As an influencer, asking for free products (also known as PR gifts or collaborations) should be done professionally and strategically to show brands that working with you is mutually beneficial. Here’s how to do it the right way:
1. Build Your Credibility First
Before reaching out to brands, make sure you have:
✅ Engaged audience (even if small, engagement matters more than follower count).
✅ Quality content that aligns with the brand’s style.
✅ Previous brand collaborations (if possible, but not mandatory).
If you’re just starting out, create organic content featuring brands you love—this builds credibility and gives you examples to show.
2. Find the Right Brands to Contact
- Look for brands that already work with influencers in your niche.
- Smaller or newer brands are more likely to send free products than big corporations.
- Check if the brand has an ambassador or PR gifting program on their website.
3. Find the Right Contact Method
📩 DM on Instagram/Twitter – Works best for smaller brands.
📧 Email PR or Marketing Team – Look for a contact email on their website or LinkedIn.
🔗 Brand Website Contact Form – Some brands have official influencer applications.
4. Craft a Professional Request Message
💡 Keep it short, clear, and professional!
Example DM Template
“Hi [Brand’s Name], I love your [product] and recently featured it on my [platform, e.g., Instagram, TikTok]. My audience of [#] followers really resonates with [your brand’s values/products]. I’d love to collaborate and showcase more of your products in my content.
Would you be open to a PR gifting opportunity? Let me know your thoughts!”
Example Email Template
Subject: Collaboration Opportunity with [Your Name]
Hello [Brand/PR Team],
I’m [Your Name], a [niche] content creator with a highly engaged audience of [follower count] on [platforms]. I genuinely love your brand and have previously shared [mention a relevant post if applicable].
I’d love to collaborate and showcase [specific product] to my audience. If you’re open to PR gifting, I’d be happy to create high-quality content in exchange. Please let me know if this is something we can explore!
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Social Media Links]
5. Be Prepared to Offer Value
Some brands may ask for analytics (engagement rate, audience demographics) or request a media kit (a short document highlighting your stats, audience, and past collaborations).
6. Follow Up (Politely!)
- If no response in 5-7 days, send a short, polite follow-up.
- If they say no, don’t burn bridges—thank them and stay on their radar for future opportunities.