factors go into determining what content appears on our newsfeed:

1. The Content
2. The Poster
3. User Activity
4. User Interaction

I’m not pullin’ these outta my @$$. These four ranking factors were confirmed by Instagram.

Anyhow, let’s explain these a bit more!

The Content

First, “content” refers to when a post is live and what kind of post it is. Is it a video post? A photo?

With features like Instagram Reels, Guides and Instagram Lives, the IG algorithm uses post types to decide who should see this content.

In addition, Instagram is less likely to show users content posted three months ago and more likely to show users content posted three hours ago.

Fresher than a LA juice bar—hayyyyy.

The Poster

“Poster” is who posted the content! Ever notice that when you like someone’s post, you see more of them? The IG algorithm factors in who and what you engage with.

That determines the order of your newsfeed and the content you’ll see.

And there’s more!

If you comment or are even tagged in someone’s posts often, the algorithm assumes you two have some sort of relationship. 

It’s like saying, “Hey, this person is important to me, and I want to see more of them on my Feed.”

Read Next: How to Get 100K Instagram Followers

User Activity and Interests

The way you consume content on the app creates your in-app experience.

To see this in action, head to the Menu in the upper righthand corner of the app, then “Manage Interests.”

You will see a list of all the post topics Instagram believes you like.

You can add or remove Instagram interests as you see fit.

The interests you choose determine what content you see.

User Engagement History

Yes, the Instagram algorithm keeps tabs on your app history. Need proof of this?

Next time you’re on the app, click on the three dots on your newsfeed’s upper righthand corner of the post.

Then click “Why you’re seeing this post.” Instagram will tell you why!

For example, it could be how long you follow a person. But, it could also be the likes on a post.

Now let’s talk about 16 tips for beating the Instagram algorithm!

I recommend all content creators read this next: How to Become a Successful Instagram Influencer

16 Ways to Beat the 2023 Instagram Algorithm

In the following sections, we’re going to dive right into my best tips for beating the Instagram algorithm in 2023.

These are all based on my experience as a full-time content creator and influencer.

#1 Create Reels Consistently & Frequently

Reels will be your best bet for beating the 2023 Instagram algorithm.

So, how do you make good Reels?

We discuss this quite a bit in my Instagram influencer course, but value-driven content is king.

Value can come in many different forms, from entertaining to relatable content.

Above all, think about the value you can bring to the table and how you can deliver that in a 15 second video.

And even though Reels are short, your Reels should tell a cohesive story that is engaging.

To beat the Instagram algorithm in 2023, aim to post Reels at least 5 times a week.

If that’s hard, find a posting schedule that works for you, and be consistent!

Insider Tip: If you want to learn how to create viral Reels that will help you grow an engaged audience, then you should click here to enroll in my free Reels Course!

#2 Keep Up with Trends

Additionally, creating trendy content is an EXCELLENT way to get the algorithm on your side!

In other words, any time there is a new Instagram trend, you can assume that most IG users are consuming it. 

That’s why it’s trending, after all. 

When you re-create those trends in your way, the algorithm takes your content and shoots it to users already engaging with said trend.

All you have to do is put your name in the hat! The key with trends is to act FAST on them.

Trends could potentially get thousands of new eyeballs on your content!

#3 Make Stories Fun

Find ways to get your audience involved with your Stories.

For example, use polls, funny gifs, and “questions” stickers to engage your audience.

You can also incorporate videos into your Instagram Stories.

Are you a content creator? You might like this post: How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership

#4 Post Stories Day

Post Stories daily, but don’t overdo it. Instagram is currently testing a “preview” Stories feature.

I explain it more in my Instagram Stories blog, but for now, try to aim for 3-5 Stories a day.

Stories are probably the easiest thing you can post! 

Again, if that is difficult, find a posting schedule that is right for you.

#5 Use Hashtags Wisely

Hashtags are a bit hit or miss for me. I wouldn’t RELY on them, but I still use them.

At the end of the day, if your content is bad, a hashtag will not save you.

I would also argue that for Instagram Reels, Topics are more important than hashtags. If you need more help with this, enroll in my free Reels course!

Insider Tip: Think of hashtags like a tool. They’re just there to add to your organic Instagram growth strategy!

#6 Make Your Content Shareable

Shareable can mean many things, but for us, it means making your content easy to share on multiple platforms.

For example, creating Reels that you post on TikTok. And that right there is great strategy for becoming an Instagram influencer

Aside from Reels, you can also use new features like the “Add Yours” Story sticker to get others to share your content.

Calling all content creators! Read this next: 6 Reasons You Aren’t Landing Brand Deals

#7 Post Carousels Instead of One Photo (Instagram Algorithm 2023 Hot Tip)

Remember, we want our followers to spend more time looking at what we post, so the Instagram algorithm favors us.

When we share a carousel, our followers naturally spend more time looking at it.

And generally speaking, they’re more engaging.

#8 Write Good Captions

Knowing how to write engaging Instagram captions that people want to read is a great way to get users to spend more time on your posts so you can beat the 2023 Instagram algorithm.

I have an easy way to do this. It’s called “microblogging.”

In short, microblog Instagram captions are when you write an Instagram caption that is informative and tells your audience about a specific topic.

This makes captions interesting!

#9 Get Personal with Your Content

Your followers want to know you. So, you should form a relationship with them!

This will help you appear on their newsfeeds more often.

Also, brands love influencers who have a rock-solid relationship with their audience.

That relationship is something you can easily highlight in your influencer media kit.

Insider Tip: f you’re looking for brand deals, you’ll wanna check out my guide on how to land paid sponsorships!

#10 Reply to DMs

Because the IG algorithm aims to show off the most engaging pages/ content, you should be looking for the best ways to interact with your audience!

You want the Instagram algorithm to sense that your followers care about your page.

Insider Tip: Replying to DMs is a great way to establish trust with followers and beat the algorithm.

#11 Reply to Comments

See above. If we want to beat the 2023 Instagram algorithm, we need to engage!

Your followers want to interact with you. But when you engage with your audience, this helps increase the number of interactions they have with you.

When that happens, Instagram will begin to see you two have a “relationship” and, therefore, your content will be recommended to them more.

Insider Tip: Want to get paid to post? Check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#12 Engage with Accounts You Follow

Engaging with accounts you follow will not move the needle for you, but it’s good practice to be active in the app and interact with other accounts.

There are no specific amount of accounts you need to comment on, but overdoing it will look spammy.

If you like a piece of content, go ahead and leave a comment; otherwise, just move on!

Ultimately, from experience, I’ve found that engaging with accounts I follow has helped me network.

But engaging with people who use similar hashtags as you or post the same kind of content as you, has turned into a spammy growth hack “furus” have capitalized on.

It doesn’t work like that. At the best, engaging with accounts you follow can help you network AND find people to collaborate with—which can help you grow.

Needless to say, don’t make this a priority if you’re already limited on time.

You’re better off posting videos 5x a week to grow!

And PSSSSSST: Did you know that even if you have a small following, as long as you have a good engagement rate and relationship with your audience, you can make money as an influencer?

Insider Tip: Read my guide on how to make money as a content creator—even with under 5K followers!

#13 Collab with Other Creators

One of the fastest ways to beat the new Instagram algorithm, and get exposure to new followers, is to connect with others.

Instagram is a social network, so you’ll benefit from being social. 

Most importantly, with how 2020 went, people are craving connection through a screen.

Try to collab with other creators and find ways to share your audiences!

This is even easier with the new Instagram Collab Post feature.

#14 Give Your Feed a “Look”

I do think a color-graded Feed helps with engagement.

You want your followers to recognize your work and love it, which is what having an overall Instagram aesthetic can help you do!

Insider Tip: Also, there are plenty of aesthetic photo editing apps out there you can use!

#15 Read Up on Insights

To beat the Instagram algorithm, you need to post quality content and note what your followers enjoy. 

Part of posting quality content uses Instagram Insights to get into how followers interact with your page.

And of course, when you have good insights, you’ll want to highlight that on your influencer media kit (for when you pitch brand deals).

Insider Tip: Not sure wtf a media kit is? Click here to read my guide on influencer media kits.

#16 Stop Deleting and Reposting on Instagram

Finally, while deleting and reposting on Instagram will not do any long-term damage to your account, it’s a waste of time.

In short, if a piece of content doesn’t do well for you, move on!

You can maybe archive it and repost it at a later date, but you’re better off just posting fresh content consistently.

List of Ways to Beat the 2023 Instagram Algorithm

1. Create Reels Frequently & Consistently
2. Keep Up with Trends
3. Make Stories Fun
4. Post Stories Daily
5. Use Hashtags Wisely
6. Make Your Content Shareable
7. Post Carousels Instead of One Photo
8. Write Good Captions
9. Get Personal with Your Content
10. Reply to Your DMs
11. Respond to Comments
12. Engage with Accounts You Follow
13. Collab with Other Creators
14. Give Your Feed a “Look”
15. Read Up on Insights
16. Stop Deleting and Reposting on Instagram

Instagram Algorithm 2023 FAQ

Let’s use this section to answer some frequently asked questions about how to beat the Instagram Algorithm in 2023.

So, What Content Should You Create in 2023?

To beat the 2023 Instagram algorithm, you need to post:

• Reels
• Stories
• Photos (Bonus)

Now, let’s discuss why these are the only 3 content types you need to worry about.

Reels—Users share Reels more often. So, if your Reels are relatable or entertaining and give people something to talk about, they are more likely to generate shares. That means more engagement with your content!

Stories—Above all, Stories are the easiest thing to post for busy influencers like us. They’re mainly there to help you stay top of mind with your audience. Treat Stories like an easy way to get more engagement.

Photos (Bonus)—Photo posts are otherwise known as static content. Static means the post doesn’t move like a video! But, Instagram has repeatedly said that they’re shifting to focus more on video. In other words, photos are becoming less important on Instagram. So, think of posting photos as “bonus” content.

If you ONLY post photos, you can expect your reach to drop. So photos should NOT be your entire strategy.

That’s why you’ll want to be posting Reels too.

Insider Tip: Instagram has recently stated that they’ve moved “too far” from their roots and photos are still a “priority,” but until we see the numbers, video is what will help you grow much faster in 2023.

What Happens When You Hit “Post”?

Here’s the very very diluted process your content goes through once you hit “post.”

1. Once a new piece of content is shared, to a tiny group of users
2. The algo thinks these users will enjoy the content
3. If they do, and post receives likes, comments, shares, the Instagram algorithm will send the content to a larger group
4. Repeat
5. Along the way, the ranking factors are applied!

Phew! Talk about a process.

In addition, Instagram makes money from ads. To make more money, they need your followers to see ads.

The longer they’re on the app, the more money Instagram gets!

So, we can assume that the algorithm “rewards” influencers who keep people on longer.

But Isn’t Reach Still Down?

Maybe you’ve been posting Reels, photos, and Stories but you still find yourself asking, “Why is my reach so low on Instagram?” or “Is Instagram reach down in 2023?” If that’s you, then listen up:

Reach is not down!

Reach has simply shifted to accommodate creators posting what Instagram users want to see. Remember, the 2023 Instagram algorithm wants to show people what they like!

So, to increase your reach on Instagram, you have to make your content more engaging. In addition, your content needs to be timely and specific to your audience.

This will help the Instagram algorithm push your content to the right people.

Insider Tip: And more people seeing your content can result in a more engaged audience—that can help you charge more for sponsored posts!

How Does the Explore Page Work?

The Explore Page algorithm works by showing you a summary of what Instagram thinks you will enjoy.

Your Explore Page and your friends’ might look entirely different for this reason!

Believe it or not, the Explore Page also operates under its algorithm.

It shows you photos, videos, and content categories hand-picked for you!

However, getting on the Explore Page isn’t hard.

An easy way to get on the Instagram Explore page is to start using Reels and ensure you’re using great Instagram SEO to help IG understand what your content is about.

Insider Tip: Reels have their section on the Explore page, which can be massive growth for you in 2023.

Your Next Steps for Beating the 2023 Instagram Algorithm

The key takeaway I want you to get from this guide is that beating the Instagram algorithm isn’t impossible, but it isn’t easy!

As an influencer, if you apply these strategies to your profile, you’ll create a solid foundation to beat any new algorithms to come.

If you want more tips for growing an engaged community, read these:

• How to Get More Story Views
• How to Grow on Instagram Organically

Want to make money on IG? Read these:

• How to Land a Paid Instagram Sponsorship
• How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts
• Ultimate Guide on Becoming an Influencer

The post How I Beat the 2023 Instagram Algorithm & Gained 100K Followers appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

So if you’ve wondered, “Where do I even start?” you came to the right place. And when you do it right, you might find yourself with a job that offers more freedom than the typical 9 to 5. 

Don’t believe me? Let’s talk about my social media influencer story for a second! Then we’ll get into my 10 best tips for making all of this happen for you.

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Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

My Influencer Journey

My journey started after being fired from my job and went ALL in on pitching to brands.

I’ll spare you the details for now.

After I learned how to become a full-time influencer, I began living out my travel dreams.

I lived in a campervan, traveling the entire USA.

I’ve also been paid to fly overseas to photograph countries like Italy, Dominican Republic, and Sri Lanka. 

I have even had the chance to work with some of the biggest brands like MAZDA, REI, Marriott, TripAdvisor, American Express, Travel & Leisure, and more.

In sum, I can work remotely, make my own hours, and earn as much income as I desire.

I love the freedom this career has offered me. I’m grateful for it every day! 

I want others to have these opportunities too, which is why I love sharing tips on becoming an Instagram influencer!

Insider Tip: Ready to get brand collabs? Read this guide too— How to Get a Paid Instagram Sponsorship.

How Many Followers Do You Need to Become an Instagram Influencer?

You do not need a set number of followers to become an Instagram influencer.

That’s why a couple of years ago, I launched my Instagram influencer course, which helps aspiring creators have a lucrative influencer career. 

It’s been amazing to see all the accomplishments aspiring influencers, and small creators can have!

I’ve seen small creators succeed left and right, working with large name brands like Toyota, Vera Bradley, and tourism boards. Success is possible!

Students with LESS than 5,000 followers grow to have 50,000+ followers, land four-figure brand deals with LESS than 5k followers, and leave their 9 to 5s—so this dream of yours can be done!

It takes some work, but I believe in you. So let’s get into my best tips!

These will give you some direction on where to start.

12 Steps on How to Become an Instagram Influencer in 2023

#1 Determine Your Niche

Who are you? What is your personal brand? What is your niche?

These are questions you MUST ask yourself if you’re thinking about how to become an Instagram influencer. 

I know, I know, branding is complex for many folks to wrap their heads around.

“Niches” feel so constricting, right? 

Like how are we supposed to pick one topic and one topic only to ever post about as an influencer?

Consider your interests and what you would feel comfortable talking about for a longggggg time.

Truthfully, niching down can make you a better creator in the long run because you’ll have creative constraints.

Those constraints will help you consistently create on topic and attract a loyal audience!

#2 Understand The Algorithm

So you have your niche; now it’s time to harness the power of the Social Media Gods and grow our channels. 

“But UGH, Dani, the Instagram algorithm is seriously killing my vibe.” 

Hey, I know, trust me. However, growing on Instagram isn’t impossible!

Here are two things you need to keep in mind to beat the Instagram algorithm:

#1 Engagement—Show your followers some love.

#2 Time—Create engaging content people spend more time interacting with.

Insider Tip: I have an entire blog on how to beat the Instagram algorithm that goes into MUCH more detail if you’re interested!

#3 Develop a Content Strategy

Alright, alright, so you know your niche, you understand the Instagram algorithm’s BASICS, but now what?

Many beginner influencers fail to realize that if they cannot create high-performing content CONSISTENTLY, they’re not going to get very far. 

You can create viral Reels all you want, but you have to do it on repeat with strategy!

Your audience needs to have you top of mind.

Consistently showing up on followers’ feeds is how you get there! This is super important for landing paid brand deals too. 

If a brand is vetting influencers and seeing that you haven’t posted in a week, a month, they might take a hard pass at hiring you. 

So create a plan to make and post content on a consistent basis!

Read Next: How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically

#4 Start Creating Reels Frequently

If there is ONE thing you get from this, how to become an Instagram influencer 2023 guide, please understand that as of now, you’re going to have a difficult time expanding your reach if you DO NOT start utilizing Reels.

Many folks have opposing opinions about this, but the truth is, Instagram is heavily pushing short-form video content.

Reels have done wonders for myself and other creators, getting creators anywhere from 6,000 to 70,000 new followers in a week.

Reels are a GREAT way to share your expertise, add value, and tell your audience a story in an engaging way! 

Freebie: Enroll in my Free Reels Course — 0 to 100 Reels Challenge was designed to help you create videos that get you upwards of 100 new followers a week.

#5 Create a Portfolio You’re Proud Of

Now we get to start talking about MONAYYYY woo! Money is one of the most sought-after topics regarding how to become an Instagram influencer 2023 edition or beyond.

Okay, so one of the easiest ways to monetize as an Instagram influencer is to start working with brands.

How does one start working with brands for money?

I recommend new influencers pitch brands they want to work with.

But before you can even start pitching brands, you need to build up a portfolio you’re proud of. 

Treat your Instagram feed almost like a gallery of your work.

Read Next: How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership

#6 Have a Media Kit

An influencer media kit is a simple PDF that acts like a brag sheet for you as an influencer! 

Think of an influencer media kit as your Instagram influencer resume.

If you want to become an influencer, you’ll need one of these to send to brands.

Remember, there are many ways to make money as a content creator regardless of follower count but you still need to have professional docs like this handy!

#7 Determine Your Prices

Before you even start working with brands on IG, you’ll have to set your prices!

Anytime you pitch a brand, or a brand reaches out to you, you should have a number in mind.

If you have NO idea how much you expect to get paid, you can lose out on a ton of money.

Yes, this applied to small creators too.

You don’t have to accept free deals AND you shouldn’t accept any offer.

If you need help setting your rates, you need to check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator here.

Read Next: How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts

#8 Land Paid Brand Deals

“But Dani, how do I land paid brand deals?”

There is more than one way to do this, but I recommend emailing the brands you want to work with.

Your brand pitch email should be short and sweet while conveying the value you can offer as an influencer.

This is done by introducing yourself and being crystal clear on what you hope to offer the brand.

Insider Tip: If you need help doing this, you’d love my brand pitch and negotiation email scripts you can find inside my Influencer Starter Pack!

#9 Love Your Current Audience

While it is GREAT to want to grow your Instagram following, it is equally if not more important to continue to show up for the followers you already have! If someone has opted in to hit that “follow” button, that means they see value in what you’re posting. 

To build a brand others adore, admire, and support, you’ll need to commit to showing up for your followers.

There are so many different ways to do this.

Ask them questions on your story, write engaging Instagram captions, reply to their comments in your posts, heck, thank them for being there. 

Your online community will be the catalyst that carries you through your influencer journey and helps open doors for you!

Pro Tip: Showing up on Instagram Stories is a great way to connect with your followers!

#10 Create Better Content (Super Important for Becoming an Instagram Influencer)

When considering how to become an influencer on IG, you need to create content that your audience and new followers will be excited to engage with.

What makes for better content?

It is high-quality, engaging and tells a story.

How do you expect others to care about it if you’re creating lackluster content?

I’m a firm believer that if you focus on delivering value and telling your story, your audience will form a deeper connection with your feed!

If you’re ever running out of ideas, see what content trends are popular and find ways to recreate them in your style!

#11 Optimize, Optimize, and Optimize Some More

Often as content creators, we get complacent. 

We get into a routine, creating the same content repeatedly. 

Eventually, that taps out, and we find that our income and growth are stagnant.

As an influencer, you must constantly readjust your strategy.

You’re running a business, after all!

Every month, do a check-in with yourself. Take a look at your goals—what’s working and what isn’t working?

#12 Scale Past Instagram

All of this brings me to my BEST Instagram influencer tip: As an influencer and entrepreneur, eventually, you will have to scale! 

While you don’t need to worry about this now, you need to remember that at some point, having all of your eggs in one giant Instagram basket will not be enough.

As an influencer, you should have:

• A long-form platform: blog, YouTube, or podcast
• Social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok
• Email List

For growth’s sake, yes, I recommend focusing on creating great Instagram content,

BUT keep in mind that for long-term success, you will eventually have to expand past Insta.

In short: every influencer needs a long-form platform, social media, and an email list.

How to Become an Instagram Influencer in Sum

1. Determine Your Niche
2. Understand the Instagram Algorithm
3. Develop a Content Strategy
4. Start Creating Reels Frequently
5. Create a Portfolio You’re Proud Of
6. Have a Media Kit
7. Determine Your Prices
8. Land Paid Brand Deals
9. Love Your Current Audience
10. Create Better Content
11. Optimize, Optimize, and Optimize Some More
12. Scale Past Instagram

In the next sections, we’ll dive deep into these Instagram influencer tips.

