How to get brand deals on Instagram as a small creator 💵

[@JayneNicoletti]

This is why I never "niched" down. We all like a lot of things, right? So I picked my top 3 and it makes me happy to change it up. You can niche down without doing only one thing. For instance I do those 3 things BUT for the woman over 40. That's my niche. Stuff women over a certain age like. Working for me. Thanks for your brand deal lesson. I designed my own media kit and it worked and I am very small. Once you concentrate on numbers, it's not fun and unauthentic.

[@ZakiaLott]

Love your response. I had the same thought when I started my channel. I love wellness, fashion and design. Why do I have to choose. 😅

[@thisgirlsomie]

Thanks so much, I really thought I needed to have just one niche ❤

[@sarahwright6995]

yes, love the idea of not limiting yourself! don't be sorry - you are still an Instagram pro, and people value your expertise. it's good to have a guide through that world and you are v trustworthy - and make whatever content you want! and plus, views in general are down on channels of all sizes honestly

[@sandraking856]

Katie, Even tho I never met you I always felt that you were “a friend” that is why I follow you. For your honest vulnerability, for your dedication to trying to help new creators and for always being yourself. Do not doubt that Katie or ever stop being her!❤️

[@cierraslowsdown]

Yes do YOU! It literally took me almost 6 years to stop placing this narrative on myself, self-doubting that I can’t be a blogger cause video is king and such. Even before video was king… I’m into personal development and personal essays. Took me less than a month ago to TRULY believe I can do WHATEVER the heck I want! Especially since it’s been bugging me to do certain things that aren’t “logical” and what most do to be “successful.” Since I’ve (learned about Human Design I’m gonna be honest) and really living in my truth as a writer and going about how I wanna make money NY way? I started a Buy Me a Coffee and have had a friend buy me “a cup” and yesterday someone “bought” me three!! Both with encouraging messages about me deserving to be happy and supporting me getting back to blogging 🥺 Do what feels the best for you! Goodness faith is hard but I’m learning to embrace it more!

[@katie]

thanks for sharing your story! it's so true, it always feels like there is a tension between doing what you love and doing what's the "smart" or "successful" thing to do - but here's hoping we can all keep on working on finding that balance!

[@cierraslowsdown]

Katie Steckly Right I think balance plays a big part! I definitely feel like strategy is up there in importance, and us building narratives that we HAVE to do things one way or the other (not both, not even trying a different way to see if it works for US even if it’s not part of Susie’s great online business success plan…) can really stifle us! Here’s to us making it down a happy path we’re proud of!

[@travelwithtmc]

Hey Katie! First, you're a rockstar. Second, do you boo - if that's new chapters, old chapters, mixing up the chapters, go for it. The journey's 1 step forward, 4 to the left, 2 backwards, and another to the right anyway, eh? Thank you for the work and time and effort you put on here. Deep breath and rock on!

[@katie]

thank you so much Tara!! you're so right, no one's path is linear, I'm certainly just figuring things out one day at a time 😂

[@travelwithtmc]

@@katie as we do :D

[@THWC]

Thank you for being so transparent!!! We need more people like you, genuine and real. So relatable. Especially to those like me, starters, getting used to the camera and finding our way in this world of social media. Thank you! ❤

[@ODriscolls]

I love following you on this journey because you are so genuine and transparent. I'm pretty sure no one has their shit together. I've been following since before you hit 10K and you have grown in so many ways! It does feel like we are friends hahaha the internet is so strange.

[@katie]

awe thank you! that really means a lot to me

[@saraquips]

I learn so much form you Katie! I’m a widow, grandmother raising granddaughters trying to grow my social media. You are engaging and easy to understand. Wanting to inspire all woman to live their best life stress free. You’re awesome❤️

[@CristinaRiveraBeauty]

I think it's amazing that you're opening up to pivoting and including all types of education!! I'm here for ALL of it!

