If you have a blog and would like to get support, whether via engagement, payment or product placement then your first interaction is a make-or-break opportunity.

As a brand representative, in a number of companies, I have been lucky enough to work with some outstanding bloggers, who’s communication techniques and brand engagement strategies were professional and well-developed.

Approaching a brand is a business opportunity. As a blogger, it is your job to be a solution to a problem, not a task that needs management.

Don’t make the company ask endless follow-up questions to get all they need before getting the right approvals.

A few key items to include in your proposal:

• All networks you’re on with links
• A full list of stats including audience size, engagement rates, how often you post and monthly page views
• Your plan for using the brand’s product/campaign on your blog or network

Having an on-going relationship with a brand can do wonders for you both. They get awesome content and you get to grow your audience with their help. Be sure to approach the Community Manager (who you’ll probably have first contact with) with all the information they’ll need to take your request seriously and have a fantastic first impression. You need to arm them with everything they’ll need to make the case for the brand to work with you.

Do you have any advice for bloggers wanting to work with brands? Do you work with, or want to work with brands? Tell your story in the comments below.