What You Can Do Now

In addition to the Instagram influencer tips we just discussed, I would say that if you’re considering how to become a full time influencer, start by thinking about your current expenses and how much you need to live off of.

Use this number as a guide.

Treat your Instagram influence as a serious side hustle and aim to make enough just to cover your expenses.

Every month, review whether or not you’re meeting that number.

Then, think about ways to earn even more money as an influencer. Continue to scale and earn consistently. 

Once you’re earning consistent income, you can decide when you may want to jump in full-time.

And it is doable!

Next Steps for Becoming an Instagram Influencer

Well, there you have it! Those are my top tips on how to become an Instagram influencer 2023 edition.

I hope you enjoyed it! Again, I write these influencer tips blogs to help aspiring influencers. You might want to read one of these next!:

• How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm
• How to Pitch to Brands
• How Much to Charge for Sponsored Posts
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• How to Make Money as a Content Creator Regardless of Follower Count

The post How to Become an Instagram Influencer and Get Paid in 2023 appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

If you want to become a full-time Instagram influencer (or a part-time one), you don’t want to leave money on the table!

That’s why in this blog, we will break down all the components to create your price for sponsored content so you can start earning an INCOME from your work and have a successful influencer CAREER.

No more chit-chat. Let’s jump right into the juice, starting with the easy stuff!

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Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

How Much do Influencers Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts

When deciding how much to charge for a sponsored Instagram post, ALWAYS start with this simple formula:

Charge $10 for every THOUSAND followers you have. 

Here is an example for someone who has 10,000 followers: 

(10,000 Followers /1,000 = 10, 10 x $10 = $100 Rate)

In other words, charge 1% per thousand followers. The 1% Formula: 10,000 Followers x (.01) = $100 Rate

Your Followers x 1% = $Your Rate

Now, that’s just where to START.

That’s why in the next sections we’ll cover how I price my paid Instagram sponsorships when I’m negotiating my Instagram influencer rates, so I know they’ll work for you too!

The Problem with The 1% Rule

This familiar influencer rate formula is problematic for a few reasons:

1. It doesn’t take into account your quality of work
2. It doesn’t take into account your engagement rate or other metrics
3. It basically screws anyone who isn’t a macro-influencer (100,000+ followers)

That is why it is a starting point.

Never, never, ever price your sponsored Instagram content under this threshold (whether you pitch to brands or they come to you).

At the very least, when you promote a product directly on your feed, 1% of your followers will see the content. 

Don’t worry, we’re going to keep discussing how much to charge for an Instagram post and how to charge MORE.

All the pricing recommendations I make have been tested by me and my Instagram influencer course students.

Insider Tip: Ready to land your first paid brand deal? Grab my Influencer Starter Pack!

Determining Your Instagram Sponsored Post Price

Truth be told, there are various factors for determining your Instagram influencer rates. Let’s discuss.

#1 Deliverables

Deliverables can be defined as what work you’ll provide for the brand.

For example, will you be doing 1 Instagram post and 2 Instagram story slides?

Will you be writing one blog and posting one viral Reel to your feed?

When you post deliverables, do you get a high amount of engagement and reach too?

In the next sections, we’ll dive DEEP into charging by post type.

Also, I really think you’ll like this post from me: How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership

#2 Time

Time refers to your time to create said content.

Time can also refer to the deadline involved with the brand deal.

If a brand needs a quick turnaround time for deliverables, you should charge more!

When considering YOUR time for creating the content, I suggest figuring out an hourly rate for yourself.

You can then tack this onto your pricing.

If the brand needs a quick turnaround, consider adding some sort of speedy delivery or rush fee to your pricing.

While I don’t believe that the time it takes to create a piece of content should be the final factor for determining how much to charge for an Instagram post, I think that successful entrepreneurs are masters at valuing and safeguarding their time. 

#3 Expenses

Expenses refer to what, if any, expenses you will be incurring for the sponsored job.

For example, will you have to travel?

What about accommodations, gas, and food?

Did you need to hire an assistant or buy photo props?

I suggest adding up the total expenses you will incur and adding that to your pricing when determining how much to charge for an Instagram post.

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator

#4 Licensing

Licensing refers to what permissions you’re going to grant a company, if any, to use the content you create.

For example, does the brand you’re working for want to repost your content on their feed?

Yep! You can charge brands for reposting your content. 

Does the brand want to use your content as an ad?

Yep! You charge for that. 

Think of licensing like charging rent to use your content.

Video and image licensing is a complete beast in itself and truthfully deserves its own spotlight.

If this is a topic you’re interested in, I suggest using a resource like Getty Images to help you get some benchmarks.

Insider Tip: A simple rule of thumb for digital rights and licensing is to charge a 20% fee for every 30 day period.

#5 Whitelisting

Whitelisting (or boosting) is when a brand puts money behind your content.

Typically, these are ad manager permissions you will grant the brand on your Instagram/ Facebook account backend. 

The brand will then literally make your content a paid ad coming from YOUR page.

Think of whitelisting like you’re a celebrity endorser for a product.

Brands benefit from your name and likeness, and you should 100% get paid for that.

Additionally, you can instead ask the company what their total ad spend would be on the boosted content. You can then charge an additional fee based on a percentage of ad spend. 

Ultimately, you will have to determine which method would work best for you!

Insider Tip: The rates for whitelisting and boosting rights range from an additional 50 to 100% fee for every 30 day period.

#6 Exclusivity

Exclusivity is, in simple terms, when a brand says you cannot work with their competitors throughout your contract. 

Of course, you cannot always predict when a competitor will come around with more money, but you can use your best judgment based on how many/ what kind of brand deals you typically get.

So let’s say that you sign a contract with Gucci to promote their fragrances for $1,000 with 3 months exclusivity. This means that for the next 3 months, you cannot promote any competitors. 

Now let’s say that a month after your Gucci post, Marc Jacobs fragrances comes around and offers to pay you $15,000…

Too bad, boo! You have two more months to go on your Gucci contract before you can even think about Marc Jacobs.

That’s why exclusivity is an essential factor to consider when determining how much to charge for an Instagram post.

Now let’s talk about how much to charge by post type!

Insider Tip: When determining your pricing for exclusivity, consider the loss of potential income you will experience from having an exclusivity clause, and charge for that loss.

How Much to Charge by Post Type

“How much should I charge for an Instagram post?”

Believe it or not, there is more than one type of sponsored Instagram post out there.

And yes, rates DO vary by post type (aka the deliverable).

Here’s the post types we’ll be looking at:

• Static Posts
• Carousel Posts
• IG Stories
• Videos
• IGTV
• Reels
• Link-in-Bio
• Lives
• Giveaways

And remember, the best part about all of these pricing factors is that they are 100% negotiable.

For example, you can always negotiate down the exclusivity clause, or ask companies to remove deliverables. 

If growth has been a struggle for you, read this: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

Charging for a Sponsored Static Post

A sponsored static post on Instagram should cost 1% of your following (at minimum).

You already know this rule.

I’ll paste the formula again for you to reference!

Your Followers x 1% = $Your Rate

Example:

10,000 Followers x 1% = $100 for a Sponsored Instagram Post

I recommend thinking more along the lines of charging 2 to 5% (5% being on the high end) of your following if you have high engagement and create high-quality content.

That formula would then look like this:

Your Followers x 5% = $Your Rate

Example:

10,000 Followers x 5% = $500 for a Sponsored Instagram Post

Insider Tip: These percentages are entirely up to your discretion. I always say don’t be afraid to charge more.

Charging for a Sponsored Carousel Post

Carousel posts have a few things going for them:

• They’re more engaging than a standard static post
• They give you the ability to mix and match content (video + images, or vice versa)
• The brand gets more content pieces showcasing their product or service

I typically like to start with my standard rate and add money based on these items above.

Then, I suggest having a rate you can tack on per additional slide a company wants in your sponsored carousel post.

Charging for a Sponsored Instagram Story

From my experience, there are a couple of ways you can determine how much to charge for an Instagram story:

• Charge a flat fee per story slide
• Charge 1% of your average Story views

As with everything else, your Instagram Story price will change based on various factors.

But I find that using a mix of both points above is a good starting point.

Charging for a Sponsored Video Post

Video can be a complicated beast.

My go-to for videos has always been to double my photo post rate.

For example, if you charged $500 for a static photo post, a video post could be $1,000.

However, there are other factors that you should consider with your video Instagram post price:

• Length of video
• Video quality
• Licensing
• Editing time

If needed, do research on video standards and licensing to know how much to charge. 

Insider Tip: IGTV posts aren’t really a thing anymore, but if a brand wants a long-form video from you, this is the pricing method I’d use.

Charging for a Sponsored Instagram Reel

For sponsored Reels, you can certainly follow the same guidelines as listed above; however, there are other ways you can charge for Reels. 

One of them is a tiered pricing method.

This means that you would be paid based on the number of views your Reel gets in a specific amount of time.

For example, I’ve seen folks suggest that TikTok pays around 4 cents per 1,000 views. 

Considering everything we just discussed regarding Instagram influencer rates, I believe that’s WAY too low.

And I mention this in my Instagram influencer course too.

I would suggest thinking of your tiers like our 1% rule instead.

Therefore, you’d charge 1% of the total views.

A tier for our influencer with 10,000 might look like:

• 1,000 to 5,000 views = $50
• 5,001 to 10,000 views = $100
• 10,001 to 50,000 views = $500
• 50,001 to 100,000 = $1,000
• 100,001 to 500,000 = $5,000
• 500,000 to 1,000,000 = $10,000

You can totally omit this and simply charge a flat rate for your Reel instead.

However, I would consider adding a clause in your partnership contract stating you will be paid $XYZ more if your Reel generates a certain number of views. 

Can you imagine getting paid $500 for an Instagram Reel, which turns into a viral Reel at 20 million+ views?

You’d be losing out on a lot of income while that brand got tons of exposure!

While I have you, you should also read my guide on how to create viral Reels.

You’re on TikTok too, right? Read this: How Much to Charge for a Sponsored TikTok Post

Charging for a Link in Bio

The pricing for a Link in Bio is entirely up to you and the value you place on your profile.

In my opinion, I would never charge under $100 for ANYTHING, but again, this is up to your discretion.

Remember, your bio is prime real-estate on your profile, so it’s 100% worth getting money for any links placed there!

But before you can even charge for that, you better not be making these mistakes: 6 Reasons You Aren’t Landing Brand Deals

Charging for a Sponsored Instagram Live

As Instagram Lives change, the way we charge for them may change.

Badges, for example, were only added within the last year!

For Instagram Lives, I suggest determining an hourly rate for yourself and using that to determine the overall price of the Live.

For example, if you charged $100 per hour, a 30min Live may cost $50.

Charging for a Sponsored Giveaway

Charging for a sponsored giveaway post typically follows the same rules as a sponsored static post.

However, the price increase comes with what type of giveaway you’re doing!

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Will your followers have to follow the brand’s page to enter the giveaway?
• Will the brand be cross-promoting the giveaway so you can also get some followers from them? 
• Is the brand asking you to collect emails, and will you access these emails too?

Once you figure out these terms, you can better understand whether you should charge the same as a static post or more to drive traffic to the brand’s social platforms.

Free Influencer Rate Calculator

Okay, so before we continue, I want to introduce you to my free influencer rate calculator.

This calculator takes into consideration everything we just covered up until this point:

Now that you have an idea of how much to charge for a Static post, Reels, video, and pretty much every other post type, let’s discuss some additional factors for finding your influencer rates.

Should You Have an Influencer Rate Card?

Yes! Having an influencer rate card is a great idea!

A rate card is a PDF that displays how much you charge for content creator services.

It’s a super useful tool to have, ESPECIALLY if you want to upsell brands for more money!

Ideally, your rate card will match your influencer media kit branding, so when you send it over to the Nordstrom team to review, it looks all branded.

Insider Tip: If you need a rate card that can help you upsell brands for more $$$, I have influencer rate card templates inside the Starter Pack!

Final Tips for Charging for Sponsored Instagram Content

WOW. Talk about a ton of math, huh.

So now, let’s discuss a few of my top tips for charging for sponsored Instagram content.

Never Take the First Offer

I don’t care what anyone tells you. When a brand reaches out, never take the first offer!

No matter who the brand is, they’re going to be offering you the least amount possible, most likely. NEGOTIATE.

Ask for more money and come to a mutual agreement.

Pro Tip: You can use your insights to leverage higher pay!

Remember, This is Business

Whether you like it or not, as an influencer you are in BUSINESS.

I see it all the time, people start this venture from a hobby and a passion to create.

And that usually means that they’re coming from a background with 0 sales or business experience.

That results in influencers taking free products from brands in exchange for posts because, well, who wouldn’t want that free stuff, right?

You probably weren’t expecting to get compensated for something that started as a hobby, right?

But, at the end of the day brands are looking to work with you to essentially borrow your audience.

That’s a business transaction, so you need to treat this, like a business.

Get a Media Kit

A media kit is like a resume that lists out who you are.

I can honestly say a good influencer media kit template is essential for getting ready to charge for sponsored Instagram posts because it gives brands an idea of who you are and what your numbers look like.

Brands want to know that their ad dollars are being spent as effectively as possible.

So in a recession, they’ll be super picky with who they work with. If want to show brands that you mean business and that you’re the results-driven influencer they need, a professional media kit is the way to go.

Insider Tip: All the templates I’ve mentioned in this post are bundled together in my Influencer Starter Pack and Toolkit (click here)!

Take Accountability

Truth bomb: YOU are responsible for making sure you get compensated fairly.

Not brands. Not your friends. You. (Not me. Not Hermione. YEWWWWW)

As business folks, it’s our responsibility to make sure we’re sticking up for our worth and pricing our content appropriately.

The reason why you see some brands lowball influencers and continue to offer free products in exchange for posts is because INFLUENCERS are accepting these offers and not thinking twice about it.

If you’ve worked with brands for free or very little, that’s okay!

We’ve all done it—you’re still an amazing influencer.

Just do better for next time.

Grow Your Instagram Following

While your Instagram following doesn’t determine how much money you can make, having a larger and more engaged Instagram community can help put you in a high-earning tier.

Insider Tip: I have a blog on how to organically gain Instagram followers you can read for help!

Build a Website

Some folks might disagree with me on this, but building a website is crucial to your success, in my opinion!

If you want to charge for sponsored Instagram posts, you’re going to have to start treating your Instagram like a business.

A website is a great way to level up.

Your site can also get you discovered on search engines like Pinterest and Google.

Anyways, by no means do you need to blog, but it can make you more money!

Next Steps for Finding Your Influencer Rates

I hope this post gave you some insight on how much to charge for sponsored Instagram posts! Remember, you can use my influencer rate calculator for more help.

To keep upping your Instagram game, read these influencer guides next:

• How Much to Charge for Sponsored TikToks
• How to Land a Paid Instagram Sponsorship
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• Guide to Becoming an Instagram Influencer
• How to Pitch to Brands

The post How Much To Charge For A Sponsored Instagram Post appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

I’ve got some insider tips on how to beat the TikTok algorithm in 2023 and increase your reach on the platform. So if you’ve been feeling kind of stuck with the app, then you’re in the right place.

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing 11 proven strategies for getting your content in front of more people on TikTok so you can grow an engaged audience. In fact; these are the same strategies I used to gain over 120,000 followers on the platform in just a few months (@danitheexplorer)! 

From posting consistently to using relevant hashtags, these tips are guaranteed to help you increase your chances of going viral and growing your audience. So if you want to take your TikTok presence to the next level, keep reading!

First, let’s start by talking about what the algorithm is and how it works.

P.S. Make sure you also read my post on how much to charge for a sponsored TikTok post!

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Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

What is the TikTok Algorithm?

The TikTok algorithm is a complex system that is used to surface the most relevant and engaging content to users on the platform. It takes into consideration a variety of factors, including user engagement, view count, watch time, video quality, and relevance, in order to determine which content should be shown to users.

PHEW. What a mouthful, huh? In simpler terms, the algorithm is a tool the platform uses to show users like me and you content we enjoy. That’s it!

So it’s not the enemy—as long as you know how it works, the algorithm can help you grow.

It’s important to note that the algorithm is constantly evolving and adapting to the changing behavior of users on the platform. This means that what works today to get your content seen by more people may not work tomorrow.

But truthfully, I’ve been on the platform for two years now, and the same basic principles apply over and over again. So as long as you understand how the 2023 TikTok algorithm ranks content, you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

Read Next: How the Instagram Algorithm Works

How the TikTok Algorithm Ranks Content in 2023

The TikTok algorithm works by showing users the most relevant and engaging content. 

The algorithm wants to keep people on the app for as long as possible, so it has to show users content they’ll enjoy. Otherwise, no one would scroll endlessly on the app.

The more users interact with and engage with your content, the higher it will rank on TikTok.

And like we just previously stated, you can use this information to create a winning strategy for growing on the app.

There are several factors that the TikTok algorithm takes into consideration when ranking content:

User engagement: The more likes, comments, and shares your content receive, the higher it will rank on the platform. The algorithm also takes into account the rate at which your content is receiving engagement, as well as the overall quality of the engagement.

View count: The more views your content gets, the higher it will rank. However, it’s important to note that the algorithm also takes into consideration the percentage of views to likes and comments. This means that if your content has a high view count but low levels of engagement, it may not rank as highly as content with fewer views but higher levels of engagement.

Watch time: The longer users watch your content, the higher it will rank. This means that longer videos are generally favored by the algorithm as long as they can keep the viewer’s attention. The algorithm also considers the percentage of watch time to the length of the video, so shorter videos with a high percentage of watch time may rank higher than longer videos with a lower percentage of watch time.

Video quality: The algorithm favors high-quality videos that are well-produced and engaging. This includes things like good lighting, clear audio, and visually appealing graphics. 

Relevance: The algorithm favors content that is relevant to a user’s interests and past interactions on the platform. This includes things like the hashtags used, the accounts a user follows, who the poster is, and the content users engage with.

Knowing these ranking factors will help you understand how to create the best strategy for beating the TikTok algorithm.

P.S. You should also read my blog on how to create viral IG Reels.

11 Tips for Getting More Reach on TikTok

So now, let’s talk about my top tips on how you can beat the TikTok algorithm in 2023. As a reminder, these are the strategies I used to grow my personal TikTok profile to 120,000+ followers.

#1 Post Consistently 

This is a given. The TikTok algorithm rewards users who post regularly and consistently.

If you want to be seen by more people, aim to post at least once a day. 

Consistency is key in building a loyal following on TikTok, as it helps keep your content at the top of your followers’ feeds.

Just from experience, I can vouch for how much the TikTok algorithm really favors consistent posters.

However, it’s important to note that just because you post three or more videos a day on repeat, that doesn’t mean you’ll grow.

You MUST be posting high-quality content. However, your content still needs to have some thought behind it. In other words, don’t post just to post!

If daily posting is hard, post at least a few times a week to start then increase your posts from there.

P.S. If you want to get paid to post, make sure you also check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#2 Use Relevant Hashtags 

Hashtags are a great way to get your content in front of more people, as they allow users to discover content related to specific topics. 

This whole concept has been coined TikTok SEO.

Essentially, you’d be using hashtags to keyword your content. 

But, make sure you’re using relevant hashtags that are popular on TikTok, but not too saturated, as this will give you a better chance of being seen.

It’s also a good idea to mix up your hashtags and use a combination of popular and niche tags to increase your chances of being discovered by new users.

A hashtag won’t save you if you’re not posting good content your audience wants to see.

Confession: As a full-time influencer and influencer coach, I have to admit that building a singular strategy around hashtags can be a complete waste of time. Think of hashtags like a tool, not your savior. 

#3 Use the “For You” Page Wisely

The “For You” page is where TikTok curates content for individual users based on their interests and past interactions.

And if you want to know how to beat the TikTok algorithm in 2023, it’s time to make the FYP your bestie.

I suggest using the FYI like a research page. See what other creators in your niche are posting.

Understand why their videos are getting views and why they’re likely being recommended.

I love using the FYP to keep up with trends and source video ideas.

#4 Use Catchy Music 

Music is HUGE on TikTok, and using catchy music in your videos can help them go viral.

Make sure to use music that is popular on the platform and fits the theme of your content.

If you’re able to pair your content with a song that is currently trending on TikTok, you’ll have a better chance of being seen by more people.

Pro Tip: Try to use trending sounds before they take off.

I like to search for music that has under 5,000 videos on it.

By the time the sound takes off, the TikTok algorithm will have already pushed your videos to other people using/ listening to the sound.

Read Next: How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically in 2023

#5 Use Effects and Text

TikTok is all about eye-catching visuals, so make sure to use visually appealing graphics and effects in your videos.

This could include filters or typing supporting text onto the videos.

