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Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies



Hello Beautiful!

It’s been a while since I’ve shared some blogging tips, so today I’m sharing with you actually a reminder of some dos and don’ts.

More specifically teaching you how to properly approach the brands for freebies or samples.

Many bloggers and influencers (both macro and micro-influencers) specifically in fashion, beauty, and travel (yes let’s include them!) see freebies as “incentives” for running a moderately successful website.

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Whether you describe such freebies as “gifts,” review samples,” “collaborations,” or whatever terms you are using, freebies can be a huge burden or a massive benefit to our blog. Done well, samples give you access to products you may not have been able to try otherwise. In addition, honest reviews are a great way of introducing your readers to the pros and cons of a particular brand. Done poorly, freebies can create “bad blood” with both your readers and brands. Readers may be betrayed by a dishonest review (or even the perception of a dishonest review), and brands may feel like you were a poor investment for their product. Those feelings of disappointment or misfire can be magnified if you were the person who approached the brand.



You don’t want your thousands of followers to think that you are a “big fat liar,” am I right?


On a side note, it is okay if you don’t want to ask brands for freebies. In fact, here at For Urban Women, I have an editorial policy relating to freebies, gifts, or anything else.  If a brand offers, then we accept – provided they agree with our review policies, but we don’t ask. You may decide to do the same, officially or unofficially.

However, if you do want to pitch a brand for a free product, here are a few things to keep in mind.

I’ve also added a REAL TALK for you to visualize more of what I’m talking about.


Bloggers and Influencers shouldn’t ask for free product(s) as a “favor.”


I’ve spoken with several beauty and clothing brands marketing and PR on selecting and screening bloggers for potential product reviews, and it always stands out – and not in a good way, when a blogger or influencer treats freebies as just a “nice thing” for a brand to do.

Duh, a huge NO.

These brands are businesses, and those products have an actual monetary value.

Don’t assume a brand is going to give you a product out of the goodness of their heart. As a business, they need to be able to justify the expense. As a blogger or influencer, you should be able to explain why you’re worth it.

Or you may ask yourself “Am I credible enough to be trusted?”

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers and Influencers should avoid making the first contact with a brand a request for a free product.


I saw this a lot online (and even stumbled on a make-up seller’s rant about this one group of bloggers).

A blogger/influencer who had never written, tweeted, or even purchased the product before would send off an email (or via Viber, Whatsapp, or any other) asking for something for free. Brands check to see what you’ve said about them previously (if any), and no one, not even companies, appreciates feeling used.

If there’s a product you’re interested in trying, spend a little time cultivating that relationship first.

But how?

Tweet something that you truly like/adore. Or to the point of making editorial posts of products that you like. Engage with the brand's social media account whenever they have events and promotions, etc.



Brands are not your ticket to a wardrobe full of free things.

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers and Influencers must be able to explain why a brand should give you a product for review.


Yes, this will probably mean giving them some hard data and proof like how many visitors you receive, how many page views, your most popular posts, and what kind of search terms people use to find your blog.

If you made a full PowerPoint presentation of those data, then send it to the brand. It will be a huge help. Include your media kit if you have any.

Avoid making overhyped promises; brands will not only check your claims, but they may also ask other brands you’ve worked with to verify your statements. Always go for the most accurate statement possible.

Inflated remarks are easy to spot on. Nowadays, having huge followers doesn’t translate into actual conversions. Remember that brands will know if your followers are your GENUINE TRIBE, or you’ve just BOUGHT IT FROM THAT CORNER ALLEY.

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies


Bloggers and Influencers shouldn’t ask a brand for their entire product line-up as a” sample.”


A brand has decided they want to work with you – AWESOME! DAE-BAK! You can dance now!

But wait…..

If they ask which products you’re interested in trying. Don’t give them a list that’s like you are giving them you’re whole bucket list.

Greediness (or the perception of it) is a great way to sour a budding business relationship.

