How to Get Approved as an LTK Creator :: ONE Hack to Try
This post: How I got accepted as an LTK creator without a huge online following.
So you want to get approved as an LTK Creator? I get it. The LTK platform is one of the most popular ways for creators to share shoppable links, earn income with affiliate marketing, and grow an online business.
I love having access to affiliate platforms like Shop My or LTK, and I use them to link everyday lifestyle products like clean makeup, books, and gift guides.
But getting your LTK application approved can be tricky.
I recently had a few friends reach out & ask, “How did you get approved as an LTK creator? I keep getting declined!”
At first, I didn’t think I really had a good hack to share. I mean, I applied for LTK several years ago without even knowing what a big deal it was. I didn’t even learn how to use the platform until recently.
But I shared this one, simple tip – and my friend got approved, even after being previously declined. That’s when I knew I had to share this hack with you, too!
Below is my ONE tip for how to get approved as an LTK creator, even if you’ve tried before without success.
This may not work for everyone, & I’m not making any promises. But it’s simple to do & definitely worth a try!
Trying to Get Approved as an LTK Creator? Try This-
First off, STOP focusing on IG numbers. Because that isn’t it.
I know, I know. Everything you read about applying as an LTK creator stresses the importance of a strong social media presence, and a large, engaged following.
Getting declined can make you feel like your numbers (or your engagement, or your content) might be the missing ingredient.
But here’s what worked for me, & seems to work for other creatives with modest online followings.
Apply as a blogger.
That’s it.
Yes, you’ll need to have at least four months of content under your belt. And your online platforms need to look professional.
But it seems that LTK prefers a constant online presence, like a blog, listed as your primary platform. This seems to be as, or maybe even more, important than the size of your online following.
Try this hack: Include your social media accounts (IG, FB, etc) as your secondary or third platforms – not your primary.
Applying with a blog as a primary platform seems to be an easily overlooked, but golden key to cracking the code.
For all the bloggers out there, this is really good news!
What I Mean by “Apply as a Blogger”
Gabriela left a comment asking, “When you say apply as a blogger what do you mean exactly? How does it work?”
I created a quick (less than two minutes) video showing you how to apply as a blogger as an LTK creator:
Don’t have a blog but want to get started? Check out this FREE blogging mini course, by Sticky Blogging. Highly recommend!
Are there exceptions?
Yes, I’m sure there are. After all, I’m NOT an expert.
If you’re a brand new blogger, it might still take a while to get in. (LTK requires at least four months of content on your online platform.)
But I did get accepted on LTK the first time around, long before I decided to show up with a “creator” IG account. And I’m seeing others with modest-size blogs do the same.
And believe me . . . if I can do this, you definitely can!
Maybe I Can Help You
Want me to submit a referral to LTK on your behalf?
If so, I’d be honored & happy to.
Just send me your first & last name & email. I’ll submit a request to LTK to send you a creator invitation.
Who knows, you might just get “in” as an LTK creator this time around! (Just don’t forget to list your blog as your primary platform, if you’re a blog owner.)
The really fun news: If you get accepted, we both will get a $25 reward!
Above all, don’t stop trying.
If you’re wondering how to get started with LTK and grow your affiliate income as a creative introvert, I hope this guide gives you a solid next step.
If you’ve applied & been declined, apply again. (Or let me refer you, & see if that works any magic.)
Refusing to give up is THE most important key. Getting access to the LTK affiliate platform could be a game changer for you in 2025, so keep trying!
Let me know if you have questions or want me to refer you.
xo, Kristy
👉 P.S. Quick links:
Hi!
I’ve applied tons of times to LTK it and keep getting declined. When you say apply as a blogger what do you mean exactly? How does it work?
Hi, Gabriela! Ugh, I know that’s so frustrating!
I created a quick Loom video to show you what I mean by “apply as a blogger.” I hope this helps! And I’m wishing you LUCK on getting your application approved with LTK! I would apply as often as needed until you get “in.” 😉
Here’s that Loom video (it’s under 2 minutes): https://www.loom.com/share/fe19d916807e41579885fd62d1db0d7a?sid=e5cb2093-6e8b-43d9-b69a-52ca40e0e545
I applied for LTK after only having my new Instagram for a little over 2 months and 250 followers. I’ve only been with LTK for about a month now and I still only have 342 followers on Insta. However, I did have some shoppable posts that had over 1500 to 2600 views and I also included my Facebook in my Apolication which I have about 2,000 friends on . I am always reading that you have to have 4 months of content and x amount of followers but I was approved my first try . I’m not sure how it happened but I feel very lucky it did !!
Jaime, that’s amazing! I’m so glad you got approved so quickly! Thank you for sharing your experience, I hope it encourages other creatives to go ahead and give it a try. 😉