The more visually appealing your content is, the more likely it is to catch users’ attention and get noticed by users.

You shouldn’t distract people from the point of the video, but using effects can make your videos more exciting and help tell a complete story.

If there is a trending filter, definitely use it!

#6 Post High-Quality Videos

This is a given, but your videos need to include good lighting and should be crisp. Low-quality videos can be distracting to the user.

I’d also like to address what camera gear you should use. You really don’t need an expensive camera.

As a matter of fact, good quality iPhone footage is much more appealing to most users since it comes off as more authentic.

#7 Keep Your Videos Short and Sweet 

TikTok is a platform built for short, attention-grabbing videos.

To get the most out of your content, aim to keep your videos under 60 seconds in length.

This will help keep your audience engaged and increase their chances of watching your entire video.

And yes, you CAN post longer videos, but I would only do this if you’re experienced.

It’s essential to make sure people complete your videos and rewatch them.

So stick with short content until you master keeping people’s attention.

#8 Tell a Story 

TikTok is all about storytelling, so use your videos to tell a compelling story or message.

Whether you’re sharing a funny video or a heartfelt message, make sure to capture your audience’s attention and keep them engaged.

The more engaging and passionate your content is, the more likely it is to be shared and go viral.

Try not to leave people on a cliffhanger unless you have a strategy behind that.

All my best videos that have grown my account were short, sweet, and COMPLETE concepts rather than half ideas.

Read Next: How to Get 100k Instagram Followers

#9 Engage with Your Audience 

TikTok is a social platform, so make sure to engage with your audience and respond to comments.

Taking the time to respond to comments can help you create more engagement on your videos.

Engagement is one of the TikTok algorithm in 2023 ranking factors, so this should be a priority!

#10 Collaborate with Other Users 

Have fun and collab! Collaborating with other users on TikTok can expose your content to a new audience and boost your reach.

Look for users who have a similar style or theme to your content and see if you can team up in som capacity.

Collaborations are a great way to cross-promote each other’s content and tap into each other’s audiences.

You can do things like giveaways or Story swaps.

There are so many fun ways to collaborate with creators. Heck, you can even react to each other’s content.

#11 Experiment with Different Styles of Content 

Even if you’re in a specific niche, trying out different kinds of videos is important.

You want to find your style and understand what content your audience responds to best. 

And as more users jump on the app, styles can get “old” relatively fast.

Try to refresh your content style as you continue posting. 

So don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works for you!

How to Use the 2023 TikTok Algorithm to Your Advantage

Okay so you have all the tips you need for beating the algorithm, but how do you put them together?

As a content creator on TikTok, you can use the algorithm to your advantage in order to grow your presence on the platform.

Here are some tips on how to use the TikTok algorithm to your advantage in 2023:

Use Consistency to Help the Algorithm Understand You

As mentioned previously, the TikTok algorithm rewards users who post regularly and consistently.

By posting at least once a day, you can keep your content at the top of your followers’ feeds and increase your chances of being seen by more people.

So stop focusing on making the perfect video and just post!

Posting consistently will help the algorithm understand what your content is about much faster. When that happens, the algorithm can push your content to the right followers.

Use Hashtags as Keywords

Using relevant hashtags can help to expose your content to a new audience and increase your reach on the platform.

Using relevant hashtags can also help the TikTok algorithm understand what your content is about.

So use this tool to your advantage.

Build a Relationship with Your Audience

The more you engage with your audience and respond to comments and messages, the higher your content will rank on the platform.

Interacting with your followers is a great way to show them you appreciate their support.

When you engage, they engage.

This increase in engagement can signal to the algorithm that your content is worth watching.

Help TikTok Recommend Your Content

Collaborating with other users on TikTok can help to expose your content to a new audience and boost your reach. The TikTok algorithm considers information about who is posting the content.

This information is powerful for getting your videos to the right people.

For example, if the TikTok algorithm goes, “Ohhhh, Susie’s cooking videos are just like Billy’s cooking videos,” then it will start recommending Susie’s videos to Billy’s followers.

See what I’m saying? You want to do anything you can to help the algorithm understand what you’re about.

Experiment and Experiment Some More

As mentioned previously, TikTok is a platform that is always evolving.

Test new content formats and see what the algorithm tends to push more.

Use your analytics to help you make decisions on what’s working.

By following these tips and staying up to date on the latest trends and best practices for creating high-quality, engaging content, you can use the TikTok algorithm to your advantage and grow your presence on the platform in 2023.

Is it Too Late to Grow on TikTok in 2023?

One question that many content creators have is whether or not it is too late to grow on TikTok.

The short answer is no, it is not too late to grow on the platform. 

I have clients who are gaining upwards of 100,000 followers in the past few months!

While TikTok has undoubtedly gained a lot of popularity in recent years, there is still plenty of room for new creators to make their mark on the platform.

That being said, it’s important to note that TikTok, like any social media platform, can be competitive.

This means that you’ll need to put in the work and be consistent in order to grow your presence on the platform.

However, by following best practices for creating high-quality, engaging content and using the algorithm to your advantage, you can increase your chances of success on TikTok.

So, to answer the question, there is still time to grow on TikTok! But, with the right approach and dedication, you can build a successful presence on the platform and reach a wider audience.

That’s also why it’s important not to put all of your eggs in one basket. I recommend taking the time to grow on other platforms too.

Read Next: How to Become an Instagram Influencer

Final Thoughts on the 2023 TikTok Algorithm

TikTok is a fast-growing platform that offers endless opportunities for content creators to reach a wide audience. Understanding how the algorithm works and using it to your advantage can increase your chances of success on the platform.

I hope you enjoyed these tips on how to beat the TikTok algorithm in 2023!

So if you’re a content creator looking to make a splash on TikTok in 2023, follow these tips and experiment with different types of content to see what works best for you.

With a little hard work and dedication, you can build a successful presence on the platform and reach a wider audience.

Make sure you check out my blog on how much to charge for a sponsored TikTok post next!

The post How I Beat the TikTok Algorithm in 2023 & Gained 120K+ Followers appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

As a full-time influencer, I’ve been able to beat the Instagram algorithm and gain 100K followers. The best part about this is I have students seeing this kind of organic growth too!

One of my Instagram influencer course students went from 4,000 followers to 90,000 followers in a year—that’s huge!

This has nothing to do with luck and everything to do with strategy—let’s get into that now!

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

But First, Why Focus on Instagram Organic Growth?

By growing organically on IG, you can become an Instagram influencer and make money as a content creator!

When you buy bots or join loop giveaways to get followers, you run the risk of ruining your engagement.

Not to mention, Instagram can ban your account.

Same goes for the follow, unfollow growth methods.

How to Get Followers On Instagram Without Following or Liking

Do you want the real secret on how to grow Instagram followers organically? Here it is:

POST BETTER CONTENT AND POST CONSISTENTLY.

Yep. It doesn’t get any clearer than that. So while I will be providing you with 22 ways to gain organic Instagram followers, if you only take ONE thing away from this blog, it should be consistency. 

At the end of the day, the best way to organically grow Instagram profiles is through consistently posting great content.

Of course, no one ever wants to say that or tell small creators that because it’s “hard.”

With practice, though, it really isn’t!

But when you make organic growth a priority, it can be really easy to pitch brand deals.

Pro Tip: The Instagram algorithm changes regularly, which can impact growth. So keeping up to date with the best tips is essential!

How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically in 2023

#1 Have a Consistent Look with Your Photos and Feed

A great way to continue to gain organic Instagram followers is by sharing a consistent look throughout your photos. You can do this by using aesthetic photo editing apps.

If you have a particular editing style you like, creating a preset for yourself can save you time with the editing game. 

Even if you take iPhone pictures and don’t edit them, it’s about having a recognizability factor to your feed. Maybe that means you’re always the subject of your images, or you have a certain sense of style that’s easily recognizable.

Heck, perhaps you take all of your photos on film. 

Whatever your method is, find a way to easily recognizable your personal brand.

Read Next: 6 Reasons You Aren’t Landing Brand Deals

#2 Have a Seamless Aesthetic on Your Profile

Okay, you have a preset you’re using for your photos, but what about the rest of your profile?

When someone lands on your profile, they should know who you are right away, and your brand should stand out.

Make sure that your brand and aesthetic match across all aspects of your profile: 

• Instagram Cover Highlights
• Your Profile Pic
• The overall theme and consistency of your photos

Little details like this go a long way!

#3 Schedule Your Posts and Plan Your Feed

Plan and schedule your posts ahead of time to gain organic Instagram followers in 2023.

Scheduling can help you have a consistent look to your feed AND stop stressing about, “Oh no! What do I post today?” 

Let’s be honest; when that happens, sometimes we don’t post at all or write a half-assed caption that gets us nowhere.

I also love being able to schedule posts so that they’ll go live, and I don’t have to worry about getting online while I’m out. 

Pro Tip: Planning is a great way to naturally incorporate Instagram sponsored posts into your feed too!

#4 Niche Down

This tip on how to grow Instagram followers organically is actually pretty popular.

Niching down can be difficult for some people to fathom because feeling like you’re in a “tight box” can stink, right!

The truth is, when you niche down, you actually have more creative control over your Instagram content.

You can have better direction and develop boundless ways to create recognizable content across your feed. 

And if you make very niched down content, it’ll be easier for you to attract a very specific kind of person to your feed. Thennnnnnn, you can turn them into a fan!

Pro Tip: When you have a rock solid relationship with your niche audience, you can charge more for brand deals. Not sure what to charge? Check out my>> free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#5 Use Niche-Specific Hashtags

I’ll admit, hashtags aren’t my favorite way to grow, but with the launch of Instagram Search, hashtags are a great way to make your content search-friendly!

Think of them as keywords for your content. For example, if you post about Style Tips, literally use the hashtag #styletips on your posts. This way, anyone searching for style tips on Instagram will see your posts.

You might even benefit from using them when you write engaging Instagram captions!

#6 Create Your Own Hashtag

Creating a branded hashtag is a GREAT way to get more Instagram followers.

When you can create a catchy hashtag and encourage your audience to use it, then share their use of the hashtag on your stories, your followers will go crazy and engage!

From there, potential followers and current followers will start competing for space on your Stories in the hopes you’ll notice them in the hashtag.

When considering how to gain Instagram followers organically, share-ability is huge!

Pro Tip: This can be a great way to get more views on Instagram Stories too!

#7 Find Your Purpose & Be Authentic (Major Key to Instagram Organic Growth)

While you might have an excellent brand going for yourself, are you clear on your why?

Why should people care about following you, and why are you showing up on social media?

Once you’re clear on your why you’ll go all-in and create content that will convert potential followers.

Be authentic in the way that you show up!

This is another way to boost engagement. I’m not telling you to share your vulnerabilities in a way that makes you uncomfortable.

By being authentic, I mean stop trying to replicate every single piece of content or personality you see. 

#8 Give Your Bio a Refresh

Update your Instagram bio and name to have keywords that indicate what your content is about to Instagram.

When you do this, you’ll make it easier for Instagram Search features to categorize your profile and push it to users who may be interested. 

Read Next: How to Turn a Free Gift into a Paid Collab

#9 Create a Story Series

Don’t stop the brand consistency at highlight covers and imagery; take it to Instagram stories too!

Plan your stories out in advance. Know where your story content is going and what you’re sharing with your audience. 

Create stories that go with your highlights! Like to talk about beauty products?

Then, create a story series called “Beauty Fridays,” where you share some excellent beauty products you’re loving every Friday.

Read Next: How Much to Charge for a Sponsored Instagram Post

#10 Show More BTS in Stories

Followers love seeing more of you!

Of course, they love the beautiful photos or other curated content you are creating for them, but they also want to see the BTS (behind-the-scenes).

They want to know the real you and know that you aren’t so different from them after all!

I suggest using Instagram Stories to do this.

You can show people what a day in your life looks like or behind the scenes of a photoshoot.

The key here is to create a deeper connection with your Instagram followers. 

#11 Create a Story Template

By “Story template,” I mean a story slide followers can fill out and share on their Stories and re-share!

Templates had a moment a couple of years ago with folks making templates like “this or that,” “bucket lists,” etc., but they work!

Templates are a great way to engage your audience!

Freebie: Enroll in my Free Reels Course — 0 to 100 Reels Challenge was designed to help you create videos that get you upwards of 100 new followers a week.

#12 Create a Filter

This tip is a little more complicated than the others, but face filters can get a crazy amount of reach!

If you create a face filter people enjoy, they’re likely to use it on their stories, which means you’ll get exposure from other people creating content of their own.

#13 Tag Creators in Your Stories

Reach out to other content creators and collaborate with them.

When you do so, create a fun series together, then share each other’s handles on your Stories.

You can even collaborate by doing a fun shared giveaway and sharing that on your Stories.

Doing so can help you both grow because it will help you reach each other’s audiences. 

I love starting with Stories, though, because users can easily tap through any tagged handles.

#14 Use the Collab Post Feature

The Collaborator post feature on Instagram is a new way to get in front of users organically.

So whether you have a second account or a friend you’re going to collab with, using this feature will automatically put your content in front of a new set of followers.

It’s a free and great way to get in front of new users!

#15 Share Content Across Other Platforms

By this, I mean you need to be posting on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and your blog!

If a new app or social sharing platform takes off, you should be sharing content on it.

While you can only post on Instagram and call it a day, by not spreading your wings, you’re missing out on sooooooo many potential followers out there!

Only want to post on Pinterest? That works! Start by picking one additional social media app and going from there.

#16 Engage with Your Audience

A B-I-G way to grow on Instagram is by engaging with your audience. I know… you’ve heard it 1,000 times, but it’s true. Let your audience know that you care about them by engaging. Respond to their messages and comments. 

Check out their pages and let them know that you like what they’re creating. If you genuinely want to grow on Instagram in this day and age, you need to be active and engaging on the platform.

Pro Tip: This is a great way to beat the Instagram algorithm too!

#17 Ask Questions

“Ask questions” comes off as vague advice, I know, but what I’m really telling you to do here is to ask your audience questions.

Ask them what they want to see from you, or heck, ask them how their week is going! 

And if you are having trouble deciding what kind of content to create next, this is an excellent way to source your followers’ ideas.

#18 Use Your Analytics

How often do you check your Instagram Analytics?

When I first started posting and trying to grow my audience, my answer would have been: NEVER.

It turns out it can be handy to know a thing or two about your audience, like the exact times they will be online engaging with you… Yup. Convenient, I know.

Ensure that you’re taking advantage of the analytics that Instagram already shares with you and use those to grow your account.

#19 Post Carousels

It’s said that when you post a carousel, you’re likely to get 14% more engagement than you would with a static Instagram post.

Carousels can be a combination of multiple photos or photos + videos.

They help tell a better story to your followers and potential followers!

#20 Post Reels

Instagram Reels are having a MOMENT rn!

That’s why in my Instagram influencer course we cover Reels Best Practices Instagram told me about on a call I had with them!

Look, when Instagram creates a new feature, they favor accounts that use it. Reels are Instagram’s competitor to TikTok, and my my, they’re not going anywhere in 2023.

Viral Reels are here to stay and have been getting folks upwards of MILLIONS in reach. 

Tool You’d Like: Click here to enroll in my free Reels Course!

#21 Go Live

Instagram Lives really had a moment in 2020. Why? With isolation, people crave connection.

Lives are a great way to foster that connection and keep your audience interested in what you’re up to. 

After the pandemic, Instagram started to lean more into Lives introducing bonuses and features like “Badges.”

Lives don’t have to be anything crazy.

You can hop on for 15 minutes, ask questions, give a life update, start a conversation, etc. 

#22 Use IGTV & Video

Okay, now I’m asking you to do a bunch of stuff, BUT hear me out.

I suspect that when Instagram merges IGTV and video, it will become more critical.

Instagram has never really been able to compete with YouTube, and this is kind of their only chance.

Long-form video is excellent for increasing follower relationships.

When you go in-depth on a topic, your followers get to know you better. 

List of Tips for Gaining Instagram Followers Organically in 2023

1. Have a consistent look with your photos and feed
2. Schedule your posts and plan your feed
3. Niche down
4. Have a seamless profile aesthetic
5. Create a Story series
6. Use niche-specific hashtags
7. Show more BTS Stories
8. Share content across other platforms
9. Tag creators in your Stories
10. Engage with your audience
11. Create your own hashtag
12. Use your analytics
13. Post Carousels
14. Post Reels
15. Create a Filter
16. Go Live
17. Use IGTV & Video
18. Ask questions
19. Find your purpose and be authentic
20. Create a Story template
21. Use the Collaborator Post feature
22. Give your bio a refresh

Your Next Steps

No one ever said growing on Instagram was easy, but hopefully, from this post, you can notice a few themes!

If you want to continue to learn about becoming an Instagram influencer, then I suggest you check out my other influencer tips:

• How to Get More Story Views
• How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions

The post How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically in 2023 appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

Unfortunately, figuring out your influencer rates is one of the most confusing and stressful parts of being an influencer. And with TikTok being such a new platform, there’s so much misinformation online about how much you should be charging for brand deals.

So through my 6+ years of experience as a full-time influencer and influencer coach, AND after landing 4 and 5-figure deals with companies like Mazda, American Express, and Adobe, I’m guiding you through EVERY single piece of information you need to consider when pricing your TikToks.

That way, you never undercharge again!

AND, this post includes a free TikTok rate calculator you can use to help you price your next sponsored TikTok.

No more chit-chat. Let’s jump right into the juice, starting with the easy stuff!

P.S. Make sure you also read my blog on how the TikTok algorithm works!

Share this on Pinterest!

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

1-5% Formula for How Much to Charge for TikTok Posts

When determining how much to charge for a sponsored TikTok post, start by charging 1% to 5% per thousand followers:

Your Followers x (1% to 5%) = $Your Rate

“How do you choose what percentage factor to use?” That’s based on your engagement rate and your average number of views.

You can calculate your TikTok engagement rate by adding the engagements (number of likes, comments, shares, saves), dividing that number by your number of followers, then multiplying by 100:

((Total Engagement) / # of Followers) x 100 = %Engagement Rate

The average TikTok engagement rate is about 6%. 

So my suggestion is to determine whether or not you have low, average, or high engagement. Then, look at the number of views you get on average.

With this information, see if you should stay on the low side of our 1% to 5% formula or the high side.

Here’s that catch: brands don’t care how many followers you have.

And you’re not going to be able to successfully justify your rates by telling a brand, “Well, I have this number of followers, so that means you should pay me this much.”

They don’t care. They care about the TYPE of followers you have.

In other words, are your followers their IDEAL customers and likely to make a purchase?

Therefore, this formula is where we START with our rates. 

Additionally, you need to consider all kinds of sneaky extras when determining your rates for a sponsored TikTok post.

Determining Your TikTok Sponsored Post Price

When you’re calculating your rates for a sponsored TikTok post, you MUST consider these factors too:

1. Deliverables
2. Time
3. Expenses
4. Usage Rights
5. Boosting 
6. Exclusivity
7. Campaign Extras

P.S. My free influencer rate calculator will help you calculate all of this!

#1 TikTok Deliverables

Deliverables are the items you’re giving the brand.

For instance, are you giving them one TikTok or two TikToks? Are you posting on Stories?

How about a TikTok Carousel?

Will you ALSO be giving them a sponsored Instagram post?

These are all things you have to charge for and therefore set rates for!

Don’t worry; in the next major sections, we’ll discuss charging by post type!

#2 Time

When determining how much to charge for a sponsored TikTok post, you should also consider how much time you spend on content creation.

I recommend tracking your time, so you know how long it takes to make TikToks. I use a free service like Toggl Track to time my days!

When you do this, you can set an hourly rate for yourself and factor that into your pricing.

Time can also refer to how long the video is—is your TikTok 30 seconds or a minute?

Typically, influencers charge more for longer videos.

Read Next: How Much to Charge for a Sponsored Instagram Post

#3 Campaign Expenses

Considering the cost of expenses is SO important for determining your sponsored TikTok post rates!

Will you be traveling? Hiring an assistant?

You’ll pay these expenses to make the post—and guess what? Free products don’t pay these bills; money does…

SO FACTOR THEM INTO YOUR RATES.

#4 Licensing and Usage Rights

Licensing and usage rights are the permissions you grant the brand.

Think of licensing and usage rights like a rental agreement.

For example, will you let the brand repost your content on their other social media channels?

Can they also use your TikTok on their website?

Can they use your TikTok on ads?

In the marketing world, these permissions don’t come for free, so you need to charge for them.

A simple rule of thumb for digital rights and licensing is to charge a 20% fee for every 30 day period.

And pro-tip: NEVER grant a company full, irrevocable rights to use your TikToks as they see fit. These permissions cost THOUSANDS of dollars that companies typically do not want to spend.

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator

#5 Whitelisting or Boosting

Whitelisting, otherwise known as boosting, is when a company takes content from YOUR page and puts money behind it. The catch?

