Getting influencers to share your content can feel like a daunting task—after all, they’re inundated with requests daily. But here’s a powerful secret: people care more when they’ve contributed to something.
By involving influencers in the creation process, you can build a genuine connection and dramatically increase the chances they’ll share your content without even being asked.
Here’s How to Get Influencers to Contribute and Care:
- Highlight Your Reach:
Start by letting them know that their input will reach a sizable and relevant audience.- Example: “I’m working on a piece for my [XX,XXX followers/readers/subscribers] and would love to include your perspective.”
- Why It Works: Influencers love exposure. Mentioning your audience size shows them their contribution will have meaningful impact.
- Ask for Their Opinion or Advice:
Reach out with a request for their input, advice, or insight on a specific topic that aligns with their expertise.- Example: “What’s the #1 tip you’d give for [topic]?”
- Why It Works: People naturally enjoy sharing their expertise, and a well-targeted question makes them feel valued and respected.
- Keep It Specific and Easy to Answer:
Your question should be clear and concise, requiring little time to respond. The ideal length is under 50 words.- Example: “In one sentence, how would you define the key to success in [specific field]?”
- Why It Works: Influencers are busy, so the simpler the task, the more likely they’ll respond.
- Thank Them and Share the Content Early:
Once they’ve contributed, express gratitude without immediately asking for a favor.- Example: “Thank you so much for your valuable insight! I’ll send you the link an hour before the article goes live so you can check it out.”
- Why It Works: By not directly asking them to promote your content, you avoid putting pressure on them. The early access creates excitement and increases the likelihood they’ll share it on their own.
Why This Approach Works
- Creates Emotional Investment:
When someone contributes their thoughts, they feel a sense of ownership. This emotional connection makes them more likely to share the finished product. - Builds Reciprocity:
By showing gratitude and giving them early access, you create a positive relationship based on mutual respect, not transactional requests. - Positions You as Collaborative:
Influencers value partnerships with people who acknowledge their expertise and offer meaningful opportunities for exposure.
Pro Tips for Success
- Target the Right Influencers: Choose influencers whose expertise aligns with your content topic and audience.
- Personalize Your Outreach: Avoid generic messages—reference their work or explain why their perspective is uniquely valuable.
- Make Sharing Easy: When you send them the link, include pre-written social media posts or a quote card featuring their contribution to save them time.
The Bottom Line
Influencers are much more likely to share content they’ve had a hand in creating. By inviting them to contribute in a thoughtful, easy, and non-pushy way, you can turn them into genuine advocates for your content.
Ready to try this for your next project?