Influencer marketing is basically promoting material for brands in exchange for cash, free items, or other perks. Here's the breakdown of common deals:
A. Endorsements: You get paid to create ads for brands on social media or websites, no matter how long they last.
B. Barters: Brands give you things like free clothes or vacations in exchange for you mentioning them in your content. This includes "gifted" items and PR invites (like restaurant meals or game codes for YouTube videos). Even brand trips and PR packages can count as barters if they expect you to advertise for them.
1. The Law on Disclosures: Be Honest, Don't Be Shady
The law is clear: if you're advertising something, your audience needs to know. This applies to all the situations above, whether you're getting paid or getting free items. Disclosures are basically messages (written or spoken) that tell your viewers it's an ad.
2. Why Disclosures Matter: Avoiding Misleading People
Imagine content that looks like your usual posts, but it's secretly promoting something. That's misleading, right? Disclosures help avoid that. Think of it as being upfront with your audience.
3. What Disclosures Cover: More Than Just Money
Disclose ads even if you get things for free, like a haircut or a hotel stay. As long as there's an expectation from the brand that you'll promote them (even if they don't explicitly ask), you gotta disclose.
4. Finding Specific Rules: Check Your Local Laws
While some general guidelines exist, disclosure rules can vary by country. Use the DiscloseMe tool to see recommended hashtags for your region. Remember, national consumer protection authorities might have different expectations, so check their websites for details.
5. Making Disclosures Clear and Easy to See: No Hiding Allowed
Don't use confusing hashtags or bury disclosures in long captions. Platforms often have built-in disclosure features, so use those! Disclosures should be easy to spot, not hidden at the bottom of a video or requiring clicks to "read more."
6. Influencer Honesty: The Bottom Line
Being an influencer can be tricky. You want to create great content, keep your audience happy, and work well with brands. But disclosures are just about honesty. They're a way to be upfront with the people who follow you and support your work.
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