How to Boost Your Ecommerce Brand with Influencer Marketing Quickly and Easily

Introduction

Are you an Amazon seller?

Dreaming of skyrocketing your sales with ecommerce influencer marketing?

But here’s the catch – every influencer you talk to wants those tough-to-swallow fees. The zeros keep adding up, and your frustration does too. We get it.

You’ve got a killer product but finding influencers to talk about it for free feels like trying to win the lottery. But guess what? It’s possible!

Whether your budget is tight or you’re just starting, this step-by-step guide by Willy Lin from WAH Academy promises to show you how to boost your ecommerce brand without spending a fortune on influencer marketing.

Get ready to feel inspired, take action, and maybe even have a laugh along the way.

Stick with us, and you’ll learn how to:

• Sweet-talk influencers without dropping a dime.
• Craft a win-win scenario that makes influencers want to shout about your products.
• Use real-life examples and insights from the pros to get influencers on your team quickly and easily.

Ready to dive in and watch your sales soar?

Let’s get those influencers talking about your product—without opening your wallet!

Step 1: Crafting the Perfect Approach

Hey, Amazon sellers, I know you’re feeling frustrated. You’ve tried sending messages to influencers, only to be met with requests for crazy fees. It’s like trying to sell ice to an Eskimo, right?

So, how do you sweet-talk influencers without dropping a dime?

The trick is making it personal and genuine.

Think about it:

Would you rather buy something from a stranger you’ve never met, or from a friend who genuinely loves what you’re selling?

Here’s how to make your approach:

1. Personalize Your Message: Start by actually checking out the influencer’s content. Comment on their posts, like their pictures, build a little rapport. When you finally send that DM, mention specific things you like about their work.
2. Focus on Mutual Benefit: Influencers aren’t charity organizations. They’re looking for value just like you. Offer them something they can’t refuse – maybe early access to your product, a percentage of sales, or an exclusive collaboration.
3. Be Authentic: Nothing turns people off more than a canned, generic message. Write from the heart, keep it real, and let them know why you genuinely value their influence.

Examples that Hit the Mark:

Instead of sending this:

“Hey, can you review my product?”

Try this:

“Hey [Influencer’s Name], I absolutely loved your latest post about cruelty-free makeup! I recently launched a vegan skincare line and would love to send you some free samples. Your honest feedback would mean the world to me. Maybe we could even collaborate if you like the products! Warm regards, [Your Name].”

Tips for Succeeding:

• Stay Patient: Building a relationship with an influencer takes time. Don’t push too hard.
• Show Appreciation: A simple thank you goes a long way.
• Follow Up: But don’t spam their inbox. A gentle nudge is all it takes.

Step 2: Creating a Win-Win Scenario

Now that you’ve made contact, it’s time to create a proposition that benefits both of you. Here’s the magic sauce:

Give Before You Get

Offer something of genuine value to the influencer. Remember, it’s not all about money.

1. Free Products: Who doesn’t love free stuff? Send your product with no strings attached.
2. Exclusive Content: Offer exclusive rights to share certain content first.
3. Affiliate Programs: Provide them with a special discount code they can share with their followers. For example, offer a 10% commission on each sale made through their link.

Real-Life Success Stories:

Take Daniel Wellington, a watch company that soared using influencer marketing. They sent free watches to influencers and offered discount codes to share. Sales skyrocketed, proving that a simple strategy can work wonders.

Tips to Nail This Step:

• Be Clear About Your Goals: Ensure the influencer knows what you’re hoping to achieve. Whether it’s reviews, unboxing videos, or social media shout-outs, transparency is key.
• Mutual Respect: Treat influencers as partners, not just promotion machines. They’re more likely to go above and beyond for you.

Step 3: Leveraging Micro-Influencers

Big names mean big bucks, right? Not necessarily.

Why Micro-Influencers?

• They’ve got high engagement rates and their followers genuinely trust them.
• They’re more accessible and usually willing to collaborate for free products.

How to Find the Right Micro-Influencers:

1. Search Relevant Hashtags: Look for hashtags related to your product. If you’re selling yoga mats, try #YogaCommunity or #FitnessJourney.
2. Use Tools: Programs like BuzzSumo and HypeAuditor help you find influencers without breaking a sweat.
3. Check Engagement: Don’t just look at follower count. A micro-influencer with 5,000 engaged followers can be more valuable than a major influencer with 100,000 disengaged followers.

Pro Tips:

• Build Relationships: Follow them, engage with their content.
• Customize Your Outreach: Remember, the same formula above applies here.

Step 4: Offering Exclusivity

Everyone loves to feel special, right? Why not make influencers feel like VIPs?

Craft an Exclusive Offer:

1. Early Access: Let them be the first to try out new products.
2. Special Bundles: Create exclusive product bundles just for their followers.
3. Personalized Experience: Add a handwritten note or custom packaging to make them feel valued.

