How to Find Brands Looking for Smaller Influencers

Navigating the world of influencer marketing can seem daunting, especially when you’re a creator with a smaller audience. The common misconception is that only influencers with hundreds of thousands or millions of followers get the attention of brands. But that’s not entirely true. Many brands are now recognizing the power of nano- or micro-influencers and are actively seeking them out for collaborations. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to find these brands that are looking for smaller influencers like you. With the right strategy, your unique voice and engaged audience can be a goldmine for the right brand.

Why brands are looking for smaller influencers

It is a myth that only big-time and well-known influencers can land brand collaborations and influencer campaigns. Many brands specifically aim to partner with smaller-audience influencers because of their authenticity and loyalty to their products and services. These creators are coveted brand advocates for brands. According to Insider Intelligence, “Micro-influencers’ smaller audiences lead to a community feel that can make product endorsements feel more authentic than with bigger creators.”

A micro-influencer can help a brand in many ways, including by telling a meaningful story about the brand on social media, leaving product reviews on retailer websites, sharing unboxing videos and more.

Where to look for brands seeking smaller influencers

Creators can find brands who are interested in partnering with smaller and lesser-known influencers in various ways.

1. Showcase your love for the brand’s products

One of the easiest ways to attract brands looking to work with smaller creators is to share your love for their business throughout your social media platforms. You can become a brand advocate by joining brands’ advocacy programs to establish yourself as a loyal customer. Share your honest opinions through product reviews and tutorial posts and tag the brands to get their attention.

2. Engage with the brand’s posts

By interacting with the brand directly and highlighting their business on your feeds, you draw their attention and openly show your support for the business. This is an excellent way for nano- and micro-influencers to connect with brands of all sizes for partnerships and collaborations.

3. Contact the brands you wish to work with

Once you’ve shown your support and interacted with the brand consistently, take it one step further by reaching out to them directly. Establish a professional relationship by introducing yourself and asking whether they work with brand advocates or smaller creators. Put together an email or direct message outlining how working together will benefit both of you. Make sure to provide clear examples of what you can contribute to the partnership. Also list whether you would accept products as compensation or require another form of payment.

4. Use IZEA’s Marketplace to your advantage

Connect with your brands through the Marketplace. You can find new opportunities and collaborate with brands in two ways.

Create listings: The Marketplace allows you to put yourself out there as a creator through listings for your work. You can list your creator services and set your own price and terms. Brands can then message you to begin working together.
Pitch yourself through Casting Calls: Pitching yourself to brands through Casting Calls is a great way to start a conversation. You can search through open calls, read the brand’s requirements, and submit your pitch for consideration.

We encourage you to think carefully about how you want to collaborate with brands when it comes to compensation. Are you looking for products, monetary compensation, or something else? Make sure to communicate this clearly in your listings or pitch. With an understanding of what both sides expect from each other, working together will be mutually beneficial.

5. Research brands that work with smaller creators

By researching brands that often partner with smaller influencers, you can get an idea of which companies are the best fit for your content. Creating a list can help you make sure you’re not missing out on potential partners or opportunities. Take some time to research the brands, their target audience, and other relevant information before pitching them. Doing this extra legwork will put you in a better position for success and build relationships with brands faster.

Tips for making the most of your smaller influencer platform

Use these tips to help make the most of your influencer platform and find opportunities.

Stay authentic

By continuing to share content that means something to you and highlights your genuine interests, you can attract brands that share similar values and target audiences. It is essential to show brands your true identity as a small creator and the kinds of content that you genuinely enjoy.

Keep your content fresh

By keeping your content fresh and up-to-date, you can attract brands and keep your followers engaged. Brands look for influencers who will keep their followers entertained and excited about their products, and a great way to do that is by keeping your content relevant.

Constantly network

By remaining in contact with your ideal brands and other fellow influencers, you can continuously grow your brand and build lasting relationships. Building relationships with brands and similar influencers can open up opportunities to collaborate in campaigns and contests, which is a great way to get your name out there.