As a runner with a social media presence, we are often called on to consider brand ambassadorships. These requests and invitations can be flattering and tempting, but it’s important to align with companies and brands that you feel best about representing.
Love The Brand
The most important factor in choosing a brand partnership is loving the brand! If you don’t love the company, what it stands for, and the product or service it offers, politely decline.
Use The Brand
In addition to loving the brand, it’s essential that you actually use (or would use) the brand. When you actually use the items from the company with which you are partnering, it creates a level of authenticity and trust. For example, don’t try to partner with Running Shoe X, if you really wear Running Shoe Y. If the brand is new to you, that’s ok: simply ask to give it a try to see if you’re the right fit. So many companies really want your honest endorsements and would love for you to test things out before making a commitment.
Choose A Brand That Values You
Brands that value their ambassadors and partners are where you want to be. While terms may vary, brands that value you will be available and accessible. They will offer compensation in the form of product, sales commissions, or payment. It won’t be a problem for you to get the support and tools you need to succeed in working together. Look for communication, morale boosting, and interest in how you can help help each other.
Look For Brands That Fit Your Vibe
The brands you represent should be in line with your vibe and identity. For example, if you are vegan, don’t accept a partnership with a a meat-based company, just because they are popular or have a great compensation plan. Don’t sign up with a company that specializes in alcohol if you oppose drinking. It makes you appear untrustworthy, and that you are more interested in your personal benefit than in being an authentic ambassador.
How do you choose ambassadorships and partner brands?
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It’s so important to partner with brands that you love and use, and that have values that you align with! I’ve only partnered with a handful of brands over the years for these reasons.
Agree.
Great tips. We’ve collected so much running “stuff” over the years from different ambassadorships and” sponsored” posts and we realized we keep using our same old “stuff” that we enjoy and that is actually helpful. We’ve really cut back on ambassadorships over the years. Have a great week and thanks for the link up!
Same. I stick to what I believe in and that’s that.
I think you really need to research the brand if it is new to you. These days, many of what companies call ambassadorships are really just affiliate programs. That’s fine if that’s what you want, but I miss the days of simply loving, wearing/using, and sharing what the product means to you.
The ambassadorships I currently belong too really are almost like clubs. Most have a Facebook page so that you can ask questions, get to know other ambassadors, and generally feel like a team member.
Agree! I’m getting a lot of requests for those, and it’s not so cool.
Yes, great post! It’s very obvious when someone is promoting a product they don’t use and believe in. No one wants to read inauthentic recommendations or reviews.
I really try to keep that in mind!
I used to be all about the ambassadorships but now I just don’t have the time to promote anything.
I agree with all your tips.
It can be a lot. I’ve let quiet a few go that no longer serve me