When a brand shows interest, you’ll discuss deliverables and compensation. This can be the trickiest part for new, small influencers. Some pointers: - Decide What You’re Open To: Are you okay with free product in exchange for content? Many small creators start with product-for-post deals to build experience (especially if it’s stuff you genuinely want). But if it’s a bigger ask (multiple dedicated posts, usage rights, exclusivity), you should negotiate monetary compensation. Have a baseline in mind but be flexible. - Know Micro-Influencer Rates (Ballparks): It’s hard to quote rates since they vary. Some go by a rule like $100 per 10k followers for an Instagram post as a rough idea, but engagement and niche can allow you to charge more. As a micro-influencer, you might be looking at $50-$250 for a single Instagram feed post if you have a few thousand followers and good engagement, for example. A YouTube integration might be a few hundred. Research what others in your range charge (there are blog posts and forums where people share). Don’t undersell drastically, but know that many small creators start lower as they build a portfolio. - Negotiate Value Adds: If a brand has a tiny budget, see if you can get other value: can they cross-promote your content on their channels (grows your exposure)? Could they put some ad spend behind the content you create (paid promotion, which also gets you exposure)? Maybe an affiliate program with commission could sweeten a low flat fee. Or product giveaways for your audience which helps you engage your followers. Money is great, but as a small creator, strategic perks can be worthwhile. - Long-term Partnerships: Consider offering a discount or package if they book multiple collaborations. For example, “What if we did a 3-month ambassadorship where I post monthly? I can offer a better rate for a bundle, and it often yields better results through consistent presence.” Brands actually love micro-influencers for long-term because it builds authenticity over time. - Discuss Deliverables Clearly: Outline exactly what you’ll deliver: number of posts, format (video, story, blog), any exclusivity (will you avoid promoting their competitors for a certain time?), timeline, and what they provide (product, a discount code for your followers, tracking links, talking points?). Also, ask if they require content approval before posting (common with sponsored posts – they may want to see it 1-2 days prior). - Be Confident in Your Worth: Don’t be shy – small creators can provide huge value. Emphasize that you’ll go the extra mile to create quality content. Some brands will try to get a lot for little; politely stand up for what is fair. If they only offer free product and you feel it’s not worth your effort, it’s okay to counter with “I typically charge X for that deliverable given the time and production involved.” If they truly can’t pay and it’s not worth it to you, politely decline; there will be other opportunities. - Get Agreement in Writing: An email confirmation can suffice for smaller deals, but some brands will send a contract – read it! Look out for clauses on content usage (do they want rights to use your photos in their ads? That often costs extra), exclusivity (are you barred from working with similar brands? That should also cost extra if so, or have a short time limit). Ensure deliverables and payment are listed. As a micro-influencer, you might not have your own fancy contract, but do document what’s agreed. - Deliver and Exceed Expectations: Once terms are set, execute professionally. Meet deadlines, follow any brief provided, and then some. This could turn a one-off into a recurring sponsorship or referral to other brands. Also, after posting, send the brand any notable results (“The post got X likes and Y comments in 48 hours, and a lot of people clicked my link – I’ll update you on conversions if any.”). It shows you care about their ROI.
One more note: only accept partnerships that feel right. It might be tempting to take any offer, but shilling a product your audience won’t care about can hurt your credibility. As a small creator, trust is your asset; don’t squander it for a quick buck. Brands ultimately appreciate authenticity – one reason they want micros is that genuine connection. So stick to collaborations you can get excited about – your enthusiasm will shine through to both your audience and the brand.