This boosted content will look like an AD coming from YOUR page.

Companies choose to boost influencer posts because the ads look more organic.

Think about it: if you saw an ad coming from your favorite creator’s profile, you’re more likely to trust it over the same ad from the company’s TikTok profile.

I like to tell my influencer course clients that they need to think of boosting like a celebrity endorsement.

Brands benefit from your name, likeness, and reputation—they need to pay for that.

The rates for boosting rights range from an additional 50 to 100% fee for every 30 day period.

Remember, even though a boosted TikTok will get you “more exposure,” exposure doesn’t pay the bills.

#6 Exclusivity Clauses

An exclusivity clause is when a brand says you cannot work with competitors for a specific time period.

Let’s say, for example, you sign a sponsored TikTok partnership contract with Nike for $2,000, and they tell you that you CANNOT work with competitors for three months.

A month later, Adidas slides in your DMs offering you $20,000 starting IMMEDIATELY.

Too bad! Because you’re in the middle of your Nike contract, you cannot legally accept the Adidas offer.

When determining your TikTok pricing for exclusivity, consider the loss of potential income you will experience from having an exclusivity clause. Charge for that loss. 

Influencer Favorite: Brand Pitch Email Templates—get my fill-in-the-blank email templates for pitching brands for paid sponsorships!

#7 Campaign Extras

Extras can be anything else the brand is asking for.

With sponsored TikToks, that can be something like having to use a specific song, a branded hashtag, or writing your caption in a certain way.

For these items, determine a small fee you can add to your overall rate.

Free TikTok Rate Calculator

Okay, so before we continue, I want to introduce you to my free TikTok rate calculator.

Free Influencer Rate Calculator

Okay, so before we continue, I want to introduce you to my free influencer rate calculator.

This calculator takes into consideration everything we just covered up until this point:

In the next sections, we’ll break down charging for different kinds of TikToks!

P.S. Use an influencer rate card template like the one in my Influencer Starter Pack to show off your prices in a professional way!

How Much to Charge by TikTok Post Type

Think about all the different things you can do with a sponsored TikTok post—Stories, photo carousels, etc.
And when your content varies, so should your rates. So let’s talk about how to charge for these things!

Charging for a 30-second Sponsored TikTok Post

We’ve already covered this! To find your rate for the standard, 30-second TikTok post, use the 1%-5% formula:

Your Followers x 1% to 5% = $Your Rate

When in doubt, try to charge more when you can.

I’ve also seen creators use a tiered pricing method that pays you based on the number of views.

Considering everything we discussed regarding TikTok influencer rates, I’m not too fond of this method.

It needs to take into account all the extras you should be charging for. And I mention this in my influencer course too.

But if you must, consider your tiers like our 1% rule. Therefore, you’d charge 1% of the total views.

A tier for our TikTok influencer with 10,000 followers might look like:

• 1,000 to 5,000 views = $50
• 5,001 to 10,000 views = $100
• 10,001 to 50,000 views = $500
• 50,001 to 100,000 = $1,000
• 100,001 to 500,000 = $5,000
• 500,000 to 1,000,000 = $10,000

Charging for a Long Sponsored TikTok Post

Is your TikTok going over the 30-second mark? Set a rate for every additional 30 seconds the company is asking for.

For instance, if you decide you want to charge $150 for every additional 30 seconds a video goes and the company wants a 1-minute, 30-second video, you can find your TikTok rate like this:

1-minute, 30-seconds = 90 seconds

90 seconds / 30 seconds = 3 ; that’s 2 additional 30-second increments

2 additional increments x $150 fee = $300 additional fee.

Charging for a Sponsored TikTok Carousel Post

Carousel posts are new to TikTok, so who knows how important/ impactful they’ll be in the future.

But, for now, I suggest charging per slide.

Set a rate per image based on the image quality you’re providing and how much engagement your carousels usually get.

For example, if your rate per slide was $100 and a company wanted five slides, you would charge them $500.

Charging for a Sponsored TikTok Story

There are a couple of ways you can determine how much to charge for a TikTok story:

• Charge a flat fee per story slide (like you do with the Carousel post)
• Charge 1% of your average Story views

Try both ways and see what rate works best for you and your needs!

Charging for a Link in Your Bio

The pricing for a Link in your bio is entirely up to you and the value you place on your profile.

I would never charge under $100 for ANYTHING, but again, this is up to your discretion.

Remember, your bio is prime real-estate on your profile, so it’s 100% worth getting money for any links placed there!

Read Next: 6 Reasons You Aren’t Landing Brand Deals

Charging for a Sponsored TikTok Live

For TikTok Lives, find an hourly rate for yourself and charge that rate.

Lives are time-consuming and exhausting, so make sure your hourly rate reflects what you believe is fair compensation for the time you’ll spend getting ready, prepping for the live, and anything else leading up to the event.

Read Next: How the TikTok Algorithm Work & How to Beat It

Charging for a Sponsored Giveaway

Yes, you should be charging for giveaways too.

Typically even with a sponsored giveaway, you’ll ask your followers to follow the brand’s profile. That means you’ll be sending them CUSTOMERS they can market to.

I would use our 1-5% formula to charge for this.

Something else to consider is whether or not the brand will be collecting emails from folks who enter the giveaway—will you be getting those emails too?

Charging for a Pinned TikTok or Playlist Feature

You can absolutely charge brands for a feature on your TikTok Playlist or for pinning a TikTok to the top of your profile.

For these, follow the same advice we discussed for charging for a link in your bio!

Should You Have an Influencer Rate Card?

First, what is a rate card?

A rate card is a PDF that displays how much you charge for content creator services.

It’s a great way to send your pricing to brands, especially when you pitch to brands.

You can get the one I like to use by grabbing my Influencer Starter Pack.

Pssst: You should also be sending brands an influencer media kit!

Final Tips for Charging for Sponsored TikTok Content

Let’s wrap this post up with some parting tips for finding your rates.

Avoid Free Product Exchanges

Truthfully, if you’re starting to get brands to reach out to you asking if you’ll post about their products in exchange for a TikTok, that’s a CLEAR sign it’s time to start charging.

Being an influencer and content creator IS a real job, and you should be getting paid for the attention and exposure you bring to brands.

Think about all the time and effort that goes into creating TikToks for brands (or just in general). You’re spending hours a company WON’T have to pay their employees to create content.

Read Next: How to Turn a Gifted Collab into a Paid Partnership

Always Negotiate

When a brand reaches out to you about a sponsored post, they expect you to negotiate. It’s part of the brand deal process!

That said, never take the first offer.

When you can, always ask for more money or see what else you can get.

Need help negotiating brand deals? Grab my fill-in-the-blank brand pitch email templates for influencers.

Learn Actual Pricing Methods

You shouldn’t be guessing what to charge for sponsored TikToks.

So if you need help figuring out how to set your rates and how to justify those rates to brands, then it’s time to hone in on your skillset.

Pricing your sponsored content shouldn’t stress you out! AND your sponsored content should be fueling your lifestyle (paying your bills, giving you more freedom, etc.)

In class, we’ll walk through an actual brand contract and go over the what, why, and how behind your rates.

You’ll walk away knowing exactly what you should charge for brand deals!

Have a Media Kit

A successful influencer media kit template will show brands who you are and will also show them the results you can bring.

In other words, a media kit must convey your value.

They’re an essential part of pitching to brands, so if you still need one, make sure you get one!

Your Next Steps

I hope this blog on how much to charge for a sponsored TikTok post was helpful for you! My biggest piece of advice is to know your worth AND consider expanding your reach to multiple platforms.

That can actually help you charge more for brand deals and can strengthen your influence.

For your next steps, check out my other influencer guides:

• How to Beat the TikTok Algorithm
• How to Pitch to Brands
• How to Land a Paid Instagram Sponsorship
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• Guide to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

The post How Much to Charge for a Sponsored TikTok Post (Rate Calculator) appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

As I grew more experienced with photography and became an Instagram influencer, I saw more of a need for better equipment.

The right gear can bring our imaginations to life and has the ability to help us tell a more complete story.

In the sections below, we’ll discuss what I consider the best gear for travel bloggers and influencers and why these are my fave suggestions for other creators.

Let’s begin!

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Disclaimer: Hey explorer! This post contains affiliate links which means I earn a small percentage of each purchase made through my links. I only ever recommend products I believe in and appreciate your support if you decide to use my links—thank you!

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What to Look For in the Best Travel Blogger & Influencer Camera Gear

When you’re looking for the best camera gear for travel bloggers and influencers, there’s a few things you have to consider:

• Weight of the gear—You don’t want your gear to weigh you down!
• Waterproof—You’ll probably be traveling to different environments and you don’t want your gear to get waterlogged.
• Battery life—You’ll be running around! You need gear that’ll last.
• Ease of use—You never want to miss a moment with complicated gear.

These are the four main considerations I took into account when choosing my gear. Don’t worry, we’ll dive more into these below.

The Best Travel Camera Bodies

Let’s start with camera bodies for travel bloggers!

Before you keep reading, I’d like to note that I’ve switched up camera gear a lot over the years, so I’m not necessarily loyal to one brand. Hence why you’ll find multiple options for each section.

Read Next: How to Become an Adventure Photographer

Cameras for Beginner Travel Bloggers

Sony a6400 Mirrorless Camera

The Sony a6400 is the mirrorless camera I started my travel blogger journey with!

If you’re an entry level travel blogger and influencer, I recommend you grab this guy.

It’s super lightweight, and at 26 megapixels, it’ll get you the high quality images you want for web and social.

I also love that it’s a perfect camera for shooting videos if you want to try out vlogging.

Canon EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D

The EOS Rebel T7i is one of Canon’s best entry-level DSLRs.

The camera sports a 24.2-megapixel sensor that also performs better in situations where one may need a higher ISO.

This camera body also has a great touchscreen feature, which adds ease to a workflow!

The Rebel is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a beginner body with high image quality.

Cameras for Experienced Travel Bloggers

Sony a7RIII Mirrorless Camera

Having a mirrorless camera can be a game changer.

They’re typically lighter than your traditional DSLR, making them easier to pack.

The Sony a7RIII is fast, lightweight, easy to use, and quite frankly hits all the boxes you could want in a travel camera.

Since it’s full frame, using it will improve your photo quality!

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR

Say hello to the Canon 5D Mark IV! This camera is a beast. Its body is lightweight compared to most DSLR bodies, and is practically waterproof. I also love that the 5D Mark IV has a user-friendly menu.

The cherry on top? It has a touch screen which you can use to select your focus point, and even set to “touch to shoot.”

But as DSLR, in general, it can be cumbersome because the bodies are typically more massive than those of a mirrorless camera.

Drones

DJI Air S2

I don’t use a drone all the time, but when I do I use a DJI drone. The Air, specifically, is lightweight and has the ability to capture crisp images and videos.

And if you use a drone, make sure you’re only using it in permitted areas!

Travel Blogger & Influencer Must-Have

Apple iPhone

I don’t think I need to explain why an Apple iPhone is some of the best camera gear for travel bloggers and influencers!

With Stories, TikToks, Reels, and any other social media app, having an iPhone handy is a must.

Camera Lenses

I would argue that camera lenses are more important than the bodies themselves. Lenses are what can change the overlook of a photo and really bring an image to life.

24-70mm f/2.8

F/2.8 refers to the aperture. Without getting too technical, the “lower” the aperture number, the more background blur you can get with an image. This is great for portraits.

Example: f/2.8 has more blur than f/7. Anywho, these lenses are typically more expensive.

If you still want a 24-70 but aren’t ready to invest that much, I suggest trying a 24-70mm f/4 lens. Still a great lens for your photo needs!

Read Next: How to Be Safe as a Female Traveler

Sony 24-70mm f/2.8

This 24-70 lens is my all time favorite. From my experience, it gives you the most flexibility with your images.

You can capture portraits and landscapes without having to change lenses.

It’s great if you want a “no -brainer” lens and don’t feel want to always carry a ton of gear with you. AND, it’s sharp AF.

P.S. Going the DSLR route? Try the Canon 24-70 f/2.8.

16-35mm f/4

If you think you’ll be capturing much wider scenes (think mountains or tall buildings), you need to snag a 16-35 f/4!

My 16-35 has helped me capture some of my favorite landscape images to date. You can also get a 16-35mm f/2.8.

Sony 16-35mm f/4

The Sony 16-35mm f/4 has been my go-to wide angle lens for a while.

Like I mentioned above, I love to use it for wider scenes.

When I’m writing up itineraries and travel guides about outdoor locations, I usually use a lot of horizontal images I captured with a wide-angle lens.

If you’ll be shooting a DSLR, I recommend the Canon 16-35 f/4.

70-200mm f/2.8

I didn’t realize just how much I love getting realllyyyyy zoomed into scenes until I bought a 70-200mm f/2.8.

Lenses at this focal range compress a scene, meaning objects in the distance appear larger.

These kinds of lenses can be great for portraits too because they bring a lot of attention to the subject.

Sony 70-200mm f/2.8

The Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 is a big boy, but completely worth it!

I love capturing more artsy travel photos with this lens.

Some of my most interesting and favorite nature photos were taken with it.

If you’re going withe a DSLR, grab a Canon 70-200 f/2.8.

35mm f/1.8 Prime

A fixed lens means it stays the same focal length allll the time.

So you can’t zoom in or out, you’d have to physically move yourself or the subject. BUT lenses like these are FANTASTIC for travel bloggers because they’re lightweight and produce sharp images.

35mm is a great go-to focal length.

Sony 35mm f/1.8

The Sony 35mm f/1.8 is a great travel lens that won’t do you wrong. You can get just about every kind of image you need from this lens.

For an option that’s a bit more zoomed in, you can grab a 50mm f/1.8 — another popular choice.

Essential Camera Gear for Travel Bloggers

Below is my list of essential camera gear for travel bloggers and influencers. I don’t know what I’d do without these!

For Editing

Adobe Creative Cloud

Editing in Adobe Lightroom had a significant effect on my photography. I previously was editing jpeg files on free iPhone apps but decided it was time to give RAWS a try and switch over to Adobe Creative Cloud. I’m happy I did!

To edit all of my photos, I use a combination of Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. You can get both programs with Adobe’s Photography Suite.

Apple MacBook Pro 13″

I LOVE my Apple MacBook Pro. It has become a staple part of my photography gear. I was previously a PC user but switched over because MacBooks are faster and have more capabilities when it comes to what we creative folks need.

The 13″ retina display also assures that I am viewing my images to the highest quality, allowing me to make the best edits possible.

Storage

SanDisk 64GB Extreme Pro SD Cards

SD cards are essential to photography. You can’t take photos without one!

I have used these 64G SanDisk cards for the past couple of years now.

We find that they write very fast (write = images are captured and processed).

1TB G-DRIVE Mobile SSD

If you take a ton of pictures and do not want to clog up your computer, I recommend grabbing an SSD.

SSD stands for “solid state drive,” meaning it does not have a fragile disk inside that will crash the drive if it gets banged around.

I always load images onto my SSD and edit them directly on the drive, then back them up to an external hard drive later

4TB G-DRIVE Mobile External Hard Drive

Backing up your photos is CRUCIAL. It would suck to lose all your travel photos!

I have had several hard drives fail on me. It stinks! But a 4TB hard drive has never let me down.

Hard drives are probably the one piece of travel blogger gear you need to buy. You can back up your blog files on them too!

Camera Accessories for Travel Bloggers

Peak Design Capture Camera Clip

Carrying your camera around your next, in your hands, or digging it out of your pack gets annoying. A Peak Design Capture Camera Clip removes all that from the equation by safely securing your camera onto a bag strap.

Now you’ll never miss a moment because your camera is at the bottom of your bag!

Not to mention, you can travel freely without worry about dropping your camera.

MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod

I don’t use tripods very often.

They can be bulky, and our style of photography doesn’t usually require that we use one.

However, MeFOTO tripods are great for taking travel selfies and couple’s photos.

So if you want to take your own pictures, grab this tripod!

JOBY Gorillapod

If you’re shopping for an ultra-light tripod for travel, I can’t recommend the JOBY Gorillapod enough.

Its legs flex and bend so you can take it anywhere. I use mine for a variety of things like vlogging.

You can also purchase a phone tripod to only use with your Apple iPhone.

Giottos Rocket Air Blaster

When your camera gets dusty, this little guy is the best cleaner, especially if you don’t have a clean cloth around.

And nobody like a dusty camera!

Camera Bags for Travel Bloggers

WANDRD PRVKE

I LOVE this camera bag.

The WANDRD PRVKE holds my laptop, camera body, lenses, hard drives and more.

It has been a recent addition to my travel blogger camera gear, and I can tell you right now that it is ten times better than any other camera bag I have owned.

Ape Cases

Think of Ape Cases as packing cubes you can adjust to your needs. Each case has a Velcro wall inside that you can move around.

They’re great for keeping your gear protected as you travel. Plus they’re SUPER light, so they won’t weigh your bags down!

While Ape Cases have a use for a variety of travel blogger camera gear, I use them to hold my camera body, lenses, SD cards, and more.

My Final Thoughts on Travel Blogger & Influencer Camera Gear

Generally speaking, there are TONS of cameras for travel bloggers and camera gear for travel bloggers. It can get overwhelming.

If you’re just looking to start your gear collection, here’s what I recommend you grab:

Sony a6400

Sony 24-70mm f/2.8

SD Card

4TB Hard Drive

WANDRD PRVRKE

Abobe Creative Cloud

Boom, keep it simple. The most important thing to remember with your journey is that STARTING is crucial. And you don’t need a whole ton of gear to start.

So there you have it, that’s the gear I use and happily recommend! I suggest you check out my other influencer tips next!

The post The Best Camera Gear for Travel Bloggers & Influencers appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

It took me about 12 months to grow my Instagram to that point, but I have to admit, I was trying and failing at growing for a longgggg time until I finally found the “secret sauce.” 

And that’s what I want to share with you today.

I’m not going to sugarcoat it, growing on Instagram isn’t easy, but it is doable! So let’s dive right into my best tips on how to get 100K followers on Instagram.

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Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Why Instagram Followers are Important

I wish I had known this before becoming an Instagram influencer: the number of followers you have actually doesn’t matter.

I have Instagram influencer course students making a full-time income with as “little” as 10,000 followers.

It’s all about a) how you sell yourself (like pitching to brands) and b) having the RIGHT followers.

When trying to get paid Instagram sponsorships, brands won’t care about how many followers you have but will care that they’re engaged followers.

So in the following sections, we’re not going to just cover how to get 100K followers because it’s the “sexy” thing to do.

Instead, we’re going to go into my best tips for growing a community of fans who love and support you and your content so your influencer biz grows WITH your following.

10 Tips on How to Get 100K Followers on Instagram

Here we go! Before you dive into the 10 tips, I would like to say that these aren’t your “typical” influencer tips. This is really a list of things I wish someone had just told me upfront so I could save time guessing how to grow.

These are the fundamentals for building a strategy that will allow you to see long-term results with your influencer efforts!

So let’s dive in!

#1 Have a Niche

If your fashion, food, travel, whatever it may be, you need to find your “one thing.” 

And you need to create content around that. People want to go to your page for a specific reason. 

If you’re a workout person, I don’t necessarily want to see your makeup routine; I want to see workouts. Same thing with a travel person: I’m following you because I want more inspo for my next vacation. 

The sum of it: you need to stick to a niche.

And your niche should be a topic you want to create content around for a WHILE, because results will take time to happen. 

#2 Expand Your Content Overtime

Overtime niches can 100% change, so don’t feel like you’re locked into a niche forever.

As time passes, your followers will become more interested in other aspects of your life. 

Let’s use the workout example:

You could create weekly workout videos and post them on your feed. But on your Instagram Stories, you show “day in the life” content that features what you’re doing when you’re NOT working out.

Out of curiosity, your followers may naturally ask you where your outfit is from or what your favorite recipes are.

You can start branching into other niches at that point.

But the point is, those things come with experience. So while you’re trying to grow, you have to niche down.

#3 Post Consistently

There’s really no way around this one! Many of my influencer coaching clients don’t like to hear this, but posting consistently is KEY to getting 100K Instagram followers.

Daily posting is best, but showing up about three times a week can be a good start.

The key is to ensure you’re posting high-quality content your followers want to engage with—that goes for Reels and photos.

When I first started my influencer journey, I would just post whenever I felt like posting, but that didn’t do anything for me.

Finally, I created a content plan and stuck to it no matter WHAT was happening.

Even if a post tanked, I just kept posting. Being consistent helped me improve at creating content and building a solid connection with my followers—they were actually looking forward to my posts.

Pro Tip: If you wan to get paid to post make sure you also check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#4 Plan Your Feed (How to Get 100K Instagram Followers Top Tip) 

Plan. Your. Feed. Plan a day or a couple of days before you post something to ensure that your feed looks cohesive.

