Influenster operates as an online community where members can receive free samples and full-size products in exchange for providing honest feedback. The platform, which has over one million members, functions on a two-way street model: participants receive products at no cost, and in return, they share their opinions. This system allows consumers to try new items before purchasing and provides brands with valuable user insights. The products offered span multiple categories, including food, cosmetics, and household cleaning items. All products are freshly made and ready to ship directly to members. In exchange for their reviews, participants are entered into a monthly sweepstakes to win additional products.
The platform is structured to help users discover new products tailored to their interests. Users can take quizzes to determine their product preferences, which then generate personalized recommendations. This feature simplifies the process of finding products that align with individual needs and interests. Beyond product discovery, Influenster also facilitates community engagement by allowing users to write reviews, ask questions, and participate in discussions with other members. This interactive environment helps users connect with like-minded individuals and share opinions on products they love.
Joining Influenster offers several tangible benefits. The primary advantage is the opportunity to receive free, full-sized products for testing and review. This allows members to evaluate new items before making a purchase decision. By participating in campaigns and sharing honest opinions, users can directly influence a brand's decisions and product improvements. Their feedback can impact the creation and marketing of consumer products. Additionally, Influenster provides members with exclusive deals and discounts on products they enjoy, offering further savings and discovery opportunities.
Participation in Influenster campaigns is facilitated through a system of "VoxBoxes." These are themed packages containing a variety of products from top brands in beauty, health, grooming, snack, beverage, and lifestyle categories. VoxBoxes are mailed directly to qualified members' homes. To become eligible for these boxes, users must create an account, complete their profile, and answer questions in the "snaps" section of the platform. Connecting social media accounts can also increase the chances of being selected for a VoxBox. It is important to note that while the products are free, Influenster requests that members share a review on Influenster.com detailing their opinions on the received products.
Eligibility for campaigns is determined by several factors, including a user's profile information, their "Impact Score," and their previous activity on the platform. A more active user generally has a better chance of being selected for future campaigns. The process begins when a user receives an invitation via email for a campaign for which they are eligible. The user must then complete a pre-qualifying survey to confirm they are the right fit for the specific product. If selected, they receive further instructions on how to participate, review the product, and complete any required tasks. Not every eligible user will be selected for every campaign, but consistent activity improves selection odds.
In addition to physical VoxBoxes, users may also encounter "Virtual VoxBoxes." These are digital campaigns that do not involve a physical product but still offer rewards and product promotions. These campaigns provide another avenue for engagement and receiving benefits from the platform.
In a significant development, Influenster has merged with TryIt Sampling. According to a communication from December 14, 2022, TryIt Sampling is joining forces with Influenster to streamline the sampling experience. As a result, campaigns that were previously run through TryIt will now be managed through Influenster. The TryIt program is expected to be retired eventually, with all campaigns moving exclusively to the Influenster platform. For the time being, campaigns may appear in both TryIt and Influenster. Users are advised to continue completing reviews for TryIt products through their TryIt account while also monitoring the Influenster app for new opportunities. To ensure optimal functionality, users should download the latest version of the Influenster app (for Android or iOS) and maintain an up-to-date profile by completing the "My info" section.
Other companies also offer free product testing in exchange for customer feedback. To manage potential spam, it is recommended to use a dedicated email address, a Google Voice phone number, and a P.O. Box or office address for deliveries. Influenster is one such company, often sending a box of free product testing samples, which they call a "VoxBox," for members to try in exchange for reviews. The process involves creating a profile, downloading the Influenster app, filling out lifestyle and brand preferences, and following Influenster on social media channels. Qualification for a VoxBox may sometimes require additional actions, such as taking a selfie with a specific brand of shampoo or conditioner or reviewing products currently in use.
The core requirement for all participants is the commitment to provide honest feedback. This exchange is fundamental to the platform's value proposition for both consumers and brands. By sharing their genuine opinions, users help shape future products and marketing strategies. The platform's structure, which includes quizzes, profile completion, and active engagement, is designed to match the right products with the right users, ensuring that the feedback is relevant and useful. The transition from TryIt Sampling to an Influenster-only model indicates a consolidation of resources to enhance the user experience and streamline the campaign process.
Conclusion
Influenster provides a structured system for U.S. consumers to receive free products, including samples and full-size items, across categories like beauty, food, and household goods. Participation requires creating a detailed profile, completing quizzes, and actively engaging on the platform to increase eligibility for "VoxBoxes" and "Virtual VoxBoxes." The primary requirement is providing honest reviews in exchange for these products. A key development is the ongoing merger with TryIt Sampling, which will eventually consolidate all campaigns under the Influenster platform. While other companies also offer free product testing for reviews, Influenster remains a prominent option, with its selection process influenced by user activity and profile data. Success on the platform depends on consistent participation and adherence to the feedback-for-products model.