[@AshleyMurphyArt]

The end club! ❤️ I believe in you!!!! I am here for it! All of it…!!! As much as I’ve watched you I can see the struggle is real mentally. You are not alone. Keep putting one foot in front of the other and trust the process and what you are learning along the way. The Lord is growing you for the next stage of your life / your spiritual growth and He is preparing you to know how to let things go. What to hold on to and fully know your worth. Keep shining friend.

[@agirlnamedsaskia]

Hi Katie, first of all I just wanted to say that I think your content is really great! I’ve been kinda flailing around trying to decide if I want to start KZbin-ing or not. So, seriously, I find your stuff very helpful. Secondly, I did watch this video to the end, and I found your honesty and transparency to be SO REFRESHING. I personally think sometimes it’s worth sharing a bit of your real self rather than strictly following a formula for video making. I think it’s worth sharing your mistakes along with your wins. I realize you posted this video quite a while ago, so I hope you’re feeling a bit better. I’ve been there so I know it can be a rough road. xo from Nova Scotia 🌊

[@REALConversationz]

I just want to say thank you Katie for caring. Blessings 🙌

[@tarlespeech]

You’re a gem. Thanks for normalizing this job. It’s a job. It isn’t glamorous. Appreciate your context as we are all Just trying to figure it out.

[@yolisadumez]

Thank you for being so real and vulnerable at the end. I can totally relate.

[@itsalyssalie]

katie i just came across your video today and i just wanna say i absolutely love your openness and honesty. you're truly a genuine soul, and it means so much to me. i'm coming out of my "perfect/have my shit together" mood as well as a 6 month mental health *mood* :') thank you!

[@createwithcait]

Thank you for sharing this!! I love when content creators are transparent about what their services are so other creators can understand their worth ❤️❤️

[@tessmilne]

Don’t say sorry! You’re rocking your honesty! Love it!

[@FiddlinEquestrian101]

This was SO HELPFUL! Thank you so so much! Exactly what I was looking for! I felt like everywhere I looked I had to pay for a course about brand collabs and how to actually reach out, but you offer so much value right here, and I'm so grateful for that! Excited to stick around and see more from you in the future ❤ You're awesome!

[@jimarvel]

I love you!! I’m so glad I found you on KZbin!! I find your videos fun and informative. I totally get you! I think we are kindred spirits. I am so all over the place. I have anxiety and depression. It is really real! Getting out of your own head and to a good place with being kind to yourself is a difficult thing. You seem to be well on your way to even greater things! Thank you for your honesty and being an inspiration to me! YOU HAVE GOT THIS!! You are a creator so keep on creating!!

[@leannejscott]

Never worry about changing yourself and/or “going back” that is called figuring out life - and you are killing it. ❤❤❤

[@mollycloverblog7140]

I don’t think you need to apologise for trying something different from what you previously classified yourself as. I loved your van life videos and I still continue to love your content creator videos. I watch these videos for you x

[@AisiAqueen]

Your transparency is SO REFRESHING! Even the part where you showed "hey, I had this shirt on in another video a few months ago" lol. 1. I am glad you owned your mental health struggle and did something about it 2. This is the best video on this topic that I have seen yet. Thanks for the specific details and showing your media kit. 3. You can make content on several different topics, don't limit yourself! 4. Your dope AF good day ✌🏾

[@JennyFloravitaArt]

Honestly I also felt extreme burnout within the last 3 months. Everything you say at the end I can relate to...and I took a social media break for my art but...that said, as I appreciate you, Katie, I'm glad to see you posted an IG video again as I need to jump back in...because social media is a blessing for businesses today (even though it also has downsides). And as a multi-layered brand myself, I can understand the need to want to post more variety...so just do it! Don't worry about if people watch x or y videos more because your content will still be seen. Especially on KZbin. Be you.

[@katie]

thank you Jenny! really appreciate your support ❤️

[@alisonhall2668]

Love your transparency! Why should you limit yourself? Give us all the aspects of who you are cuz that’s what makes you amazing. We want old Katie, new Katie, and all the Katies in between. Your expertise is top notch, and we do trust you!

