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Its Still Gold Rush, but….

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I just came home from an influencer event where I was speaking on Pitching Strategies for bloggers.

In my talk I mentioned that from my perspective the “time of agencies” is going, and there is an opportunity for influencers and brands to work directly, with the influencer filling the role of agency in terms of reporting, deliverables and more.

At the end of my talk, I was approached by attendees.

Roughly 15% of the people who came to talk to me worked for an agency. After my initial apologies for commenting on their declining industry, they replied “You are right”

And I am.
Agencies are on the decline, which means the time of influencers getting multiple offers for campaigns in their inbox each day is gone. The days where we would spend hours applying for various campaigns via these agencies is also not there. The QUANTITY has decreased.

We can look at all the “why’s” but it always comes down to $$

Working with an agency has been expensive. They took a huge portion of the bill, and because of that the return on deliverables was low. Brands figured out that they can work directly with an influencer, save money and get more in return.

So, as our QUANTITY reduced, our opportunity for QUALITY improved.

I recall speaking on the “gold rush” stage of the influencer industry 3 years ago. It was a time of leaping before we looked, saying YES, and courageously trying new things. There were awesome opportunities of “striking it rich”, going viral and exceptional growth for influencers who were showing up and creating content.

You could take a step into the industry without any preparation, a back pack on your shoulders and a shovel in your hand and find your luck. But no longer. These days it is more about who has used their earnings to set up homesteads, create assets and find stability.

For those who are still backpacking around the cold rivers, I believe we are going to see a sudden purge. And for the brave souls wanting to ENTER the industry, I have confidence you will find your success if you walk into the woods prepared.

As agencies decline, Influencers now need to enter into the business with the skills and knowledge that brands are expecting. You need to be an expert in your field, understand the purpose and objective of influencer marketing, and most of all, understand what YOU, as an influencer, can deliver. If your goal is to last through the coming harsh winter, you need to be prepared.

Here at 3c we have shifted our programming. We are no longer “doing it for you”. Instead we are teaching you everything we’ve learned. Our courses are transparent, and stuffed full of documents, strategies and activities so you walk away as smart, or maybe even smarter, than our team.

The more people who find success in this industry by delivering QUALITY campaigns, the more stable the industry will become. Success through results is what builds longevity and permanence, and that can only be done by understanding the field, and knowing the expectations. Yes, the industry is professionalizing… and it is time for influencers to do the same!

 

Check out our newly launched “Pitching Intensive” . A 30 section course that teaches you everything from valuing your products, measuring results, sourcing brands, building pitches and delivering reporting to ensure a successful resale. This is our strategy of pitching for over 150 influencers in the past 3 years, on paper and for you to use!

What’s New For 3c in 2019

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We hinted this month that we were making some changes, well, we are now ready to tell you all about what our plans are for 2019, and why it matters to YOU!

GoodBye Brand Development, Hello Pitching Services 
We are closing down our previous brand development program that offered cold calls, education and pitch writing to special clients and we are opening up our new Brand Pitching Services.  Starting December you will have bulk access to purchase emails to the contacts WE have built over the years. We will customize your pitch, and manage the emails for 12 months, ensuring that no follow ups get lost, and your name gets in the inbox of a brand contact that matters

 

Sayonara Brand Development coaching, Konnichiwa 3c Brand Dev community!
While we are great at pitching, we are passionate about education.  It has always been our purpose and goal to ensure that the influencers we know are the best, brightest and most current in the industry.  We are launching our Brand Dev community January 1st, but for the month of DECEMBER will be offering it FREE to anyone who wants to check us out!  SIGN UP TODAY!

 

Arrivederci Limited Pitching Help,  Ciao Group workshops and courses! 
We have always loved to run group workshops at 3c. We are re-building our 2016 group coaching workshops, and our private coaching programs into more ADVANCED group workshops to ensure you get the training you need to be successful, at a group training price!
Courses will be launching in January 2019… Join our school today to be notified of launch! (Limited participants)

 

Bonjour Specialized one-on-one coaching & influencer management 
Julie has been offering one-on-one coaching for almost 10 years, both in personal and business development. While she will still offer those services, we are shifting towards more packages that offer the consistency and frequency we know works!  Starting today you can work with Julie on Custom pitch writing, building Influencer campaigns, or Business Development for your Influencer Business!