Keep your request list to five (5) items or less, or even better two (2) or three (3) pieces. For expensive or handmade items, avoid requesting even more than one (1).

After all, brands can always offer more if they so choose.

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

If you approach the brands, they have the right to follow up.


Never approach a brand for a sample, and then refuse to uphold your end of the bargain, whatever that may be.

Or worst, let them wait forever when you will give them your update!




If you are soliciting a brand for a free product, they have the right to ask about the investment they’ve made in you (with or without a contract signed). Follow up early and often: upon receipt of the item, when you’ve tried it, and when a review is pending.

If you’re not interested in doing all of that, then you may want to reconsider asking brands for free products.

Bloggers & Influencers: How to Approach Brands for Freebies

Do you have any suggestions when it comes to approaching brands for free products? Message us below because we would love to hear your thoughts!


xoxo, Blair



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176 comments :

  1. Really interesting read! And its true that some bloggers take brands for granted and spoil our good name. Lots of bloggers forget that for most of us, blogging is a business.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are right Isabelle. You see this is the reason why we bloggers are gaining stigma of having a bad rep in the eyes of many brands, because of some bloggers not following the dos and don'ts.

      Delete
  2. Wow this is really good sharing. Btw me myself are so shyyy to approach pr or client first for review haha omg I think it will never happen >.< but I love the confidence who approach them first

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah, there are situation that sometimes a blogger/influencer needs to approach a brand for certain samples, but bloggers / influencer should build first a good rep. Example twitting about the brand prior to their collaboration, or some bloggers even create an non-paid editorial for the brands because bloggers love it personally, etc.

      Present a good impression first, before asking for favors.

      Delete
  3. Great write up babe. A proper approach is very important and not to be fussy when approaching for sponsor.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Betty! Yeah, most of the new breed influencers/bloggers think that this area is so easily, which is not.

      Delete
  4. Great advice.. That's wat a blogger really should do, hv to know our value..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly. If you know our value, if we believe in ourselves that we are worth their time, they we should present and prove it. That's the reason we invest our time in curating our contents.

      Delete
  5. True that. Somehow I always feel small about my blog contribution thus the low-self esteem attitude that I have been showing off throughout the years. I have never approach any PR (fear of rejection and being not good enough). I only stay for friends to tag me about events where I can apply to join in. Hehe

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Dear,

      The truth is, there is nothing wrong or you should not feel shy or low your self-esteem because you are rarely attend events.

      I myself is rare to attend events, especially with lots of bloggers. I prefer events that are more intimate. Your limited exposure to parties adds value to your brand. It means your words are genuine, not push by any collaborations.

      Delete
  6. Wow thanks for the tips, this is great

    ReplyDelete
  7. I never approach a brand for review. They approached me. Great tips from you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow that's cool Cindy! I saw your reviews of many products including beauty stuffs and yeah, I wish some of those beauty items are available here in Manila.

      Delete
  8. I, myself, own a very successful shop and personally, I don't mind influencers like them asking for collaborations like this. No offense, i believe those people who have the courage to tap online sellers like myself are the ones who have great confidence in their work. Hoping to see more of these influencers.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Confidence is the key! That's right.
      As long as they can deliver, no problem for both parties.

      Delete
  9. Found your post on FB. I've seen the screenshot before, people like that make brands look at bloggers in a negative way. TBH, I've never approached a brand for freebies, even if I have established a good relationship with them for years. You're right, if you want brands to come to you, you have to show them that you're worth it. And deliver. Thanks for this nice read. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Michelle for visiting.

      Establishing good relationship with brands is the best way before you want to get something. In this way, you will be building a strong relationship, and not just "one-time-one-post-collaboration". Bloggers and influencers should have a business minded of building a long term relationship. This will show that you respect the brand, and the people behind it.

      And of course, deliver what you've discussed or promised. Be honest if you can't.

      Delete
  10. A good insight to the world of freebies or samples or collabs, whatever it is called. I always believe in giving back more than requested and never ask for freebies. Not everyone takes them well.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you do love the product and services, either paid or non-sponsored - the flow of writing is different, more touchable. And also there is always a follow-up story.

