RING RING, Tip Tuesday is Here!
Today we’re covering the importance of always answering. I know it sounds like a “well, duh” moment, but you’d be surprised how many brands get left on the hook by influencers not answering. Today I’m taking a deeper dive into responses, ideas and talking through uncomfortable situations when working with brands.
1: BE TIMELY
My personal thought is follow ups should be completed no later than 24 hours from when they came in (on business days). I get it, you have a ton of top-priority items. Set aside 30 minutes at the end of your work day to sort through emails. Even something as simple as:
“It’s great to hear from you! I wanted to send a response so you’re aware I saw this and am doing a bit more digging to get the correct answer for you. I’ll be in touch as soon as I have XYZ!”
2: INSULTING OFFERS
We’ve all been there. I’ll admit, I hit “delete” when they’re fully spam offers, so “always answer” doesn’t apply in that scenario. My take is more so directed at brands that I’d love to partner with but they send a low offer. I’ve spent the past few years learning that my time is immensely valuable. Something to keep in mind? There’s usually flexibility, especially if they’re reaching out directly. If not, there’s usually future campaigns. A general response that I’ve used (and almost always get a response from) is:
“Thank you so much for sending over this information! Due to the time, photography and editing that goes into my partnerships, l would not be able to partner for the offered proposal. I would love to chat if your marketing budget expands for future campaigns!”
3: READ IT, READ IT AGAIN….
There’s nothing worse than hitting “send” and realizing you forgot a few clarifying questions. Have a clear message in your response. If you’re in the beginning stages of negotiating, make sure you’re on the same page with expectations. My friend Anna shared a tip the other day and noted you should avoid being too text heavy by putting questions, thoughts or notes in a bullet point list form. Always double check that you answered everything completely before sending. It prolongs the turnaround time for campaigns and causes frustration on both sides.
BONUS TIP:
Always answer your followers!!! I can’t stress this enough. I get it – we’re busy. Their question could be answered if they dig around on your site. You’ve answered it 31 times already. The list goes on. Remember when you were first starting out, silently begging for people to follow along? Don’t leave that in the honeymoon phase, sis! Appreciate the community you’ve built and don’t leave them hanging. Without your followers, this community and the partnerships you’re landing wouldn’t exist.
Okay friends, I could go way more into detail on this one, but I’m going to save some of that for another Tip Tuesday! Any pressing items I’m forgetting?!