Success Stories:

Glossier, a beauty brand, built a cult following through exclusivity. They gave influencers early access to products, making everyone else crave a piece of the action too. That’s not just smart; it’s genius!

Tips for Success:

• Keep It Genuine: Nothing should feel forced.
• Regular Updates: Keep influencers in the loop with new launches.

Step 5: Craft Compelling Content Worth Sharing

Creating share-worthy content is an absolute game-changer. If influencers love what you provide, they’ll happily share it with their followers. But what makes content compelling?

Here’s the formula: Engaging + Relevant + Valuable

Types of Content That Work:

1. Eye-Catching Visuals:
   • High-quality photos and videos showcasing your product in use.
   • Creative unboxing videos that make their followers feel the excitement.
2. Useful Content:
   • How-To Guides and tutorials
   • Tips and tricks related to your product (think skincare routines, fitness exercises, etc.)
3. Inspirational Stories:
   • Have a story behind your brand? Share it! People love hearing about real experiences and the journey behind a product.

Example: If you’re selling eco-friendly water bottles, produce a video showing a day in the life of an environmental activist using your product. It’s relevant, engaging, and valuable.

Best Practices:

• Consistency is Key: Post regularly, but don’t spam.
• Encourage User-Generated Content: Run contests or hashtags to get your customers involved.
• Be Authentic: Real beats perfect any day. Genuine content resonates more than overly polished advertisements.

Step 6: Building Long-Term Relationships

Short-term campaigns are great, but long-term relationships are golden.

How to Build Lasting Partnerships:

Show Continuous Appreciation:

1. Regular Freebies: Continue sending new products.
2. Exclusive Discounts: Create special codes just for them.
3. Personal Touches: Send personalized gifts or handwritten notes.

Collaboration Ideas:

1. Host Giveaways: Co-create contests where followers of the influencer win your product.
2. Joint Projects: Work together on a new product line or limited edition series.

Real-Life Example:

Look at Gymshark – they built an empire by maintaining strong, ongoing relationships with influencers. They didn’t just stop at one post; they turned influencers into ambassadors.

Pro Tips:

• Communicate Regularly: Keep them in the loop with new developments.
• Value Their Feedback: Act on their suggestions. It shows you respect their opinion and are keen on improving.

Step 7: Measure and Optimize

If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.

Here’s how to know if your efforts are paying off.

Important Metrics to Track:

1. Engagement Rates: Look at likes, shares, and comments.
2. Referral Traffic: Check how much traffic is coming from influencer’s posts.
3. Sales Numbers: Use unique discount codes to track sales generated.

Optimizing Based on Data:

• Double Down on What Works: If a particular influencer or type of content performs well, focus more on that.
• Learn from What Doesn’t: Analyze why certain strategies didn’t work and avoid those pitfalls in the future.
• A/B Testing: Try different approaches and compare results to see what resonates most with your audience.

Example:

Remember those early adapters of Daniel Wellington? They continuously monitored sales and engagement, which helped them tweak their strategy for even greater success.

Step 8: Utilizing Influencer Marketing Platforms

Going solo isn’t your only option. Consider using influencer marketing platforms to streamline the process.

Popular Platforms:

1. AspireIQ: Helps find and manage influencers easily.
2. BuzzGuru: Provides detailed analytics and influencer discovery.
3. NeoReach: Offers a comprehensive suite for influencer campaigns.

Tips for Using These Platforms:

• Set Clear Goals: Know what you want to achieve beforehand.
• Customize Your Searches: Use filters to find the best match for your brand.
• Track Performance: Use built-in analytics to measure success.

Best Practices:

• Start Small: Test with a few influencers before going all in.
• Engage Regularly: Don’t just use these platforms as a one-time thing; integrate them into your overall marketing strategy.

Step 9: Leveraging Testimonials and Word-of-Mouth

When influencers genuinely love your product, their followers will too. Use those glowing testimonials to your advantage.

How to Leverage Testimonials:

1. Feature on Your Website: Display positive influencer testimonials prominently.
2. Share on Social Media: Post and repost influencer reviews.
3. Include in Marketing Materials: Use quotes in emails, ads, and product packaging.

Real-Life Inspiration:

Glossier built their brand by leveraging customer testimonials and influencer reviews, creating a cycle of trust and authenticity.

Pro Tips:

• Ask Permission: Always get consent before using someone’s testimonial publicly.
• Highlight Key Benefits: Focus on specific benefits influencers mention to align with your marketing message.

Step 10: Getting Creative With Campaigns

The more creative and unique your campaign, the more buzz it will generate.

Unique Campaign Ideas:

1. Challenges: Host a fun challenge that influencers can share (think fitness challenges, DIY projects).
2. Collaborative Content: Co-create blog posts, videos, or livestreams with influencers.
3. Seasonal Campaigns: Align your campaigns with holidays or local events.

Real-Life Example:

Remember the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge? Thousands of influencers participated, raising awareness and funds.

