7 key insights from Advertising Week: mastering influencer marketing the C.R.E.A.T.O.R way
October 2023
the TDLR
Master influencer marketing using our C.R.E.A.T.O.R acronym:
C
R
E
A
T
O
R
larity
elease
ngagement
uthenticity
ikTok
rganic integration
eactivity
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, influencer marketing stands as a potent tool for connecting with your audience. During Advertising Week, our team had the privilege of hosting a panel featuring experts who shared valuable insights on the art of influencer marketing. Drawing inspiration from a LinkedIn post by our VP, Brand Partnerships & Growth Strategy, Stewart Rawle, we present seven key takeaways, each encapsulated by the acronym C.R.E.A.T.O.R, offering a roadmap to success in influencer marketing.
key takeaways
C is for Clarity
define your vision
To embark on a successful influencer marketing campaign, clarity is paramount. Be precise in your brief to creators without stifling their creativity. As Creator Jose Roman astutely pointed out, brands that script every detail can deter authentic content creation. Instead, focus on defining what your brand stands for and what success looks like for your campaign. Anna Kai, another panelist, emphasized the value of brand details. Sharing insights about your brand can spark authenticity, aligning the content with your brand's essence.
R is for Release
let go of creative control
To embark on a successful influencer marketing campaign, clarity is paramount. Be precise in your brief to creators without stifling their creativity. As Creator Jose Roman astutely pointed out, brands that script every detail can deter authentic content creation. Instead, focus on defining what your brand stands for and what success looks like for your campaign. Anna Kai, another panelist, emphasized the value of brand details. Sharing insights about your brand can spark authenticity, aligning the content with your brand's essence.
E is for Engagement
prioritize authentic connections
Among the plethora of metrics, engagement should be your top priority. Julie Selig of L'Oréal considers engagement the number one Key Performance Indicator (KPI). She asserts that engagement is the driving force behind other metrics like reach and watch time. Unlike reach, which can be bought, engagement can only be earned through high-quality content that resonates with your audience.
A is for Authenticity
the cornerstone of success
Authenticity reigns supreme in influencer marketing. It starts with selecting creators who align with your brand's values and resonate with your target audience. Daisy Boateng emphasized the trust established during the initial casting process as a fundamental building block for authenticity throughout the campaign.
T is for TikTok
the cost-effective powerhouse
TikTok emerged as a standout platform during the panel discussion. Daisy Boateng dubbed it "the most cost-effective" platform for influencer marketing. TikTok offers unparalleled reach and engagement, thanks to its democratized content creation and community-centric approach. Moreover, TikTok often sets the stage for pop culture trends, making it essential for staying current.
O is for Organic integration
seamless product placement
Incorporating your product into creator content should feel organic. Anna Kai suggested that products need not appear within the first three seconds of content. Instead, focus on crafting a hook that captures the viewer's attention and keeps them engaged. When done right, product integration can flow naturally within the content.
R is for Reactivity
stay ahead of the curve
The digital landscape is ever-evolving, demanding a proactive approach. Reactivity doesn't only mean jumping on trends; it also involves identifying rising creators who align with your brand's vision and reacting swiftly. Collaborate with partners who can facilitate all of the above with speed and precision.
the conclusion,
Influencer marketing is a dynamic arena that demands a delicate balance between clarity, creative freedom, and authenticity. Prioritizing engagement, leveraging TikTok's potential, and mastering organic product integration can propel your influencer marketing campaigns to new heights. Stay agile, stay authentic, and embrace the C.R.E.A.T.O.R framework for success in the world of influencer marketing.
Special thanks to Julie Selig, Daisy Boateng, and Anna Kai (@itsmaybeboth) for their invaluable insights during our panel discussion. We're grateful to our partners at L'Oréal and everyone at Kyra who contributed to making this event a success!