Influencer Outreach Email Templates
11 min read
Influencer Outreach Email Templates That Actually Get Replies (Copy & Paste Ready
Your influencer outreach emails are probably ending up in the digital graveyard alongside thousands of other ignored pitches.
The average influencer receives 50+ collaboration requests per week, and 90% of them use the same generic "Hey, love your content" approach.
The influencers who actually respond? They're looking for something different – personalization, value, and authenticity that cuts through the noise.
In this guide, I'm sharing 9 proven email templates that successful brands use to get responses from top influencers. These aren't just examples – they're copy-and-paste ready templates that you can customize and start using today.
1. The Product Seeding Template (No Strings Attached)
This template works because it offers value first without asking for anything in return. Use this for initial outreach when you want to build relationships organically.
When to use: First contact with influencers, product launches, relationship building
Expected response rate: 40-60%
Subject Line: "Would love to send you [Product Name], no strings attached"
Hi [First Name],
I've been following your [specific content area] content for a while, and your recent post about [specific post/topic] really resonated with me.
I'm [Your Name] from [Brand Name], and we just launched [product]. Given your expertise in [their niche], I thought you might enjoy trying it out.
No expectations or strings attached, I'd just love to get it in the hands of someone who genuinely understands [relevant topic/industry].
If you're interested, I'd be happy to send one your way. Just reply with your mailing address and I'll get it sent out this week.
Either way, keep up the amazing work!
Best, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Brand Name]
P.S. – Your [specific content example] last month was spot-on. I shared it with our entire team.
Why this template works:
Shows you actually follow their content
Offers value before asking for anything
Removes pressure with "no strings attached"
The P.S. adds another layer of personalization
2. The Collaboration Proposal Template (Paid Partnership)
Use this template when you're ready to propose a paid partnership with clear deliverables and compensation.
When to use: Established relationships, budget available for paid campaigns
Expected response rate: 25-40%
Subject Line: "Partnership opportunity – [Brand Name] x [Influencer Name]"
Hi [First Name],
Hope you're doing well! I loved your recent [specific content], the way you explained [specific detail] was incredibly helpful.
I'm reaching out because I think there's a great opportunity for a partnership between [Brand Name] and your audience.
What we're offering:
[Product/service] for you to try and keep
$[amount] for [specific deliverable]
Full creative freedom (we trust your expertise with your audience)
What we're looking for:
1 Instagram feed post featuring [product]
2-3 Instagram stories showing the product in use
Your honest review and opinion
We've worked with creators like [mention similar influencer] and [mention another], and the feedback has been incredible.
Would you be interested in learning more? I'd be happy to send over more details and discuss any questions you have.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best, [Your Name] [Contact Information]
What makes this effective:
Clear compensation and deliverables upfront
Mentions similar successful partnerships
Gives creative freedom
Specific but not overwhelming
3. The Follow-Up Template (For Non-Responders)
Most outreach campaigns fail because brands give up after the first email. This follow-up template re-engages without being pushy.
When to use: 5-7 days after initial outreach with no response
Expected response rate: 15-25%
Subject Line: "Quick follow-up – [Original Subject Line]"
Hi [First Name],
I know your inbox is probably swamped (being an influencer looks exhausting!), so I wanted to follow up briefly on my email from last week.
I'd mentioned sending you [product name] to try out, no strings attached.
If you're not interested, no worries at all. Just let me know and I'll stop bothering you.
But if it got lost in the shuffle and you are curious about [product], just reply with your address and I'll get it sent right out.
Keep creating amazing content!
[Your Name]
P.S. – Just saw your story about [recent content]. So relatable!
Why this works:
Acknowledges they're busy
Gives an easy "out"
Includes fresh personalization
Short and non-aggressive
4. The Exclusive Access Template (VIP Treatment)
Influencers love feeling special. This template offers exclusive early access to create FOMO and urgency.
When to use: Product launches, limited releases, building premium relationships
Expected response rate: 50-70%
Subject Line: "Exclusive early access for [First Name] ✨"
Hi [First Name],
Your content about [specific topic] has been incredibly inspiring to follow, especially your take on [specific example].
