Alex Wong for HPAs an influencer marketing agency, it’s our job to connect brands with the right influencers and bloggers – but what makes the perfect macth?The truth is, it’s different every.single.time. Each brand has unique and specific needs, and each initiative varies in terms of goals and performance indicators.These core principles guide us in the complex matchmaking process.1. Bigger Is Not Always BetterJust because an influencer has a large following and an engaged audience doesn’t mean he or she will be a perfect partner for a campaign. Demographics like location and marital status, preferred platforms, hobbies, and aesthetic alignment help determine a good fit. Additionally, we’ve found that smaller communities are often more engaged and can be more likely to comment and share. Our data supports the argument for activating “micro-influencers” to drive engagement, reminding us to value quality over quantity when it comes to audience size.2. Consider Unexpected CategoriesRecruiting a well-known beauty blogger for a hair care campaign seems like a no-brainer, right? Not always. It’s been proven that pairing unexpected influencers and brands can help create content that breaks through the clutter. As a result, brands often look for additional factors that foster a deeper synergy with their campaign. Sometimes these distinguishing factors can be subtle but impact a brand’s decision process.3. Do The Due DiligenceIt's essential to make sure each potential influencer partner is a good fit by reviewing their past campaigns and partnerships. Taking stock of their collaboration history is key to understanding the type of work they'll produce, and the type of brands their audience connects with. If an influencer has a proven track record, it's a good sign that he or she could make for a great candidate.Want more?4 Tips for Influencers to Stand Out to Brands6 Rules for Brands and Influencers to be FTC CompliantCollectively Creators Speak Up on FTC DisclosuresHow-to Craft the Right Influencer "Cocktail"
