As a blogger, the single question I hear more than anything is: “Do you make money blogging?” It’s kind of odd that people feel compelled to ask this– in what other world do people go up to near strangers and inquire about paychecks and figures? I highly doubt these discussions are being had by bloggers or writers other than us mommies. But, since inquiring minds want to know, I will answer the burning question: Yes, I make money blogging. But, no, not nearly enough.
For the last three years, I’ve looked at this blog as a job. More than a job, actually. A job and a hobby and a passion and a fourth baby. I’ve worked harder on it than any job I’ve ever had. Probably more than all of my other jobs, combined (which, yes, speaks more to what a crappy employee I was.) If I got paid by the hour for what I put into this site, I’d be rich. But, unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that in blog-land.
When I started blogging, making money was the furthest thing on my mind. It was a hobby and an experiment, nothing more. But, after a few months, I was inspired by some other blogs I read and I slapped some Google ads up. If I could make a few bucks, why not? Months and months and months went by without a single payment, so I took them down.
Then, after a year of blogging, I joined BlogHer’s ad network. I got around $60 a month or so, but for the space it took up on my blog, I didn’t feel it was worth it. I took them down and two years went by with no ads on my site. A couple months ago, I connected with Federated Media through Clever Girls. Federated is the Holy Grail of ad networks. Finally, I’d be making real money, I thought. Hallelujah. Except, I’m not. Because even with over half a million page views last month, the ads only run on a portion of my pages and I only get paid for the spots that actually run or get clicked on.
So, no, advertising isn’t going to make you huge money. Unless you’re getting millions and millions of pageviews a month, it just won’t. And, once you need to actually pay for coding and tweaking and hosting, making back that money becomes vital. Here’s how it can be done…
1. Sponsored posts. People get anywhere from ten dollars to ten thousand dollars for a sponsored post. Am I willing to honestly write about a product for ten bucks? Hell no. But, for two thousand bucks? Yes, I might. I would advice you to be selective about which ones you choose to accept because reading sponsored post after sponsored post isn’t much fun for your readers.
2. Sponsored campaigns. Pretty much a sponsored post that lasts for a set period of time. Be sure you really believe in the company or product before committing to something like this. I once excitedly agreed to promote a movie on mommy blogging starring a major movie star without having ever seen the film. It turned out to be one of the worst movies I’ve ever seen and an enormous lesson.
3. Writing Gigs. If you are writing for places other than your own site, you need to receive one of two things: Exposure or money. People make anywhere from $25 to 500+ per post, but some exposure is priceless. I didn’t get paid to write a recent cnn.com piece, for example, but I couldn’t buy that kind of exposure. At least on my salary.
4. The Stuff. No, I’m not suggesting you write in exchange for bars of soap or $10 gift cards. But, I have happily reviewed/given away expensive items I couldn’t have otherwise afforded. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay taxes on stuff you accept, so make sure you want it enough to cover that.
5. A Job. I know countless bloggers whose sites have led to full-time jobs. I worked for Nickelodeon’s Parents Connect for almost a year, and got the job based solely on my blog. Your blog can become your resume, in this day and age.
Keep in mind, that none of these opportunities happen overnight. If you are looking for some fast and quick money to be made from home, blogging is not for you. But, if you are willing to work your ass off for years before it finally pays off, it just might be worth it. Eventually.
I hope.
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Excellent post! This has very much been on my mind lately as well and there was even a healthy debate going on about it on my site.
There are definitely some misconceptions about the big blogs out there – that their owners must be millionaires because of the success of their blogs. More often than not, I think most bloggers do it because they love it, not for the money, free stuff or even popularity. All that said, who wouldn’t want to be able to make a living doing what they love? I know I would!
Memoirs of a Single Dad recently posted..Spring Break and Single Parent Vacations
If bloggers blogged for the money, I don’t think there would be many of us still doing it. But, yes, getting paid to do what you love is what we all want, right? No matter what we do.
Completely agree. I think, for some, the same ‘rules’ apply to bloggers that apply to other forms of art. Some artists look disfavorably on other artists as being ‘sell-outs’ if they make a living in their trade, yet most aspire to get there some day as well. I think the key in all cases is balancing the ‘art’ with the commercial.
Memoirs of a Single Dad recently posted..The Dating Game – Bi the Way
Oh, balance. Yes.
And, people do seem to feel like that which is bullshit. I bet if they were making money themselves, they’d be singing a different tune. People have no idea how much money goes INTO maintaining a blog. I certainly didn’t back in my cozy, free blogspot days.
