The Truth About Working With Brands…
Are you a content creator? Do you think you know everything about working with brands? Do you think you know nothing about working with brands? Either way….stick around…we are going to tackle some of the most common misconceptions creators have about brands:
Misconception 1: Brands will tell me their budget for a project if I remember to ask.
Wrong! This is one of the biggest pitfalls new Creators fall in when they start reaching out to brands for content creation projects. I remember hearing this when we first started and I can count on no hands the amount of times it worked…it never worked! Brands will not give you this info so spare yourself that misstep. Instead here are some questions you should ask:
Ask if the project is a paid partnership project vs what's their budget(this will at least let you know if it's paid or a gifted product project)
Ask what are the project requirements
Ask how quickly does the brand need the project completed by
Ask if they want you to provide raw footage to them and licensing rights once you create the video
Ask which platforms they want you to post the content to(so you know how much of your audience is being targeted)
All of these factors should be taken in account when determining your rate for the project.
Misconception 2: I can post whatever I want
Yeah, you can post whatever you'd like on your personal social media accounts. However when you're working with a brand, they have project requirements and expectations. Asking questions about what they are, is your responsibility. It also looks very good on you if you ask detailed questions about the project to ensure you have all information needed to ensure the success of your partnership once you post the content. Here are some questions to ask:
Is there specific messaging they want you to adhere to while allowing you to have creative freedom in other areas of the project?
Are there caption requirements when you post, would the brand like you to tag them, use specific hashtags, add in any key phrases about the product?
Is there a specific style of video they are seeking, VoiceOver, text overlays on the video with or without a VoiceOver, etc.
Is there a platform they would like you to upload content into once you post it to your socials(if you are providing the video or raw footage to them)
Knowing all of these things ahead of time makes the process smoother for both parties. And ultimately if you want to be considered for future projects, make sure you stand out by being thorough, providing content on time(or before deadline), and do it right the first time!
Misconception 3: Brands will do all the work
Yes, brands will provide you with project requirements, but at the end of the day, they hired you for your voice, and your style of content. Be creative and thoughtful in your approach. Having a unique perspective on how to get the brands messaging out to meet their goals, can go a long way in whether they hire you in the future!
Whether you're new to working with brands or not, this should have given you some insight or just a reminder on a few important aspects. Take this, share it with others in need, so we can continue to help each other in their journeys as Content Creators!