Approaching influencers can greatly enhance your content strategy efforts. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:

1. Identify relevant influencers: Start by researching influencers who align with your industry or niche. Look for individuals who have a substantial following and engage with their audience.
2. Build a relationship: Before reaching out to influencers, it's essential to establish a connection. Engage with their content by liking, commenting, and sharing. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out when you eventually approach them.
3. Personalize your outreach: When contacting influencers, avoid generic messages. Take the time to research their work and mention specific aspects you appreciate. Personalization demonstrates that you've done your homework and increases the chances of a positive response.
4. Offer value: Influencers are more likely to collaborate if they see the potential benefits. Clearly communicate what you can bring to the table. This could be high-quality content, exposure to your audience, or a mutually beneficial partnership.
5. Provide examples: Show influencers examples of your previous work to demonstrate your expertise and the quality of your content. This can include blog posts, videos, or social media campaigns. Visuals can be particularly impactful, so consider creating a visually appealing portfolio.
6. Offer incentives: Incentives can motivate influencers to work with you. These can include monetary compensation, free products or services, or exclusive access to your resources. Tailor your incentives to the influencer's interests and needs.
7. Follow up: If you don't receive an immediate response, don't be discouraged. Politely follow up after a reasonable period, expressing your continued interest in collaborating. Persistence and professionalism can go a long way.

Remember, building relationships with influencers takes time and effort. Be patient and focus on establishing genuine connections. Over time, these relationships can lead to fruitful collaborations and significantly improve your content strategy efforts.

References:

• Entrepreneur - How to Approach Influencers and Win Them Over
• Forbes - How to Approach Influencers to Boost Your Content Marketing Strategy