Influencer marketing best practices seem to be ever changing. However, there are several influencer marketing dos and don’ts that will reign true through 2020. Since our founder, Laurie Michaelson, APR., has experiences on both sides of the influencer table, she has come across some common themes. From her experience, she compiled a list of best practices and not-so-best practices when it comes to influencer marketing.

Influencer marketing is a powerful tool for large and small businesses. Knowing the best way of implementing an influencer strategy is something our agency is often questioned about.

When working with content creators, influencers and bloggers the following dos and don’ts should be considered every time.

Dos and Don’ts Best Practices for Influencer Marketing:

• Do participate in this amazing form of eWOM.
• Don’t ask Influencers to work for free. Would you work for free?
• Do pay for their time and effort. This can be a flat fee or collaboration of sorts.
• Don’t use their content without permission. Read more about UGC best practices here.
• Do work with local influencers. Finding influencers in your town or region opens lots of doors.
• Don’t fall for high follower count. Make sure to validate their audience.
• Do look at engagement rates to validate their influence.
• Don’t forget to set measures of success for their efforts.
• Do provide the influencer a way to track success. Also let them know how you are evaluating their efforts.
• Don’t go with just anyone.
• Do make sure their content is a right fit for your brand. Look at their brand and aesthetic.
• Don’t forget the contract.
• Do ask for more than just one post. Collaborations go much farther than one feed or blog post.
• Don’t forget to provide guidance and requirements for what you are looking for.
• Do share all their content on your brand’s platforms.
• Don’t forget to tag them when you do share their content!
• Do set a boost/ads budget for your campaign.
• Don’t boost or promote their content without permission.
• Do develop a relationship with the influencer.
• Don’t miss out on this amazing marketing opportunity.

Considering on integrating influencer marketing into your digital marketing strategy? Let us know how we can help get you started today. Contact us today!