Also, IDK about you, but I write more engaging Instagram captions when I take the time to think about them in advance over trying to do them at the last minute. 

So if you struggle with the caption game, planning will be a must! You’re much more likely to remain consistent when you plan out your feed.

Planning gives you no excuses not to post something.

Andddddddd guess what? Instagram lets you schedule posts!

Yep, you can even schedule Instagram Reels to go live. In other words, posting doesn’t have to be super time-consuming or cumbersome. 

So if you feel like time is an issue, focus on planning and scheduling your content so it’s out of the way.

If you’re really big into photo aesthetics and making sure your feed looks a certain way, I suggest downloading an app like Planoly to help you plan your content.

With Planoly you can preview what your feed will look like so you can rearrange photos as you see fit.

You’d Like: How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically

#5 Use Hashtags Wisely

While I don’t think they’re EVERYTHING, using hashtags can help.

You must make sure you’re doing hashtag research and finding tags that describe what your content is all about.

But think of hashtags as a bonus tool for helping you increase your reach. Using the right hashtags helped make my content more discoverable to new followers.

Pro Tip: To start, try to find hashtags that have under 1 Million pieces of content under them.

Make sure they’re in your niche and the content under that hashtag is similar to what you’re posting.

It’s all about experimenting with the right hashtags that get more eyeballs on your posts.

And here’s a bonus tip: Don’t just take hashtags from another creator. You know what I’m talking about, lol. While it might be tempting just to use the same 30 hashtags another creator uses, this strategy prevents you from finding what works with YOUR content.

Read Next: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

#6 Engage with Your Community

Engaging with my community was a massive game-changer for me! I used to post and then run away from the app.

But after a while, I found that while I was gaining followers, they weren’t sticking around.

That’s when I knew that to get 100K Instagram followers, I needed to do a better job at showing up for my audience.

So, in addition to responding to comments, I turned to Instagram Stories.

Instagram Stories are a GREAT, no-frills way to engage with your followers.

With fun Stickers like quizzes, polls, and sliders, you can make your Stories super interactive and enticing for people to watch.

They’re a great engagement driver!

Read Next: How to Get More Instagram Story Views

#7 Network with Other Influencers

Let’s remember, other creatives are a part of your community too, so it’s good to build some relationships with other influencers in your niche or your area.

Networking was actually super helpful for brand deals too.

As you start to monetize your Instagram, you and other influencers in your niche end up working with the same brand clients.

Heck, you might even end up going on press trips with the same influencers!

So knowing other creators to stay “in the know” with what’s happening on your side of Instagram can be beneficial. 

Networking with other Instagram creators also allows you to cross-promote each other.

You can do that with the Instagram collaborators feature; it’s for creators to get more exposure.

So if you have some IG friends, you keep up with regularly, that’s a great way to help each other reach more followers!

#8 Make Sure You Have a Business or Creator Account

Switching to a Creator account did help me get 100K Instagram followers.

How?

Insights.

You need them. You need to look at the numbers and understand what is and is not working with your content strategy. Guessing isn’t enough!

A business or Creator account gives you access to tools, like a professional Dashboard, to review content performance.

And from a money perspective, you also get access to things like Bonuses and the Creator Marketplace.

You’d Like: How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts

#9 Understand Your Insights

When you post content, you should keep track of how many non-followers and current followers it reaches.

Reaching more “non-followers” means your content is seen by people who may eventually want to follow you.

And as you get more experienced, you’ll want to know how many people are clicking to your website or any contact buttons you have on your feed—you can use Insights for these too.

A helpful insight I love to look at is:

Insights >> Content Your Shared >> Post or Reel >> “Any” “Follows” “Last 30 Days”

These settings help you see what content brings in the most new followers.

If you can analyze and understand why this content works so well for you, you can create a content strategy around those pieces.

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator

#10 Don’t Take Post Performance Personally

When followers don’t like your content, it’s easy to take things personally.

However, there is SO much content out there and so many other influencers in your niche. It’s impossible for everyone to like everything you specifically share.

And it’s impossible to get everyone out there to follow you.

There’s no reason to take low-performing content personally and let that discourage you from continuing to post.

Remember, the key is to be consistent with posting. If a piece of content gets little engagement, you need to analyze it and understand what you can do better next time. 

Remember, this is business, so treat it like one!

Don’t blame the algorithm for your troubles; just strategize and keep going!

How Long Does it Take to Get 100K Instagram Followers?

I would plan for a year.

Sure, you can have a viral Reel and grow overnight, but this isn’t the reality for MOST people.

A year is enough time for you to develop some good content creation habits and start making a plan for your growth!

Final Thoughts on How to Gain 100K Followers on Instagram

Growing is challenging, but you can do it with strategy!

So I hope this post gave you some food for thought and some pointers on where to start with growing.

I suggest you read my other influencer tips posts too:

• How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions
• How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically

The post How to Get 100k+ Instagram Followers | I Did It, You Can Too appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

In this post, we’re going to talk about how you can use this caption technique to get people hooked on your content as soon as they land on your page.

It’s a unique way to grab your follower’s attention and get more Instagram saves. Why should we care about saves?

We’ll discuss this next! Then we’ll dive right into microblogging.

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Why are Instagram Saves Important? 

Instagram saves have become all the rage lately. Why? Because:

1. Instagram gives users the ability to hide likes.
2. Likes simply aren’t as crucial as saves. 

By hiding likes, Instagram forces us to care less about them. And in all honesty, we should.

Remember the last time you shared an Instagram post with your friend? It’s because it resonated with you somehow and less about the pretty picture that went with it. 

A save signals to the Instagram algorithm, “Hey, this piece of content is important to me. So important that I’m going to bookmark it to refer back to later.” 

We want more of these signals on our content. We want Instagram to deem our content as valuable, so the algorithm pushes our content to more eyeballs, essentially increasing our reach.

Comments, saves, and shares tell us how much your audience actually gives a damn about your content—not likes. This is especially important when you want to land paid Instagram sponsorships.

We want users to care about our content enough to keep coming back for more! And brands care a lot about that relationship.

That’s why I tell my Instagram influencer course students to use this engagement driving technique as much as possible!

How Can You Get Instagram Saves with Captions? 

Sure, a good photo or Reel will get Instagram saves, but an engaging Instagram caption can make a person feel seen.

Captions are your place to use written word to connect with others. Think about it like you would a good book.

Great writing can tell a story, paint a picture, make someone happy, sad, or even mad. When you write a scroll-stopping caption, it can be just as impactful as a video.

It’s all about the delivery.

Lucky for you, if you’re not the best writer, microblog captions have a fool-proof formula to them that anyone can rinse and repeat.

All you have to focus on is delivering value.

For example, you can tell a relatable story, teach your audience something, and even inspire your audience to do something. 

Therefore, if you focus on writing value-driven Instagram captions, you’ll be able to generate more shares for your content. 

This is why microblogs work so well!

Freebie: Enroll in my Free Reels Course — 0 to 100 Reels Challenge was designed to help you create videos that get you upwards of 100 new followers a week.

What are Microblogging Instagram Captions?

A microblog caption is like a miniature blog post. Rather than writing a thousand-plus word post about a topic, you’d essentially condense the information you’d write about into a caption.

That means for Instagram, you’d have to pack your info into 2,200 characters.

Therefore, microblogs get to the point much faster than a blog would. They omit any fluffy details and get straight to the key takeaways your audience needs. 

These takeaways can help them plan a trip, sell a product, find outfit inspo, cook a new recipe, and so so much more. The possibilities are endless! 

Microblogging is a compelling way that you can serve your audience.

Why I Was Skeptical of Microblogging

Now listen, I was super skeptical of microblogging my Instagram captions at first.

I was worried that I would give everyone what they wanted on Instagram, and they would never leave the platform to go to my blog. 

Why would anyone want to read my microblogs then go to read my actual blogs on the same topic? Turns out that’s what followers want! 

My followers love to read my microblogs to summarize the information they’re looking for—fast facts, if you will. Then when they need more detail on a topic, they head to my blog to get it. 

In short, microblogging has helped drive even more traffic to my blog! It also results in more Instagram saves, and more and more people are sending my content to their friends and family.

Which turned out to be a great way to grow organically on Instagram.

The moral of the story here, my friend, is that you need to know how to write engaging Instagram captions, and microblogging is the way to go!

Example Content Scenario

Now we’re going to deep dive into an example scenario where you’d write a microblog Instagram caption.

In this example, let’s say you’re a travel influencer. You decide you want to write a microblog based on a recent trip you took to Oregon. 

After spending five days in Portland, and you have decided to write a blog called The Ultimate Guide to Spending 5 Days in Portland, Oregon.

You write a blog post with everything the person needs to know about their trip. These can be things like how to get to Portland, where to eat, and what things they should do and see. 

You create viral Reels around this topic, and you’ve already shared a couple of Instagram Stories from your trip.

So you think a great way to tie all of this lovely content together would be to write a microblog!

Your blog post will end up being close to 3,000 words, and it’s going to be very helpful for your reader.

You might even sprinkle in some affiliate links so your readers buy a product, and you get a small kickback from the purchase. 

With this blog post, your Reels, and your Stories already done, you have plenty of opportunities to microblog about your trip.

You want your microblogs to give your Instagram followers a little taste of what they’ll be getting if they go and check out the big daddy blog. 

Plus, we want our Instagram followers to get just enough information from your microblog, so they save it for their own Portland trip later.

Here are some great examples of microblogs you could write based on your blog and trip: 

1. Top 5 Sites to Visit in Portland
2. A Quick Guide to Visiting Portland in the (insert season your visited)
3. What to pack for visiting Portland in the (insert season that you visited)
4. Top food trucks you HAVE to eat at in Portland
5. Best day trips from Portland 

Now, this is the critical thing to remember; these will be captions that are way shorter than your blog post. However, they are going to cover similar topics.

You shouldn’t just be copying and pasting. Keep the format in mind and give people small chunks of information that they can return to (which will land you so many Instagram saves).

Let’s put this example together below!

Read Next: Complete Guide to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

How to Write an Engaging Microblog Instagram Caption

When writing a microblog Instagram caption, always include these:

1. A header
2. A quick CTA after your header
3. The body
4. A conclusion
5. Final CTA

Let’s dive into what those mean!

A Header

Make your first sentence an attention grabber. Example “, 5 STOPS IN PORTLAND YOU’LL WANT TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST.”

A header is even better (oo that rhymes) if you can leave a space between it and the body of your microblog, encouraging readers to hit that “read more” button. MUAHAHAHA. 

A Quick CTA After the Heading

After your heading, it helps to add a small call to action. Again, going back to the Portland example, you can do something like “save this post for your future Portland trip!”

The Body

The body is the meat of your microblog. I suggest using bullet points or emojis to break up the body. For example, in your Portland microblog, you can number the spots “1, 2, 3, 4, 5,” etc.

The more the body is broken up, the easier it’ll be to read. 

The Conclusion and Final CTA

A second CTA is a great way to direct your followers where they can go from here. Since my microblogs are usually related to blog posts or some other content, I love to refer followers to the link in my bio.

For the Portland post, the last CTA could say something like, “Want more epic places to see in Portland? Click the link in my bio to read my Portland blog!”

If you don’t have a blog, you can tell your followers something like, “Head over to my Portland Story Highlight for more information!” or remind them to save the post for future reference!

Tahhhhh-dahhhhh. You have a microblog. You can click here to see an example I used on a Reel. It’s formatted slightly different, but you’ll get the idea!

Read Next: How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts

Microblog FAQs

Here’s what to know before you start writing microblogs!

How long should a microblog be?

Instagram captions can be 2,200 characters long (not words), so when you are microblogging, ensure that you don’t go over 2,200 characters!

What should be in a microblog caption?

There are a couple of ways to approach microblogs: 

1. Microblogs for driving IG engagement and traffic to your actual blog
2. Blogging on Instagram with microblogs to drive IG engagement (aka you will treat IG as if it was your blog)

Let’s discuss the former first.

Will a microblog take away from your blog posts?

If you’re anything like me, you might be worried that microblogging will take away from your actual blog. Which might make you ask yourself, what should I be microblogging about?

Microblogs should be about the same topics but should never be a replica of your blog. You want people to read both, and if they go to your blog and find out that it’s the same thing they learned on Instagram, they aren’t going to keep going back to your blog. Does that make sense?

In simple terms, blogs and Instagram caption microblogs should complement one another.

Remember, a microblog is the short and sweet version of a topic! Your blog is where you’ll get into super juicy details that aren’t constricted by the 2,200 character count on Instagram.

That being said, you shouldn’t just copy and paste your blog post onto Instagram. That’s not a very good method of microblogging. Instead, you need to be creating microblogs in tandem with your other blog content. 

How often should you post microblog captions?

You’re probably thinking, “Thanks Dani, another thing to add to my endless to-do list.” And you might be wondering whether or not every time you write engaging Instagram captions, it needs to be a microblog. 

Do Instagram captions need to be filled with 2,000 characters that will blow away your audience? The answer is no. 

Don’t let this overwhelm you. You don’t have to be microblogging for every post, and if you don’t have anything written out, that shouldn’t stop you from posting. 

A good goal to aim for is (if you post every day) a microblog two times a week.

Pro Tip: Microblogs are a great way to charge more for deals — check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator to see how much you can earn!

What happens after you post your microblog?

Well, your follower will read the microblog Instagram caption, they’ll save it, then they’ll go, “oooooh, they have a blog on more Portland stuff? I MUST see.”

They’ll then click that link in your bio, read your Portland blog, maybe pass it to some friends or share it on Pinterest.

Then you get affiliate sales, and oooooohhhh lawdy, it goes on!

If you do not have a blog but have a Story Highlight you can direct users to, you can end up making affiliate sales from any links you shared in your IG Stories!

Freebie: Enroll in my Free Reels Course — 0 to 100 Reels Challenge was designed to help you create videos that get you upwards of 100 new followers a week.

How to Start a Blog on Instagram

Now, let’s say you don’t intend to start a blog right now. Instead, you want to learn how to start blogging on Instagram and believe microblogs can get you there. 

Rather than pulling microblog topics from a blog post, as we discussed earlier, you’ll want to pull topic ideas based on your Instagram niche and ideal audience. 

In other words, you need to focus on what sort of content you’re already posting and what you believe new and current followers would be interested in. 

Let’s say, for example, you’re a fashion influencer. You share Outfit of the Day posts, you make Reels on your favorite clothing hauls, and in your Stories, you talk about some of your favorite seasonal pieces, including affiliate links. 

I would advise repurposing some of your Posts, Reels, and Story topics into microblogs! So in this example, you could microblog about:

• Your favorite Outfit of the Days for Summer
• Clothing haul from XYZ company complete with details on each piece you snagged
• Your Summer favorites and why you recommend people buy these pieces 

The key is to determine what topics you can expand on and create a long-form caption. Remember, you don’t have to be the best writer in the world to pull this off!

Other Places to Use These Captions

You can also use Microblogging on Facebook if you post a lot there. On the flip side, you can share your Instagram caption microblogs to Facebook with the direct link back to a related post on your blog.

Heck, you can even post your microblogs on TikTok.

Just think of all the other fantastic microblogging opportunities at your fingertips.

Overall

Overall, I’m a Stan of this technique. Next time you’re wondering how to write engaging captions on Instagram, try microblogging.

And while you’re at it, you should check out my other helpful influencer blogs!

• How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm
• 12 Steps to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

The post How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions with Microblogging appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

So wanna know the secret to getting the paid sponsors of your dreams? Pitch to brands!

But I get it. As an influencer, sending an email pitch to brands is scary—what do you say? How do you know who to email? How do you get started?

This blog is going to cover it all! Written from my experiences working with brands like Adobe, Travel & Leisure, Mazda, and American Express. 

I hope this blog helps you gain a little more confidence with email pitching your dream sponsors and gets you one step closer to landing a paid brand deal!

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

What Does it Mean to Pitch Brands?

A pitch to brands is a 2 to 3-paragraph email message you send to a company (or a specific person). You’re essentially presenting an idea to a potential social media sponsor in the email. The end goal is to work with the brand.

Here’s what’s included in an influencer pitch to brands:

• Introduction
• What you love about the brand or product
• How you’d like to work together
• Previous and relevant partnerships
• Influencer media kit
• Rate Card

When sending the previous examples of your work, it’s best to highlight the results you achieved with other companies you’ve worked with.

Even if those results just lead to more brand awareness!

My favorite way to do this is to have an influencer media kit template with case studies.

Why Should Influencers Pitch to Brands

Instagram influencers (and even TikTok influencers) should pitch to brands because: 

1. Pitching can help you get brand deals faster
2. Pitching can help you earn more money

Like I said earlier, I see a lot of influencers waiting for brands to come to them. But, unfortunately, the truth is, you can be waiting for a long time!

When a brand is sourcing influencers for their next campaign, they first sort through influencers.

Think about how long that can take!

When you email pitch to brands, you’re helping companies discover you much more quickly.

And if you write your email pitch the right way, you can pitch brands your biggest ideas, helping you make potentially thousands of dollars.

Even if a brand doesn’t work with you the first time, pitching can help put you on their radar of influencers to work with later.

Read Next: How to Turn a Free Gift Into a Paid Collab

How to Pitch to Brands: Writing Your Email Pitch

Here’s a breakdown of what to include in an influencer brand pitch email:

1. A Great Subject Line
2. Your Introduction
3. What you love about the brand
4. Your Idea
5. Previous Examples of Your Work
6. A Call to Action
7. Your Media Kit
8. Your Rate Card

And yes! You will be doing this in a few paragraphs! So let’s break down each of these in the following sections.

#1 A Great Subject Line

The key to a great subject line with brand pitch emails is to keep them short, sweet, and eye-catching.

Think about it: the person you’re sending this pitch to probably gets tons of emails coming their way. So your subject line needs to be easy to digest.

Grab This: 17 Influencer Email Brand Pitch Templates—Fill-in-the-blank email templates for pitching your dream sponsors. Save time writing pitches from scratch and stop guessing what to say!

#2 Your Introduction—How Do You Introduce Yourself as an Influencer?

A brand pitch email isn’t the time for an autobiography! So instead, think about your 30-second elevator pitch.

What you’re trying to do here is give the brand a taste of who you are. The highlights.

Think about what the brand wants to know about you, like your handles and niche.

You can even use this section of your pitch to highlight a few commonalities you have with the brand you’re pitching—values, purpose, etc.

Remember, the person reading your pitch will likely look through hundreds of other influencer pitches. So you don’t want to waste precious time writing a novel about yourself.

At the end of the day, brands work with influencers to market products to their ideal customers. So your introduction needs to help you sell your influence and show you are the influencer they need to work with next!

Read Next: 6 Reasons Why Brands Won’t Pay You

#3 What You Love About the Brand

When writing pitches to brands, I always recommend going for brands you know, love, and trust.

Your pitches will be much more authentic, and brands will feel that. Not to mention, when you actually land your deal, your audience will feel that authenticity too!

Try thinking about your experience with their product or services!

And really let your love for that shine through.

This is an appropriate time to mention things like…

How you discovered the product or service

How it helped you in some way

Your favorite thing about the brand, product, or service

Additionally, take some time to do your research on the brand. What’s their mission? Their values? What are they about? Talk about how you align with the brand in those ways!

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator with Less Than 5,000 Followers

#4 Your Idea

How do you want to work with the brand?

It’s one thing to tell brands who you are and what you like about them; it’s another to give them a reason to care!

In your pitch to brands, try to give them an idea of what you had in mind for working with them.

Hint: Brands love working with influencers who have some sort of creative input!

#5 Previous Examples of Your Work

You’ll want to show some social proof in your pitches.

Brands prefer to work with influencers who have a little experience.

That usually ensures better ROI for the brands when they hire influencers.

Give them an idea of what’s possible by sending them previous brand partnerships!

#6 A CTA

Close off your written pitch with a call to action. Should the brand schedule a call with you?

Do you have a question before you work together?

Give the brands you pitch some next steps for developing a brand partnership with you!

Pro Tip: You can ask them a leading question that requires more than a yes or no answer.

#7 Your Media Kit

An influencer media kit is like your resume. It gives brands further information about who you are, your stats, and audience demographics. 

But a great media kit will show off examples of your work.

The best way to send your media kit to brands is to attach it to your brand pitch email as a PDF. That way, the brand can click through and pass your media kit to the company’s appropriate people!

My 6-page influencer media kit template is what my influencer clients and I use to pitch 4 and 5-figure brand deals with companies like Toyota, Alaska Airlines, REI, and more.

Click here to check it out!

#8 Your Rate Card

An influencer rate card is a professional way to show off your rates and content packages.

Andddddd, a great rate card can help you upsell brands so you can make more money from your brand deals!

But this poses the question, “What should my influencer rates be?” 

