Engaging influencers effectively in 2024 requires a blend of authenticity, strategic alignment, and innovative engagement strategies. Ryan Croy, founder of Public Haus Agency, a Los Angeles-based PR and marketing firm, shares his insights for guiding brands in harnessing the power of influencer collaborations as a driver for brand awareness, community growth, engagement, and even sales.
Below are five key tips for engaging influencers, inspired by Croy’s approach and recommendations:
Embrace Authentic Partnerships
Authenticity has never been more critical in influencer marketing. Influencers and their audiences value veritable connections to the brands they promote. Brands should seek out influencers who genuinely like their products or services and whose personal brand aligns with theirs. According to Croy, “Aligning with influencers who truly appreciate your products and align with your brand’s essence isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. A genuine connection fosters trust, enhances engagement and motivates purchases, which is the ultimate aim of these campaigns.”
Focus on Long-term Relationships
Fostering long-term partnerships with creators rather than engaging in one-off collaborations can cultivate a deeper connection with target audiences through content that resonates on a more personal level. Moreover, creators who feel a strong, genuine alignment with a brand are likely to become passionate advocates, further amplifying the brand’s reach and influence over time. According to Croy, “Our strategy focuses on identifying potential long-term ambassadors from the start, making clear our intent for a lasting relationship. When creators genuinely feel valued, they’re more inclined to generate content that truly speaks to their followers and boosts engagement.”
Engage on Platforms that Make Sense for Your Brand
Choosing the right platforms for your influencer collaborations is crucial. Not every platform will be suitable for every brand, and the choice should reflect where your target audience spends their time. Ryan Croy emphasizes the importance of platform selection, noting, “Selecting platforms that align with both your brand’s identity and your target audience’s preferences is key to maximizing your campaign’s reach and impact. It’s about being where your audience is, and working with influencers who can authentically represent your brand in those spaces.” This targeted approach ensures your message is heard by the right people, in the right way.
Leverage Data Insights for Matchmaking
Utilizing data to match your brand with the right influencers can significantly enhance campaign success. Look beyond surface-level metrics like follower counts, focusing instead on engagement rates, audience demographics, and content relevance. Croy advises, “Data-driven insights allow us to identify influencers who not only have the reach but also the right audience composition that resonates with our client’s brand. It’s about the quality of connections, not just the quantity.” By leveraging these insights, brands can forge more meaningful and productive partnerships with influencers.
Prioritize Transparency for Open Communication
Transparency forms the backbone of any successful influencer partnership. Setting clear expectations, deliverables, and objectives from the outset avoids misunderstandings and sets the stage for a fruitful collaboration. “Honesty and clarity in communication ensure that all parties are aligned with the campaign’s goals and expectations,” says Croy. “It’s about building a partnership based on trust, where influencers feel comfortable to express their creativity within the parameters of the brand’s vision.”
By incorporating these strategies into your influencer engagement efforts, brands can build more authentic, effective, and mutually beneficial collaborations in 2024.
To connect with Public Haus Agency directly for insights and strategies specifically relating to your brand, reach out through the agency’s website.
Published By: Aize Perez
