Are Brand Ambassador Deals Worth It?

Influencer marketing is the craze with companies reaching out to smaller accounts for brand ambassador deals. I do plan on addressing sponsorships in general, but I feel like this trend has become its own. Are brand ambassador deals worth it?

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You most likely stumbled upon brand ambassador deals through a Sponsored post that a company paid to push in front of you. (I've seen one company call their ambassadors "models" in attempt to flatter the clientele. But in the end, it was NOT a modeling gig.) Sometimes they seek you out by commenting on your photo to DM them. 

The Perks

• You receive discounts that can sometimes be over 50%.
• You may obtain a custom discount code to make sales and receive profit from those sales (usually 10-15%).
• Your social accounts (and resume) appear more impressive with a brand connection.

The Cons

• You are not receiving free merchandise.
• You may never make a profit.
• There can be a lot of fluff to your contract that will never happen.

You will have to spend money to hopefully make money. But if you like the product, take advantage of the discount code and fill up your closet. In the process of posting yourself in their merchandise, you may be able to earn credit for sales. If you approach the partnership with this mindset, you will remain content in the relationship. 

If you do make a sale, be prepared to accumulate very little dollars. You often see online shops that sell towels, tshirts, sun glasses, swim suits, etc. participating in ambassador programs. If you're lucky and somebody's web cart values at $100, you make $10. That won't pay for a full tank of gas.

Be cautious as well. Some companies give you a login where you can track your sales on a website's dashboard. That's a good sign! Other companies will promise to just email notify you. If you are dealing with a company in China or a place with bad reviews, they may never share your earned percentage. Do your research because unethical companies exist! (Also, a lot of these no-name companies fail and disappear without warning.)

Regarding the fluff, I know some companies pad the perks by promising invites to "exclusive events in your area," etc. If your follower count is low, believe me, they aren't going to invite you to these VIP opportunities...if they even really exist. They want to make this program feel like an exclusive club where they follow up with their members. Don't expect that.

The Final Verdict?

I recommend ambassador partnerships, but be selective. Have realistic (aka LOW) expectations, so you do not become discouraged. And, always give it your all because other scouting brands might like your marketing skills and content; you're building a profile.

Here are the Top 5 Brand Ambassador Programs.

via GIPHY

Are you still seeking help with choosing your ambassador partnerships? That's okay! I've posted some questions to ask yourself and tips to make sure it's the best move for you.

1. Does this brand align with your personal values and public image?
2. Is this a reputable brand known for great products and customer service?
3. Do you actually like their products and/or services? Would you buy and personally boast about the company to a close friend?
4. Will this affect current, future, or dream partnerships with other companies?
5. Are you taking this on for the social or resume boost when you know that you have no time to dedicate toward this partnership?
6. Will they help you grow a following?*

* To elaborate with question 6, you should scout their customers. Do interests align where the customers will want to follow you? Do they have a lot of engagement from followers? Online shops are constantly popping up and selling cheap, trendy merchandise. The ecommerce market has become congested. Is the partnership worth it?

If you have any tips, please share them in the comments.