PHOENIX — Want to make your dog Insta-famous? A local consulting firm is holding a nationwide search for one lucky pup to get a whole brand created for social media.
Serendipit Consulting in Phoenix is accepting applications for a dog to win a pet influencer package. The brand will include a workshop, social media handle, brand positioning and tagline, custom logo, social content calendar and a social media strategy.
Social media influencers have become the next way to advertise and Melissa DiGianfilippo, the president of PR at Serendipit Consulting, says it's because people connect to other people. Even if they promoting a product, you're more likely to buy that product because it feels more authentic.
She says the same goes for dogs. That's why we've been seeing more "dog-fluencers."
"Truly, people are looking for cute fun content on Instagram to break away from the chaos of their day, and you can follow a cute dog and they're posing and wearing fun gear, they definitely can turn it into a business as well," said DiGianfilippo.
When does a popular dog profile turn into an influencer? Digianfilippo says it depends, but accounts with 2,000 to 10,000 followers could be micro-influencers.
"You certainly can cash in and get at least free swag for dogs through pet organizations if you have a smaller follower base, and as you get bigger, people will reach out to you. They'll find you," she said.
The bigger brands can get paid per post. For example, social media dog superstar @Jiffpom has more than nine million followers, and his sponsored posts can make $150,000.
Most dogs may not make it to that level, but you can grow your following.
Digianfilippo shared some tips that you should apply to your dog's Instagram account:
- Post regularly - at least once a day.
- Take quality photos - use natural lighting.
- Get creative to engage your followers.
"There's an opportunity. People who have dogs see that it's fun to create content around their pup. They're sharing it, and if they can make some extra dough or get some free stuff while doing it, that's awesome,' said Digianfilippo.
The deadline to apply is Friday, September 13. Serendipit will narrow it down to 10 dogs and then there will be a public vote.
Learn more about the contest or apply here.
