Getting started with influencer marketing: avoid these 4 typical mistakes
After reading our previous blog post, have you decided to start working with influencers? Then it’s time for action. But getting started with influencer marketing—how exactly do you do it? For starters, avoid these four typical mistakes…
1. Are those real or bought followers?
Getting started with influencer marketing means searching for relevant influencers. Naturally, you’ll be guided by potential reach, among other things. If you come across an Instagram profile with thousands of followers, you might immediately think This is influencer material! But don’t be misled. Because buying followers is super simple these days.
Our tip? Look at the number of likes per post. Do you notice that a person has thousands of followers, but his or her posts only count about ten likes? Then quickly move on with your search for a suitable influencer.
2. Is there a match?
If you want to start with influencer marketing, it is of great importance to choose the right influencer. Someone who aligns perfectly with both your company’s values and the world of your target audience. This way, you will reach that target group perfectly and your credibility will increase.
Sincerity plays a big role here. Because let’s be honest, who would you be more likely to believe: Jani suddenly promoting Crocs? Or a beauty influencer saying that after a long search she finally found the perfect foundation for her problem skin? Exactly, authenticity works!
3. Are you micromanaging your influencers too much?
Authenticity works both ways. A good influencer must also feel sympathy for your brand and your story. Someone who links their name to just any brand? You shouldn’t want that.
If the love comes from both sides: don’t micromanage them too much. Don’t present your influencers with pre-chewed text, but give them the freedom to create the post. Every influencer has developed a certain style and likes to stick to it. If they don’t, it will quickly feel fake.
What you can do: make agreements regarding certain hashtags or topics.
4. Are you staying within the legal lines?
Getting started with influencer marketing also means following the rules. In many countries, clear regulations already exist. Some of those rules include:
- Make it clear that it is a sponsored post by adding certain hashtags: #spon (sponsored), #ad, #paid, …
- If you make a video, you are obliged to mention or clearly show that it is a sponsored video.
- Add a clear text to the description like ‘received from company X’ or ‘in collaboration with brand Y’.
In Belgium, such regulations are not yet applicable, but they are undoubtedly on the way. Moreover, it is important to know that you as a company are fully responsible for complying with the correct regulations throughout the entire online campaign. And not the influencer. Don’t want to get into trouble? We are happy to keep you informed of the latest developments!
Getting started with influencer marketing: we can help
Are you ready? With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared at the starting line. Do you still have some questions? Come visit us!