If you’re unsure about what to charge, click here to read my guide on how much to charge for sponsored content.

In that guide, you’ll also find my free influencer rate calculator you can use!

As a rule of thumb, though, influencers charge $10 for every thousand followers. This is known as the 1% rule.

The ISSUE with that rule is that it’s just a bare minimum rate and should NOT be all you charge for. 

The rates you send brands should be much more than that based on your expenses, rights you’re granting the brand, deliverables, and more.

To ensure you’re charging the right amount, you’ll want to read the rates guide I wrote for you!

Influencer Pitch to Brands Template

Not sure how to put all of these elements together in your pitch to brands? I got you:

Introducing the Influencer Pitch Vault!

The Vault is full of my bestselling pitch to brands templates that help influencers like you pitch their dream sponsors for paid deals.

The templates have helped my clients and me land brand deals with companies like Toyota, Mazda, American Express, and Marriott—even with less than 5,000 followers.

Inside, you’ll also find examples of how I’ve used the templates to land deals and upsell brands!

Click here to grab the brand pitch email templates!

Influencer Pitch to Brands FAQ

Have questions about pitching to brands? I have answers!

How Do You Find Brand Contacts?

Before you can even think about writing an email pitch to brands, you must find the right person or email address to send your pitch to!

Sending your brand pitches to generic contact@companyname emails can waste time. There’s no guarantee that the right person will find your pitch in that inbox!

Therefore, you should really take your time to research the brand and find the right person(s) to reach out to!

First, I suggest sending the brand a DM on social media. Ask them for a contact.

If that doesn’t work, try looking on places like LinkedIn and Twitter for people who work for the company you’d like to reach out to. You’ll want to find folks with “PR” or “influencer” in their job title.

These are usually the folks who handle influencer marketing and brand campaigns!

Read Next: How to Get More Followers Organically

How Many Followers Do You Need to Pitch Brands?

You do not need a large number of followers to pitch brands. You just need the right followers.

If you’re pitching brands, your followers need to be the brand’s ideal customers. And you should have a great relationship with your followers, which can be indicated by engagement rate.

I’ve had Instagram influencer course students land brand deals with as little as 1,000 followers—all from pitching!

So don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

Read Next: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

How Do You Pitch a Brand to Get Paid?

You simply need to ask for money to pitch a brand to get paid.

That’s why it’s essential to have influencer media kit templates and rate cards.

Using these tools and your email pitch, you can show brands your ROI and how much it is to work with you.

Read Next: How to Create Viral IG Reels

What Do You Say to Brands as a Micro Influencer?

Here is how to pitch brands as a micro influencer:

1. Introduce yourself
2. Say what you like about the brand
3. Mention why working together makes sense
4. Share any collab ideas
5. Link previous work examples and your handles
6. End with a call-to-action
7. Attach your media kit and rate card 

These are the exact same steps we’ve already covered! It’s all about how you sell yourself.

How Do I Send a Message to Brands for Collaboration?

You can send a message to brands for collaboration by DMing the brand or by emailing them your pitch directly.

How Do I Get Big Brand Deals?

To get big brand deals, you should pitch brands long-term partnerships. The best way to do this is to develop a great relationship with the brand.

For example, after you work with them, send them a campaign report to show them your posts’ amazing results!

Final Tips for How to Pitch Brands as a Content Creator

Let’s cap things off with some parting tips for writing your pitch to brands.

Think Ahead

Brands plan their marketing efforts way in advance, so you need to plan your pitches in advance.

It’s better to send a pitch earlier than later. For instance, you probably won’t score many holiday brand deals the week of Christmas.

Send your pitches early!

Do Your Research Beforehand

Make sure you’re really researching brands before pitching! Ideally, you should already be posting about the brand organically on social media. That helps establish trust with your followers and signals to the brand that you use their products. 

But aside from that, look at their social media.

What projects is the brand currently working on? 

What social media marketing are they doing?

Have they worked with influencers before?

Do they have any new products coming out? 

Are there gaps in the content they post? For instance, do they not post a lot of Reels or TikToks?

These are all things you can use in your email pitch to brands!

Make Each Pitch Personalized

Avoid copying and pasting your pitches!

Instead, customize each pitch to be specific to the brand you’re speaking to.

Let Your Personality Shine

We want our pitches to be professional, but they don’t have to be stuffy!

Give your personality some room to shine with every pitch you write!

Have Your Personal Brand Figured Out

This goes without saying, but before you send a pitch to brands, you really must have your personal brand figured out.

Remember, brands hire influencers to get access to their audience.

So while you don’t need THOUSANDS of followers, you need to have a well-established connection with those you have.

If you need some additional help in this department, check out my guide on how to become an Instagram influencer.

Analyze the Fails

Even though I’ve landed 6-figures in brand deals, it wasn’t always that way.

I’ve sent many pitches to brands that have absolutely failed and gotten me nowhere.

When that happens, remember that it’s part of the process! Take some time to review your pitches.

Was it too long? Too short? Can your influencer media kit template use some work?

Try to think about what you can improve for the next pitch. Then, pitch some more!

Your Next Steps for Pitching Brands

Hopefully, this guide on how to pitch to brands gave you the little boost in confidence you needed, because hey, you got this

If you want to step up your influencer game, land bigger deals, and maybe even make this a full-time career, check out these other ways I can support you:

Ultimate Instagram Influencer Course—A done-for-you roadmap on growing, building a recognizable brand, and monetizing

Influencer Coaching— 1:1 support for your biggest influencer goals

The post How to Pitch Brands & Land Your Dream Paid Collab appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

Or worse: you’ve already tried to pitch to brands, but the only response you ever receive is crickets *chirp chirp*. Let’s fix that! This post will dive into the top 6 mistakes influencers make when they want to get brand deals.

The end goal: by discussing these now, you’ll avoid these mistakes (or fix them) and have a better shot at landing brand deals.

But before diving in, we need to discuss why brands aren’t paying you right now.

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Why Brands Aren’t Paying You 

“Hey, Dani! I’m trying to book clients for influencer work, but no one will pay me—what’s going on?”

Unfortunately, there are a ton of reasons for this.

While I may not be able to dive into your specific situation entirely, I want you to know that I had this problem at the start of my journey!

When I first decided that I wanted to make money as an influencer, I would send out multiple emails per week. 

Almost 90% of them would either be ignored or replied to with a “Thanks, but no thanks!”

However, I quickly realized that my main problem was sales: I had NO idea how to sell myself successfully. Your problem isn’t beating the Instagram algorithm, and it ESPECIALLY isn’t other influencers you think you’re competing with—the influencer industry is worth BILLIONS.

You have to be able to sell your services and show these brands the value they’re getting.

Companies hire influencers to market their products. Brands need to know that:

1. You can deliver quality content.
2. You have the audience they want to market to.
3. Your audience (their customers) cares about your content.

But that can be a lot for influencers to figure out on their own, and mistakes are sure to happen.

So let’s finally go into influencers’ top mistakes when getting brand deals and how to avoid them.

P.S. After this post, you’ll need to read my complete guide on how to get a paid Instagram sponsorship—it has even more pitch tips!

Top 6 Mistakes Influencers Make When Getting Brand Deals

Mistake #1: You don’t have examples of your work

It’s one thing to pitch to brands and tell them what you can do; it’s another to have examples of your work to show them.

The fix: create a portfolio. Creating a portfolio will take your brand pitch to the next level.

This is the first thing you should do before you send your next pitch.

But what should go in a portfolio? Your portfolio should be full of the kind of content you want to get paid to create.

For instance: I have a portfolio chock-full of User Generated Content, blogs, videos, and content from previous campaigns. I love using this to pitch.

See, the folks who work for the brands we pitch don’t always have time to sort through allllllllll of the content we post on social media.

A portfolio of your best work will help them see your capabilities.

Better yet, it’ll help them imagine what’s possible for a future brand campaign with you. 

Read Next: How Much to Charge for a Sponsored TikTok Post

Mistakes #2: Your pitches aren’t well written

When was the last time you looked over a pitch you sent to a brand? If you’ve sent out multiple pitches without much success, it’s time to rethink your strategy.

What are you sending potential clients? Is your email pitch 6+ paragraphs going on and on about who you are? Do you say what you want to do (photos, viral IG Reels, etc.)?

When you email a potential brand sponsor, you’re asking the person on the other end of the screen to stop what they’re doing and turn their attention to you.

So you have to ensure you’re doing an excellent job of getting to the point, selling yourself, and making your offer very clear.

Because when you DON’T do those things, you risk brands ignoring your email. I made this mistake with a popular travel backpack company I pitched when I had about 5,000 followers.

I knew I could get paid even with a small following, and while it scared me, I wanted to shoot my shot with pitching. So I sent the backpack company a pitch email, had a call with them, and after ALL that effort, they still didn’t want to work with me.

Rather than give up, I took some time off pitching and reviewed what I sent them. I realized that my offer wasn’t clear at all. I had kept asking the brand to work with me and send me $$$ without actually conveying why I was the influencer they needed.

So after a few months, I pitched them AGAIN, making my offer clear. And guess what: they wanted to work with me!

And guess what?

Rather than guess what to say to brands, you can grab the brand pitch email templates that my clients and I use these scripts to land paid deals with companies like Adobe, American Express, Marriott, and Alaska Airlines!

Stop wasting time writing pitches from scratch! Instead, click here to grab the Pitch Vault!

Mistake #3: You’re not following up

You have to be diligent and follow up with brands. A HUGE mistake I see influencers making is that they reach out to a brand once, and if they don’t hear anything, they move on.

There’s so much money in the follow-up!

When you choose not to follow up with a brand, you leave a potential opportunity on the table.

Because here’s the thing: the dream brands you’ve wanted to work with, whether in the wellness space, fashion, travel, cars, home goods, etc., are all run by people.

And usually, companies have a small team, or one person, in charge of influencer relationships.

Can you imagine how busy this person probably gets?

Following up helps ping your inquiry to the top of that person(s)’s inbox.

It’s like a little tap on the shoulder. And, wanna know a secret?

I’ve had to send a follow-up email to almost every company I have ever worked with: Mazda, TripAdvisor, Eddie Bauer, Marriott, Travel & Leisure, REI…

It’s just part of the deal! And some of those contracts have been worth upwards of $16,000.

That’s a lot of money to leave floating around. Just because a brand hasn’t gotten back to you immediately doesn’t mean they’re deliberately trying to ignore you.

But you’ll never get your chance to work with some of your dream brands if you keep cutting communication after one email. I wouldn’t suggest following up daily, but a follow-up email is never a bad idea if you haven’t heard something in a week.

P.S. While we’re talking about brand deals, you should also check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator.

Mistake #4: You’re not sending your pitch to the right person

Finding brand contacts became a never-ending obstacle I had no idea how to overcome.

How could I spend all this time crafting the perfect pitch just to have no one to send it to?

I would scour brands’ websites for support emails (support@, info@), hoping that I could send my pitches there and they would somehow reach the right person…

It seems logical, right? Yeah, that didn’t work, either.

I imagine if you’ve ever tried pitching a brand, you’ve run into the same issue—finding the right person to contact. It’s all about who ya know in business (as they say). Well, you can try the whole support email thing, but what started moving the needle for me was asking for the right contact.

Revolutionary, I know, but you’d be surprised how many influencers don’t ASK brands for an email address.

We’ve already covered this, but companies (for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc.) typically have a person dedicated to sourcing and hiring influencers for campaigns.

So you need to find the specific person you should pitch to. I recommend sending brands a D.M. asking for the right person to email.

Tool You’d Like: The Influencer Pitch Vault—click here!

Mistake #5: You’re not asking for feedback

The next time you pitch a brand and they email you back with, “Sorry, we’re not hiring influencers right now,” Or “We’ll keep you in mind for the future,” OR the oh-so-scary, “thanks but no thanks,” I want you to do the seemingly impossible.

Ask them why.

Ask these brands what you can do in the future to increase your chances of working together.

Ask them what they look for in influencers they work with and what you can do to better your chances at landing a brand deal in the future.

This might be hard and seem like a pointless task, but if you never understand why someone gave you a no, you’ll never be able to grow.

I did this with a backpacking company I wanted to work with (yearrrrrs ago). I was brand new to the influencer game and desperately wanted this outdoor company to sponsor me.

I pitched them and even had a phone call with them. I thought I was a shoo-in. But, nope. They still didn’t want to work with me. I was pretty confused because I thought I did all the right things.

But rather than let the sale go, I asked them why—”What can I do to work with you in the future.”

And I was pretty surprised by their answer! They told me they loved my pitch, but at the time, their policies only allowed them to work with influencers with at least 5,000 followers.

I had around 3,000. That information was VITAL to me landing this deal and was a game-changer for my strategy.

I immediately went into growth mode, creating content more frequently, improving my photo editing skills, and focusing on engaging with my community as much as possible.

So rather than pitch, pitch, pitch, I put my head down and did the work to grow—I figured that if I could hit the 5K mark, I’d be able to land a brand deal with this company AND other clients.

I was right! Of course, this didn’t happen overnight. But doing the work taught me a lot about the dos and don’ts of growing on social media and shaping my future strategies.

When I reached back out to the backpacking company, I got a 6-month brand deal with them—my first long-term partnership. This whole growth venture took about a month.

And that month’s worth of work turned into 6-months of pay. So I’d say that’s a great ROI!

The moral of the story is that if you want to make it as an influencer, you need to…

a) Accept that you won’t land every paid brand deal out there

b) Be prepared to hear “no”

c) Not let the no’s stop you—use them as an opportunity to better yourself

Read Next: How to Pitch to Brands for Dream Collabs

Mistake #6: Your profile isn’t cutting it

Believe it or not, sometimes, brands aren’t paying you for sponsored deals because your profile and content aren’t what they’re looking for. GASP.

Let’s say you always post fashion tips, but it’s your DREAM to work with a car company like Porsche…

How likely are your chances of getting hired if you’ve never posted a single piece of car content on your feed? Probably not very high.

Or suppose you’re a wellness influencer and DESPERATELY want to work with Gucci fragrances. What’s the likelihood they’d hire you if all you share are smoothie recipes? Look, there’s nothing wrong with having a niche and sticking to it, but if you’re shooting to work with brands WAY outside your scope of content, you’re probably wasting your time.

If you have a dream brand sponsor you’re gunning for, do your homework on them!

First, look at the brand’s profile and see what influencers they’re already working with.

What kind of content do those influencers post? Now back to the brand’s page: what products are they heavily marketing?

Do you use those products? Have you posted anything that signals to the brand, “Hey! I use your products!”? Additionally, are you posting the content you want to get paid to post?

Going back to the previous example: are you posting fashion content, but you want to get paid to post car content? How can you change that?

What about your bio?

Does it paint a clear picture of what your brand is all about? When a company looks at your profile, can they quickly understand who you are and what you post?

Perform an Instagram audit with your dream brand in mind. 

Try to put yourself in their shoes, looking at your profile as if you were looking for influencers to hire. Now, if you find that you are NOT posting content that aligns with your dream brands, you need to change your content strategy!

P.S. If growing sounds like something you want to do with your social media pages, I recommend checking out my blog on organically gaining followers.

Grab This: 17 Influencer Email Brand Pitch Templates—Fill-in-the-blank email templates for pitching your dream sponsors. Save time writing pitches from scratch and stop guessing what to say!

Your Next Steps

And there you have it! Those are the top 6 common mistakes influencers make when landing paid brand deals and how to avoid them.

Before your next pitch, review this guide and see if there are any strategy adjustments you can make to increase your chances of success.

Here are a few more resources you’ll find helpful: 

• Ultimate Instagram Influencer Course
• How to Get a Paid Instagram Sponsorship
• How to Create an Influencer Media Kit
• How Much to Charge for Sponsored Posts

The post 6 Reasons Why Brands Aren’t Paying You & How to Fix That appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

Today I want to talk about how to turn a gifted collaboration into a paid partnership. We all have it—the dreaded free work that lands in everyyyyy influencer’s inbox. I mean, I’ve been a full-time influencer for 5+ years, and I still get asked to do work for free.

Truthfully, influencers shouldn’t be working for free—ever. But before I get into why and how to turn that around, I want to explore some situations where you might consider taking a free product.

Because, in all honesty, nothing in the influencer industry is black and white. Depending on where you are in your journey, free collabs might be right for you.

Let’s discuss this! When you’re done reading this blog, go ahead and check out my other posts:

• How to Pitch to Brands & Land Your First Collab
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• 12 Steps to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Why You Shouldn’t Work for Free

Take a look at a recent free collaboration email I received:

Can you see that? The brand is reminding me to join their “influencer program,” where I’ll get the AMAZING perk of having a free headlamp once I complete a TikTok review—wooohoo!

That was more sarcasm lmao. Look, I completely understand that something like a free headlamp could mean a lot to a person, but here’s the point of me completely grilling this email:

YOU CAN GET PAID FOR THIS KIND OF STUFF. Sure, a free headlamp, mascara, book, workout set, food subscription box, you name it, sounds really nice in the short term but…

Those items don’t pay the bills. And COUNTLESS brands are willing to pay influencers, regardless of follower count.

For example, one of my Instagram influencer course students, Maddy, landed a paid deal with around 4,000 followers:

But as I said before, there could be instances where you would work for free. Before we cover that, let’s get into why sometimes brands expect influencers to work for free.

P.S. I have an awesome free influencer rate calculator you should check out to see how much you should be charging for your next paid gig.

Why are Influencers Expected to Work for Free? 

Here’s my take:

1. Some brands, specifically small businesses, want the exposure that influencers offer but don’t have the budget for it.
2. Sometimes, brands (and most of society) think the whole concept of an influencer is a big joke. People assume influencers just take selfies all day, post pretty pics for fun, then spend the rest of the day scrolling.
3. Small influencers are typically nervous to ask for a payment, don’t know they can get paid, don’t know how much to charge, or take free work to build up their portfolio.

And I completely get it. When I began my influencer journey, I had no idea how much money I was leaving on the table—so I took free gigs left and right.

Again, I’m not saying you should never work for free, but how do we decide when it is and is not appropriate?

When is it Okay for Influencers to Work for Free?

Here are three scenarios where you may want to consider working for free:

Doing the Partnership Will Give Your Media Kit a Boost

This typically applies to large, reputable name brands that will boost your influencer media kit template significantly.

For example, you’ve been dreaming of working with a car brand, and Ford wants to partner with you for free.

Even then, you have to ask yourself if this is “okay.” Usually, large brand name = large influencer budget—not ALWAYS, but most times.

The Free Partnership Has the Potential to Turn into a Paid Relationship

Some brands like to do test runs with influencers.

If a brand is unsure that you can drive results or your audience cares about their products, they might want to do an unpaid partnership.

In this scenario, they’ll ask you to post about a product. The brand may move forward with a paid collab if your audience receives it well.

Grab This: 17 Influencer Email Brand Pitch Templates—Fill-in-the-blank email templates for pitching your dream sponsors. Save time writing pitches from scratch and stop guessing what to say!

You Love the Product

Maybe a brand offers you a free pair of sandals. You’re a fashion influencer, and you’d probably wear the sandals from this particular brand anyways, so you don’t mind taking them and posting about them organically to your audience.

I would use this as an opportunity to get an affiliate commission.

Read Next: How to Get a Paid Instagram Sponsorship

But Here’s the Catch 

The important thing to remember here is that none of this is guaranteed. For example, a free partnership can have no impact on your portfolio or can never turn into something paid.

Brands are NEVER obligated to pay you unless you agree on payment and sign a contract.

Ultimately, you have to decide what’s best for you! But these still pose the question: “Well, how do I turn this into a paid gig?”

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator Even with Under 5,000 Followers

How to Turn a Gifted Collaboration Into a Paid Partnership

Here’s how to turn a gifted influencer collaboration into a paid partnership:

1. Use free work as social proof
2. Use your numbers from previous posts to pitch
3. Be a fan of the brand from the start

Let’s discuss these a bit more! 

#1 Use Free Work as Social Proof with your Media Kit

You can use a free job as social proof to pitch to brands—easy!

You can use a good media kit to highlight your social proof and sell brands on your services.

When you create a media kit just right, it can do most of the selling for you.

Rather than try to craft a media kit from scratch, get a proven template that has landed me and my clients brand deals with Mazda, Adobe, Marriott, and more!

You’ll want to grab my 6-page influencer media kit template (click here)!

#2 Use Numbers From Previous Posts to Pitch

Let’s say you took a free job in the hopes that you could eventually start getting paid by the brand. As you post for free, keep track of every single analytic. For example, how many views, likes, etc., did the free content get?

And if you’re a good communicator with the brand, they’ll already know how easy it is to work with you and may want to continue the relationship.

Next, using your analytics as proof that you’re worth the investment, craft a pitch to the brand!

You can pitch to the brand using case studies, a media kit, and a rock-solid brand pitch email.

