Now that you were able to find some companies to approach, let’s get started.
First, I must tell you. I have no idea if these are the best tips for approaching a brand. In fact, I’m certain they are not. I can only share my experiences with you, and by using the tips I’m about to share with you, I have been able to begin relationships with blog sponsors. And yes, I was rejected many times in the process, and I will tell you all about that, too.
But, first, today I want to tell you how to get a positive response from potential advertisers.
Drafting an email. What do you have to offer a brand? It’s not just about traffic and numbers either. What are your assets? Here are some ideas.
*Are you offering ad space? What size ad and placement? How long will the ad run?
* Are you willing to write posts that feature their products or links? How many?
* Will you incorporate other social media outlets? How often are you willing to link to them through a tweet or post on Facebook?
Selling your strengths.
What can you do to separate yourself from the other emails this company may be receiving. My best advice.
1. Be yourself
2. Be professional
3. Be clear
Keep it simple and straightforward. A lengthy email is a great way to get deleted.
Avoid sounding liking a salesman. That’s a turn off. Remember, that first point above? Be yourself. You know what types of email you consider spam. Don’t sound like those.
Here are some excerpts from actual emails I have used to reach out to advertisers.
Brief Intro-simple and sweet
Hello, My name is (___________). I’m a mother of two and blogger at www.themommymess.com, and I’d like to invite (__________________) to participate in an upcoming blog event.
Your Assets-What do you have to offer an advertiser?
I will be hosting a back-to-school blog party, and I’m hoping to give moms and bloggers a chance to share anything and everything relating to this busy time of year! I’m offering FREE ad space to relevant, family-friendly brands that have unique products they want to share. I’d love to spotlight (_________________) during the event.
Clear Goal-What do you want from the advertiser?
In exchange for the ad space, I am asking that one event participant be awarded a gift card to be used towards a back-to-school purchase from (__________). You will NOT need to send me any samples for review, as I will only be spotlighting the products as a giveaway prize. Shipping will be at the advertisers expense. If you have any questions, please feel free to reply to this email. I’m happy to answer them for you! A full media kit is available upon request.
Notice a couple of things.
1. I didn’t overload the advertiser with numbers, page ranks, and all that jazz. I don’t really feel like my numbers are my strengths. I’m a new blog and I’m sure other blogs look more appealing in terms of stats. I do have a media kit that I have prepared to provide these sorts of things upon request, but haven’t actually sent it to anyone yet.
2. I took the guess work out of their decision. I spent time on their site, familiarized myself with their products and actually gave a suggestion of something that I felt was a good fit. It’s a lot easier for people to say yes, if they know what you want.
As your needs and assets change, so will your pitch. In these email examples I am seeking participation for the back-to-school event I recently had on the blog in exchange for free ad space for one month. It’s clear what I want, and clear what they get.
Once you use an email that brings success be sure to save it! You can always go in and cut and paste a few details to fit your advertising request or time of year.
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Twitter: AlisonSWLee
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You’re awesome for sharing your tips!
Alison recently posted..Unexpected
Twitter: themommymess
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I hope they’re good tips!
Twitter: experbadmom
says:
As the happy recipient of a Company Kids backpack from your back-to-school bash, all I can say is way to go! It’s a lovely product and I’m glad you approached them and got them onboard.
I like the idea of exchanging ad space for a giveaway item. Have you been able to sell ad space/sponsorship?
Katy @ Experienced Bad Mom recently posted..I’m bento out of shape about Dean McDermott
Twitter: themommymess
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Not yet! But, let’s hope that’s coming soon.
Twitter: LizbyChoice
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As a newer blogger I’m not sure I am ready for approaching sponsors yet but you have some great tips for those that are already approaching me. Thanks for the great tips and I look forward to more posts!
Liz Barker recently posted..Lighting Your Way through the Healthcare Maze
Twitter: themommymess
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Thanks!
Twitter: WoofTweetWaah
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What great tips! Loved this series of posts. When I’m ready to reach out to sponors, I’m certainly going to turn back to these posts.
Erin S. recently posted..Overheard from the Baby Monitor — A Mommy Fairy Tale
Thanks Adrienne, this is such a blessing to me right now, in fact I am bookmarking this one. Have a super blessed day!
Ugochi recently posted..YAY! I WAS FEATURED!!!
I am so glad I thought to look for a follow up post to the first article you wrote regarding this subject. The email you wrote to the prospective sponser is great…and I so appreciate that you posted it for all of us who have no idea where to begin. Thank you!! I wish you the best of luck in your search for sponsorships!
Kim recently posted..Halloween Craft – the big BOO
Twitter: themommymess
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You’re welcome! And thank you for the well wishes.
Twitter: OneMommy1
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This is something I’ve been wanting to do; thank you for the simple how-to that makes it a little less scary.
Twitter: themommymess
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You are welcome!
G
Great post!! Thank you so much for sharing this is awesome!
Kirsten Womack recently posted..Taking Control Made Him Healthy
Twitter: themommymess
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Thank you, Kirsten! I’m really glad you liked it.
Very informative thanks for sharing!
Hi there! I came from your original posts on SITS and just read the 3 part series. I appreciate this practical advice and chose to comment on this one because it clarified some things for me that I was putting together on my own.
Joi recently posted..How to Verbally Nix Sexual Harassment
Twitter: themommymess
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Thanks for reading Joi! I’m glad you found them helpful.
Thank you for sharing! We have done something similar but I lve the simplicity of what you are doing! I think you are totally right in that if you interest them they will get it and tell you if they need more info! Thanks for putting this together.
Kimber recently posted..{Brownies} From Boxed to Gourmet in 3 Easy Steps or Less
Twitter: themommymess
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Thank you so much! I’m glad you liked the advice.