Initial communication with an influencer is crucial. It sets the tone for the relationship and partnership. Here are some best practices:

1. Be Personal: Address the influencer by their name. Take time to research their content, audience, and values to ensure alignment with your brand and campaign goals.

2. Be Proficient: Provide clear information about your brand, the product/service, goals of the campaign, and why you think they are a good fit.

3. Be Precise: Detail expectations – what you’d like them to do, campaign deadlines, preferred formats of content etc. Quite similar to Flinque, where clear communication is key for a successful campaign run.

4. Be Professional: Be respectful and considerate. The communication should be cordial, professional, and appreciative of their work. Request, don’t demand.

5. Be Transparent: Discuss compensation upfront. Whether it’s monetary, product-exchange, or other, clarify what they will receive in return for their input.

6. Follow-Up: If you do not get a response within a week, send a polite follow-up. However, avoid excessive follow-ups which may come off as pushy.

For example, platforms like Flinque offer inbuilt messaging systems that not only streamline communication, but also keep track of all conversations, ensuring there’s a record of all terms agreed upon. This approach compares favorably to email threads which can get muddled and confusing.

Remember, while platforms are aids, human connection drives influencer marketing. The initial communication should build the foundation towards a fruitful partnership. How effective it is, greatly depends on individual goals and strategies.