Use performance-based influencer payments tied to subscriber lifetime value for aligned long-term incentives
Instead of flat-rate influencer payments, structure deals where influencers earn a percentage of each referred subscriber's lifetime value (e.g., $15 per new subscriber + $5/month retained). This creates ongoing alignment where influencers are incentivized to refer quality users who stay, not just drive clicks.
When to use
When running influencer marketing at scale and want to ensure creators drive actual paying users, not just views
Don't do this
Paying flat fees per video regardless of conversion outcome, leading to influencers optimizing for views instead of customer quality
2 Founders Who Did This
Sources influencers by asking existing customers who they watch. Makes deals easy for influencers by producing B-roll in-house. Uses performance-based measurements tied to subscriber value.
Built student ambassador affiliate program paying $15 per new subscription and $5 recurring monthly commission, aligning affiliate incentives with long-term retention.