This is gonna be super short, for those of you like me who have a short attention span. If you’re an Artist or Influencer and want to land sponsorships, it’s important to understand the concept of “value for value”. Get this down and you’ll land more deals.
Having managed Artist Relations for several organizations, I can tell you companies largely look at ROI (return on investment). That’s where the concept of “Value for Value” comes from. Companies simply want to know whether the benefit to their business equals or exceeds the check or gear you want. On your part, this requires an honest assessment of what you bring to the table, so you can justify your “ask”.
Generally, the less you ask for, the more likely a positive response will come from whomever you’re pitching. If you just want to grow fans or subscribers, a no cash deal where you and a given company cross-promote each could be a great way to get something you need and a foot in the door. If you’re looking for more, be prepared to make your argument. Many companies will use your social media numbers (or lack thereof) as an excuse not to sign you, so be prepared with a response.
For some artists or influencers, the buzz they have, or respect among a company’s core customers make them valuable in spite of a small following. As an example I’m thinking of the Riverton Piano Company and how they had an increase in keyboard sales following the use of product photos by a local design firm. You may have more value than you know – you just have to look for it.
The days of getting free stuff are largely over; margins are too thin, and today’s analytics offer real time data on what does and does not work. But make no mistake, companies are actively looking for the right Artist or Influencer who can move the needle for their business. It starts with the Artist or Influencer doing an honest assessment of their potential value to a given company and being able to convey the information on words, pictures, numbers and videos. And for a deeper dive on how businesses view sponsorships, consider checking out my Summer NAMM presentation on Artist & Influencer Marketing.
You’re more valuable than ever in today’s digital marketplace. Know what you’re worth, and think “Value for Value” to land the sponsorships you want.
Organiksol Marketing provides content writing services for websites, product descriptions, ebooks, sales collateral and social media. Foreign language translation is available.
Organiksol Marketing – we naturally grow business
