Compare the compensation models
| Model | Compensation | Main question |
|---|---|---|
| Paid | Agreed creator fee | What work and rights does the fee cover? |
| Gifted | Product or service | Is posting required and is the exchange worthwhile? |
| Affiliate | Eligible commission | How are results attributed and settled? |
| Hybrid | A combination | Which conditions apply to each component? |
Distinguish product seeding from an obligation
An unsolicited gift, a no-obligation sample and a barter campaign are not the same arrangement. A barter deal may require a post, revisions or a license even though no cash changes hands. Confirm the terms before accepting delivery or beginning work.
The retail value of a product is not cash you can use to pay production expenses. Consider whether you genuinely want the product, the time involved, shipping obligations and whether the campaign limits future paid partnerships.
Review the fee and rights together
A paid deal can still be unattractive if it asks for extensive edits, perpetual advertising rights or broad exclusivity. Compare the complete scope rather than only the cash amount. Clarify payment timing and who is responsible for settlement.
If a campaign includes a fixed fee and commission, document both. Do not rely on a projected sales figure to justify an otherwise unworkable base fee. Future results are uncertain.
Disclosure is not limited to cash payments
For US-facing endorsements, free products and affiliate relationships can be material connections that should be disclosed clearly. A gifted collaboration is not automatically exempt. The FTC's guidance explains placement, clarity and the relationship between platform tools and disclosure.
Choose words that help a viewer understand the connection. Do not bury a disclosure in a profile, a long hashtag list or a part of the content viewers are unlikely to see. Review the current platform rules as well.
A simple acceptance check
- Would I accept this compensation for the exact work requested?
- Are the posting obligation and revision allowance clear?
- Can I grant the requested rights without conflicting with other work?
- Do I understand settlement, shipping and cancellation terms?
- Can I honestly endorse the product and disclose the relationship?
Common questions
Can I ask a gifting campaign to pay a fee?
You can propose paid scope when negotiation is supported, but the brand may decline. Explain the production and rights involved rather than assuming a product offer includes a cash budget.
Sources and further reading
Examples are illustrative unless a source is given. Requirements, program terms and platform rules can change. Report corrections to support@lgi365.com.