# Sending Messages vs. Sending Target Collaboration Invites

When deciding between sending messages or sending targeted collaboration invites, it's important to understand the differences and advantages of each approach.

**Sending Messages**

* **Requirement for Open Collaboration**: When sending messages through TikTok Shop, you must have an open collaboration for your product, complete with a set commission.
* **Creator Interaction**: Upon receiving your message, the creator will see the open collaboration for your product and may add it to their showcase, then potentially request a free sample.
* **Limitations on Samples**: Creators have a limited number of sample requests they can make. They will need to coordinate with you directly to request a sample, which might complicate logistics.

**Sending Target Collaboration Invites**

* **Direct Invitation**: This method involves sending an invitation directly to the creator to promote your product and includes an offer of a free sample, which the creator can accept regardless of their current quota of sample requests.
* **Visibility**: Unlike messages that are sent to a creator’s potentially cluttered inbox, target collaboration invites are displayed in a separate, dedicated area. This makes them more visible and less likely to be overlooked.
* **Higher Acceptance Rates**: Experience has shown that target collaboration invites tend to have higher acceptance rates compared to sending regular messages, particularly with high-performing creators who receive numerous messages daily.

In conclusion, while sending messages is a straightforward approach, sending targeted collaboration invites tends to be more effective, especially for engaging high-profile creators and streamlining the collaboration process. This method not only enhances visibility but also circumvents the limitations on sample requests, offering a more direct and appealing invitation to potential collaborators.