Why You Should Apply for Sephora Squad: Your Questions Answered

It’s time to Squad up! We’re entering our 5th year of the Sephora Squad program. We’re excited to announce that the 2023 Sephora Squad applications are officially open, and we’d like to invite you to learn more & apply. We’re looking for the most authentic and inspiring voices to participate in this one-of-a-kind, year-long paid partnership with Sephora.

2023 Sephora Squad Applications are Now Open! Apply here.

If you’re passionate about being part of a community where building bonds, pushing creativity, and having fun are always top priorities (along with a love of all things beauty, of course), we want to hear from you—no matter your follower count! We’re looking forward to reviewing your application. Make sure to apply before this year’s deadline: Apr 4, 2023!

A bit of history

First things first: What is the Sephora Squad? The Sephora Squad is a highly coveted year-long paid partnership designed to amplify and mentor content creators of all races, ethnicities, religions, ages, body types, languages, sexual orientations, following sizes, and experience levels. All Sephora Squad members enter a partnership with Sephora. They’ll get to work with Sephora’s brands, star on their social channels, attend exclusive events, and meet industry experts and new beauty besties.

Launched in 2019, Sephora Squad set out to recruit unique and inspiring storytellers with a diverse range of followers, points of view, and interests.

Sephora initially came to Fohr looking for a way to lean in and support creators in a profound and impactful way. Rather than connect with influencers for one-off campaigns, Sephora wanted to develop long-term partnerships with diverse voices. Sephora sought to support the beauty community by amplifying unheard voices and stories.

We at Fohr helped Sephora build the Sephora Squad program and helped it evolve into what it is today. Sephora Squad's annual application process includes powerful follower testimonials to help select the final Squad members. Along the way, we’ve built a robust mentorship program to guide members and direct access to the Sephora and Fohr teams. 

What can you expect from the Sephora Squad program?

Here are a few things you can expect from being a part of the Sephora Squad program:

All. The. Beauty.

You’ll receive gratis boxes packed with buzzed-about products and limited-edition Sephora Squad gear throughout the year. You’ll also get early access to some of the industry’s most highly anticipated launches.

Get featured & grow your influence

We look to our Sephora Squad for original content to feature, whether it’s a TikTok video shot in your living room, a campaign shoot in our LA studio, or a cameo on a Times Square billboard. 

Meet industry leaders

Grow your network by connecting with Squad Mentors, Sephora team members, and even celebrity brand founders. There's always an opportunity to mingle – from incredible in-person gatherings to digital brand events and everything in between.

Professional development

Get experience on set and take advantage of professional equipment at our LA studio Creator Lounge. Plus, receive one-on-one advice and training from industry experts during monthly Office Hours with Sephora and Fohr team members.

Give back

Get involved with Sephora’s equity partners, Charity Rewards program, and diversity and inclusion efforts. We are always looking for new ways to give back to the community.

Alumni perks

Once you’re in, the perks keep coming. Even after your yearlong partnership, you’ll still have access to training, gratis, brand events, local meet-ups, potential campaign opportunities, and more.

Why you could be a good fit for Sephora Squad

Sephora is committed to finding a diverse group of creators representing their own powerful stories. They want to partner with creators no matter where they are along their journey. We want to hear your story. 

The Sephora Squad is composed of creators of all experience levels and following sizes, whether you’re an up-and-coming influencer or if you have a well-established following. With the stability of a long-term paid contract and creative flexibility, you’ll learn to grow and succeed creatively as part of this program.

Everyone can find a place to belong at Sephora.

If you are:

• Beauty or wellness obsessed
• Ready to actively participate, learn, network, and connect with Sephora brands and partners
• Looking to create an impact in the community
• Confident and ready to share your unique story

If you love:

• Sharing honest and authentic stories of triumphs and struggles
• Getting creative and trying any trend at least once
• Making genuine connections and building a community
• Exploring and talking about all things beauty

Our message to you: Take a chance on yourself

We find that many creators and influencers discount themselves before they even apply. Many are afraid to apply because they feel they don't have what it takes to be a part of the Squad, whether because of their follower count or metrics. Our message to you: Take a chance on yourself, be confident, and apply. We look for applicants with a powerful story and a unique vantage point. You truly never know what could happen.

What makes the Sephora Squad different from other programs? 

• Diversity is one of Sephora Squad’s number one priorities. They want creators who represent and reflect all clients and beauty lovers in the space and represent belonging.
• A simple application process that allows applicants to tell their personal stories.
• Follower testimonials are part of the application process. You’ll have the opportunity for your authentic and engaged audience to advocate for you.
• Applications are open to all, regardless of follower counts, background, or current metrics.
• Opportunities to learn and network via this long-term partnership and various campaigns, events, gratis or product, mentorship, community, access, and opportunities with Sephora.
• Ongoing Support: once you’re in the Squad, you’re part of the Sephora family and will have the opportunity to receive lifelong mentorship support and more

How has Sephora Squad impacted its members? 

The Sephora Squad has historically been a career launch for content creators. If you are eager, excited, and committed, Sephora Squad will give back what you put into it. Hear what the Squad alum have to say:

“Being on the Sephora Squad opened so many new doors and opportunities. I LOVE working with Sephora, they partner with some of the most diverse, innovative, and kind people.” - @samanthatalu

“I'm excited to be in the Sephora Squad because I get to represent inclusive beauty and bring inclusion to the forefront! Being among this iconic group of creators is a dream!" - @therealsteffig

“Follow your dreams at any age! At 44, I am so humbled to be amongst so much talent. Sephora Squad feels like home. The relationships I have built are what dreams are made of.” - @stefaniefritzxo

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Expert Tips for Your Sephora Squad Application

What should you do to prepare for your application?

• While the application is not lengthy, you should dedicate at least 20 minutes, especially to the two open-ended questions.
• Think through your unique and personal story and what inspires you before applying. Yes, we read the entire application and take your personality into account!
• Let your followers know you're applying to gather those powerful testimonials! After you've gathered some, re-engage with your audience by thanking them and reposting a few.

More Tips and Tricks

• The application will autosave so you can easily finish later.
• Don’t forget to submit it before the deadline, April 4!
• Be confident in yourself. All are welcome to apply, and we are looking for a diverse and enthusiastic group of partners.
• Have your links ready for social media platforms
• Make sure to have a square, JPEG headshot ready so that you can easily receive your custom social assets to spread the news and ask for testimonials

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Questions about the program? Reach out to us at support@sephorasquad.com .