🌟 How to Stand Out as an Influencer and Land Brand Deals (from Someone on the Brand Side)

You’re creating great content, showing up consistently, and putting your heart into your work … but when it comes to landing brand deals, it can feel like shouting into the void.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why aren’t brands responding to my pitches?” or “What do PR people actually look for when choosing influencers?” — this is for you.

Because here’s the thing: I’ve been on the other side of those DMs and email pitches. For years, I’ve led PR and influencer campaigns for award-winning lifestyle brands — reviewing thousands (!) of influencer requests. I’ve seen what makes an outreach stand out … and what lands straight in the “maybe later” pile. Let’s break it down.

💡 1. Understand What Brands Are Really Looking For

It’s not always about follower count. What matters most? Authenticity and alignment.

Brands want creators who fit — who feel genuine, whose values match theirs, and whose audience actually cares about what they share.

Before pitching a brand, ask yourself:

• Does this brand genuinely fit my voice and audience?

• Would I use or talk about their product even if it wasn’t a paid partnership?
  

That level of honesty will come through in your content — and it’s exactly what PR teams notice first.

✍️ 2. Make Your Pitch Personal (and Professional)

This might sound simple, but it’s a game-changer.

If you start your email with “Hey, I’d love to collaborate,” without mentioning why, your message is already blending into a sea of sameness.

Instead, try this:

“I’ve been following your [product/service] and love how you emphasize [specific brand value]. My audience of [your niche] would really connect with that message.”

That one personalized line shows you’ve done your homework — and trust me, it instantly makes you memorable.

🗂️ 3. Invest in a Strong Media Kit

Your media kit is your calling card — it’s the first thing PR teams use to decide whether to move forward.

Make sure it includes: ✅ A quick intro about who you are and what you stand for ✅ Audience demographics (age, location, interests) ✅ Engagement rate or key stats ✅ Examples of past collaborations or standout content ✅ Your contact info (don’t make them search for it!)

A well-designed, up-to-date media kit shows professionalism and confidence — and it tells a brand, you’re ready to work.

🤝 4. Focus on Building Relationships, Not One-Off Deals

This is one of the biggest things I’ve learned managing influencer programs: Brands remember the creators who make things easy, fun, and authentic.

Follow up after a campaign. Share feedback. Send a thank-you note.

When you show up as a collaborator — not just a content creator — you’ll be top of mind the next time a campaign opportunity comes around.

🚀 5. Keep It Real (and Keep Learning)

Influencer marketing is evolving fast, but one thing never changes: real connection always wins.

Whether you’re refining your pitches, revamping your media kit, or just trying to figure out your next step, remember — you don’t need to chase trends or algorithms to grow.

That’s exactly why I started Crafted Collabs — to help creators like you strengthen your strategy, build trust with brands, and land collaborations that feel authentic, aligned, and sustainable.

👉 Ready to get started? Let's get started!