For growing a successful business, genuine connections with influencers can be essential. Strings simply cannot be pulled and demands made–real relationships have to be built first. It takes a certain level of finesse and effort to get content or products promoted, but it can be achieved if it is handled with sincerity. Here are 5 steps that can help build and maintain relationships with key influencers:
1. Identify the Right Influencers for Your Business
The first and foremost step is to analyze and identify the influencers that would be a good fit for your brand. Look for influencers who have a sizable number of followers/kingdom, favorable content topics/style,and an overall good reputation. A pertinent example here would be for a beauty brand, it would make more sense to reach out to a beauty blogger with a high social media influence in the space rather than a tech mogul.
2. Once Relevant Influencers are Identified, Research Them Well
Once you know who you have to reach out to, it is important to do a deep dive into who your potential partner really is. Research into their field of expertise, preferred content types, offerings, past campaigns undertaken and much more. All this information can help you figure out the best approach moving forward.
3. Reach Out to Your Partner Appropriately and Promptly
If you have an interesting business proposition, you should not delay in getting in touch with your partner. Do not wait months on end after making initial contact, or you may find them unresponsive.
4. Engage! Be present!
Give ample attention to your business partner. Ensure you go out of your way to be engaging and actively take part in conversations. Keep them in the loop about business related developments and respond timely to their queries.
5. Offer Non-Monetary Resources
Quality exchanges are key to long-lasting business partnerships. It is not always about money being the driving force of these collaborations and it is important to remember this. You can assist a partner in a number of ways, depending on your business offerings, such as offering constructive feedback, discounts to their audience, providing them with exclusive opportunities and so on. This will make your partnership even more valuable.
To sum it up, building relationships with influencers can aid in growing your business exponentially. By following the 5 steps outlined above, businesses can reach out to the right influencers, research them adequately, reach out to them in an appropriate manner and provide them with non-monetary resources, which can help create authentic relationships that flourish and stand the test of time.
