Patrick Gremillion, host of The Patty-G Show, joined Mornings With Brian Haldane to discuss influencer marketing and how content creators can help small businesses attract customers. Using Baton Rouge’s new Prince Street Pizza location as an example, Gremillion explained why successful influencer marketing requires more than posting photos and videos on social media.
1. Research the Business and Its Audience
Gremillion emphasized that influencers must understand the businesses they promote and the customers those businesses want to reach.
During the conversation, he highlighted Prince Street Pizza’s unique approach to making pizza, including its in-house dough and sauce and its specialized water system designed to replicate New York water.
He noted that several social media videos missed these distinguishing features. Influencers can create more effective content when they research a business, identify what sets it apart and explain why customers should care.
2. Tell a Story Instead of Saying “It’s Good”
Gremillion challenged influencers to move beyond generic reviews and vague descriptions. Simply calling a restaurant’s food “good” does little to help potential customers understand what makes it special.
Instead, he encouraged creators to describe specific flavors, ingredients and textures. For example, an influencer reviewing pizza could explain how the pepperoni curls during baking or how the combination of ricotta cheese and hot honey creates a distinctive flavor.
This approach requires preparation, curiosity and strong storytelling skills. By sharing meaningful details, influencers can give audiences a compelling reason to visit a business.
3. Engage With Critics and Answer Questions
Gremillion also encouraged influencers to respond thoughtfully to negative comments rather than automatically deleting or ignoring them.
When someone challenges a claim, creators should use their knowledge to clarify the facts and encourage constructive discussion. These exchanges can strengthen credibility and demonstrate that influencers stand behind the businesses they promote.
Helping Small Businesses Get More From Influencer Marketing
Gremillion believes influencer marketing can deliver value when creators prioritize research, authentic storytelling and audience engagement.
For small businesses investing in social media promotion, the message is clear: choose influencers who understand your customers, communicate your unique value and build trust with their audiences.