Read Next: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

#3 Be a Fan of the Brand from the Start

Let’s say you LOVE the brand and have been wanting to partner forever, so you’re willing to take a free gig.

Be the brand’s biggest damn fan girl to increase your chances of getting paid. Tag them, post about their products, and eventually slide into their DMs.

From here, you can start to take your DM convo to email, where you can pitch them and ask for money.

While you’re here, you should also read my blog on creating viral IG Reels!

Read Next: 6 Reasons Brands Aren’t Paying You

What Else to Consider with Free Work

Now here’s the thing to remember: you have the power to decide how you turn free work into paid work.

I always tell my influencer coaching clients that while free work can have some benefits, asking for money is OKAY.

When you consider the time and effort that goes into creating content, you have to ask yourself what value you ultimately place on your time.

And I can guarantee that you wouldn’t say $0.

Read Next: How to Pitch to Brands

Must-Have Tools

What if you could have the brand pitch email templates successful influencers use to land their dream collabs? You can!

Rather than guess what to say to brands (especially if you’re not a writer and not a “salesy” person) you can have fill-in-the-blank templates that use can use to pitch 4 and 5-figure deals.

The Pitch Vault is a bundle of brand pitch and negotiation email scripts, all in a fill-in-the-blank format you can customize to pitch your dream brands.

My clients and I use these scripts to land paid deals with companies like Adobe, American Express, Marriott, and Alaska airlines!

>>Check out my Influencer Pitch Vault<<

Overall

So all this is to say: should influencers work for free in the end? My answer: nothing is ever free.

And companies know this. When they ask you to post about the workout set that cost them $11 to manufacture, they’re banking that you don’t value your time, engagement, social media community, and skills for more.

Think about it this way, if a brand is reaching out to you and asking if you’ll post about their products for free, YOU HAVE SOMETHING THEY WANT.

Brands don’t just come out of the woodwork for everyone with a social media channel. If that were the case, our mothers, grandmas, and creepy uncles we only see at Thanksgiving who all have a Facebook would also be influencers. LOL.

So, I encourage you and empower you to PLEASE ask brands for money the next time they reach out to you! You’d be surprised how often you can squeeze money out of a brand when you ask and craft the correct pitch. So I hope you found this post helpful! If you liked this post, you’ll definitely like my other influencer tips:

Brand deals:

• How to Pitch to Brands & Land Your First Collab
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• 12 Steps to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

Grow and engaged community:

• How to Grow Organically on Instagram
• How to Get More Story Views on Instagram
• How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions

The post How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

Like… Where do you even start? I want to help answer that question for you today!

In this post, we’ll go over 7 ways on how to make money as a content creator. The best part about them?

You can do these even with less than 5,000 followers! In fact, a lot of my Instagram influencer course students use these same tactics with a ton of success. I will say that because I am primarily on Instagram, that’s where we’ll be focusing most of our attention, but the principles for other social media apps are super similar.

So feel free to take these tactics and apply them to your social channels as you see fit! And make sure you read these guides next:

• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• 12 Steps to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

Let’s begin!

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

Disclaimer: Hey explorer! This post contains affiliate links which means I earn a small percentage of each purchase made through my links. I only ever recommend products I believe in and appreciate your support if you decide to use my links—thank you!

7 Ways to Make Money as a Content Creator with a Small Following

#1 Sponsored Posts (Most Common Way to Make Money as a Content Creator)

I’m sure by now you’ve seen plenty of sponsored posts from your favorite influencers.

A sponsored post is when a company pays for ad space on an influencer’s social media pages.

Figuring out how to land a paid Instagram sponsorship isn’t as complicated as you might think, FYI!

As a matter of fact, sponsored posts are probably the most sought-after way to make money as a content creator. The key is to know your pricing so you can make as much as possible.

And yes, they’re a GREAT option for small creators! Small creators are in such high demand because they typically have better engagement than more prominent content creators.

As a matter of fact, you can often pitch brands your campaign ideas and get their attention that way! 

If you don’t know what to charge, then you’ll want to check out my free Influencer Rate Calculator!

#2 Start a Blog 

If you haven’t started a blog yet, you should! I know writing isn’t everyone’s jam, and I get that. However, if you can commit to making one, it’ll be a GREAT source of income for you! 

You’ll find that blogs offer several opportunities to make money as a content creator. A few of the most popular ones you’ll see floating around are ad revenue, sponsored blog posts, and affiliate links. 

What does a blog have to do with making money on Instagram? Or how to monetize social media?

Quite a bit, actually! You can use social media to your advantage and direct your followers to your website.

The extra traffic offers more potential customers for any products you sell on your site, too. The reverse is true too. A blog can help drive more traffic to your social media pages, bringing in more engagement, reach, etc. 

Andddd, you can use blogs to learn how to write engaging Instagram captions!

You Should Also Read: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

#3 Affiliate Links (Easiest Way to Make Money as a Content Creator)

Affiliate links should not be reserved for only blogs! They’re one of the main ways you can make money as an influencer!

Before I get too far, let me explain what an affiliate link is. 

Affiliate links work by hyperlinking to a product or service that you love.

Then, when someone clicks on the affiliate link and makes a purchase, you receive a percentage of that purchase at no additional cost to the buyer.

Pretty cool, right?

With the Link feature, you can create Stories linking to specific products you love and recommend to your followers. This can be anything from an iPhone to makeup to hiking gear. 

As a matter of fact, Instagram is starting to approve more creators to use their in-house Affiliate link program.

So pretty soon, you’ll be able to create affiliate links directly in the Instagram app and tag affiliate products on your posts. 

And when you get more Story views on Instagram, you’ll get more potential clicks on your affiliate links.

If you’re a small creator with an engaged audience, I HIGHLY recommend jumping on the affiliate link game sooner than later.

They’re an easy answer for how to make money as a micro influencer or nano influencer.

You can be sharing products you love with your followers and earning a commission.

Then, as you grow, your commissions will too. 

Grab This: 17 Influencer Email Brand Pitch Templates—Fill-in-the-blank email templates for pitching your dream sponsors. Save time writing pitches from scratch and stop guessing what to say!

#4 Sell Products 

By “products,” I mean things YOU create and sell. That can be merch, presets, or other online resources.

Like my influencer media kit template (which you should really have to pitch to brands).

See what I did there ;). The reason products are a great way to make money as an influencer is because you do not have to rely on a company for your income!

Products are a much more secure way to make a living because you can make money without managing much.

AKA, if you set up your products the right way, you can be sitting on a beach somewhere exotic, earning passive income. 

Dreamyyyyyyyyy. You should also read my blog on how much to charge for sponsored content!

#5 Image & Video Licensing

I mean, we should all know this, but Instagram and other social media platforms are visual.

If you’re someone with a camera or Apple iPhone and some time to spare, which I’m guessing is you because you’re an aspiring influencer, then start creating content you can license to brands!

WTF do I mean by “license.” Think of a content license as a rental agreement between you and a company.

It’s like you letting a brand use your content for their marketing needs on billboards, print, ads, social media, etc. You can even license Reels if you want to!

To create high quality images for licensing, I use my Sony a7RIII and love it! However, if you’re looking for a starter option, grab a Sony a6400. 

My go-to lens has always been a 24-70mm f/2.8 —it’s an excellent lens for just about everything! 

And there’s tons of aesthetic photo editing apps you can use too!

P.S. You should read my post on how to create viral Reels.

#6 Subscriptions

I feel like more folks should be taking advantage of this, but having a subscription program for your followers to join is another excellent way to make money!

This is a feature Instagram is currently testing, but the most common platform to create a subscription/ membership program for your followers is Patreon. 

If you get enough subscribers, you could be earning consistent monthly income without much effort!

And now, Instagram is rolling out their subscription feature for influencers to manage directly through their profile.

Read Next: How to Create an Influencer Media Kit

#7 Facebook Groups

This strategy is a bit newer (kind of) to influencers, but you can also make money by starting a Facebook group!

Think about it, if you build a trusted community where people can connect with others like them, you can then earn by promoting your own products in the group, sharing affiliates, or landing paid sponsors!

If done right, groups can be a great way to gain Instagram followers organically!

If you’re a small creator, I recommend starting a Facebook Group because it can help bring traffic to your other social media pages and any products you create in the future!

Final Tips for Making Money as an Influencer

I think those were some great starting points for how to make money as a content creator!

So, let’s talk about some tips for implementing these strategies.

Have a Media Kit

If you’re a new influencer, then you NEED an influencer media kit template.

It’s like a resume for creators and is essential when you pitch to brands and landing deals.

Always Be Genuine

There is NOTHING worse than someone who isn’t genuine.

I mean, why would any of your followers want to buy something from you if they don’t trust you?

So never promote something if you don’t believe it.

Price Your Services Accordingly

Whether getting sponsorships from companies or landing commercial photography gigs, do your research and price yourself accordingly.

I have a blog you can read about this if you need help>> how much to charge for a brand deal

When you start to undersell yourself, you will be putting the whole creative industry at risk to make less money.

When you do work for free, you’re sending a message out there that you are not worth much, which in turn will lead you to always getting lower-paying jobs.

Put Out a Survey

Need to figure out what product your audience would be most into? Ask!

Put out an email survey or a poll on Instagram Stories.

Ask your audience what they want to see from you and how you can help them succeed.

From there, make a product that’ll fit their needs!

Your Next Steps

While these are some of the main ways influencers can monetize, know that there are plenty more out there that we didn’t discuss! The opportunities are endless.

I hope this blog gave you some ideas and the encouragement to start earning sooner rather than later. If you enjoyed this blog, you should read these next:

• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• 12 Steps to Becoming an Instagram Influencer

The post How to Make Money as a Content Creator with Under 5K Followers appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

All that bad advice was written by social media experts who was never actually an influencer themselves. Learning how to properly pitch to brands and sell my content creator services was the game-changer.

Pitching brands it a great way for new and current influencers to get in front of companies and grow their portfolio (while making $$$). And it can actually be quite simple once you master the tested strategies we’ll go over in this post!

So, as a full-time influencer and coach, I want to lay out everything you need to know about working with brands on Instagram—whether that’s through email pitches or within the new Instagram Creator Marketplace (more on that soon).

These are the same tips I give my Instagram influencer course students.

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

First, Why Should You Monetize Your Instagram?

Regardless of whether or not you see yourself becoming a full-time influencer, the fact that you have the opportunity to monetize an Instagram page in the first place is huge!

And you do not have to be a full-time influencer like me to score paid sponsorships on Instagram!

This can be a side hustle as well.

All you need to know is how to sell yourself to brands, which is why fill-in-the-blank brand pitch email templates (like these) come in handy.

Imagine what you’d be able to do with the extra money you earn just from posting about your favorite products on Instagram!

And honestly, with Instagram Creator Marketplace, monetizing will be EASIER to do. Let’s talk about that.

Pro Tip: Also check out my free influencer rate calculator!

Do Instagram Sponsorships for Small Accounts Exist?

Yes! You do NOT need thousands of followers to score paid brand deals.

Small accounts can get paid Instagram sponsorships too!

Micro and nano-influencers are so valuable to brands.

You deserve to get compensated for your work, and you CAN. Don’t worry.

The tips I’ll be sharing in the next sections will apply to you small creators too.

Just to give you an idea of what’s possible, one of my influencer coaching students landed a four-figure brand deal with under 5,000 followers.

It just comes down to how you sell yourself!

Read Next: How to Grow Organically on Instagram

How to Get Sponsored on Instagram

Here are the quick steps on how to get sponsored on Instagram:

1. Set your prices
2. Create a media kit
3. Find brands to contact
4. Pitch brands
5. Negotiate the brand deal
6. Seal the deal with a contract

Don’t worry! We’ll be covering these in detail. Let’s begin!

Step #1: Set Your Prices for Sponsored IG Posts

Getting paid means you need to set a price for your content.

You can get paid $10 per thousand Instagram followers as a rule of thumb.

If you have 10,000 followers, for example, you can get paid about $100 per sponsored Instagram post (10,000/1,000 = 10, 10 x $10 = $100). 

Please note that the final number you choose to charge should also consider your engagement.

That is just as important. Also… THIS IS THE VERY MINIMUM YOU SHOULD ASK FOR.

I have a whole write-up on how much to charge for sponsored posts (click here to read).

You can read it if you need more help setting your prices!

Pro Tip: Also check out my free influencer rate calculator!

Step #2: Create a Media Kit (A Paid Instagram Sponsorship Must)

A media kit is a document that lists out who we are in sum! Influencer media kits are a necessary part of getting a paid Instagram sponsorship.

A successful influencer media kit template will clearly convey WHY brands should hire you.

It’s not an autobiography.

It’s the one tool you need to sell yourself! So if you’re ready to start landing paid brand deals, you need a media kit.

Read Next: How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership

Step #3: Find Brands to Contact

Here are the steps you should take to find brand contacts for pitching a paid Instagram sponsorship!

Make a List of IG Sponsorships You Want

First, take some time to make a list of brands you would like to work with! Doing this will give you an idea of how many pitches you’ll be sending out and who to contact first.

Narrow Down Your Brand Sponsorship Options

Now look at your list and think about what brands you can work with today. In other words, if XYZ brand said, “We’re looking for influencers for our next campaign,” would they hire you?

Be honest with yourself. Here are a few questions to ask beforehand:

• Does this brand work with influencers at all? When was the last time they worked with influencers?
• How big or small are the influencers they work with? Do they work with micro-influencers or macro-influencers?
• Does my personal brand match what this company would be looking for in an influencer?

It’s essential to do your research and be diligent about where you would fit into a potential influencer campaign.

Reach Out

There are quite a few ways to reach out to someone in your search for paid Instagram sponsorship contacts. One of the most common outreach methods is to go through an influencer agency.

Aspire IQ, Mavrck, and Whalar are a few more popular influencer agencies.

Influencer agencies are an excellent option for small creators who are just starting!

Essentially, you’ll apply for influencer campaigns and get directed to speak with the person handling the campaign.

Your next option is to send the brand a DM on social media.

Ask them who you can send your pitch to.

Read Next: Why Your Aren’t Landing Paid Brand Deals

Step #4: Pitch Brands for Paid IG Sponsorships

Now that we’ve done all of our homework, it’s time to start pitching.

Here’s a quick list of what goes into a brand pitch email:

• Who you are
• Your social media handles
• Why you’re reaching out

But that’s not all!

You’ll need to keep in mind some key elements to make your brand email pitches rock solid.

Let’s talk about what those are!

Keep Your Paid Instagram Sponsorship Pitch Short

“What makes a pitch successful?” My answer: keeping the pitch short and sweet.

When you want to get a paid Instagram sponsorship, a long dissertation on why the brand should hire you won’t do the trick.

You want to be able to describe the purpose of your email as quickly as possible, while also positioning yourself as the perfect influencer for marketing the brand’s products.

Ask for Money

Okay, so now we understand what should go in our pitch, right? Almost.

One key element here is that you will have to emphasize that you’re reaching out for a paid opportunity. It’s easy to accept free gear and items, but what about asking for money?

My advice is to just go for it! The worst thing a brand can say is “no.” And at that point, oh well.

No one ever got anywhere by quivering at “no.”

Make Your Pitch Personal

As you craft your pitch email, constantly personalize it. This is ESPECIALLY true if you’re asking for the big bucks!

If brands get the impression that you’re sending them a blanket email, they’re less likely to throw you a bone.

Personalize it, and you’re more likely to get an Instagram sponsorship!

Write Amazing Pitches on Repeat

Honestly, writing an email pitch was the hardest thing I had to figure out when I was a new influencer.

The best thing you can do is practice the art of selling yourself!

Step #5: Negotiate the Paid Brand Deal

Next, we close. You have finished pitching companies, and got a reply! So what the heck do you do now?

How do you complete the pitch and get that Instagram sponsorship? Let’s quickly discuss negotiating.

Set Up a Phone Call if Possible

When a brand initially replies that they are interested, that’s your time to shine and explain what you want to do for them and why you’re the perfect influencer to market their products.

To do this, I suggest getting on a phone call to talk through your vision.

After getting this initial response, you can send your media kit for their review.

Ask for Money… Again!

Whether or not you have a phone call, you need to clarify what you charge. Ask the brand you’re speaking with if they allocate a budget to Instagram sponsorships and what that budget is.

Don’t know what to charge?

>>Click here for my free influencer rate calculator!<<

Expect a few negotiation exchanges to come to a price that works for both parties!

Having a good handle on your prices will give you the most negotiation power.

Pro Tip: You should also read my guide on how much to charge for sponsored content.

Step #6: Seal the Deal with a Contract

Always sign a contract! You never want to get an Instagram​ sponsorship without one!

Brands typically have a sample contract for freelance work, so make sure you ask them to put one together for you.

A contracted arrangement will help protect you from fraud and ensure you get paid!

What Do You Do When a Brand Contacts You on Instagram or Email?

As you get more experience and grow, you’ll begin to have brands reach out to you.

Therefore, if you want to learn how to get a paid Instagram sponsorship and make money for content creation, you need to know how to respond to pitches, too!

Read Their Email Carefully

Understand exactly what the brand wants and what the partnership entails.

Ask Questions

Do not be afraid to ask questions! If the brand doesn’t mention monetary compensation, ask them if they have a budget.

Be sure to ask questions on anything that confuses you about the offer.

Asking questions is by far the most crucial element to responding to brand pitches because doing so unravels details that may not have been expressed in the initial email.

Know Your Worth and Stick to It

I have run into many situations where a brand tried to undercut my rates by over 50%.

I kindly let them know that my rates are firm, and I would love to make it work, but we can try again later if they do not have the budget to match my rates today.

Do not be afraid to negotiate! This is your Instagram sponsorship!

Send a Media Kit

Attach your influencer media kit to the email and let the brand know you have attached it for their review.

You can use my bestselling influencer media kit template—it’ll save you precious time and is designed to help you turn brands into paying clients.

Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No.”

See above! Also, don’t be afraid to say no to a collaboration you’re genuinely not passionate about.

More jobs will come, I promise.

Sign a Contract

Never agree to any job without a contract.

Instagram’s Creator Marketplace

Instagram just announced that they’ll be rolling out their Creator Marketplace.

This will essentially be a place within Instagram that allows brands to reach out to creators directly in the app to talk campaigns and $$$$.

How cool! It should be similar to the TikTok Creator Marketplace. With the Marketplace, you’ll be able to negotiate brand deals and accept campaign offers from companies without ever leaving IG.

While this feature is great, I still believe creators need to understand the art of pitching and negotiating brand deals. 

You need to be able to ask brands for money, AND you need to be able to upsell brands.

You upsell brands by pitching.

Not to mention, you can pitch brands for even MORE money if you sell them on the idea of posting across multiple platforms ;).

So sure, you can take small deals offered to you all day long, but the creators who know how to upsell their services will be making more on a single deal.

Read Next: How the TikTok Algorithm Works

FAQ for Influencers Wanting Paid Instagram Sponsorships

Let’s cap things off by covering some frequently asked questions you might have about getting paid brand deals!

“Why Do Brands Pay Social Media Influencers to Advertise?”

Now more than ever, companies are starting to allocate more marketing budgets to social media advertisements. As a result, influencer marketing is now a multi billion-dollar industry.

Why? If a company wants to get in front of a specific demographic, it can do it in a single influencer social post.

In addition, companies can work with influencers worldwide and have their products featured in marketing material, like viral Reels, that they may otherwise have to pay a production team to create in small increments.

“How Many Followers Do I Need to Get Sponsored on Instagram?”

You don’t need a certain number of followers to get a sponsorship! You can land brand deals with as little as 100 followers. It’s all about how you sell yourself.

My advice: start monetizing your social media channels now! This is one of my biggest regrets with my influencer business.

Read Next: How to Make Money on Instagram—Even with under 5,000 followers

“Exactly How Much Money Should I Be Asking For?”

That is entirely up to you and the project at hand. Was doing 3 Instagram posts for a total of $50 worth your effort?

What quality of work and what results are you getting? Would you charge XYZ again, or would you ask for a higher amount of money in the future?

“A Brand Has Offered Me a Free Product Instead of Payment, Should I Take It?”

That’s up to you. However, the next time a brand offers you a free product, consider how easy you’re letting them get off.

Please do not confuse this as saying you should never do free work! If this is your first rodeo, yes, do it for free and get some experience under your belt.

But, the second you agree to a free product, you’re agreeing to work as a free marketer for a brand, and all you got was a material item that you probably won’t have in a year.

I think you should help set the standards for brands and ask for payment for the long term! Just think, would you ever work your current job if all you got was free stationery?

Tools You’d Like: Ultimate Influencer Starter Pack—Media kit templates, brand pitch email templates & more!

“How Do I Pitch Through Influencer Agencies and Creator Marketplace?”

If you’re going through Creator Marketplace or an influencer agency, you sometimes have the option to send the brand a personalized note.

