Key takeaways

  • Write numbered steps and say exactly what counts as done.
  • Describe the proof so precisely that two people would submit the same screenshot.
  • Never change the requirements after users have started submitting.

Why it matters

Vague instructions are the most common reason a campaign is sent back for changes. They also cause problems later: users guess, submit the wrong proof, and you end up rejecting completions that could have been approved.

Instructions that work

  • Use numbered steps. One action per step.
  • Name the exact place. "Open the starting link" beats "go to our site".
  • Define done. "Stay on the page for 30 seconds and click Subscribe" is testable. "Check out our page" is not.
  • Write in clear English if you target any English-speaking country.

Good example

1. Open the starting link. 2. Tap Follow on our Instagram profile. 3. Take a screenshot of the profile that shows the Following button and your username.

Too vague

Follow us and send proof.

Proof requirements

Choose the proof type that matches the task. Screenshots suit visible actions, text suits usernames or order numbers, and both together suit tasks where you need to match an account to a screen.

Describe what must be visible. A good test: if two different people read your requirement, would they submit the same kind of screenshot?

Common reasons for changes

  • The promoted product or landing page cannot be checked, or does not match the description.
  • The task asks for passwords, private keys, payment details, or other sensitive data.
  • The task breaks the rules of the platform it sends users to, for example fake reviews.
  • Referral or affiliate links that pay you per sign-up are not clearly disclosed.
  • The content is on the prohibited list in the Terms of Service.

Pre-submit checklist

  1. Could someone who has never heard of your product finish the task using only your steps?
  2. Is the starting link required if the task begins on a specific page?
  3. Does the proof requirement say exactly what must be visible?
  4. Did you leave notes for our review team if the offer is limited to certain countries?

Frequently asked questions

Why was my campaign sent back for changes?

Most often because the instructions were vague. Other reasons are a landing page we cannot check, a request for sensitive data, a task that breaks another platform’s rules, undisclosed referral links, or content on the prohibited list.

Which proof type should I choose?

Screenshots suit visible actions, text suits usernames or order numbers, and both together suit tasks where you need to match an account to a screen.

Can a task ask for passwords or payment details?

No. Tasks that ask for passwords, private keys, payment details, or other sensitive data are sent back for changes.