“…getting paid to do what you love is what we all want, right? No matter what we do.”
That is what my dad always told me!
As a first grade teacher, I believe I have found my goldmine. Priceless rewards from 6 year-olds.
I enjoy blogging about my passion for teaching. I also have an amazing opportunity to teach writing to first graders. Or, as is more often true…they teach me.
I don’t make money blogging and I am ok with that : )
I think that each person has to decide if they want to earn because of their blog, or if they just want a hobby! Whatever makes you happy, you know? : )
I am glad you have been blessed Jill! It thrills me to bits!
Life with Kaishon recently posted..a million dollar question
Sponsored posts are tough because when do right they are awesome for both the blogger and the company, but if done wrong can come off looking like an infomercial.
Totally. Those are pointless and mostly just sad attempts for a company to boost their rankings. I do think they can be done well. It’s rare, but it happens.
Thank you so much for this info. i think that if you get into personal blogging initially with the hopes of making $ – it wont happen. Passion comes first. & i agree that there are lots of people who think the big & popular bloggers must make a lot of money from it.
Devan @ Accustomed Chaos recently posted..Social Media Etiquette 101
Such great information. So bummed I may never be rich and famous. le sigh.
Love this so much, as always. Also love my latte’s are paid for with my little ads currently. Perspective for me.
xoxo,
Tracy
tracy recently posted..Teenage Dream…
Thank you so much for posting this. I have thought many times about starting a blog — more for pleasure and release of every emotion out there — but feel unsure of myself. I mean really, how many blogs can the web have about the real life of real moms?! Not sure what my hook is. Still searching. Maybe that’s my hook! HA!
Anyhow, thank you for addressing what all of us have been wondering from a real mom with a real life with a real point of view!
I think if you want to blog just to release — you should! My husband pushed me to try it for that very reason. Initially I thought I had nothing to say… turns out I did/do. Whether anyone else reads it or finds it interesting turned out to be less important than doing it, because I felt better after.
You don’t need a hook really at first. You really need your friends to follow you and share your blog with their other friends. Once it starts to move a bit and you have a feel for how you are leaning in your posts, then you will find out if you have a “hook” or if you feel like you even need one.
Try it and send me your link — I will happily read it! =]
MommaC recently posted..Skinny Girl Margarita
Love your comment and completely agree. With that in mind, here’s a bit of something for you to read: http://www.totthoughts.com. :)
Karla recently posted..Fragments
That’s just how I started. My hubby “encouraged” – translate ” please go tell that story to someone else”
So I did. A month later, I’m a mommy with stories on a site… for me. Just for fun. I told 2 friends, they told 2 friends, so on, so on, etc. Totally worth it.
Listen to Nike…
Thanks for the tips! I agree with you on sponsored posts – I will write them, but only if it’s on a topic I would normally blog about anyway and I try not to do more than one a month. I’m also not going to blog about something for a *chance* to win a gift card. I think that’s shady.
Mommy Boots recently posted..A Bushel and a Peck
Those pitches kill me. Why on earth would I link to your company, bore my readers and waste my time on something I may not ever receive? It’s insulting.
I honestly think that some companies think they can take advantage of bloggers, because they think that we are desperate for the exposure and that what we do isn’t “real” or worth compensation. I know I felt that way in the beginning; any time someone would pitch me I’d be so excited I was willing to blog about anything. Then I realized that my blog is my space. My words. I put time and effort into my posts, and that’s worth something, damnit. I really think there are still a lot of bloggers out there who just don’t realize that their time and space are worthy of compensation.
Mommy Boots recently posted..A Bushel and a Peck
Absolutely. I think it’s a lesson we all need to learn for ourselves. I’m certainly not proud of a review I did for organic baby products worth a whopping $20 a few years ago. Lessons, baby. We’re all still learning.
Based on a couple of inquiries I’ve received from companies lately, I’m in the beginning stages of thinking about maybe considering wondering about sponsorships, so this discussion is quite helpful…kind of validates the way I’ve been thinking about it which is to insist, when I DO do it, that there be real value to me (in the form of an entertaining story I can tell) and to my readers (in the form of tangible, desirable giveaways.) I appreciate the window into your own experience, Jill – thanks as always for your generosity.
Nancy Davis Kho recently posted..Concert Crone Review- Lykke Li
I don’t think I’ll EVER make money blogging :-) It is great to know that people like you do, Jill. I think you absolutely deserve it.
Great and very useful post!