 

In a nutshell, we want to do better, and we want to do MORE. We know things are getting tougher out there, and we want to continue to be a company that helps you move through the pain points and find success in YOUR way.

We can’t wait to see you in our communities and classes, and want to know what YOU think about the changes we are making, and how you feel you fit in the industry today!

 

Pivot 2019

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via GIPHY

If there was a true description of the industry, this would be it!   Pivot, adjust, adapt, shift, change, re-create.  All of these things are needed in your business to ensure you stay relevant, stay immediate, and are able to react and respond to what the industry NEEDS.

In 2018 we saw a dramatic shift in how brands were working with influencers. We noticed that campaigns took longer to close, often dying on the boardroom table before they were able to be launched.  We see marketing departments asking “WHY” are we working with influencers, and not having any solid, concrete answers, but still feeling like they “SHOULD” be working with them.

There are more influencers, more questions, more steps and less money… and that means that the supply and demand for influencers has shifted.

So, what do we see at 3c?

We see brands going back to the basics, simple campaigns with clear asks and measurements, so they can actually assess the value to see if they “work” to deliver the results they expected.

We see more “for product” partnerships.  Gifted opportunities, activities and events that generate social promotions, “murmurs” and buzz vs directed content.

We see influencers having to re-direct their efforts relationships with agencies and brands.  To needing to focus on sales and outreach, directly pitching vs waiting for campaign offers.  We are seeing that they need to improve their knowledge across the board to be able to maintain their position in the industry.

We are seeing a professionalization of the entire industry, from a PHD in Social Media, so corporate tables filled with online marketing professionals.  The expectations for reporting and results have changed, and the specialists are needing to stand up, speak their mind and have the proof to back up their choices.

So, what are we going to do about it?

We need to change, and so do you, so we want to help you do that.

3c is launching entirely new programming for January 2019. We are bringing in the New Year with a new focus and passion for what we do.  We are going to give you what you have asked for, and we are going to do it affordably, and intelligently.

  • Our Brand Development program will be split to accommodate specific influencer requests. We will be offering bulk pitching as a solo service, and consulting and education separately.
  • We will be opening our group brand development conversations and training to a whole new community, YOU!
  • We are increasing and specializing our education courses.  We will have month long courses, on pitching, business development and more.
  • We are offering brand specific courses and training, using our stats and experience from running campaigns with thousands of influencers to teach best practices and share our ticks and tips for successful campaigns

Our goal is that we are builder SMARTER influencers and brands. That we are sharing knowledge to ensure everyone understands WHY we are here, and WHAT we need to deliver to build this industry into one that is sustainable and secure.

We all still do have a place in this industry, but the time when we could sit back, create great content and have opportunities land in our lap has gone. This is no longer a hobby, there is no magic button for success, and it is not an EASY choice of business to build. The industry has professionalized, and so must we all.

I’m ready, are you?

 

Roz & Loki Review Campaign

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We are looking for passionate fashion and lifestyle influencers to share and promote a truly innovative and high-quality dress shirt for women for which designer roz + loki will soon be launching a kickstarter campaign. The shirts are proudly Made in Canada, and we’re looking for strong, fashion-forward, and successful women to help get the kickstarter off the ground and be an integral part of roz + loki’s exciting North American launch!

We are inviting you to participate, by asking you to:
1. Select your size using the size chart attached – roz + loki will ship you a shirt valued at $249 retail.
2. Wear the versatile shirt and share a creative, narrative-style blog post, highlighting your thoughts on the shirt, and linking back to the brand.
3. Share your post via Instagram and one other social channel, linking to the brand.

To learn more about what sets the roz + loki shirt apart from all others, and the idea behind the design, please visit:

Roz+Loki
Facebook
Instagram! 

We will be looking for your post to be published and shared within 14-21 days of receiving your incredible, new, dress shirt.

To apply for this review campaign (product only) please share your details below.

SIZING CHART:

 

Fill out my online form.