[@Clutterfreecarli]

This is literally the MOST HELPFUL AND INFORMATIVE Video I’ve seen!!! Thank you for being so open and honest!

[@alldaybritney8761]

This was such a helpful video, thanks for being so transparent and giving actionable tips. I know I create good content, but I’m still building my audience, so I’ve held back on pitching brands. Thanks for the reminder that being able to create quality content is still valuable❤️

[@katie]

I'm so glad to hear it was helpful!! ❤️

[@juliaqui]

I also feel the same way. I have mastered the art of creating content but I don’t have a solid audience. The ones I have are mostly in a country I don’t live in. However, so many people say you can still offer value even without the audience you think you should have so just pitch those brands either way…

[@BlossomandRise]

I love your self-disclosure! You are human first and a creator second among other unique aspects of self! I support you and this!

[@MerlinaRodas]

I always come over to your channel when I'm feeling discouraged about content creation and it's been so helpful! ❤️❤️❤️

[@Kelsthegem]

I understood everything you said and what you were trying to say, thank you for being transparent and vulnerable with us.❤

[@simonefaith1745]

You should not have to apologize for doing what feels right for you. I don’t know where this concept of having only one particular niche comes from. As human beings we’re complex and constantly evolving, so how can you only speak on one thing all the time, that’s crazy to me. Thanks for the information for us little engines still trying.

[@lissrckstdy7855]

The end message of this video was so nice! I'm a new subscriber finding my way, and it is very refreshing to hear. You are amazing! Thank you for sharing

[@SheAndHers]

Currently binging a bunch of your videos. Love your style and tips and honesty!

[@theflygrannybk27]

Hi Katie! Omg Thanks SO much for these tips and tidbits. So helpful! I've been looking for info like this for a while, so thanks for so generously sharing it. And please don't be so hard on yourself. We are all suffering burnout in this fast moving madness. I've been here IG a much shorter time and feel like walking away sometimes so I can only imagine. Even if you are all over the place (which I don't think you are) we're right here with you. Perfection does not exist! Sending hugs and a big THANK YOU!

[@VintageHipDecor]

I found so much value in this video! Thank you. I also appreciated your honesty and vulnerability at the end. The world needs more if that.

[@katie]

thank you ❤️

[@TheTopNote]

This whole video was so helpful - especially the message about experimenting and trying new things 😉

[@ahquarian]

I'm learning so much from your channel and I hope you're continuing to take good care of you!

[@prettysmartpresius]

Your energy and delivery makes me want to do this, for real!

[@staceymulgrew1485]

I loved this last part of yr vid. Keeping it real. Your content is super invaluable and really helpful. We are all on the journey!!

[@Heelsandholster]

I love these videos by you. Please don’t be embarrassed!! I have watched almost all your social media tips!

[@Vogel_laura]

As someone who is growing my channel, this is so helpful!! I love your content and really appreciate what you do. 😊

[@DMoneypedia]

Good for you! I agree with you and you just have to know more than someone not everyone. I enjoy your content and you know more than I do!

[@carolinis123]

You are great, we all have doubts and problems, thank you for sharing yours.

[@t0neRs1]

Hi Katie!!! Being vulnerable takes a lot, but know that you are appreciated everything you put out there is amazing and great quality! You're doing great!!!

[@davidroyale14]

love your autenticity and content, thanks for everything!

[@SedA2027]

just found your channel Katie! I am loving every video! Keep up the great work…u rock!

[@MenopauseEmpowerment]

Katie 🙏🏾 Thank you. Every tip and every word in this video was just what I needed. I used to watch you when I started my first KZbin channel 2 years ago. I have just started again because I have a new business and channels on social media and I have decided to find dedicate more time. I have been struggling with how to do both, present myself and get messages to help my audience out there. The last part of your video spoke to all of that! Thank you Bless you 🙏🏾

[@lahannah1224]

Thanks for showing your media kit and not hiding valuable information. It REALLY HELPED!

