At Linktree, I worked directly with content creators and their teams to onboard them to our platform, often pitching our Shops and monetization tools. One case stands out where I had to win over a creator’s manager, who was hesitant to switch from their current setup. I took the time to understand their concerns, then customized a walkthrough showing how Linktree could integrate with their sales channels without disrupting their existing flow. They came on board and ended up becoming one of our top-performing creators in the category. That experience taught me that good partnerships come from listening first, then tailoring the solution to fit.

I’d start by doing my homework: learning about their business, audience, and peak traffic hours. Then I’d reach out with a short, upbeat intro (either in person or via email), highlighting how Barstool Social helps connect locals to places just like theirs that are worth discovering. I’d emphasize that the partnership is completely cost-free, and the only ask is a discount or perk that drives more people through their doors. I’d tailor the pitch with data or examples from similar businesses that have seen increases in foot traffic, and always make the partnership feel low-lift, high-reward.

Happy Wax’s IG feed has a fun, cozy vibe that’s great for the category, especially with the soft colors and playful wax bear visuals. I like that the aesthetic is consistent and the product is clearly showcased in each post. That said, there’s a big opportunity to increase engagement by integrating more UGC, short-form videos (like scent pairing tips or seasonal moodboards), and real-time content tied to trends or creator voices to really connect with the audience. With some format diversity and community highlights, the feed could become a go-to spot for wax melt lovers, not just a catalog.