Instagram collaborations can be a win-win for both brands and influencers. However, it’s important to craft an effective outreach message to initially propose the collaboration opportunity. That’s what this article aims to provide.
So, let’s ditch the lengthy intro section and jump right into how to create a great outreach message that’ll initiate a successful influencer and brand collaboration.
How to Create a Strong Initial Outreach Message
When reaching out to suggest an Instagram collaboration, follow these steps:
- Personalize the Greeting
Always open your email or DM with a warm personalized greeting like “Hi [name]” or “@[handle]“. Avoid generic greetings like “Hello” or “To whom it may concern”. Getting the recipient’s name or handle wrong looks sloppy. Make sure you have the right contact details before reaching out.
- Keep it Short and Concise
After the greeting, get straight to the point. Your first paragraph should explain who you are, your brand/account name, and why you’re reaching out. Be concise and keep initial messages under 3-4 sentences.
- Compliment Their Content and Brand
Take 1-2 sentences to compliment the quality of their Instagram content and how it aligns with your brand. Be specific so it feels genuine. This shows you took the time to learn about them.
- Suggest Specific Collaboration Ideas
Provide 2-3 concrete examples of collaboration formats like sponsored posts, giveaways, content collaborations, etc. Give details like featuring specific products. Don’t just vaguely propose “a collaboration opportunity”.
- Explain Benefits for Both Parties
Briefly explain how collaborating will directly benefit and provide value to both parties. For example, increased brand awareness or access to a new audience.
- Close with Next Steps and Contact Preferences
End by asking if they are open to collaboration opportunities and how they prefer to further discuss details – email, DM, phone? Leave your contact name and preferred contact channels.
Email Templates for Different Types of Instagram Collaborations
Email works best for initial outreach to influencers or brands you don’t have an existing connection with. Here are email templates tailored for different types of collaboration opportunities and parties involved:
Brand to Influencer
Sponsored Content Collaboration
Account Takeover Collaboration
IG Live Collaboration
Instagram DM Templates for Informal Outreach
DMs on Instagram are great for reaching out to influencers or brands you already have an existing connection with. Keep the messaging casual and friendly. Here are some DM templates:
Brand to Micro Influencer
Micro Influencer to Brand
Influencer to Influencer
Should You DM or Email for Your Initial Outreach?
When first proposing a collaboration opportunity, you’ll need to decide whether an email or Instagram DM is better for making first contact. Here are some guidelines:
Email works best for formal outreach, especially if:
- You don’t have an existing connection with the recipient
- You want to attach additional documents like media kits or contracts
- You need to establish an official collaboration agreement
DMs on Instagram are preferable for more casual outreach when:
- You already have a relationship with the influencer or brand
- You want a quicker, more direct way to start a conversation
- You don’t require attachments or lengthy details upfront
In general, use email if your outreach needs to be more official and established. Reserve DMs for a friendly, informal approach with existing connections. The right channel depends on your specific situation and needs.
Key Takeaways
- Personalize outreach messages and suggest specific collaboration ideas
- Explain benefits for both parties
- Use proper templates tailored to different scenarios
- Close with next steps and preferred contact methods
- Keep initial pitches concise
- DM for informal outreach to existing connections
Collaborations take coordination and mutual effort but can greatly benefit both brands and influencers. With a well-crafted initial outreach message, you’re off to a solid start in proposing an effective Instagram partnership.