[@iarianayt]

Wow, I just found you on here and I love how genuine you are! Thank you so much for your help.💟

[@SisterSocialPodcast-w7s]

Thank you ! I love all your content ♡ I found you in divine timing

[@travelontrips]

I love your videos. No need to explain. You are human and CREATIVE and it's no wonder you want to expand! Can't wait to see you create more awesome content!! x0

[@templefuel5408]

When you GOT IT ! You just GOT IT and you’re 🔥🔥 in this space no doubt ! Your transparency is 💯 and very much respected . Thanks for all you provide to us . Above all, Please keep taking care of you FIRST❤️

[@catwilson6208]

I recently found your channel and have found your advice informative, helpful as well.

[@Cowandhenvintage]

Great video! Just be you and don’t apologize for the path of your journey it’s how everyone lives❤

[@itsmycalamity]

Thank you so much! This is so helpful and generous of you to share such practical advice and artifacts. ✨

[@sarahjanevincent9949]

You're doing an amazing job and it's refreshing to hear actual real talk from a fellow creator. This past year has been crazy and I too am suffering with severe burnout. Sending you a virtual fist bump from Ireland. 👊 Sarah Jane x

[@ReadingintheRedwoods]

This is such a valuable video. Thank you for making it and sharing your experience and vulnerability!

[@youngfolkco]

Yes! I’m glad you’re coming into the space of not limiting yourself one way or the other! I closed my dog training company and started my brand this year, and I knew that “niching down” was important, but I couldn’t just focus on one topic that would make me more successful. It felt like niching down too hard took the joy and passion out of my work. So I kept 3 topics, some more successful than others, but I’ve chosen to keep creating in the other ones anyway. And my brand is still growing! Sometimes it surprises me when my less popular topics pick up. I’m so happy that I chose to let all of me live under one roof. My travel videos are totally unsuccessful, but they make me happy so I’m going to keep on keeping on 🙂 Thanks for the tips and encouragement!

[@markkamachi]

You're an inspiration your generation. Loved this honest chat. Hugs.

[@MyStepdad]

Katie, this was a GREAT video. Not only for the very applicable, actionable how-to portion, but especially for your open soul at the end. So glad you included it. I recently went somewhat virile on IG and have been trying to find ways to make it sustainable. After numerous YT searches yours is the first one that seemed to have any real, specific steps I could take. Thanks for doing this!

[@lauracrotty3194]

You are truly wonderful and I appreciate your content. It is so helpful, thank you! Stay just the way you are. The creative journey isn’t a straight road, right? ☀️✨

[@SheRisesSocial]

I love your message at the end of this. I had a similar experience with fitness coaching and business coaching. Im happy you are sharing because I think many people have that pressure to stick to "one thing" ... But the truth is - we are so multi faceted ... and we should be able to share whatever is aligning ... I love your videos.

[@marthaharrisofficial]

Thank you for this Katie, you are awesome I have watched you off and on and I have got a lot of great informative info from you. And I feel you so much in this video. This is the reason why I changed up my content because I didn’t want to get block into talking about 1 thing. I am not big yet but I am working on it. Thank you and take care of your mental Katie!💗

[@vianianow21]

Hey Katie, I’m new to your channel, but I just have to say I soooo appreciate not only your valuable content, but your transparency, especially at the end of this video. I think many of us can relate to what you’ve experienced with wanting to tap into multiple niches and talents we have. It can be overwhelming to keep up with sometimes, but I think it’s always best to do what’s authentic to ourselves without worrying about what others think. I too have the tendency to make announcements about what’s to come, (which can sometimes add unnecessary pressure on me) rather than just going for it and everyone else catching on after the fact. But I’m learning those who are truly meant to stay along for the ride will do so and offer genuine support. Keep being amazing at what you do and the real ones will follow. Cheers to living without limitations!! Sincerely, V

[@SheinaRaskin]

I love this transparency and I love all parts of your brand!

[@whitneyunedited]

This is gold ✨ Thank you so much for sharing this! 💜✨

[@SherontelleDirskell]

I enjoy your content! Thank you for being so transparent although is so important.

