Learn how to partner with influencers to launch your product and drive sales, without upfront payment or tedious manual work.
Since 2016, ValueYourNetwork has established itself as the French benchmark in terms of influencer marketing, orchestrating tailor-made campaigns that propel brands to the forefront. With proven expertise and a diverse network of influencers, the agency creates personalized strategies that resonate with targeted audiences. For effective influencer marketing campaigns tailored to your needs, trust ValueYourNetwork.
Step 1 — Identify people who can “influence” your audience
When it comes to choosing influencers, it’s tempting to believe that the more followers they have, the more your product will be seen. But that’s not the most important thing.
What really matters is sales. Your goal is to sell your product, not just attract eyeballs.
Imagine a influencer with a million followers, but none of them are interested in your product. How many sales will you get? Probably very few. Now, imagine an influencer with 10,000 followers, but all of them are passionate about what you offer. You will probably get a lot more sales from this targeted audience.
Here are three criteria to check before choosing an influencer for your launch:
1. Aligning content with your brand
An influencer should naturally talk about topics related to your product. If you are launching an eco-friendly water bottle, focus on influencers who talk about sustainability, the outdoors, or health. Their audience is already aware of this type of product.
Browse the influencer’s last three months of content. If you can’t picture your product in their world, move on to the next one.
2. Quality of commitment
Don't just look at the number of likes or comments, but analyze their quality.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Are subscribers asking relevant questions?
- Does the influencer respond and engage in real conversations?
Look at the comments sections and spot actual discussions, not just emojis.
3. Value matching
List your brand’s core values. Then, look at influencers’ past posts and collaborations. If they champion causes or ideas that align with your values, they might be a good fit.
For example, if your brand promotes sustainability, favor influencers who regularly talk about ecology, and not those who promote fast fashion.
Step 2 — Contact Influencers
Once you have your list of influencers, it's time to reach out to them.
DM or Email: Which is the Best Approach?
- Less than 10,000 subscribers : Prefer a direct message (DM). These influencers usually read and respond to their messages.
- More than 10,000 subscribers : Send an email. Their DMs are often saturated, so a well-written email is more likely to be read.
What to say (and not to say)?
Don't directly ask for their rate or offer a free partnership in your first message. The goal is to start a conversation.
Here is an example of an effective message:
Subject: A collaboration with [Influencer Name]?
Hello [First name],
I admire your work on [platform] and especially your posts on [topic].
At [Your Brand Name], we believe in [your brand mission]. We think you would like our product because of [benefits].
We're currently looking for 25 creators who share our mission and would love for you to be one of them.
Can I get your shipping address to send you a surprise?
See you soon,
[Your Name]
Don't forget to follow up
Influencers receive dozens of messages per day. If they don’t respond, it may not be because they’re not interested, but because they’re overloaded. Follow up with them after 3 to 4 days with a friendly message.
Example of a recovery:
Subject: Just a little reminder
Hello [First name],
Hope you're doing well. I sent a message to [email address] about a potential collaboration with [Your Brand Name]. Just to make sure it didn't go unnoticed.
We are really excited to work with you to launch [product name] on [date].
Please let me know if you would like to discuss this further.
Thank you for your time!
[Your Name]Step 3 — Turn influencers into ambassadors
The goal here is to integrate influencers into your brand universe and establish a lasting relationship.
Package your products as an unforgettable experience
Influencers receive many products. The one that will be presented first will be the one that offers a unique experience.
How to make your product “Instagrammable” ?
- Think Visually : textures, colors, overlays
- Add surprise elements : small gifts, stickers, inspiring messages
- Create anticipation : original packaging that makes you want to open it
Include a handwritten note
A personalized note is more valuable than expensive packaging. It shows that you took the time to establish a human connection with the influencer.
Step 4 — Encourage influencers to post
Even if an influencer seems enthusiastic, they may forget to post after receiving the product. A friendly reminder 2-3 days after delivery may be helpful.
Here is a follow-up email:
Subject: Have you received your package?
Hello [First name],
I just wanted to make sure you received the [Brand Name] package. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
You can share your promo code unique [CODE] with your audience and earn a commission on every purchase.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate.
See you soon,
[Your Name]
Step 5 — Was your launch a success?
The success of a launch is not measured solely by immediate sales. It is also necessary to consider:
- The engagement rate : how many people interact with the posts?
- The number of promo codes used : how many sales are generated by each influencer?
- The impact on your brand awareness : new subscribers, mentions on social networks, etc.
Example: The Graza brand used influencer marketing for its olive oil and has sold all his stock in one week, generating 100,000 $ turnover from its first month.
Even if you don't sell everything immediately, influencer marketing creates long-term brand recognition. Consumers see your product several times before deciding to purchase.
How can ValueYourNetwork help you?
As you can see, managing collaborations with influencers can be tedious. This is where ValueYourNetwork comes into play.
With ValueYourNetwork, we take care of everything:
✅ Find the right influencers quickly
✅ Manage exchanges and reminders automatically
✅ Track the performance of each campaign
✅ Evaluate ROI in real time
You want boost your launch with influencers? Contact ValueYourNetwork today and maximize your sales!