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In today’s email we’re going to talk about:

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Free PDF: “How to build a $10K/mo Shopify App as a Developer”

I created a free PDF that any developer can read.

The goal is to give you a quick process to grow a Shopify App from scratch.

It’s not a big PDF but it will give you the solid foundations to guide you in the right direction.

You can find it here: https://matdesousa.gumroad.com/l/slgqqv

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Shopify App Growth Blueprint: Working with influencers

If you're running a Shopify app, influencer marketing might seem like a quick way to skyrocket your growth. But here's the truth: rushing into influencer partnerships too early can actually hurt your app's success. Think of influencers like gasoline—they can amplify your fire, but pour it on too soon and you'll just waste the fuel.

Let's break down the strategic approach to influencer marketing that actually works for Shopify apps, and why timing is everything.

1. Why Timing Matters in Influencer Marketing

Before we dive into the how, let's understand why timing is crucial for influencer partnerships.

The Three Waves of Users

When you launch an influencer campaign, you'll typically see three waves of users:

If your app isn't ready when the first wave hits, you're not just losing those users—you're losing all three waves. First impressions matter, and a bad one is hard to overcome.

The Gasoline Effect

Think of your app like a campfire:

Pour gasoline on embers, and you'll waste it. But pour it on established flames, and you'll create something powerful. The same applies to influencer marketing—timing is everything.

2. How to Find the Right Influencers

Finding influencers isn't about searching randomly across social media. Here's how to do it strategically.

Start With Your Users

First, understand where your users already are:

Example: If your users frequently watch Shopify tutorials on YouTube, that's where your influencers should be—not on platforms your users don't use.

Look Beyond Follower Count

The biggest mistake? Focusing on follower numbers. Instead, look at:

A 10,000-follower account with high engagement often outperforms a 100,000-follower account with low engagement.

3. How to Approach Influencers

Once you've identified potential influencers, your approach matters. Here's how to do it right.

The Multi-Channel Strategy

The Perfect Pitch

Keep it concise:

Strategic Follow-up

Remember this golden rule: Until you get a clear "no," consider it a potential "yes." Here's how to follow up effectively:

Tips for following up:

Example follow-up:

If email isn't working after several attempts, try their less crowded platforms. But always maintain professionalism—aggressive pursuit can damage potential relationships.

4. Structuring the Deal

There are two main partnership models:

Commission-Based (Recommended)

One-Time Payment

Pro tip: Start with commission-based deals. They create better alignment and can be more profitable for both parties in the long run.

5. Building Long-Term Relationships

Success with influencer marketing isn't about one-off campaigns. It's about building lasting partnerships:

The Bottom Line

Influencer marketing can be powerful for Shopify apps, but timing and approach are everything. Wait until your app is solid, find the right partners, and focus on building long-term relationships. Remember: it's better to have a few great partnerships than many mediocre ones.

Start small, measure results, and scale what works. Most importantly, make sure your app is ready for the spotlight before you pour on the gasoline.

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See you in the next email!

Mat 😁