We’re Hiring! Influencer Sales Manager

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3cCreative is growing and looking to add a passionate contractor to our team.

Does the influencer industry get you excited ?  Are you keen to work with a growing team, helping others in the industry build strong businesses?  Is creating partnerships and collaborations part of your jam? Are you looking fora a part-time position that is flexible around your life?

We are looking to add a part time contractor to the 3cCreative team.  If chosen, your job duties will include:

  • Working on individual client accounts reaching out to target partners, crafting base pitches and custom pitches for projects
  • Managing technology to record progress for the client
  • Work with our team on client product development
  • Set up client files and on boarding
  • Work with our team to creatively craft custom pitches for our clients

This job is for you if:

  • You are organized (like hyper-organized) and get excited about files and email tracking.
  • Attention to detail is your reason for living.
  • Are creative, within boundaries, and can see opportunities through a haze of corporate words.
  • Understand how to be persistent without being annoying.
  • You want to work from home, set your own hours and are self driven to complete tasks, (but you are also a people person, because we are a team of people).
  • Look for solutions where others see problems.
  • Learn fast. Like rabbit fast.  Info goes into your brain and BOOM, you get it.
  • Have a working understanding of google docs, email systems, and other online platforms.
  • Are willing to take a leap and try something new, and work to grow with our company.
  • Are a small business owner, who is interesting in sub contracting for this work (i.e.: you bill me).

Compensation:
Per client, per month compensation.  No set hours, only project deliverables, position starts on or before January 1st.

How do you apply?
Send the answers to the following questions to natalie@3cconsulting.ca:

  1. Why. Why do you want this opportunity?  (Like for reals why?)
  2. What skills will you bring to the position?
  3. What appeals to you MOST about this position?
  4. Have you ever done sales, or pitch writing before?
  5. Do you think you have ALL the skills required?  (be honest)  Where do you think you will need help?
  6. Is there ANYTHING else I should know?
  7. What GIF or meme describes you best?

Position closes Friday December 22, 2017

Social Media Strategist Posting

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3cCreative is growing and looking to add a passionate social manager to our team.

Does social media get you excited?  Do you stay awake at night thinking of algorithms and insights?  Does expanding your knowledge and opportunity in the digital community fill your boots?

We are looking to add a Manager of Social Media to the 3cCreative team.  If chosen, your job duties will include:

  • Managing our team of social media contractors. Assisting with new hiring and assigning client accounts
  • Supporting with creative social strategies to ensure we reach our monthly targets.
  • Assess deliverables of accounts, find solutions and make recommendations to ensure.
  • Direct management of no more than 6 client accounts
  • Setting up new client accounts, based on defined strategies.
  • Monthly reporting and recommendations.
  • Management of ads for Facebook & Instagram clients

This job is for you if:

  • You love social- some platforms more than others, but have a general understanding of all of them.
  • Understand how to explore strategies and opportunities for social growth and reach
  • Can multi task multiple clients and a small team
  • Work from home (or wherever you have wifi access)
  • Don’t require set hours, or set days, but can respond when needed.
  • Are an excellent communicator and understand the importance of responding to a message (even if it is with an emoticon)
  • Are looking to grow your skills and knowledge in the industry.
  • Are professional, respectful and communicate with kindness and understanding for personal situations, especially when managing contractor staff.
  • Like thinking of creative, out of the box methods that will create REAL followers and engagement for our clients.
  • Are willing to take a leap and try something new, and work to grow with our company
  • Are a small business owner, who is interesting in sub contracting for this work (i.e.: you bill me)

Compensation:
$1250 CA per month. No set hours, only project deliverables, position starts August 1st.

How do you apply?
Send the answers to the following questions to heather@3cconsulting.ca, with the subject line SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

  1. Why. Why do you want this opportunity?  (Like for reals why?)
  2. What skills will you bring to the position
  3. What appeals to you MOST about this position
  4. Do you think you have ALL the skills required?  (be honest)  Where do you think you will need help?
  5. Is there ANYTHING else I should know?
  6. What GIF or meme describes you best?