[@calebbotchway-wr2mn]

This's my first time seeing your video and i love you already🥰

[@andreadybvik]

Thank you so much for your tips! This was so helpful! 💛

[@vladimirvoskanyan7861]

Hello Katie, first of all thank you so much for inspiring me everyday. Instead of watching my fav. comedies or any "just for fun" videos I get my skills updated and implemented watching your educational videos. I got one question. Why to mention the emails or better to say the email count? Should it be separately counted, I mean personal or business related. Thanks in advance.

[@gothwitchdesigns]

Be yourself, we love you as you are 🥰

[@Vida_Milo]

You’re awesome! I love your industry content and lifestyle content, honestly very relatable! I’ve been wanting to start a channel since 07, yes 2007, and Yet I haven’t done it. Your videos and tips have encouraged me to hopefully get over myself and give it a try! Thank you!!

[@priscillaG777]

Sweet information! Love your transformation! ❤️

[@amayabueno]

I've never related to something more in my life. Thank you for sharing and being vulnerable!

[@katie]

thank you so much!! i'm so glad to hear that

[@karenmclean3143]

Be you! You've got my trust & loyalty, and I'm damn sure I ain't the only one! X

[@SimpleCasualChic]

This video was so relevant to me right now! I'm working on my media kit. Thanks, Katie!

[@ladyrenaethomasjames]

This video is the reason I’m a subscriber 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@bigfamilyliving]

I loved this video. You seem a little hard on yourself as am i so i definitely relate to everything you're saying. Subscribing ❤

[@curatedbykellimichelle]

Thank you for your tips & info. But much more than that, thank you for your candor at the end. Authenticity of that nature is welcomed, appreciated & often rare in the social media world. Thank you!

[@tyelita111]

Thank you so much for sharing 😊 your video is meaningful ❤ i love it 🥰

[@Arabamodelo]

Thanks for this information I really needed this

[@landonsutherland357]

Thank you for your videos. Could you please talk about what is the right setting for recording videos and taking cool photos? Why do my videos look bad quality compared to others creators? Is there any cameras or other equipment you would recommend? THANK YOU SO MUCH. We really trust you.

[@TheOneCurly]

You are doing great your videos have really helped. I agree don't put yourself in a box do the videos that make you happy and that you wish to share. trust we appreciate it all.

[@theSuchada]

love your style and the confidence you exude! THANK YOU!! =)

[@nomadicstan]

Thanks for the realness! 👍🏿

[@themeparksrus4]

Okay love you! Quick question where do you find these brand deals? Do you just email them? Is there a marketplace of brands looking to partner?

[@LIANA]

Just love your video's and especially this one. We still wonder though when you're reaching out to brands for the first time and you have a following under 1K, should you charge money already or is it better to ask for PR first?

[@karenlaw]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@Capricorntorresmakeup]

I enjoy anything you put out:)

[@Dammielola]

Your vulnerability is beautiful to see ...New Subbie ❤

[@thisgirlsomie]

Thank you Katie, really hope your doing well, and your so pretty ❤

[@FutureBoostedMedia]

So glad I found this video. I really want to talk to you, is there any way I can reach you personally?

[@saneph2563]

I just tramped on another valuable content about growing on Instagram. Great work, I'll endeavor to subscribe now to your channel

[@JheriJohnson]

This was so helpful!!!

[@JheriJohnson]

Much respect Katie!!!

[@SaadonAksah]

Nice one! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@indigo_cosplay]

You're the most beautiful person I've ever seen, I'm SIMPING so hard for all of your videos! The way you GLOW my friend!!! I'm obsessed!!

[@lizziebordenaudio]

I feel the same way. I''m so much more than a Lizzie Borden content creator but I don't know how to break out of my box either so I can help people that are suffering from low bone density.

[@FlavieEidel-LavieEibel]

Thank you lots for this video!!

[@c.bambinglockleys]

Appreciate your help ❤

[@LiyaaHuang]

I love you Katie!!!!