Creating a successful collaboration can initially seem daunting with the chaotic landscape of social media. The core of collaboration is communication. Being on the same page with an influencer or brand is the foundation for creating a symbiotic partnership.

Influencer marketing has had a huge impact on the way consumers are marketed to. Connecting with your consumers directly through influencer marketing can be more effective than traditional advertising. Brands are aware that relatability and authenticity are what resonate on social media and these have become key in their marketing tactics.

Alignment

There is a strategy behind a brand choosing the right influencer and the influencer choosing the right brand. Having shared interests and values is a good indicator of whether or not it's the right fit. Understanding both parties’ goals, values, and audiences is essential to creating a meaningful partnership.

Goals

What is the brand's goal? Brand awareness? Engaging a specific demographic? Launching a new product or service? This will help shape and guide the collaboration not only for the brand but for the influencer as well. How does the influencer interact with their audience? What is authentic to them? What is their style of content? Answering these questions while tying them back to the brand's goals is where you find the sweet spot.

Types of Collabs

The type of collaboration will indicate the level of back and forth needed from both parties. A collab can be anything from a sponsored post, ambassadorship, product placement, affiliate partnerships or, takeovers, to co-created branded content. Every collaboration is unique and should cater to the brand and influencer.

Flexibility

A collaboration should be viewed as a team effort between the brand and influencer. Everyone is looking to gain something in exchange for what they offer. For brands, allowing influencers to have creative freedom on what works best for their audience will craft more engaging content. And for influencers that could mean allowing yourself to step outside your comfort zone to meet a brand in the middle.

Long-Term Partnerships

Building a long-term relationship with a brand or influencer will lead to a more meaningful partnership. Not all collabs should be viewed as a one-time transaction. Both audiences will recognize when there is an established and authentic relationship between the brand and the influencer. This will lead to higher trust and engagement in future projects. If the gain is mutual for both parties then the relationship is worth nurturing.

MANN™ Fresh Vegetables collab with @**sassyconfetti**

Client Example

MANN™ Fresh Vegetables set out to raise awareness of their newest product, Air Fryer Seasoned Veggie Kits. Their ask for Foodie Tribe was to have creators develop their own recipes using these kits. They wanted the emphasis to be on how their kits were an easy go-to and healthy addition to any meal.

Within these guidelines, influencers were able to have the creative freedom to come up with their unique recipe and the style of their video. Our Foodie Tribe content creators got to cooking and made pico de gallo tacos, chicken piccata, and grilled steak! Each interpreting the campaign in their own way, Mann’s was elated about the diversity of flavors and recipes to showcase their Air Fryer Kits.

Keep in Mind

Not every collab will be a slam dunk, so expect some trial and error. Tracking your analytics throughout any campaign will guide you toward what your audience is responding to. Having clear and open communication with your collaborator is ultimately the main factor that will determine the success of your partnership.

If you are interested in learning how you can partner with Foodie Tribe and collaborate with our content creators visit foodietribe.com to connect with us!

Exploring Successful Collaborations Between Brands and Influencers