      Delete
  11. This is truly a great guidelines. so I will start mine and always start the right way. Really thanks to you!!! - Racheal Foodilifecious

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are welcome Racheal.

      Like I've said, it is still okay to ask freebies from brands, provided that you've established a good relationship with them first. It is like courtship... you never expect a guy to ask you for marriage not until you two have dated for at least a year or two. Hahaha

      Delete
  12. I always tell brands that I need 4-6 weeks for a review. That way I am covered if something comes up.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's a good tip. Disclosing to your client about your review guidelines is a must.

      Delete
  13. As a blogger, I do not work for free. Bloggers should also not expect brands to simply provide products for free. And always make sure to deliver on what you said you would do in exchange for a freebie.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly, like I said brands are businesses. They are not your parents who will give you something unconditionally.

      Delete
  14. You brought a new light onto product reviews. I look at this as product promotion and will not take a sample that is being offered unless I like the product.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Most of the time, when we like or love the products we received the flow of post is more fun, active and full of emotion. You can't fake it.

      Delete
  15. I agree. If you are worth it, brands will anyways follow you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah, and if they still can't find you... maybe they just don't know how (lol)

      Delete
  16. I guess brands & clients should really make a clear black and white on what they expect and they'll get in return. There is nothing free in this world! However, what a nice sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Iman,

      Yeah, nothing free. I guess dreaming is only FREE.

      Delete
  17. Wow your blogpost is really interesting. Very useful tips that you gave.. keep it up!

    ReplyDelete
  18. This was such a great post for the entire blogging fraternity! Any one bad quote hampers the faith n we must understand that both brands and bloggers are there for mutual beneficial relationship!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are right. Sometimes this is the reason why bloggers / influencers are receiving bad feedbacks from PRs and brands. I am sad that etiquettes in building relationship are being ignored.

      Delete
  19. I never approach brand first. I'm very scare get embarrassed. Not famous yet to request any gift from specific brand.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Ika,

      Gift is being given, not being asked. When you asked for something, it means its a favor.

      Better not ask favor at least you have no obligation to reciprocate.

      Delete
  20. Unless it's something I want that's equal or more than the value of what I charge for a sponsored post, I no longer ask for free product or allow brands to send it to me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If the brand approached you first and offer you something, then you can consider. Some brands sends samples for review plus cash payment in return of the post.

      Some brands even pay outright before you make your review. And some brands only pays you when you delivered.

      Delete
  21. I love finding new ways to approach businesses. Thanks for these tips that I will implement in the future.

    ReplyDelete
  22. This is so helpful! I have read many post on how to approach brands but not really how to pitch yourself. Brands are businesses and make an investment but so bloggers with their time and creativity so it should go both ways. xx corinne

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly Corinne,

      We should present ourselves like business owners, so that we can gain respect too.

      Delete
  23. These are wonderful tips to keep in mind in the event that I contact a brand. Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are welcome Nicole.

      Remember that it is okay to request for samples, but build your relationship first. It is like courtship.

      Delete
  24. Thus us such a comprehensive guide. Much appreciated. We need to know our value an also produce better content

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes.

      Because if we don't value ourselves, why would we expect the others to value us?

      Delete
  25. Wow, awesome share. I loved that you put the massages there as well as exemples. This was really interesting to read

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Criss.

      Well sometimes a post needs a little illustration of realtalk.

      Delete
  26. This is very valuable information. Reaching out without proper etiquette can definitely damage one's brand.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah..

      we should always and always observe etiquette.

      Delete
  27. These are great tips. I haven't received anything free, but now I know what not to do! Thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you for visiting :) I am glad that you've learned a lot.

      Delete
  28. I think many new bloggers forget that these relationships have to work both ways. Neither party wants to do anything for free. Both sides want to see pay out for their effort.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's right Emily.