Position closes Friday, July 21st, 2017

How To Use Instagram As A Blogger

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For a few months now I have been saying “the times be a changing folks” and it is time for us to pick up new skills and master new methods.

I was recently part of a discussion on a blogger group and the purpose of Instagram for bloggers.  They wanted to know “how” they got traffic from it, and what to do to make it a great referral source.

So, I compiled a few bloggers Instagram tips to help get you started!

Julie nowell on instagram

Instagram ISN’T a referral source for your Blog.

Yes, Instagram is considered a social platform, but unlike Pinterest, Facebook, and even Twitter, the objective is NOT to use it to redirect back to your blog as the “ultimate holy spot of everything”

Instagram is its OWN communication platform.

Much like HOW we can use the other social media platforms when we STOP broadcasting messages, Instagram is a visually-based platform used to inspire, create, and share.  The biggest difference is that because we CAN’T just broadcast links in every post we have no choice but to JUST ENGAGE and share.

Awesome really.

Instagram CAN benefit your “professional brand”

Yes, funnily enough, if we use this platform to engage and share, we will actually grow our community. People will get a taste of who we are, what we do, and have the opportunity to follow us on other places.

As well, if we use Instagram as a solo platform, for microblogging and image sharing, we can actually build a completely independent brand opportunity for ourselves, OUTSIDE OF OUR BLOG.

instagram for bloggers

So, How?

If you are just starting out using Instagram as a professional brand, try these simple things to get you going.

1. Update your bio. Ensure your Instagram “bio” is updated, clearly defining who you are, what you do, with a redirect back to your site.

2. “Theme” your brand. Define three of four key “themes” of your brand.  What do you most regularly talk about. What interests you. What are your passions? Mine would (obviously) include “homesteading/chickens”, “Family” and “business/travel”

3. Find a visual style. Define your brand’s “visual theme” What style of images do you take (or want to take)? What filters suit your brand (pick 3 and stick to them)? What colours do you love and use most frequently?

Make this the basis for the visual theme for your Instagram feed.  Ensure your images meet one or more of these standards each time you post.

(note:  our Instagram feed shows 3 images in a row, so if you get SUPER creative you can actually THEME your visuals in groups of three to make a bigger impact.  Try things and see what gives you the visual you want- 3 blue images, 3 green, 3 b&w. Or rotate your 3 filters so you have a consistent pattern visible)

4. Edit.  Please. Edit.  You (hopefully) wouldn’t post images to your blog or other platforms without editing, so treat Instagram the same.  You don’t need to edit out the personality, or the “truth” but some light editing can really bring your brand to life. I suggest using VSCO to edit instagram pics before posting…it is my go-to mobile editing app.

5. Microblog. Use instagram as a platform to tell a story, just as you would your blog.  Try to micro blog one image out of every 3 or 5, telling a story or journey related to the image to engage your followers and continue to develop your brand identity on the platform.

6. Use hashtags the right way. Don’t hashtag like a crazy person.  Bury your hashtags after a vertical column of dots, or add them to the comments. Don’t be spammy, only choose relevant hashtags!

7. Make sure you engage. INSTAGRAM IS AN ENGAGEMENT PLATFORM, so for the love of all things holy, ENGAGE!   Comment, like, regram (with permission) if that is your thing. Please do not just BROADCAST.

8. Be ALL of you. You have a chance to explore your brand a little bit on this new platform because it doesn’t actually HAVE to make sense to your blog.   Find our who you really are and share that.

9. Build a community. Search popular hashtags under the search bar, find the ones that mean something to you and have a community.  Make up new ones, be original, bold and daring.

10. Tell a story. Download high resolution images to your phone, run them through editing (in vsco) and then save them for uploading to instagram later.  This can be great when used in relation to branded content or published narrative on your site.  Post the images, tell a story in a new and unique way and let people know they can visit your site for the full meal deal if they want. (example here!)

At the end of it all, as a blogger do you NEED to be on Instagram?  I would say as much as you need to be on youtube, and the sooner you find your feet and your followers on this new platform, the better for your business.  But, don’t use it in the same way you use your blog, or your other social platforms or you will crash and burn.

Oh, and follow me on Instagram (of course!)

 

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