Have a local business that needs a boost? Working with local influencers could be your secret weapon. These creators are plugged into your community, sharing recommendations on everything from restaurants to unique experiences. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a small town, there are influencers nearby who can amplify your brand. But figuring out how to find local influencers can feel like a challenge. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with these actionable tips!
Look at Local Accounts
Start by exploring highly-followed businesses in your area—restaurants, activity centers, and even community organizations. Browse their content and tags to learn how to find local influencers who may already be creating content for them. Often, influencers will tag local businesses they’ve collaborated with or shared experiences at.
Another pro tip: Check their follower list. Some of their followers might be local influencers themselves, even if they haven’t worked together yet. These creators could be the perfect fit for promoting your brand.
Start a Targeted Ad Campaign
Did you know you can use paid ads to specifically target local influencers? Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow you to create ads based on location and follower count. Create a post or story inviting local creators to apply as ambassadors, and include details on how to connect with you—like a landing page or email address.
This method works especially well if you have a small budget and want quick results. Target accounts with at least 5K followers for a solid starting point.
Search Local Hashtags
Instagram’s search function is your best friend for finding influencers. Search hashtags tied to your city or community, like #DenverEats or #AustinAdventures. Influencers often use location-based hashtags to grow their audience, so this is a great way to discover creators who are already plugged into the local scene.
Use a Social Search Tool
If you have access to social search tools, use them to filter creators by location. Platforms like Shopify Collabs or affiliate networks like Impact make it easy to find influencers in specific areas. These tools often include filters for audience size, niche, and engagement, saving you hours of manual research.
Think Beyond Instagram
Not all influencers live on Instagram. Expand your search to platforms like YouTube, where creators might be producing long-form content about your area. Or, check out local newsletters on Substack or Beehiiv—these often have niche audiences that are highly engaged.
You can also explore TikTok for creators posting about local trends or even Reddit forums where people recommend businesses in your area. Getting creative with where you search can open up new opportunities to connect with influencers.
Attend Local Events
Local events are a goldmine for finding influencers. Attend community gatherings, trade shows, pop-ups, or farmers’ markets to connect with creators in person. Influencers often attend these events to network or generate content, making it a perfect opportunity to introduce your brand. Be ready with business cards or a quick pitch to spark their interest!
Collaborate with Local Micro-Communities
Look for micro-communities in your area, such as neighborhood Facebook groups, Meetup groups, or niche clubs. These communities often have key members or organizers who act as informal influencers within their circles. By collaborating with them, you can tap into their highly engaged and localized audience. Plus, these partnerships often feel more authentic since they’re rooted in shared community interests.
Wrapping Up
Learning how to find local influencers doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By exploring local accounts, running targeted ads, using hashtags, and leveraging social tools, you can uncover creators who align with your brand and are excited to amplify your message. Remember to think beyond Instagram and consider YouTube, newsletters, and even TikTok to maximize your reach.
With these strategies, you’ll not only find the right local influencers but also build partnerships that drive real results for your business. Ready to start? Your community is waiting!
Want to check out more resources to manage a partner program? Explore our DIY Partner Marketing Kit—it has all the resources that our agency uses to run our own programs!
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