      I think there should be a etiquette trainings on dos and don'ts of blogging and not just about how to your creatively do your flatlays, LOL

      Delete
  29. Wow, that was unprofessional. 55 days for a product review? Nope nope. I tried to check their IG but it's not available anymore. I think approaching a brand for free product to be reviewed is just ok as long as you meet the deadline. Bottomline, we must be professional always.

    - Blaine is Lost

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It would be understandable if the product to be reviewed are skincare or other products that needs time to see the best results. But for LIPSTICK???? That's unacceptable. OR would be understandable if they didn't keep the client hanging, and let the client do the follow-up. Tsk tsk.

      Delete
  30. I usually wait to get approached by the brands. And if I like their products then I express my interest in working with them.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Same as what I do. I love promoting products and services that I use and proven to be effective.

      Delete
  31. This is a really interesting post, I have to admit I don't really do reaching out to companies I just wait and hope they come to me, I perhaps need to change that.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Sarah,

      It is okay to approach the brands for sponsorship. But make sure to do it the right way. Because first impression is very important.

      Delete
  32. Great post. I have only be reach out to a couple of brands and I did all the thing you suggest say thank you be grateful and produce work in a timely manner. Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's awesome Keosha and congratulations for your collaboration!

      Isn't it a nice feeling that you did the right way? :)

      Delete
  33. I really liked this post, such a cool reading! It's not so simple to approach a brand and more difficult is to have a reply... Plus we have to consider that there are people aren't bloggers and ask for a collaboration.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exatly.

      You see the term "influencers" are being loosely being used by someone who got a huge following (which normally bought it from Fiverr) and calling themselves influencers.

      The sad part is many brands doesn't know how to distinguished a true influencers versus someone who is trying-hard to be an influencer.

      And when things go south, they will have a bad experience and bad investments.

      Delete
  34. I have seen the question "Is it appropriate to solicit free products to review on my site" so many times. I love your answer. Money is money and it is in bad taste to ask for this privilege.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly.

      Good impression is the best. Introduce yourself properly, and never ever ask favour over first meeting.

      It is like attending a networking event, and after introducing yourself to a group of people, making handshakes, then you'll ask for loans??!! DUH!

      Manners baby, manners.

      Delete
  35. I really like this post Blair. It well illustrated what we should and shouldn't do when approaching or being approached by brands.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you dear, and hope you learn a thing or two :)

      Delete
  36. This is such a helpful post. I rarely reach out to companies because I feel weird. I prefer when they contact me first. I have done social media shares about products I enjoy, and sometimes I do get sent a product that way. I always feel flattered when companies want to send something for free.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's cool!

      That's the best way actually. Because the companies / brands are getting you noticed online because you support their products, means you are their customers and customers matters most.

      Delete
  37. Seems as if they were just trying to scam for free product. But, those are definitely some good tips! Xx-Doran @HauteBeautyGuide

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Doran,

      hhmmmm I haven't seen the post or mention or even shoutout related to their transaction so I guess.. YES.

      Delete
  38. Probably the number one reason I stay away from blog reviews. When I'm interested on a product, I only search for negative reviews. That's when I know that the review I'm reading is honest and unsolicited. When I want to read about the good stuffs of a product I'd go to their official website.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's awesome too! NO negative reviews, means a red flag that there is something fishy.

      Delete
  39. I will have to give these tips a try. This is a great post for my friend who is just starting out. I will have to share this with her.

    ReplyDelete
  40. This is very true...hence why I rarely approach brands..and just wait for them to approach...lols...i know my way it's kinda passive....but i do like to buy pretty or cute things on impulse..of i had came across things which are worthy to be shared, I will just post that up too..

    for me..having brands sponsor me...great..dont have brands sponsoring me..is also great...hhahahah no drawbacks on my side for either way...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. When the brands approach you then it means they are also doing their own research and that cool! Allow them to do their homework. If you are good with your craft, they will notice you.

