A few sharp questions upfront save a wasted budget later. Ask for their engagement rate and how they calculate it, their audience location and age so you know it matches who you sell to, and examples of past brand work with real results, not just a follower screenshot. Then pin down rates, what is included, usage and turnaround in writing. Vague answers are the red flag. Verify the numbers, do not just trust the media kit.
Ask before you pay
A handful of direct questions upfront beats a refund fight later.
Get the real numbers
Engagement rate, audience location and age. Make sure the audience is who you sell to.
Ask for proof
Past brand work with actual results, not a screenshot of follower count.
Pin down the terms
Rates, what is included, usage and turnaround, all in writing before you commit.