I'm reaching out because we're launching [product name] next month, and I'd love to offer you exclusive early access before it goes public.
Only 10 creators are getting this early preview, and your expertise in [their niche] makes you a perfect fit.
What's included:
Early access product (yours to keep)
Behind-the-scenes launch content you can share
First pick of partnership opportunities when we go live
No pressure to post anything, but if you love it and want to share, we'd be thrilled.
Interested? I can get your exclusive package shipped out this week.
Best, [Your Name]
Key elements that work:
Creates exclusivity and scarcity
Positions them as an expert
No pressure approach
Clear value proposition
5. The Long-Term Ambassador Template (Relationship Building)
This template is perfect for recruiting ongoing brand ambassadors rather than one-off collaborations.
When to use: After successful initial collaborations, building ambassador programs
Expected response rate: 30-45%
Subject Line: "Long-term partnership opportunity with [Brand Name]"
Hi [First Name],
I've been following your journey for [timeframe] and consistently impressed by how authentically you connect with your audience.
Rather than reaching out for a one-time collaboration, I wanted to discuss something more meaningful – becoming a [Brand Name] ambassador.
What this means:
Quarterly product shipments (new launches + favorites)
Higher compensation rates for partnerships
Input on product development and brand direction
Exclusive ambassador events and networking opportunities
Long-term relationship vs. transactional partnerships
We're only selecting 5 ambassadors this quarter, and your values and audience alignment make you an ideal candidate.
Would you be open to a brief call to discuss what this could look like?
Looking forward to potentially building something great together.
Best, [Your Name] [Title] [Brand Name]
What makes this compelling:
Focuses on relationship over transaction
Offers meaningful benefits and input
Limited availability creates urgency
Suggests a call for deeper discussion
6. The Apology/Re-engagement Template (Reviving Cold Relationships)
Use this when previous outreach attempts failed or relationships went cold. The humble approach often works surprisingly well.
When to use: Re-engaging past contacts, recovering from mistakes, cold relationship revival
Expected response rate: 20-35%
Subject Line: "I think I messed up..."
Hi [First Name],
I've been following your content and realized I probably came across too salesy in my previous emails about [Brand Name].
That's totally on me, I was so excited about our product that I forgot the most important thing: building a genuine relationship first.
So let me start over.
I genuinely admire your work, especially [specific recent content]. Your approach to [topic] is refreshing and authentic.
If you're open to it, I'd love to simply send you [product] to try – no expectations, no asks, no pressure. If you hate it, tell me why. If you love it, great. If you're indifferent, that's helpful feedback too.
Would that be okay?
Best, [Your Name]
P.S. – No more salesy emails, promise. 🙂
Why this approach works:
Takes responsibility for past mistakes
Shows humility and authenticity
Removes all pressure and expectations
The emoji adds personality without being unprofessional
7. The Event Invitation Template (Experience-Based Outreach)
Inviting influencers to exclusive events creates memorable experiences and stronger relationships than product shipments alone.
When to use: Product launches, brand events, exclusive experiences
Expected response rate: 35-50%
Subject Line: "Exclusive invitation: [Event Name] in [City]"
Hi [First Name],
Your recent post about [specific content] perfectly captured why I think you'd love what we're planning.
We're hosting an exclusive [event type] for [Brand Name] in [City] on [Date], and I'd love to invite you as our guest.
Event Details:
[Brief description of event]
20 carefully selected creators and industry experts
Behind-the-scenes access to [experience]
All travel and accommodations covered
No content requirements (just come enjoy!)
The goal is to bring together people who are genuinely passionate about [industry/topic] for an evening of great conversation and experiences.
If [City] is accessible for you and the date works, I'd love to send over the full details.
Either way, keep creating amazing content!
Best, [Your Name]
Success factors:
Emphasizes exclusivity and curation
Covers all expenses
No content obligations
Focuses on experience and community
8. The Problem-Solution Template (Value-First Approach)
This template leads with solving a problem the influencer has mentioned, positioning your outreach as helpful rather than self-serving.