      Delete
  41. Awesome post! Definitely worth the read. Very helpful!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Because of these such bloggers, some companies got a bad impression to bloggers. I may not be biased, there are also some companies/brands/marketing agencies who will do an ex deal yet they will not go on with what was agreed upon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, brands and companies also likes it to hire / tap someone where they can go on cheap / or FREE. However, they suffer the consequences and its too late to back out.

      Here's the deal, when you see yourself and your products and services too cheap, everyone will think you are cheap too.

      Delete
  43. Very nice elaboration and structured write-up I would say.
    Thanks for sharing these tips babe.

    xx
    Puiyeesss

    ReplyDelete
  44. Absolutely loving this! I always wondered how to reach out to brands. No one really talks about this type of stuff openly. Thank you so much for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You see, no one talks about it openly because bloggers and influencers are afraid and shy that brands might find out and they won't get any sponsorship anymore.

      Those people who thinks that way are coward... doesn't trust their own craft.

      Delete
  45. WoW!! this is a very interesting topic. I really want to know more about this. I will going to bookmark this article. :) thank you :D

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for visiting Anamika. I will share more blogging tips soon.

      Delete
  46. Totally agree. There needs to be a win win situation for both parties, else it doesn't make any sense.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We should learn thoroughly how to properly run the world :)

      Delete
  47. As a travel blogger, I've collaborated with hostels several times on my travels. This one is kind of hard to do where it's not the first contact simply because it was my first visit to almost all of these cities. But I try to follow them on social media and check them out before making the initial contact. I have better luck in the off seasons of course than I have had this summer. I will be collaborating with a tour company in Prague in a few weeks here and I'm very excited to see how that will turn out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That is exciting adventure you have Nina. Please let us know your experience on Prague soon because I personally want to visit the place next year :)

      Delete
  48. Great post and good info! The only brands I have ever approached were brands dealing directly with twins, and I've always inquired about a partnership.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Kristen!

      Approaching brands and PR is okay. Actually they love it and saves them time in sourcing, LOL.
      However just make sure you do it right. And always deliver, if you deliver in advance then MUCH APPRECIATED!

      Delete
  49. This is really good to know. It's important to behave professional on both sides. And it's really important to follow up indeed! You need to show what you've accomplished. That only makes the chance for collaboration in the future bigger.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly!

      Rule of the thumbs is do not let the client do the follow-up. In any business and consulting, follow-up once is okay. Making second and third and late delivers is a complete annoyance.

      Delete
  50. I have always been curious to see how the process works. I guess its striking the right balance and about developing the right kind of business relationship beforehand. I think these ideas here are very important to consider.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks David.

      Being conservative in making business is a must. And you'll never go wrong. Let's refer to basic business etiquette.

      Delete
  51. These are some really great tips, love that you used an example as well to really hone the point. I can't believe people are so cheeky!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sometimes being cheeky is good, builds confidence. But when you do it wrong, it bounce back like a ball and hits hard.

      Delete
  52. These are great tips, and I agree about giving an honest review. The reviews really help the company that supplies the freebies for you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Giving honest review not only helps the customers and future customers, but also the brands and company per se. They will have opportunities to improve and think innovations.

      Delete
  53. It is a shift of thinking, bu it took me a while to change from asking a freebie vs partnering. It has been years before I got better at it

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Working to gain a partnership is a long process, but totally worth it. It is like courtship :)

      Delete
  54. This is a great write-up. As a blogger, we just have to keep learning everyday. I will keep this approach in mind. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Chemady. You can share this post to your blogger friends.

      Delete
  55. This is actually a great post about the newbies in the world of blogging. Many new bloggers have the opinion that blogging means messaging various brands and asking them for freebies. But I agree with you, totally. Build your blog in a way that the brands contact you and offer their products. Prove yourself as a worth critic of every product.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. When you are worth it, you will gain it. When you respect and value your work and branding, your readers and brands / PR people will do.

      Delete
  56. Interesting take. In my former life as a journalist, we were never allowed to accept freebies. It's amazing how many bloggers out there are asking for a handout.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Bloggers must observe the journalism etiquette if they want to be respected and stay in the industry for long period.

