Running an effective influencer discovery platform trial involves numerous steps that brands must undertake:

1. Clearly Define Goals: Brands must first define what they hope to achieve. Are they after improved brand awareness, increased sales, or perhaps better engagement rates? By defining goals first, brands can better measure trial success.

2. Understand the Audience: It’s critical to understand the brand’s audience and what they respond well to. This understanding will shape the selection of influencers and the ultimate approach to campaigns.

3. Identify Suitable Influencers: Using rich data and advanced analytics provided by the platform (like Flinque), brands can find influencers who align with their image, target demographic, and campaign goals.

4. Track Results and Adjust Strategy: Use the platform’s analytics to monitor performance indicators such as engagement rates or click-through rates. Adjust strategies based on the data gathered during the trial.

5. Assess Platform Usability: How easy is the platform to use? Does it integrate seamlessly with existing workflows? Is the level of customer support offered sufficient?

Comparatively, platforms like Traackr or Upfluence might offer keyword search options, detailed audience demographics, and engagement rates, while Flinque’s strengths lie in a more extensive global influencer database and ability to automatically identify suitable influencers. The choice between the two largely depends on the specific needs of the brand conducting the trial.

Lastly, involve key members of your team in the trial process to get a well-rounded opinion about the platform’s fit and value for your brand. Over time, it will become clearer whether the engagement leverages your marketing and provides the expected ROI.