The note is where you would place your pitch in that instance!

Doing so can increase your chances of getting the job.

“I Want to Pitch Brands, Help?”

If you want more information on pitching brands, I recommend you read my detailed guide on how to pitch to brands.

Pro Tip: You should also pick up my brand pitch email templates!

Next Steps for Landing Paid Brand Deals

Earning money as an influencer isn’t easy. Pitching brands isn’t easy, and landing paid Instagram sponsorships isn’t easy.

But, there are hundreds of influencers in this space, and there is room for you. You can make a living doing this too!

Don’t ever let anyone tell you becoming an Instagram influencer isn’t a real job or the industry is too saturated. That simply isn’t true. I hope this blog helped you realize that!

Next, check out these other influencer guides I have:

• How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm
• Create an Influencer Media Kit That Gets You Brand Deals
• How to Write a Pitch to Brands

The post How To Get a Paid Instagram Sponsorship (Land Your First Collab) appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways to increase views that don’t require a ton of work on your part!

That’s exactly what we’ll be diving into throughout this post.

As a full-time influencer, I know how frustrating it can be to keep followers engaged, especially when Instagram is constantly changing.

When you’re done with this blog, you should read:

• How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically
• How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions
• How the Instagram Algorithm Works and How to Beat It

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

The Must-Knows to Get More Views on Instagram Stories

So let’s start things off by answering some super important questions about this feature. Then, we’ll get straight into how to increase views.

How Stories Can Increase Overall Engagement

How would Stories impact your overall profile engagement?

Instagram Stories are less about perfection and more about just showing up. Your audience most likely isn’t expecting your Stories to be a giant production.

They just want to see what you’re up to! With the nature of Instagram Stories—easy to create, low stress—they can be a way for your audience to get to know the real you and see the behind-the-scenes of your profile.

These help you build a strong relationship with your followers! When you focus on building a solid relationship with your Instagram community, you will naturally start to increase your overall engagement! Think of it as a trickle-down effect. 

That’s why I always tell my Instagram influencer course students that when in doubt, create Stories.

Build a relationship with your audience >> they care more about you >> they want to see more of what you’re up to >> you make more posts >> because they care, they engage!

While this seems like a simple concept to grasp, it is sourly missed by tons of beginner influencers. And guess what? Engaging Stories can earn you money too!

Let’s discuss how.

How Stories Can Earn You Money

With the trickle-down effect we just described, it should also be noted that when you’re looking to work with brands on Instagram, you’ll find that brands typically want to work with influencers who have a strong connection with their audience. 

An easy way for brands to gauge your relationship with your audience is with engagement rate. When you have a higher engagement rate, you can charge more for your Instagram services. In other words:

Higher Engagement & Views = More Desirable Ad Space for Brands = More Money for Influencers

And a higher engagement rate should be ALL OVER your influencer media kit template!

Media kits are an easy way for influencers like you to communicate their value to dream sponsors.

When you have a rock solid media kit that shows off your worth, brands are more likely to hire you for paid campaigns.

But Are Instagram Story Views Down?

This is something I see creators talk about a LOT. “Ahhhhhhh—does anyone know how to get more views on your Instagram Story? HELPPPPPP!”

Okay, maybe that’s a bit exaggerated, but I have seen a lot of influencers think that their Stories must be “shadowbanned” because views are down.

This simply isn’t true! Social media metrics fluctuate ALL the time, and that’s mostly out of your control.

To reiterate, Instagram features such as Instagram Stories are subject to variables like:

• The Instagram algorithm
• User activity
• The option to Boost or create ads
• Changes to the feature itself
• The addition of entirely new Instagram features

Every single Instagram feature (Posts, Reels, Stories, Explore Page, etc.) operates on its own algorithm. Furthermore, these algorithms are constantly changing to provide users with more content they enjoy!

All of the tips we will discuss can help you get more Story views on Instagram without adding a ton of work on your plate!

Read Next: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm & How it Works

9 Tips to Get More Story Views on Instagram

#1 Use Structure

“Structure” refers to creating a sort of routine around your Stories.

For example, if you’re not great at creating Stories on the cusp, it might be beneficial to make a plan around when you share specific content.

Let’s talk about this further. 

If you are a fashion influencer, for example, your Story structure might look like this:

1. Monday—Photoshoot BTS from the weekend
2. Tuesday—Outfit of the day + links
3. Wednesday—”Wear This Wednesday,” Sharing multiple slides of outfit inspiration
4. Thursday—A day in your life + Q&A
5. Friday—”Friday Faves,” Sharing a bunch of things you love

Structure helps you better plan your content to remain consistent, a significant key for increasing Story views on Instagram.

It will also get your audience into a routine on your profile. This can create anticipation for specific kinds of content, making your followers eager to hear more from you.

You can do this by creating a Storyboard.

Below you can see a quick Storyboard example I’ve done for a paid Instagram sponsorship.

A Storyboard would mean creating your Instagram Story slides ahead of time (like the day before you’re going to post them) and “lining them up” to make sure you’re happy with the order of them. 

I don’t use any crazy apps to pull this off, just Google Docs or Apple Notes.

#2 Use Text

If you read my tips for beating the Instagram algorithm, then you’ll recall that the amount of time a user spends on your content can help you majorly boost your engagement. 

This concept applies to how to get Story views on Instagram too! 

A great way to make your followers spend more time on your Instagram Stories is by using text. If you use text appropriately, it may prompt a user to stop and hold down on your Story slide so they can read what you typed out. 

This stop and hold action = more time spent on your Story = a signal to the algorithm that your content is essential = your Stories being pushed to more followers = more views for you!

With the release of Instagram Search, there may also be opportunities in the future for your Stories to become search discoverable based on keywords you type out in them. We’ll see what happens there!

Read Next: How to Write Engaging Instagram Captions

#3 Skip Hashtags

In the past, I’ve noticed that I get quite a few Instagram Story views from folks searching hashtags.

This worked because Instagram hashtag pages would have a Story section that included alllllll the Story slides mentioning said hashtag. 

For example, if you put #makeup on your Story, then searched #makeup on Instagram, you would see your Story on the #makeup search results.

However, more recently, this feature was removed entirely from IG. They’re just a time suck now.

Therefore, I find it pointless to include hashtags on your Stories unless they’re for a specific purpose like an ad campaign. 

Read Next: How to Make Money as a Content Creator—Even with Under 5,000 Followers

#4 Post in Increments

This is where Instagram Analytics comes in handy. People can’t view and engage with your Instagram Stories if they aren’t seeing them!

Therefore, when considering how to increase views on Instagram Story, make sure that you keep an eye on those analytics and post when your ideal audience is online.

To take this further, I suggest posting IG Stories in increments. 

For example, let’s say you head to your insights and see that your audience is usually online between 9am and 12pm. So, rather than post all of your IG Story slides at 9am, aim to post them in one-hour increments. 

In this case, that could mean posting 2 slides at 9am, 3 slides at 10am, 1 slide at 11am, and 2 more slides at 12pm. 

The reason for this is simply the nature of Stories. Instagram Stories sit at the top of our newsfeeds, and once a viewer looks at them, they go away.

So to consistently pop up at the front of the Instagram Storyline, your best bet is to spread out when you post them!

Influencer Must-Read: How Much to Charge for Sponsored Instagram Posts

#5 Use Stickers (Easy Way to Get More Story Views on Instagram)

One of my favorite things on long driving days is a Q&A with my audience or a quiz!

You can do either of these using the Instagram Story stickers, making it easy to allow your audience to engage with you. As a matter of fact, Instagram stickers have helped me DOUBLE my Instagram Story views.

Here are the Instagram Story stickers I find most helpful:

• Questions—I love using the Questions sticker to do fun things like Q&As, Show Me a Photo Of, Juicy Confessions, and more! The opportunities for how to get Instagram Story views are literally endless with this Story sticker. 
• Quizzes—Quizzes have also become a fun way to get people engaged with you. You can find out how much your audience knows about you, about the location you are in, or just about something random and fun. 
• Links—This one is pretty obvious, but links allow you to share resources you love with your audience!
• Polls—Polls are SO fun. I mean, you can create a poll on just about anything with the Poll sticker! Some of my favorite Stories are This or That polls.
• Add Yours—Add Yours is a great way to start a Story view chain. We’ll get more into that in the next section.

Stickers are a great way to make sponsored Stories fun and engaging too!

And when you have engaging Stories, that’s something brand sponsors LOVE to see.

Hint: if you’re a new influencer hoping to land paid deals, you might want to consider pitching brands on sponsored Stories.

#6 Make Them Shareable

Shareable content is a great way to get exposure to new audiences on Instagram and signal to the Instagram algorithm that your content is important, therefore, “worthy” of more eyeballs.

Therefore, shareable content is something to consider when thinking about how to get more views on Instagram Story.

An easy way to create shareable Stories is to take advantage of features like the Add Yours sticker. 

With the Add Yours sticker, you have the option of jumping on a content share train that will potentially be viewed by thousands of new eyeballs.

So I suggest that you put your content in the mix the next time you see an Add Yours sticker!

Elite Daily wrote up a great little post on using the Add Yours sticker to up your Story game. 

Here are some shareable ideas for ya:

• Use structure to create a Story series that followers might share with their friends.
• Use text to type up your favorite quotes or an inspirational message that others share.
• Use stickers to do something fun like a juicy poll. Share any unexpected poll results, which might prompt someone to share the results too!

Read Next: How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically

#7 Mix Up the Content

Keep things interesting! An excellent way to increase Story views on Instagram is to share different content on your Stories.

In other words, recycle what you have! For example, viral Reels you’ve posted, photos, and selfie videos are all great places to start!

Sometimes our Instagram Story views can stagnate from us doing the same things repeatedly. Switch it up!

I also recommend downloading some aesthetic photo editing apps to make your Stories more interesting!

#8 Engage Back in the DMs

When your followers have something to say about your Story, they’ll typically reply with a DM.

Engage back! This is a little tip I tell students in my Instagram influencer course!

Admit it; we all love it when our favorite blogger or Instagrammer gets back to us with a witty or even quick response. If you want more Instagram Story views and people to engage with you, you need to engage back!

Don’t leave people hanging with a million little messages in your DMs. When you don’t respond to people, well, they will stop responding and engaging with your Stories.

With DMs, you get the chance to get a little more personal with people. I know it’s a lot of work, but for the most part, responding to those DMs makes your audience feel seen.

Engaging is a great way to get more Story views on Instagram!

Read Next: How to Turn a Gifted Collab Into a Paid Partnership

#9 Keep Stories Short (New Way to Get More Story Views on Instagram)

Instagram recently released a feature that shows users “previews” of Stories. This feature is still in testing, but who knows if it’ll stick around.

Regardless, my recommendation would be to prepare for it to come out. With the preview feature, users can only see the first 5 slides of your Instagram Story.

If a viewer wants to see the other slides, they’ll have to click a “See More” button. So…try to keep your Stories 5 slides max!

This can change in the future, but for now, post fewer Stories for them to have their best shot at getting views!

Next Steps

I hope this blog gave you some insights on how to get more Story views on Instagram! 

Instagram Stories will always be a fantastic way for your audience to get involved and feel connected to you, and a supplemental way to grow your following.

But your work isn’t done yet—read these posts to continue building your influencer career:

• How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically
• How to Get Paid Instagram Sponsorships
• How to Become an Instagram Influencer

The post How to Get More Story Views on Instagram for Better Engagement appeared first on Dani The Explorer.

And I have a little secret for you—you can download aesthetic photo editing apps to create these very looks or whatever other editing style you’re into!

Wanna hear another secret? You don’t need a high-end camera or software to succeed on Instagram. Phone cameras have gotten so good, AND the best apps for Instagram aesthetic pictures have gotten even better. 

That’s why in this blog, I’m going to show you the best apps for Instagram aesthetic edits. I know everyone finds different things aesthetically pleasing, but I believe the apps I’m going to list out for you today provide the most options for just about every influencer to create a feed they’re proud of. 

When you’re done with this post, I suggest reading my write-up on my guide on how to become a successful influencer!

Photos are only half the battle! Anyhow, let’s begin!

Written by influencer coach Dani The Explorer

The Best Apps for Instagram Aesthetic

1. Tezza App
2. KUNI Cam
3. Adobe Lightroom
4. Unfold
5. Tone Studio

Let’s not keep you waiting any longer. Below is where we dive into my list of the best aesthetic photo editing apps for influencers! These apps are listed in no particular order.

But the reason I want you to know about these is because having a consistent IG aesthetic can help you create a recognizable brand.

And THAT can help you get better engagement.

Better engagement = the ability to charge more for paid brand deals (for influencers).

Please remember, these are my opinions on the best photo editing apps for Instagram influencers. K? K.

Read Next: Best Camera Gear for Bloggers & Influencers

#1 Tezza App

• Available for: iPhone and Android
• Cost: $3.99 to $39.99 based on your premium subscription choice
• Can Edit: Photo and Video
• Features:
  • 40-ish mobile photo filters ranging from vintage to film looks
  • Photo templates
  • Decorative and vintage photo frames
  • Dust and other texture overlays
  • New Instagram feed planner

I feel like the Tezza App HAS to have a place on this list.

Honestly, if I could only save one of the aesthetic photo editing apps on my iPhone, it would be this one. 

Here’s why I love this app: there is SO much aesthetic juiciness inside! Like I can’t get over it. As I mentioned in my list above, you’ll have about 40 vintage photo presets to choose from when you open the app.

The Tezza App team is constantly releasing new presets, so that number will grow. 

I think my favorite place to play around, though, is in the overlays and textures sections. I like adding fun dust, plastic, poster, even paper textures to my images to give them dimension and an aesthetic feel. 

The frames feature is fun too. 

I sometimes like making my images look like they were captured with an old Super 8 camera or something rather.

What I Don’t Like

• I mainly have the video feature for the effects (like the vintage glitter, stop motion, etc.), but I don’t like adding these presets to videos. 
• Sometimes they don’t translate and look nothing like they do in photos. 
• The effects are still worth my subscription, but I use other apps for their video filters. 

TL;DR, this app has everything you need. It’s very diverse. I don’t see how anyone wouldn’t achieve aesthetic photo edits they love using this app.

And now, with the Instagram feed planner they released into the Tezza App, I don’t need to toggle around to different apps to plan my content, which is super nice. 

If your concern is finding great photo filters, this is probably the best choice out of the other aesthetic photo editing apps I’m about to mention.

You Might Like: How to Beat the Instagram Algorithm

#2 KUNI Cam

• Available for: iPhone and Android
• Cost: $2.99 to $23.99 based on your premium subscription choice
• Can Edit: Photo and Video
• Features:
  • Mobile photo filters with retro style and film look
  • Decorative and vintage photo frames and timestamps
  • 100+ Dust and light leak overlays
  • Live camera feature

I would consider KUNI Cam to be another vintage photo editing app. If you’re into the film-style photo look, this might be the app for you!

KUNI Cam is different from an app like Tezza App. The Tezza App includes filters their team has developed.

I would say the KUNI Cam has more film replica filters. Inside you’ll find Analog filters, Kodak filters, Fuji filters, etc. So if you want to replicate an existing film look, Kuni cam might be a perfect choice. 

What I really like about KUNI Cam is their dust overlays. I find them to be the most aesthetically pleasing. They also have some film timestamps that add a cool vibe to photos. 

I think the concept of adding a Kodak or other film edit to your photos is neat! Where they really shine, in my opinion, though, is with their overlays. 

What I Don’t Like

• I think their photo filters are neat, but to be honest, I don’t like them as much as the Tezza App filters. They’re a bit outdated, in my opinion.
• Some of the filters remind me of the built-in photo filters you can find on Instagram.

Like the Tezza App, they have dust overlays, light streaks, and more vintage and retro effects you can add to your images. I mainly like their overlays and effects.

I’m not the biggest fan of their filters. However, I don’t think you need to pay for the premium features.

Read Next: How to Gain Instagram Followers Organically

#3 Adobe Lightroom (The Most Powerful Aesthetic Photo Editing App)

• Available for: iPhone and Android
• Cost: Free for mobile – $9.99 a month for Lightroom Classic (premium)
• Can Edit: Photos
• Features:
  • Mobile photo filters
  • Advanced photo editing with tone curves, composition adjustments, spot removals, masks, and more.
  • Live camera feature

I’m including Lightroom on this list because it’s a classic. And the mobile editing app is free to use. 

Out of all the apps on this list, Adobe Lightroom is probably the most powerful. If you need to remove objects from your images, make specific adjustments to one area of a photo, etc., Lightroom is the way to go. 

I pretty much developed my whole photo career around Lightroom. This is the program I did all of my editing on for a long time. 

It helped me build my own aesthetic that I shared across my profile.

Like I said above, it’s an extremely powerful editing tool that comes in handy for making more extensive photo adjustments. Other apps just can’t seem to compete with that. 

I also love that you can develop and save your own photo filters in Lightroom. 

What I Don’t Like

• I’m at a stage in my content creator career where I want ease. I want to be able to do everything with fewer devices and software. 
• Unless you purchase presets or have some of your own that you love, you will have to make edits in Lightroom from scratch. 
• In MY opinion, their built-in presets are kind of garbage. They’re super outdated and no fun to edit with. 

Adobe Lightroom is the go-to aesthetic photo editing app if you want to edit all of your photos from scratch/ use your own presets. OR if you need to do spot edits, this is the app for that.

Freebie: Enroll in my Free Reels Course — 0 to 100 Reels Challenge was designed to help you create videos that get you upwards of 100 new followers a week.

#4: Unfold

• Available for: iPhone and Android
• Cost: $12.99 per month or $99.99 annually
• Can Edit: Photo and Video
• Features:
  • High-quality Story and post templates
  • Instagram feed planner
  • Instagram post scheduler
  • Link in bio page feature
  • Mobile and video photo filters and effects

Unfold from Squarespace used to just be a template app. But it has TRANSFORMED.

To be honest, it’s getting much more similar to the Tezza App. It now includes templates for posts and Instagram Stories, photo and video editing tools, effects, and more. 

Creating aesthetically pleasing Stories and posts with their templates has never been easier than with Unfold. I love that this aesthetic photo editing app is focused on templates.

I find that the Unfold templates are, dare I say, better than other templates out there?

The Unfold team constantly adds new templates to their library, and they’re almost always perfect. I’m no designer, but you can tell just how much thought went into the design of each template in the app. 

What I Don’t Like

• I don’t think their photo filters are there quite yet. They have a limited library.
• Unfold is a bit more expensive when it comes to some other aesthetic editing apps for photos. 

I would recommend Unfold for their templates—templates can be a great way to add a unique aesthetic to your Instagram photos and Instagram Stories.

I don’t think this is the best option for filters, though.

#5: Tone Studio (Best App for Instagram Aesthetic Videos)

• Available for: iPhone and Android
• Cost: $4.99 per month or $29.99 annually
• Can Edit: Photo and Video
• Features:
  • Mobile and video photo filters
  • Video overlays for film looks and more
  • Advanced editing adjustments with RGB curves

Tone Studio is a relatively new aesthetic photo editing app by Instagram influencers Jack Morris and Lauren Bullen. It features retro and vintage filters that I haven’t seen anywhere else.

I can’t really explain them. They blend punchy tones with a vintage look in such a seamless way. 

If you just look on the @gypsea_lust Instagram account, you’ll see what I mean. While I like Tone Studio for photo editing, I actually love it even more for video editing.

As a matter of fact, while most aesthetic photo editing apps on this list let you edit videos, Tone is the one I keep reaching for when I need to edit mine. 

The filters are very adjustable, and within the app, you can make edits to tone curves—something most editing apps don’t allow you to do, except Lightroom. Tone also has excellent video overlays that add vintage vibes to your videos, which I love.

Again, you can do some great photo editing with this app, BUT in my opinion, it really shines with video. 

What I Don’t Like

• The app is pretty glitchy. Sometimes I have to close the app out and open it again to download the content I was working on.
• No editing library stores previous drafts or edits you were working with.
• Once you close out of the app, if you want to re-edit a piece of content, you have to start from scratch. 
• The other issue is that I have to click around the screen to get the app to edit the photo or video I want it to.
• No matter where you tap, the app, for some reason, likes to open the wrong piece of content, which can get super annoying. 

I love Tone Studio for its video editing.

The filters are really great from an aesthetic photo editing app perspective. My only issue with this app is how glitchy it is!

Use Your Aesthetic Photos to Up Your Influencer Game

I hope this blog helped you decipher which of the best aesthetic photo editing apps would suit you and your Instagram content! 

When you have an aesthetic that you show off on Instagram, it can really help you grow your following organically, which is something all creators want!

I recommend checking out my other influencer tips blogs!

The post 5 Aesthetic Photo Editing Apps to Take Your Pics From 0 to Hero appeared first on Dani The Explorer.