      Delete
  57. I feel like I learned so much about collabs, I've been totally lost when it comes to those! You have great experience and knowledge, thanks for sharing :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Learning is a continues process, and even I have been collaborated with lots of brands and counting, am still very observant with my actions in approaching and partnerships. You can't be to lousy and over confident.

      Delete
  58. These are awesome tips! Thanks so much for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  59. Great tips! But it always surprises me at the number of bloggers who fail to meet there obligations. I actually had PR that fail to follow up and/or respond before & after established deadline. Lack of communication is a huge turn off for me when dealing with other bloggers and brands. I just have no tolerance for it.

    ReplyDelete
  60. I enjoyed this post. I have never approached a brand before and I don't know that I ever would, but I think learning professionalism and courtesy goes a long way.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There are many articles online about business ethics so it is not an excuse not knowing these basics. And it doesn't hurt to ask professionals in this area.

      Delete
  61. I have given some thought to the potential benefit of pairing with companies, with no idea of how this works. With that being said, this post was very interesting with great tips should that be an avenue I take in the future.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Thanks for your sharing. I really hope clients can appreciate us - bloggers haha

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Of course they do! But we should show them that we are worth it.

      Delete
  63. This is definitely a great read.. appreciate it..it is also eye opening.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Miera! I guess Malaysian brands are more conservative, lah.

      Delete
  64. Thank you so much for this! I've been trying to figure out some tips on working with brands, so this really helps!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are welcome Kim. Hope the illustrations helps a lot.

      Delete
  65. I have never approached a brand for a sample for my blog and I hadn't even thought about doing it. If I want to try a product, I buy it myself so it can be an honest review.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's the attitude of a great reviewer and a paying customer :) Thumbs up babe!

      Delete
  66. Seriously? I think the conversation went from a sweet talk(because they wants the collaboration) to a downhill (oh hey i got your product okthxbye). This is so unprofessional of them! I don't have any experiences though, but I will definitely wants to learn on how too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are right Sharon, it looks like a "okay-thanks-bye" situation.

      Delete
  67. I ever encountered one brand that complained about blogger that didn't deliver. :( It's really not good.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah, there are lots also here in the Philippines, but many bloggers don't speak up.

      Delete
  68. This is such a great post. I know many new bloggers make the mistake of their first contact with brands to be their review pitch. I'm going to share your post with my readers because I feel it would help them a ton. Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Nikki! This post is aiming to help bloggers and influencers to do the right way.

      Delete
  69. OMG Blair, such an interesting point you nailed here! Totally honest advice and I am definitely sharing this!

    Pammy - joyfulsource.com

    ReplyDelete
  70. Very nice article. As a start-up blogger, I don't know how to start collaborating with brands. This gave me ideas, valuable ideas; that will greatly help me in my blogging journey. (Majoy Eticabla)

    ReplyDelete
  71. This is a great post for any blogger or influencer's on how to approach brands for freebies. It is sometimes best not to approach brands but if you do or even if they approach you it follow up has to be done in a timely matter. Thanks for sharing the information.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, communication must do both ways, and always observe professionalism. Social media exist to streamline our work, but it doesn't mean to cheapen our value.

      Delete
  72. I agree with most of this, but as a blogger/influencer you should make the first contact. You can't sit and wait for someone to contact you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah that's right too. But when an blogger/influencer do their first move, they must ensure that they can deliver what they have promised and do it professionally.

      But just the way you ask your sister for a gummy bear.

      Delete
  73. I've never been daring enough to approach a brand for sponsorship/freebies. Guess I felt that I wasn't good enough?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Never think it that way! Everyone is good in what they do. You just have to show it to the world.

      Delete
  74. WOW great info! I am not an influencer but if I was I would for sure follow your adivce:)

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Well then thanks for dropping by and you can share this post to your influencer friends.

      Delete
  75. WOw this is really a great resource! I have a hard time approaching brands but this will definitely help me! Pinning tihs for later!

