How To Start Working With Brands As a Blogger

One of the main goals for alot of bloggers is learning how to work with brands. And finding those opportunities is probably one of the hardest things. They don’t fall into your lap, sometimes you have to go out there and find them yourself. Working with brands is something I never knew would be possible for me. When I first started blogging I had no expectations that my website would turn into what it is today. I never intended to make money from my blog. I am so grateful though, that it’s something I am now able to do regularly.

When you first have the realisation that working with brands and making money from your website is actually achievable, I think the hardest part is navigating how to get started. For me it was a trial and error process and gaining insight from other bloggers. So today, I want to share some of the knowledge I have about making money and working with brands. Some of these methods may work for you, some might not. This isn’t a one size fits all process.

CREATE YOURSELF A MEDIA KIT

First before I share any advice, one thing you need to ensure you have it a media kit. A media kit is sort of like a portfolio, which showcases you and your blog. It’s a one stop shop document that provides companies with all the information they need to know about you. It should include:

1. A photo of yourself (to make it more personal) and your blog logo.
2. A short bio about you and your blog. What content do you post and who are you? Let them get to know the face behind the blog.
3. Your blog stats. How much traffic you receive, your DA score and your follower count. Include any other stats that will make you look good.
4. Services you offer. What work can you do? And what work have you done before? The more the better.
5. Contact details. Always include your blog link, email address and social media links.

Put all of this into a neatly presented document. Canva is a great tool to use for this. They have many media kit templates to use!

You Might Also Like: My Guide To Creating a Media Kit

SHOOT YOUR SHOT

One of the first things I remember doing as my following grew was sending out emails to brands in hopes I’d get a response and an agreement to work with me. I know some people will cringe at the thought of doing this but honestly its not as bad as you think. Just prepare yourself for rejection, because it will come. I have been rejected so many times that I have lost count. But its okay, because you brush yourself off and try again.

When emailing brands always put yourself in their shoes. If somebody was approaching you, wanting to work with you. What kind of things would you want them to say? Do you research on the brand before hand. Tell them what your favourite products of theirs are and why. Look into their brand ethos and share what you like about them. Its always a good thing to show the brand you are a fan. Always be honest too, don’t just say you’re a fan if you’re really not.

When asking for collaborations, remember to word it properly. I use language such as “I am emailing to see if you have any blogger collaborations available at the moment” then follow on to say “I would love the opportunity to work on a project with you.” This is the kind of language you should be including in your email. Not demanding but kindly requesting.

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JOIN INFLUENCER MARKETING

Influencer marketing is mainly where most of my money is made from blogging. If you’re unfamiliar with what that is, let me explain quickly.

Influencer marketing employs leading, niche content creators to improve brand awareness, increase traffic, and drive your brand’s message to your target audience. These content creators already market to your ideal audience across different channels which allows you to expand your reach across your buyer personas.

Blog Hubspot

Influencer marketing could be promoting content for a brand. Being sent products to review, or inserting links into blog posts. It can come in many different shapes and forms, depending on what kind of influencer you are. There are a few different influencer marketing tools out there. But one that I have found the most success on is Intellifluence. I have made over $700 in 6 months using their tool. You apply for assignments and if successful you are able to work with brands and make money.

Their jobs range from link insertions to product reviews. You decide which jobs are for you and which aren’t.

You Might Also Like: Affiliate Marketing For Bloggers: A How To Guide

Have you started working with brands yet? What are some things that might stop you from trying? Do you have any advice for people starting out?

Don’t be afraid to contact brands and ask them to work with you. Know your worth. I have emailed brands I thought wouldn’t work with me and they have. You don’t know until you try!

Olivia x 
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