You're facing conflicts between influencers in a joint campaign. How can you ensure your brand's success?

1 Assess Impact

When conflicts arise between influencers, it's crucial to first assess how these disagreements might affect your campaign. Consider the nature of the conflict and its potential impact on the campaign's message, the audience's perception, and the overall brand reputation. If the dispute is public, it could lead to negative publicity; if it's private, there could be a risk of disengagement or lackluster performance from the influencers. Gauge the severity of the situation and determine whether it's a minor misunderstanding that can be quickly resolved or a major issue that requires a strategic approach.

2 Open Dialogue

Initiating an open dialogue is essential when managing conflicts. Encourage influencers to express their concerns and listen actively to understand the root of the problem. This can often reveal underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. Approach the conversation with empathy and a problem-solving mindset, aiming to find common ground or a compromise that respects both parties' interests. Remember that clear communication can prevent misunderstandings from escalating into larger issues, so maintain transparency throughout the process.

3 Reinforce Goals

Reminding all parties involved of the campaign's overarching goals can help realign focus and mitigate conflicts. Discuss the mutual benefits of the campaign and how cooperation will lead to a successful outcome for everyone involved. This is also an opportunity to revisit the campaign's objectives and ensure that they are clearly understood. By reinforcing the goals, you can create a sense of shared purpose and encourage influencers to work together towards a common objective.

4 Mediate Fairly

When conflicts cannot be resolved through dialogue alone, stepping in as a mediator can be effective. Approach the situation with impartiality, ensuring that each party feels heard and respected. Sometimes, bringing in a neutral third party to facilitate discussions can provide a fresh perspective and aid in reaching an amicable resolution. The key is to address the concerns without taking sides, maintaining professionalism and fairness throughout the mediation process.

5 Update Contracts

If conflicts persist or are contractual in nature, revisiting the agreements made with influencers may be necessary. Ensure that contracts are clear about expectations, deliverables, and consequences for not meeting agreed-upon terms. If changes are needed, update contracts with input from all parties to prevent future disputes. This step not only safeguards your brand's interests but also provides a structured framework within which influencers can operate, reducing ambiguity and potential conflict.

6 Manage Publicly

In cases where conflicts become public, managing the narrative is crucial to protect your brand's image. Address the issue promptly and with a well-thought-out strategy, focusing on transparency and accountability. Communicate with your audience through appropriate channels, whether it's a press release or social media statement, to clarify your brand's stance and commitment to resolving the issue. This helps maintain trust with your audience and can even turn a challenging situation into an opportunity to demonstrate your brand's values and responsiveness.