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  76. you nailed this big time, i like how you detailed this so well. never go so hard, when you are good you are good.

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    1. That's right. If you know your value, you don't go cheap.

      Delete
  77. I see bloggers tagging brands on FB asking for freebies or asking for collab. I find it inappropriate. I guess it would be better to send an email and ask if they are open to X-deal.

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    1. I agree with you Roselle. Email is not old, okay. So better use email to discuss business, and not on social media. UNLESS - the brand doesn't have an email.

      Delete
  78. I do a lot of sponsored posts on my blog and agree with a lot of what you wrote. I also love how you edited your photos and had notes on the side. Very engaging and easy to follow!

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Missy for dropping by, and yes it is okay to ask for sponsorship, just to it the right way. More business-like.

      Delete
  79. I don't think I've ever read such an in-depth blog post with actual examples. Well put together, Blair I think mutual respect and clarity are both key things when it comes to blogger/brand collaboration. Both need to be clear on what they expect/can give as well as act in a friendly, respectful and professional manner. Today I got approached by a company wanting to pay me pennies and plaster my website with banners for free. It's disrespectful they are approaching bloggers in that way. They didn't even bother checking out my blog or even learning my name. It's safe to say they will not receive a reply. However, there are absolutely incredible PRs out there who are nothing but polite, cooperative and have a creative vision, too. As an influencer, I deliver 100% and they reciprocate :)
    xox Nadia
    www.mielandmint.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, it is my absolute pet peeves that PRs never bother check my website first and just sends me disrespectful offer (I should probably make a post about that soon!).

      Mutual respect is a must. IT NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE.

      Delete
  80. This is really a funny story reality thing! I do approach brands first through their emails and sending them my MediaKit. But i never want to shoot a message to a brand by social medias that is not so professional. I actually laugh out loud how the blogger/influencers keeps delaying to the fact that they are the one who ask for collab first. Love the blog post, so real! :D

    https://itsbeyondimaginations.blogspot.com/

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    1. Thank you for your insights Ann. Always follow the business etiquette, you'll never go wrong with it.

      Delete
  81. Excellent post. It's all about building relationships, which is important with any sales relationship.

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    1. That's right Danay. This is not like you are talking to your colleagues in college and asking for a cup of tea kind of conversation, lol

      Delete
  82. Thanks for this wonderful guide to help new and existing bloggers to connect with brands. I know my first pitch didn't go well and wish I had this guide to help me get started.

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    Replies
    1. You can try it again with other brands, but do it right.

      Delete
  83. I am always pitching to brands. My biggest advice is not to get caught up in the declines you may get. There may be a brand that says no, but there are many brands who will say yes. Just keep looking for them.

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    1. That's a good advice Danielle.
      I do pitch with brands also especially with those that I have personal attachment with. But never ever caught with deadlines and make your client do the follow up.

      Delete
  84. Great tips! I personally don't work with brands but this is great info and advice for bloggers who are struggling to get into this and working with brands.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you for stopping by Shauna. Hope you learn a thing or two :)

      Delete
  85. Oh I think I have heard of this. Sayang lang lipstick sa kanila. It's really sad when people do this. It gives legitimate bloggers a bad rep. Sigh. I wish that they didn't do this but sadly, a lot of them think it's okay coz they are influencers daw. Hayyyyy

    ReplyDelete
  86. 55 days to review lipsticks, and to think the bloggers were the one to make the pitch? That's a no-no!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you are a true-blue fan of any brands, like this lipstick.. you won't wait a single millisecond to try and swatch and take tons of selfies.

      You can easy distinguished a true fan versus pretentious creatures.

      Delete
  87. Truly saddened by the fact that this is happening nowadays. :(

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  88. Ako naman depende. Mostly I get asked. But sometimes, I do the asking for the things that I really love. If they say yes, fine. Pag wala, ok lang din. hehe

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We can do both, just make use we do it the right way.

      Delete

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