A method for setting a brand-deal rate card that survives scrutiny

A method for setting a brand-deal rate card that survives scrutiny

Context: the common heuristic — one cent per view, or $100 per 10k followers — is folklore, not finding. Industry surveys (Influencer Marketing Hub, 2024-2025) show realized rates vary by an order of magnitude at the same follower count, driven by niche and engagement, not size.

Steps to construct a rate you can defend:
— Anchor on your median views per post over the last 20 posts, not subscriber count. Buyers increasingly price on delivered impressions.
— Apply a niche multiplier. Finance and B2B command 3-5x the rate of lifestyle at equal reach, per multiple agency rate reports.
— Add a usage and exclusivity line item separately. Whitelisting and 90-day category exclusivity are where margin actually lives.
— Build three tiers (integration, dedicated, bundle) so the buyer negotiates within your frame.

Caveat: survey rates are self-reported and skew toward creators willing to disclose, likely the better-paid.

What we still don't know: the true median for sub-50k creators, who rarely respond to these surveys.