Alison recently posted..To cloth or not to cloth
Thanks for this. The world of blogging-as-business is relatively new and being shaped by writers such as yourself and others who are bringing us much to read and think about. As a parent blogger myself, I truly appreciate the advice.
Karla recently posted..Fragments
You’re spot on with regard to the CNN exposure. That’s how I first learned about your blog. So glad I found it, too!
Great advice, Jill! I make money from my blog, too, but not enough to quit my day job. Sadly, and sob.
The money I make from blogging is currently used to pay for things blog related – conference tickets, airplane tickets, hotel, etc.
I do write sponsored posts too – for nothing less than $50.
$50 might seem a little low, but if I like what I’m writing about, I don’t mind. Plus, $50 plus $50 plus $50 and I almost have a new pair of Tory Burch Reva flats, you know? ;)
Wonderful post, Jill! I only do a couple of sponsored things every month or two at the most and I like it that way. It gives me makeup money and that’s about it. But I do think that as you said, your blog can serve as your resume (I’ve always looked at it that way) AND can be a springboard for something else, like a paid writing gig or opportunity in social media. That’s happened in my case – and it never would have come to fruition without my blog.
gigi recently posted..The blog that never was
That’s helpful information, so thanks for that! I haven’t really done much in that way with my blog, but it’s something I’ve considered. Your tips will help greatly though.
Talkative Taurus recently posted..Happy 100th to The Zodiac Zoo Crew!
Couldn’t have said it better myself! Perfect.
Sarahviz recently posted..A Beginners Guide to Running – Safety
I miss the days when everyone blogged for the sake of blogging. I understand the desire to make a buck at doing what you love, and that’s great. But I don’t think many just starting out have any love for it anymore and are simply greedy bastards.
C @ Kid Things recently posted..My Mama Heart Grew 3 Sizes That Day
I used to say that, too. I felt like I came along two years too late and the whole blogging environment had changed. But, I don’t think it’s all bad. I’ve certainly had some amazing opportunities stem from the blog. But, you’re right: You need to love what you are doing first and foremost. You can spot the people who are just doing it for a buck a mile away.
I’m not trying to make money from my blog but i can see where many people who like to. The problem, as i see it, is that you need READERS to actually get anybody interesting wanting you to do the things to make money.
So, why don’t you have all your readers READ MY BLOG and then i can make money but i’ll send it back to you for all the PR you just gave me. FAIR? i think so…think about it
Lynn MacDonald (All Fooked Up) recently posted..In which chatting drains my brain
Freaky timing! I just threw a hissy fit this morning because my Google ads weren’t working after I took over three hours to write my new post. Boo frickin’ hoo. My husband told me that I need to figure out my priorities: Am I doing this for enjoyment or for the money? (3 cents a day.) Why can’t I have both? I’ve never worked this hard at my day job! Thanks for the ideas and inspiration. Please keep ‘em coming~
mom-mom-mom recently posted..Spring Break Blues
Google ads are a joke. You’re far better off hosting affiliate ads and hoping people actually click & order so you can get a percent of their orders. Watching the pennies role in from Google is just painful!
Yes, it’s like Chinese water torture: plink, plink, plink! (Just applied for Amazon. We’ll see.) You opened my bloodshot eyes to other ideas and opportunities, too. Can’t thank you enough for your honest advice~
mom-mom-mom recently posted..Spring Break Blues
Great advice, but I’m still hung up on the half a million page views thing. Damn girl, I knew you rocked this blog but I didn’t know how hard!
I’m starting to use my blog to get other blogging gigs. I have high hopes…but I have no hope of ever getting that many page views. And I’m okay with that.
LOL. The last few months have been nutty. It’s funny how it all works… now I want a million. :)
I don’t blog often enough or regularly enough to make any money at it.. maybe someday when I get some sort of schedule for these damn kids. Always wondered though – for sponsored posts, do you contact, say The Gap and say “hey send me a free pair of jeans and I’ll blog how awesome they are” or do they contact you?
Also – I HATE HATE HATE those super-suck-up-y sponsored posts “This is the best product EVAR!” kinda thing… You can always tell when a blogger genuinely digs a product or when they’re just in it for the swag.
Both. Mostly, I have been contacted by companies, but there is no reason you can’t reach out to The Gap or anywhere else. The worst they can do is say no.
Sometimes, I feel like my posts on products are too enthusiastic, but I only write about things I LOVE, so it’s authentic. But, yes, I totally know what you mean.
