How do I work with a brand? How do I work with a blogger? For some TBEX attendees, those are two of the top questions they are looking to have answered in Toronto.
“Even if you’re starting with a template, be sure to target it to the specific client. Brands want to work with bloggers who show a genuine interest in and understanding of the product or location they’re aiming to work with. Brands, you’re not off the hook – the same holds true for you. Don’t reach out to bloggers with a one-size-fits-all proposition.” – Kent & Caanan, No Vacation Required
“For bloggers, embrace humility. Just because you have a blog doesn’t mean you are God’s gift to journalism. Treat every colleague with respect and every encounter with the utmost professionalism. “– Matt Villano, Wandering Pod
“For brands, remember that “biggest” isn’t necessarily “best.” A blogger with a relatively small number of monthly unique visitors overall may have a niche readership focused on exactly the type of audience you’re trying to reach.” – Kara Williams, The Vacation Gals
“This tip is for both bloggers and brands (and bloggers, yes, you have a brand too). Before the approach, the most important first step is to determine if your values align. Brand values are the basis for every strategy, decision and reaction. In other words, it forms the basis of your potential marriage.” – Trish Friesen, Trip Styler
“Put the brand first and ask the questions, ‘How can I help you?’ and ‘Is this a good fit?’ Sometimes the fit isn’t right and sometimes the timing’s not right. Be patient, consistent, and don’t take it personally if you get a “no” on the first ask.” – Beth Whitman, Wanderlust and Lipstick
“Don’t try to do all things. Keep your deliverables simple and stick to what you are good at and you will shine.” – Anne Taylor Hartzell, Hip Travel Mama
“Develop a relationship. Follow each other on Twitter, like them on Facebook, comment on their posts, and participate in their conversations.” Rick & Sandi, Midlife Road Trip
“Make it easy to say ‘yes’ (For both bloggers and brands). The more detailed you are and the more questions you can head off in your initial pitch, the more likely you are to get a ‘yes’. – Spencer Spellman, The Traveling Philosopher
“When working with brands, make sure to keep communication open. Ask them what their goals for the project are and be clear as to what your goals are as well. When you are both working on the same page and know what the other person wants out of the project, you can achieve great results.” – Dave & Deb, The Planet D
“When approaching brands, be sure to explain in detail how the partnership is beneficial to both parties. Think not of what the brand can do for you, but what you can do for the brand.” – Chris & Tawny, Captain and Clark
Sponsor Bio: The last year has continued to see Expedia expand its partnership with bloggers, even more so with today’s launch of Expedia’s first blog, the Expedia Viewfinder blog. In providing these tips, we’ve gone straight to the source – our Expedia Viewfinder bloggers – who shared these great ideas and recommendations on how brands and bloggers can work together.
Photo credit: TBEX photo pool on flickr