In the influencer space, since it is realtively new and sometimes casual, I think we forget that when services are being provided (you posting on your instagram about a brand, etc.) and in return for that work you are getting free goods or even money, there should be a contract in place. Gone are the days where an instagram DM is the way we negotiate and execute deals. Having a contract in place not only protects the brand but protects you as an influencer as well. Remember, being an influencer in a business and to protect yourself you should have not only a contract, but these important terms/sections in every one.

1. Use Your Legal Business Name. This is one of the biggest mistakes I see influencers make when it comes to contracts. The name on the contract should be your legal business name (hopefully an LLC), not your personal name. If you sign the contract as yourself, and not your business, and you inadvertently breach said contract, the company can come after your personal assets.
   
   
2. What Services are Being Provided. You want to make sure that what you are expected to provide as an influencer to the brand is clearly and accurately described and laid out in your contract.
   
   
3. Approval Rights. This clause will layout the terms of what editorial rights you as the influencer will retain. Can you post anything you want without approval from the brand? Does the brand have to approve or will they tell you want to say? Will they tell you what hashtags to use? There is no right or wrong here but you want to make sure this is clearly stated in the contract.
   
   
4. Payment Amount and Terms. This might seem obvious but you want to make sure the contract included how much you will be paid, and when. Also, do you need to invoice the company? Many large companies won’t pay influencers until sometimes 30, 60 or even 90 days after they receive an invoice from you. Make sure this is clearly stated in your contract.
   
   
5. Copyright and Usage. As an influencer and the creator of content for brands, you legally hold the copyrights to the work. However, make sure you state this is in the contract if you want to retain these rights. Also, you need to determine how the content is allowed to be used after the term of work between the brand and influencer is over. Can the brand re purpose the content and use it on other platforms? Can the brand use it in print? Make sure you clearly define this so there are no discrepancies after the fact.
   
   
6. FTC Disclosures. You want to include this clause to make sure the brand knows you are going to follow all FTC rules when it comes to their requirements for transparent disclosures.
   
   
7. Termination. The time at which the contract is over between the two parties should be clearly defined so there is no confusion.
   
   
8. Exclusivity. This is one of the biggest mistakes I see influencers make. They either do not read, or do not realize what their contract says when it comes to exclusivity. For example, say you are working with a beauty brand, the contract might state that for a year you can’t work with another beauty brand. Now if you are a beauty blogger this would be crippling for your business.
   
   
9. Confidentiality. This clause is important as you don’t want brands disclosing the deal they made with you. Note this clause will work both ways, that means you cannot share the terms of your contract (for example asking a question about it in a facebook group) with anyone other than an attorney.
   
   
10. While the legal side of being an influencer may seem overwhelming, keep in mind the law is there to protect you. If you are confused and want to know how I can help, check out my services or feel free to schedule a free 15 minute legal insight call.