What Brands Really Look For When Choosing Influencers
Let’s be honest—being an influencer looks like all fun, filters, and flawless flatlays. But behind the scenes? There’s strategy, analytics, and a whole lot of intention—especially when it comes to brand partnerships.
If you’ve ever wondered what goes through a brand’s mind before they slide into your DMs with a dreamy collaboration, you’re not alone. The truth is, it’s not just about follower count or a perfectly curated feed.
Here’s what brands are really looking for when they choose influencers to represent their products:
1. Authenticity Over Aesthetic
Yes, beautiful photos matter—but what matters even more is you. Brands want to work with influencers who are real, relatable, and genuinely love what they promote. If your audience trusts you, they’ll trust the brand you're endorsing. That’s influencer gold.
Pro tip: Don’t chase trends. Share your real thoughts, tell your story, and show up consistently as yourself. Brands notice.
2. Engagement > Follower Count
Gone are the days when having 100K followers was all it took. Brands are paying close attention to engagement rates: how many people are liking, commenting, sharing, and saving your content.
A micro-influencer with 10K followers and a loyal, active audience is often more valuable than someone with 200K followers and crickets in the comments.
3. A Niche That Aligns
Influencers with a clear niche are magnets for brand deals. Why? Because niche audiences = targeted marketing. Whether you’re all about luxe lifestyle, sustainable beauty, mom life, or travel—it’s easier for brands to know if you’re a fit.
Bonus points if you’ve built a niche that aligns with the brand’s mission, values, or customer base.
4. Quality Content Creation
Brands are constantly looking for influencers who can produce high-quality content that showcases their product in an appealing, on-brand way. They want to know:
Can you tell a story through your visuals?
Do you know your lighting, angles, and editing?
Can you incorporate the product into your lifestyle seamlessly?
Think of yourself as a mini creative agency. Brands love a polished package.
5. Professionalism & Reliability
This one’s huge. Brands want influencers who:
Communicate clearly
Deliver content on time
Follow briefs and guidelines
Are easy to work with
A kind, responsive attitude can go a long way toward building long-term partnerships (and higher paychecks).
6. Social Proof
Have you worked with brands before? Been featured or reposted by big accounts? Brands like to see that others trust you—and that you can deliver results.
Even testimonials from your audience (“OMG I bought this because of you!”) count as social proof. Screenshot and save those—they’re gold for pitching yourself!
7. A Strong Personal Brand
Your personal brand is the vibe you bring to the table. It’s your voice, your energy, your values, and your visual identity all rolled into one. When your brand is strong and consistent, it builds instant trust and recognition.
This is where having a luxe and cohesive aesthetic (like we do at Live Deliciously by Love Me Stone) can set you apart in a saturated space.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about landing dreamy brand deals, it’s time to think beyond the algorithm. The secret is showing up consistently as your authentic self, serving your audience well, and positioning yourself as a valuable partner—not just a pretty face on a feed.
Brands aren’t just looking for reach.
They’re looking for impact.
And yes, you’ve got it. 💎