There are many strategies to find Instagram influencers, giving you a lot of options to cast a wide net. The ideal Instagram influencer will have:
- A large account
- An active user base
- Good communication skills
This ensures that your collaboration is productive and fruitful. We’ll share a wide range of strategies for finding influencers on Instagram quickly. These strategies are also applicable to beginners. However, starting with one strategy is a good idea to avoid getting overwhelmed.
How To Find Influencers on Instagram
You can deploy multiple strategies to find the right influencers for collaboration. Below are some of the best strategies to start your search.
1. Use Instagram Direct Messages
To start negotiating with potential influencers, you must send Instagram direct messages. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of success:
- Templates: Use templates to quickly message many influencers in a short time. This saves you from typing the same information repeatedly.
- Pay attention: Mention small details from the influencer’s account in your messages to show genuine interest. Leave a customizable space in your template for this.
- Organization: Use a spreadsheet or software to track your communication and collaborations. Creating influencer lists helps monitor performance.
- Benefits: Clearly explain the benefits for the influencer in your first messages.
- Patience: Direct messaging is a numbers game. Be prepared to send hundreds of messages to receive only a few responses. As your account grows, your response rate may increase.
2. Investigate Other Social Media Platforms
Influencers may be more responsive on other platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, or LinkedIn. Always mention that you want to collaborate on Instagram to avoid confusion. You may also consider cross-platform collaborations.
3. Monitor Your Followers
Some influencers you’re looking for may already be following you. This makes collaboration easier since they already know your background. Scan your follower list and watch for repeated engagement from the same influencers.
Find Instagram Influencers Free
The strategies mentioned above are free but time-consuming. Hiring agencies or freelancers to find influencers is an option but not necessary, especially for smaller accounts. A natural, direct approach works best for building genuine connections.
How To Find Instagram Influencers in Your Niche
To maximize value, narrow your search to influencers within your niche.
1. Use Relevant Hashtags
Search for niche-related hashtags to discover potential influencers. Use a mix of hashtags to find a broader range of creators and determine which hashtags bring the best results.
2. Use the Right Keywords
Type relevant keywords into Instagram’s search bar to uncover influencers in your niche. This strategy should be part of your broader social media marketing plan.
3. Search Adjacent Niches
Look into related niches that share overlapping audiences. For example, the fitness niche overlaps with health. This is useful when your niche is obscure and expands your search scope.
How To Find Micro Influencers on Instagram
Micro-influencers can be an excellent option for several reasons:
- Lower cost: Many accept free products instead of payment.
- Higher number: Easier to find, with many available across niches.
- More flexible: More open to tailored collaboration requirements.
Pay Attention to the Follower Count
Define a maximum follower limit (e.g., 200,000) to qualify as a micro-influencer. Check engagement rates to ensure followers are genuine.
Strong Communication Is Key
Work with influencers who demonstrate professionalism and strong communication skills. Consider extending communication to platforms such as Slack, Zoom, or email for efficiency.
Why You Should Hire Instagram Influencers
- Sell products: Influencers can review and promote your products to their audiences, often using discount codes.
- Brand growth: Collaborations expose your brand to new audiences organically.
- Expand your knowledge: Learn from experienced influencers with industry expertise.
- Leverage their following: Benefit from years of work influencers have put into cultivating their communities.
Top Things To Avoid When Looking for Instagram Influencers
- Bad reputation: Avoid influencers with negative reputations, as it can harm your brand image.
- Wrong audience: Do not collaborate with influencers whose audiences don’t overlap with your target market.
- Ignoring red flags: Pay attention to any warning signs during initial discussions.
