Most creators think they need 100K+ followers to get brand deals.

They don't.

Brands don't care about follower count — they care about engagement rate, niche relevance, and whether you can actually convert.

Here's the simplified version of what works:

Step 1: Build your "proof stack"

Screenshot your best engagement metrics. Save DMs from followers asking about products you've mentioned. Compile 3-5 of your best-performing posts. This becomes your pitch ammunition.

Step 2: Find brands already working with small creators

Go to Instagram. Search hashtags like #gifted, #brandpartner, #ad in your niche. Look at who's posting them with under 20K followers. Those brands are your targets.

Step 3: The pitch is 4 sentences

• Who you are and what your content is about

• Why your audience is relevant to THEIR product

• One specific content idea you'd create for them

• A clear CTA (send my rate card, jump on a call, etc.)

No 3-paragraph essays. No "I'd love to collab" messages. Be direct, be specific, be professional.

Step 4: Follow up after 5 days

80% of deals come from the follow-up, not the initial pitch.

I put together a full kit with every template, script, and tracker I use — check my page if you want the whole system.