The reality: operators under $30k/month revenue usually start with direct DM (free, manual). Once you run 3+ creator campaigns, Insense or Billo pay for themselves in time saved and compliance handled.

The vetting playbook that works

Before committing $500+:

1. Engagement rate 2.5%+ (likes ÷ followers on last 10 posts). creators run 0.5-1% lower than global average; 2.5% is the minimum.
2. Target-market audience 60%+ using HypeAuditor's audience insights. If they're a "lifestyle" creator and your product is pet-focused, check if 40%+ of their audience follows pet accounts.
3. Posted in your category in last 30 days. No exceptions. If they haven't posted about [your product type] recently, their audience won't expect it.
4. Last 5 posts show consistent engagement (not 1 viral post among 4 duds — that creator peaked).
5. Posted at least 1 paid partnership visibly in the last 90 days. Unvetted creators default to vague "in love with X" language without clear disclosure, which draws regulator attention.

Pass 5/5: ready to pay. Pass 4/5: negotiate rate downward or ask for performance milestone (e.g., "$300 upfront,