8 simple factors to charge for in your sponsored posts
Wondering how much to charge for sponsored social media posts? This article will outline the main elements you should know and consider.
Every brand deal is different, and your compensation package will depend on many different factors.
The RATE framework is a simple tool to help you set your target price.
Basics
R – Reach
A – Alignment
T – Time
E – Engagement
Extras
Excess Costs
Usage Rights
Whitelisting
Exclusivity
Reach
Reach refers to the total number of people who see your content. The more eyes on your post, the better for the brand, and the more you can charge.
Average price per view varies by platform and content type but often falls between 1-5 cents.
Alignment
Consider how well your audience aligns with the brand’s target audience.
A better match will be more valuable for the brand. Plus, your followers will be more interested in the sponsored content.
Time
You can absolutely charge for the amount of time you spend working on a brand deal. Set a reasonable hourly rate and factor in how long it will take you to complete the collaboration.
This includes the time you spend messaging the brand, setting things up, creating content, and more.
Since videos typically take longer to prepare than photos, charging more for videos is common.
If a brand wants you to turn-around content very quickly, you can charge a small premium.
Engagement
Brands often value engagement over total follower count. When you have an engaged online community, space on your social media pages is more valuable to companies.
The more likes, comments, shares, and saves you typically receive, the more that you can charge.
EXTRAS
If you need to spend any money, make sure the brand will cover it. This can include renting a location, purchasing equipment or attire, making travel arrangements, and more.
Brands may want usage rights to use your content on their own channels.
Organic reposts on social media channels are standard, but you should consider charging more if they want to use the content on printed materials, their website, in advertisements, or elsewhere.
Charge based on the number of months that the brand wants usage rights for. Periods longer than a couple of months justifying a larger fee.
Whitelisting grants your brand partner permission to promote your content through online ads.
This can be a win-win situation, as your social media page will be boosted as part of the brand’s marketing efforts.
Inquire about how much the company plans on spending on promotions. Charging 4-5% of the total advertising budget is typical.
If you need to spend any money, make sure the brand will cover it.
This can include renting a location, purchasing equipment or attire, making travel arrangements, and more.
Every brand deal is different and should be negotiated on an individual basis. To set base rates, remember the RATE acronym:
- Reach
- Alignment
- Time
- Engagement
Consider all contract details when finalizing your compensation package, including excess costs, usage rights, whitelisting, and exclusivity.
The best way to figure out how much to charge for brand collaborations is to do a few. You will get a better idea of fair rates as you negotiate deals and complete them.
Good luck and always remember to stand up for your worth!