Thanks for the information. I don’t make any money on my blog, but I haven’t really even explored it an as an option. I just love to write! If I someday find a way to make a little money writing (blog or elsewhere), then that will just be an added bonus!
Great post!
I think the only thing you missed mentioning is that some people can use their blog as a way to get book contracts. Not many, but I have known a few.
I was actually approached many years ago by a publisher but just never felt I had the time to really write my story out like they were hoping….
maybe one day… maybe
debi9kids recently posted..Its a give-away!
Yes, absolutely true. I also know people who’ve started blogs after writing books as a way to promote the book.
Thank you so much for this post. I think a lot of people ask about the money making thing because there is so much out there on “how to make money” but no one EVER talks about how much money a blogger actual makes or what the average blogging “salary” ranges could be. With any other job you can easily look that information up. But with blogging it is so secret it seems. Some bloggers (the big ones making 6 figures like Darren Rowse) share their incomes but other than that you don’t hear about the average problogger or part-time blogger and what their monthly or yearly salary is. Not saying a blogger should disclose that but I wish this information was available on some of the “how to” professional blogging sites. I think it would be helpful to bloggers wanting to blog professionally what they could expect an average blogging income to look like.
Thank you again for this post. very helpful.
Tammy @ Skinny Mom’s Kitchen recently posted..Weekly Family Friendly Kid Approved Healthy Menu Plan
People like Darren Rowse also do a ton of paid speaking gigs (not so realistic for most moms,) and affiliate advertising (which works great for things like web hosting/web classes etc. in their field, but isn’t as natural for us.) But, I don’t think it’s impossible to make six figures blogging. It just takes a boatload of work.
Great post, I’m currently looking into monetizing and wasn’t sure if it made me a sell out and frankly if it do so be it lol. I just want to have an independant site where the costs are covered. Ok well if someone offered me free MAC for a year I’d be in.
I like your honesty about blogging as a job. I blog just purely because I love to write, and so my blog serves as my training ground for getting better at it. If I didn’t have my blog, I highly doubt I’d be writing on a regular basis–my motivation just does not stick unless I feel like I have an obligation to write.
To everyone:
How do you stay motivated to keep writing on your blog?
MK Chang recently posted..Privatizing Education- Good or Bad
Rats. And here I thought I was going to be a millionaire.Guess it’s back to the drawing board. ;-)
Great post, Jill.
If your heart’s not in it… Apparently my folks were right, yet again. Anything to pay for our latte addiction would help though. Right?
Stasha recently posted..Saturday afternoon in my house
I gave up on making money solely due to my blog a couple of years ago. Not that I ever pursued it extensively, but from what I saw and thanks to my husband who is in the IT industry, I had no grandiose ideas of becoming instantly rich due to blogging. Now, I’m thinking of it as more of a resume for possible writing gigs in the future. And by future, I mean like 10 years when I don’t have 42 little ones underfoot all the time. Who needs money anyway?
I’m at the point where swag isn’t tempting to me at all–no matter how awesome it is. I can’t pay my electric bill with swag. I can’t drag it to the store and barter with it.
I’m attempting to recruit my own businesses for ads. Like you Jill, I was fed up with ad networks taking up so much space and paying little. I’m going after brands I love and would be proud to endorse, but it’s hard. I’m starting to feel like a one-woman magazine, and yes, it’s a lot of work.
“One woman magazine” – LOL that is it perfectly! I have been blogging for a year now on coupons and freebies – and I think I have made maybe 2.60 which I will prolly never see (as it takes a payout of $20? $100? I forget how much to be paid). You have to do it cuz you love it… or maybe you can make money and none of us have figured it out! I haven’t done any sponsored blog posts, but I do have my $2.60 through being an Amazon affiliate. Well worth the 20-30 hours a week I blog and search for freebies and coupons…lol! But – I still will blog and share what I find because – I like it. That’s it! Also liked the comment from the gal who’s hubby told her to go tell someone who cared. HAHAHA I can relate to that too! New fan here, just found you, and enjoying. One day I hope to make enough to pay for my yearly url cost of seven bucks! ;) Although, I have made about a hundred dollars through Swagbucks, and who knows if I would have the referrals I have if i didn’t have the link on my blog. Prolly the same as I also put it on Facebook!
Coupon Newbie recently posted..Got My Free Bumper Sticker!
Nicely done Scarymommy.
