In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames shares behind-the-scenes insights from managing campaigns with over 50 creators. She breaks down what brands actually care about, why professionalism and systems matter more than follower count, and how creators can position themselves for long-term opportunities instead of one-off deals. This episode offers transparency for creators, entrepreneurs, and marketers who want to understand the real expectations behind influencer campaigns and build sustainable visibility in the digital space. Topics Covered in This Episode What managing 50+ creators taught Michelle about influencer marketing The biggest misconceptions creators have about brand deals What brands really look for beyond follower count Why professionalism matters more than virality Where creators lose opportunities without realizing it The role of communication and systems in campaign success Why long-term brand relationships outperform one-off deals How creators can position themselves as strategic partners Key Takeaways Follower count alone doesn’t secure long-term opportunities Brands value reliability, communication, and clarity Systems protect your reputation and income Community-led creators build stronger relationships Professionalism creates longevity in the creator economy Resources Mentioned VIP Visibility Days – One-on-one strategy sessions to build professional positioning The Visibility & Clarity Kit – A foundational roadmap for visibility and alignment Connect With Michelle Thames Instagram: @michellelthames LinkedIn: Michelle Thames Threads: @michellelthames Website: https://michellelthames.com For brand partnerships, consulting, or speaking inquiries:[email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.