What are the best ways to build relationships with key influencers in strategic communications?

Strategic influencer partnerships thrive on genuine connections that withstand the test of time. For me, influencers who share our values is key. Why? Because when your values resonate with those of the influencers, our messages flow seamlessly into every communication. Long story short, genuine connections breed authenticity in every message. Engagement also matters more than numbers. Influencers sparking real conversations amplify our impact. Another crucial aspect is thinking ahead. We aim for influencers with lasting relevance to safeguard brand's reputation. Lastly, finding the delicate balance between retaining core audiences and attracting new ones. Influencers who can navigate this duality ensure sustained impact for your brand.

Prioritize relevance more so than reach. Rather than trying to just gain followers and have an impressive number, align with thought leaders that affect behavior change and draw their constituents to their content. Also focus on authenticity, and when you do build a relationship, ensure it’s mutually beneficial.

Building relationships with key influencers in strategic communications requires a thoughtful approach. Start by identifying the right influencers aligned with your brand’s values. Engage with their content genuinely and consistently. Understand their audience and tailor your message accordingly. Collaborate on projects that provide mutual benefits. Regular communication is key, but ensure it’s meaningful and not intrusive. Respect their expertise and give credit where it’s due. Building relationships takes time and patience, but the rewards are worth it.

If you have no goal, you cannot score. A goal, just like a road trip, requires that you know where you're going, and then identifying where you are at. This could be known as establishing a Point B, and a Point A. Connecting the dots would be your course. You're influencers are anyone that will help you get to your destination. Some will have experience or advice, "Take the paved road," or "Do not go that way." The ones with the most useful advice will be the people you will go back to. Either way, if you don't have a purpose, or a goal, then it really doesn't matter who you follow. I will shop around Podcasts and YouTube and I can tell, in the first 30 seconds, if this guy is aligned with my goals or not.

Be a real person! Yes, it takes a bit more time and effort, but the genuine investment pays dividends. At our core as humans, we all want to be valued and understood. Show this interest and respect to those you seek to engage while ALSO bringing them relevant and meaningful leads, and they won't be able to deny your OWN value!

Engage authentically with influencers by following, commenting, and sharing their content on social media. Extend invitations to events or offer exclusive insights to show appreciation for their expertise. By demonstrating genuine interest and providing value to their audience, you can foster meaningful relationships and collaborations.

Build trust with influencers by being consistent, transparent, and responsive. Share your personality, stories, and emotions to foster a deeper connection. Seek feedback and collaboration to demonstrate mutual respect and support. Through genuine interactions, aim to cultivate lasting relationships built on trust and rapport.

No matter who the influencer is - an executive, an investor, a reporter - don't always be selling them to get out of it what you're hoping for. It needs to be beneficial for them too. Determine what is helpful to them and be a resource. This means consistently adding value. Then, keep up the relationship via social media engagements & comments, one-off emails, a monthly newsletter, and more.

To maintain influencer relationships, prioritize regular communication, follow-ups, and delivering on promises. Show appreciation through updates, thank-yous, and recognition of achievements. Nurture the connection with gestures like gifts or referrals. Strategic communication thrives on mutual relationships with influencers, amplifying messages and expanding reach. These practices foster meaningful connections that benefit both parties and drive strategic communication objectives.