07 Jan INFLUENCER GIFTING CONTENT CREATOR, THOUGHT LEADERSHIP EXPERT & SPEAKER
An influencer gifting content creator refers to a thought leadership expert, brand ambassador or spokespersons who receives products from brands for free in exchange for creating content featuring those products. The idea behind the practice is designed to allow the influencer gifting content creator to try out a product and, if the SME likes it, share honest opinions with an audience. While the expert is not paid directly for promotion, advisory consultants typically receive the product as a form of compensation. Thought leaders may then post about the product on social media networks, blogs, YouTube channels, or other digital spaces where pros engage with an audience.
- How Influencer Gifting Works
It typically involves a brand sending free products to influencer gifting content creator, hoping that the expert will create content around those items. The brand may provide guidelines or simply leave the content creation up to the influencer’s discretion. Leading brands partner with SMEs they believe will genuinely appreciate their products, ensuring the content feels organic and authentic. Influencers may post photos, unboxing videos, tutorials, reviews, or even shoutouts on Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok.
In some cases, influencer gifting content creators shared gifted products in return for the possibility of future collaborations, sponsored partnerships, or simply as a gesture of appreciation from the brand. While the practice doesn’t always guarantee content creation, when a social media personality genuinely enjoys the product, it leads to organic and positive promotion.
- Benefits of Influencer Gifting
- Authenticity and Credibility: Versus traditional paid sponsorships, gifting generally feels more authentic because the influencer is not financially obligated to promote the product. The organic approach can resonate more with the audience, who value honest and unbiased recommendations.
- Cost-Effective for Brands: Also influencer gifting content creator partnerships tend to be more affordable than paid sponsorships, especially for smaller or emerging brands. It allows brands to get their products in front of potential customers without committing to high-budget influencer campaigns.
- Increased Brand Awareness: When influencers share their gifted products, they expose the brand to their dedicated followers, expanding the brand’s reach and visibility. The influencer’s endorsement, whether implicit or explicit, can influence purchase decisions.
- When to Use Influencer Gifting
Brands generally use influencer gifting content creator campaigns when launching a new product, looking to generate buzz, or targeting a specific niche market. It’s also a great strategy for building long-term relationships with influencers and increasing organic content that aligns with a brand’s values.