Step 11: Monitor Trends and Adapt

The world of ecommerce influencer marketing is constantly evolving. Trends come and go, and what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. To stay ahead, you need to keep a keen eye on industry trends and be ready to adapt.

How to Stay Updated:

1. Follow Industry Leaders:
   • Subscribe to newsletters and follow blogs of top marketing experts like Neil Patel and Social Media Examiner.
   • Attend webinars and online events to hear the latest insights and network with fellow marketers.
2. Use Social Listening Tools:
   • Platforms like Hootsuite and Brandwatch can help you keep tabs on trending topics and emerging influencers in your niche.
   • Pay attention to what your competitors are doing and adapt successful strategies.
3. Experiment and Innovate:
   • Don’t be afraid to try new platforms—TikTok is exploding right now, and many businesses are finding success there.
   • Experiment with different types of content – live videos, Stories, and IGTV.

Real-Life Example:

Brands like Sephora constantly adapt to trends by partnering with influencers on new platforms and experimenting with interactive content like Instagram Live and TikTok challenges.

Tips for Success:

• Stay Flexible: Be ready to pivot your strategy as new trends emerge.
• Engage with Your Audience: Listen to feedback and adapt based on what your followers want.

Step 12: Encourage Influencers to Create Authentic Content

Authenticity is the secret sauce that makes influencer marketing so powerful. When influencers genuinely love your product, their followers can tell.

How to Encourage Authenticity:

1. Give Creative Freedom:
   • Let influencers present your product in a way that fits their style.
   • Guidelines are fine, but avoid micro-managing.
2. Highlight Real Stories:
   • Encourage influencers to share personal stories about how your product fits into their lives.
   • Authentic, relatable stories resonate more with audiences.
3. Avoid Scripted Content:
   • Pre-written scripts can feel forced and insincere.
   • Trust influencers to convey your message in their own words.

Example of Authentic Content:

Patagonia partners with influencers who already advocate for environmental causes, aligning naturally with their brand values. This results in authentic, impactful content that drives engagement and loyalty.

Pro Tips:

• Encourage Honest Reviews: Welcome both positive and constructive feedback.
• Build Trust: Show that you value their creative vision and trust their judgment.

Step 13: Reward Successful Influencers

Influencers who deliver great results should be rewarded to encourage ongoing collaboration. Think of creative ways to incentivize them beyond just free products.

Ways to Reward Influencers:

1. Commissions and Bonuses:
   • Offer a higher commission rate or bonus for influencers who consistently drive high sales.
   • Set performance milestones and reward them when these are met.
2. Exclusive Opportunities:
   • Invite top influencers to exclusive events or product launches.
   • Offer them first dibs on new products or upcoming collaborations.
3. Profile Features:
   • Spotlight influencers on your brand’s social media or website.
   • Share their stories and successes, creating a win-win situation.

Real-Life Example:

Nike rewards top-performing influencers with invites to exclusive events and early access to new products. This keeps influencers motivated and loyal to the brand.

Tips for Success:

• Show Appreciation: Regularly thank your influencers for their efforts.
• Make It Public: Public recognition can be a powerful motivator.

Step 14: Create a Community

Building a community around your brand and its influencers can amplify your reach and foster loyalty. Think beyond individual influencer posts and create a sense of belonging for your audience.

How to Build a Community:

1. Create Engaging Content:
   • Host live Q&A sessions with influencers.
   • Create group challenges or events that encourage followers to participate.
2. Foster Interaction:
   • Encourage conversations and interactions between followers and influencers.
   • Respond to comments and feedback actively to build a loyal community.
3. Use Hashtags and Contests:
   • Create a unique branded hashtag for users to connect through.
   • Host contests where followers share their own stories or experiences with your products.

Real-Life Example:

Lululemon built a strong community by creating the hashtag #thesweatlife, where customers and influencers share their fitness journeys and motivate each other.

Pro Tips:

• Be Genuine: Communities thrive on authenticity and mutual respect.
• Keep It Fun: Regularly introduce new and exciting ways for community members to engage.

Wrapping It All Up

You’ve made it through the complete guide to boosting your ecommerce brand with influencer marketing—quickly and easily.

Let’s do a quick recap:

By now you should know how to:

• Craft personalized approaches to engage influencers without spending a dime.
• Create win-win scenarios that benefit both your brand and the influencer.
• Use compelling content to capture attention and build long-term relationships.
• Measure success and optimize based on data.
• Stay ahead of trends and adapt your strategies.
• Foster a strong community around your brand.

Amazon sellers, it’s time to take action.

1. Identify Your First Influencer: Go find that micro-influencer who fits your brand perfectly.
2. Send a Personal, Genuine Message: Remember to keep it true and engaging.
3. Track, Measure, Optimize: Use the tools and tips provided to keep refining your strategy.

Don’t just dream about skyrocketing your sales – make it happen.