So I’m an idiot. A few months back I thought I’d be clever and send free samples to some smaller influencers to help grow my brand. Can’t afford real ads so figured this was worth a shot.
Found 12 people who seemed genuinely excited about my stuff and said they wanted to work together. Sent out packages worth like $300 total.
TWO people posted. One actually tagged us properly. The other 10 just ghosted me. One girl literally posted about a competitor’s similar product a week later using the EXACT same setup I suggested. Like c’mon bro…
Yeah I know, I should’ve had contracts or whatever. But come on, basic human decency. Lesson learned I guess. Now I’m scared to try anything like this again.
TL;DR: Sent free products to 12 influencers, only 2 posted. Lost $300 and my trust in people.