When to use: When influencers have mentioned specific problems you can solve
Expected response rate: 45-60%
Subject Line: "Solution for your [specific problem] situation"
Hi [First Name],
Saw your story yesterday about struggling with [specific problem they mentioned]. I've been there and it's so frustrating!
I'm [Your Name] from [Brand Name], and we actually created [product/service] specifically to solve this exact issue.
I don't want to be that person sliding into DMs with a sales pitch, but I genuinely think this could help you. Would you be open to me sending you one to try?
If it doesn't solve your problem, I'll personally help you find something that does. I just hate seeing creators deal with [problem] when there are solutions available.
Let me know what you think!
Best, [Your Name]
P.S. – Love your content style, by the way. Your authenticity really comes through.
Why this is effective:
Addresses a real pain point they've expressed
Positions you as helpful, not sales-focused
Offers additional help even if your product doesn't work
Shows you pay attention to their content beyond follower count
9. The Collaboration Recap Template (Post-Partnership Follow-Up)
Most brands disappear after a collaboration ends. This template maintains relationships and sets up future opportunities.
When to use: After successful collaborations, maintaining ongoing relationships
Expected response rate: 60-80%
Subject Line: "Thank you + campaign results from our collaboration"
Hi [First Name],
Wanted to follow up on our recent collaboration and share some exciting results!
Your [specific post type] about [product] performed incredibly well:
- The feedback in your comments was overwhelmingly positive
More importantly, your authentic approach to showcasing [product] was exactly what we hoped for. You really "got" our brand and translated it perfectly for your audience.
Quick ask: Would you be open to being featured as a case study in our creator spotlight series? We'd love to share your success (with your permission, of course).
And if you're interested in working together again, I'd love to discuss some ideas for [upcoming campaign/season].
Thanks again for being such a great partner!
Best, [Your Name]
P.S. – The behind-the-scenes stories were my personal favorite. Your audience clearly loves that authentic peek into your process.
What makes this work:
Shares actual performance data
Acknowledges their contribution specifically
Offers additional exposure opportunity
Opens door for future collaborations
Maintains the personal relationship
Outreach Email Best Practices That Apply to All Templates
Subject Line Guidelines
Do's:
Keep under 50 characters for mobile optimization
Include the influencer's name when appropriate
Be specific about the opportunity or ask
Use emojis sparingly (1-2 maximum)
Don'ts:
Use all caps or excessive punctuation
Make false urgency claims
Be vague or generic
Use spam trigger words like "amazing opportunity"
Email Structure Rules
Opening: Reference specific content within the last 2 weeks Body: Lead with value, be clear about what you're offering Ask: Make it easy to say yes with clear next steps Closing: Keep it warm but professional P.S.: Add personal touch or additional value
Timing and Frequency
Best sending times:
Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-2pm in their timezone
Avoid Mondays (inbox overload) and Fridays (weekend mode)
Research their posting schedule for clues about their active hours
Follow-up schedule:
First follow-up: 5-7 days after initial email
Second follow-up: 2 weeks after first follow-up
Final follow-up: 1 month later (different angle/offer)
Personalization That Actually Matters
Shallow personalization (everyone does this):
"Love your content!"
"Your feed is amazing!"
Generic compliments
Deep personalization (sets you apart):
Reference specific posts from the last 1-2 weeks
Comment on their unique perspective or approach
Mention specific details that show you actually consume their content
Reference their personal interests or recent life updates (when appropriate)
Response Rate Optimization
Track these metrics:
Open rates by subject line type
Response rates by template and personalization level
Conversion rates from response to actual collaboration
Long-term relationship success rates
A/B testing opportunities:
Subject line styles (personal vs. professional)
Email length (short vs. detailed)
Call-to-action placement
Personalization depth
Remember: The goal isn't just getting a response, it's starting a genuine relationship that benefits both parties. These templates work because they prioritize the influencer's interests and create real value, not just another brand collaboration request.
Copy these templates, customize them with your specific details and authentic personalization, and watch your response rates improve dramatically. The key is consistency, genuine interest in the creators you're reaching out to, and patience to build relationships over time.
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