Hey, everyone! This is Damian from Bourbon, Bass, and Barbells. Today, I want to dive into the topic of personal integrity, especially when it comes to doing collaborations as a marketer. Having been involved in contract negotiations with influencers, I’ve noticed trends that can provide valuable insights into maintaining authenticity in this space.

The Reality of Influencer Contracts

First off, let me give you a glimpse behind the scenes of influencer contracts. A typical agreement can range from $2,500 to $5,000, which, by industry standards, is relatively modest. This usually involves a post staying live on an influencer’s page for 30 to 90 days, with companies sometimes negotiating rights to reuse the content for up to a year. However, influencers often push for terms that benefit them, such as shorter posting times or the right to promote similar products soon after.

This tug-of-war is common, and it’s essential to approach these negotiations with a clear sense of what you’re willing to accept. For me, becoming an influencer myself has provided an even sharper perspective. With only a few thousand followers and a niche focus, I have a unique approach that aligns more with integrity than chasing the highest bid.

Maintaining Authenticity in Partnerships

I prioritize a genuine connection with the products I endorse. My guiding principle is simple: I need to enjoy a product enough to become a lifelong buyer. It’s not just about a payday; it’s about authentic, sustainable relationships. This might sound like my Gen X roots talking, but back in the day, selling out was the ultimate taboo. The idea of endorsing a product I don’t truly believe in feels like a betrayal—not just to myself but to the people who follow and trust me.

Sure, everyone has a price. If a company approaches me with something I genuinely like or need, I’m open to working with them. But even then, the product itself has to stand up to scrutiny. Integrity matters.

Turning Down Opportunities

Let me share a couple of examples that illustrate how I handle potential collaborations:

1. The Overpriced Liquor Store: A while back, a liquor store known for overpricing and having a limited selection reached out to collaborate on a store pick. I turned them down. Why? Because I didn’t want to be associated with a business that overcharges customers, even if they offered me products at MSRP. This decision might have closed a door, but it preserved my credibility. The owner took it well enough, though he doesn’t reach out anymore. And that’s fine—maintaining integrity is worth more than any fleeting deal.
2. The Trusted Partner: On the flip side, I connected with another liquor store owner after researching his business and meeting with him twice. He was transparent about pricing and operations, and I found him to be a great partner. We’re planning several picks together, including trips to Kentucky. This partnership aligns with my values, so I’m excited to be involved.

Knowing When to Pass

Sometimes, even products that seem relevant aren’t a perfect fit. For instance, I was approached by a glassware company with a new product. While their glasses were decent, they didn’t resonate with me. Instead, I prefer Whisdom Glasses—sturdy, substantial, and designed for the best sipping experience. Glen Cairns are the standard, but they can be awkward to drink from. Whisdom Glasses strike the perfect balance for me, so I chose to invest in those instead of promoting a product I wasn’t passionate about.

This choice reflects my approach to maintaining quality over convenience. As much as I loved Sony products growing up and would buy anything with their label, I’ve learned to appreciate variety. It’s okay to have a PlayStation and a Nintendo Switch—different tools for different experiences.

Staying True to Yourself

Choosing to endorse only what aligns with your personal standards is critical. If you back a product you don’t believe in, people notice. If you suddenly stop using that product, they’ll remember that too. This doesn’t mean that a company mistake—or even a minor controversy—automatically ends a partnership. We can separate the quality of a product from its creators up to a point. However, for serious issues, such as unethical behavior, it’s important to draw a line.

Ultimately, it’s okay to be selective. Stand by your choices, even if they aren’t the most mainstream. The key is to be honest with your audience and yourself. Integrity ensures that when opportunities come, you won’t feel pressured to say yes just for the payout.

Closing Thoughts

I’ve seen plenty of influencers driven solely by financial gain, taking deals just to fund their lifestyle. While that may be their path, it doesn’t resonate with me. If you’re only in it for the money, it shows, and people pick up on that energy. Staying genuine, on the other hand, means your audience can trust you. This trust is invaluable and ensures that when your true nature comes to light, it’s consistent with what you’ve shown all along.

In short, approach collaborations with integrity. It’s the best way to be sure that you’re making the right decision for yourself—and your audience will respect you for it.