Affiliate marketing for influencers: “Influence gives me a freedom worth its weight in gold”

Interview with Marina, content creator

What is your background? How did you start your Instagram account?

I worked in the private sector, where demands kept increasing, and the work no longer aligned with my professional values. After ten years, I was completely burned out.

I created my Instagram account in 2012 and my blog in 2014, and I officially opened my micro-enterprise in 2015.

Why did you start your blog? And then Instagram?

Initially, I started my blog and Instagram just for fun, sharing daily looks without showing my face. Gradually, I gained followers. Blogs were very trendy at the time, and when I reached 5,000 followers, people often asked if I had a blog. That motivated me to launch one, and everything snowballed quickly.

My first paid partnership was with Birchbox. I was already a subscriber and shared my discoveries spontaneously every month through Instagram posts and blog articles. They offered me my first paid campaign, which was a turning point and my first step into affiliate marketing for influencers. In 2015, I officially launched my micro-enterprise, which I have since closed. I now run my own company solo, managing everything myself.

What was your strategy to grow your community? How do you stand out and attract followers or brands?

I never followed a specific strategy. What excites me most about content creation is video editing, even if it’s time-consuming. I create content I enjoy without forcing myself to follow trends, even if they work well. Doing trends just for the sake of it isn’t what drives me.

Where do you find inspiration?

My inspiration comes indirectly from what I see. For example, videos that catch my eye may inspire me, but I never copy them exactly, I always add my personal touch. My community is mostly interested in fashion, which is reflected in my engagement. When I share travel content, for instance in my stories, I notice fewer interactions.

How do you choose the brands you work with? 

I choose brands that fit my editorial line and products I would personally buy. Quality is essential: if I’ve had a bad experience with a brand, I prefer to decline the collaboration. Without naming names, there are brands I refuse to work with because they don’t meet my standards. I want to stay authentic and not promote products I don’t believe in.

Can you share an example of a successful campaign? Why was it successful?

A campaign that worked very well for me was with Bocage, a high-quality shoe brand with a well-established store network. Their timeless models are perfect for affiliate marketing because they remain available year after year.

The success of this campaign comes down to two factors: the trust my community places in me and the brand’s positive image. This combination makes all the difference and demonstrates how one can earn a living through affiliate marketing by working with brands aligned with their values.

What are the benefits of affiliate marketing for influencers?

Affiliate marketing allows me to diversify my income while giving me great freedom. Unlike paid collaborations with strict briefs, I can create content as I wish. Sometimes I combine both: a fixed budget for a dedicated story and commissions on generated sales. It’s an excellent way to earn a living through affiliate marketing while maintaining independence.

Which metrics do you track to measure the success of an affiliate campaign?

I like to track the number of sales and the revenue generated for the brand. For example, during a campaign for Voyage Privé, I generated €42,000 in revenue. It’s fascinating to see the direct impact of my content.

How do you see the future of affiliate marketing for content creators?

I live day by day. I never imagined myself in this profession, but being an influencer has allowed me to earn a living through affiliate marketing while spending time with my daughter. This job gives me priceless freedom, like picking her up from school or not having to use daycare.

What are the advantages of working with a platform like Affilae?

Affilae is my favorite platform. It allows me to generate extra income and discover new brands, like Les Petits Prodiges. It also helped me reconnect with brands I had lost touch with, like Lunii.

I feel well supported, especially thanks to Lucie, who regularly offers campaigns suited to my editorial line. The platform is also more flexible than other competitors.