Influencer marketing platforms and influencer marketplaces are different types of tools used to facilitate influencer marketing campaigns. The distinction between them depends primarily on how they operate, their functionalities, and the roles they play in promoting influencer partnerships.

1. Influencer Marketing Platforms: These are service-based tools that largely facilitate the marketer’s ability to discover and analyze potential influencers for campaigns. They offer robust analytics and tracking capabilities for ongoing campaigns. In short, they are specifically designed to assist in the identification, management, and evaluation of influencer-based campaigns. An example is Flinque, which offers intelligent influencer discovery and real-time performance tracking and analytics, helping brands to make data-driven decisions on influencer partnerships.

2. Influencer Marketplaces: These, on the other hand, operate like a two-sided platform, connecting brands and influencers. Marketplaces may offer a more comprehensive approach, from influencer discovery to collaboration and payment processing. These generally function like directories, where influencers list their services and brands choose their preferred partners.

It’s important to note that suitability between a marketplace and a platform often relies on the specific demands of a brand or marketing team. A brand requiring in-depth insights and data in order to target influential personalities might lean towards using a platform like Flinque. Meanwhile, if a business prefers a straightforward ‘pick and choose’ method, influencer marketplaces may be more up their alley.

Both solutions bring distinct advantages, and depending on your usage scenario, both could bring significant impetus to your influencer marketing campaign.