OHmommy recently posted..Tourist in your own city- Cleveland – West Side Market
Awesome post! If you’re blogging to become rich quick, good luck with that! I had watched a youtube video from the creators of the website failblog.org on monetizing your site and he had this great quote, “Society admires complexity and rewards simplicity” They’re philosophy is to not spend money on programs that are available free over the internet (i.e. gmail for email, wordpress for site hosting, youtube for video, etc.)
As with anything in life, if do what you love and are passionate about first, success will naturally follow.
Kathleen Coleman recently posted..I Need a News Channel Holiday!
What the hell? Motherhood was a “lesson learned.” I’m so confused.
Honestly, I don’t know what all the complaining and fuss is about. I’m a damn billionaire from blogging.
You know, in East Timor.
Money has never been my goal. My goal is recording my boys’ childhood and making friend’s along the way :)
Priscilla-The Wheelchair Mommy recently posted..Scrap I’m back
I’d say you’ve succeeded.
Ah, reality. I love this post because I tend to idealize every blog that’s not my own. Plus, I’m having a day of productivity and you pumped me up. Slow and steady, baby!
Liz @ Six Year Itch recently posted..This is my Jack Lemmon and it will help you understand a post next week
I started blogging as a means for spewing my shit out. Of course I would love to make money doing something I love, but I am not about to whore myself out and do reviews of products I don’t think, etc… I think I will just stick with what I am doing. Of course if I could write somewhere like Babble, The Stir or something like that one day…now that would be awesome!
Rachel {at} Mommy Needs a Vacation recently posted..For the Love of the Tweet
I do love my gig at The Stir. I just need to stop reading the comments over there. :)
Great advice! I blog because it keeps me sane first. It would be nice to make some money someday, but I am not planning a house payment around it!
Katy recently posted..Month of the Military Child-Sisterhood Sunday
I’m a blogging nobody and thus went into this with -0- revenue expectations and I’m totally OK with that. (And really when you’re blogging about babies and sleep it’s all about the good karma anyway, right?).
The state of the blogsphere report (http://technorati.com/blogging/article/day-4-blogging-for-profit/page-2/) suggests that the top 10% of bloggers are making almost $10K a year with the TOP bloggers making north of $250K (I wonder what they’re selling? It’s definitely not advertising). I have no illusions of EVER becoming one of these people. But it is interesting, no?
Alexis recently posted..Helping Your Baby Welcome Baby 2- Sibling Transition
Yes, interesting. I’d venture to say it’s higher now- those figures are from 2008. Hmmm…
Woops sorry – didn’t realize that WASN’T 2010. #s not that different though. Mean income in 2010 = $6K overall or $10K for people who report blog income as non-salary (I’m not sure what the difference is between these two groups).
Here’s the data from 2010:
http://technorati.com/blogging/article/state-of-the-blogosphere-2010-introduction/page-2/
http://technorati.com/blogging/article/how-technology-traffic-and-revenue-day/page-2/
Also here is a nice infographic (compiles data from numerous sources and thus slightly different than technorati).
http://www.blogherald.com/2010/09/20/state-of-the-blogosphere-in-2010/
Alexis recently posted..Helping Your Baby Welcome Baby 2- Sibling Transition
Interesting! I suppose with all the blogs there are, that’s not so bad as a mean. Thanks for adding the new stats!
Well damn there go my hopes and dreams…….
I think you on your way to being bigger than Oprah…..1/2 million page views thats nuts! You rock Scary Mommy!
great post. thanks for your honesty!
Cam – Bibs & Baubles recently posted..Don’t Shoot the Messenger
Blogging is definitely not one of those get rick quick type jobs. That cnn piece you did was really good and I imagine it gave you a lot of good exposure.
Jessica recently posted..The Garden – Part 1
Thank you for writing this. Now, when people ask me…I’ll just direct them here. Haa.
Also, when my husband’s friends use air quotes to ask about my “online job” because they’re too effing dumb to know what blogging is…ok…no I won’t direct them here. I just can’t do that to you.
Great post and advice. Though I was hoping to hear that you made millions because a: You deserve millions and b: it would give me a better shot at making tens of thousands.
Oh well.
triplezmom recently posted..This Is What Fox Means By Fair and Balanced
That was sweet of you to put that up. I’m glad that I don’t care about the money aspect of it. I feel safer that way.
OK, so here’s my question to you, how do you find paid writing gigs? And what’s the best way to connect with brands who want to sponsor posts? Do you seek them out, do they come to you, have you joined any networks that pair brands with blogs?
I’m just full of questions, aren’t I?
Allison @ Alli ‘n Son recently posted..Best Face of March
How do you find paid writing gigs? In my experience, they’ve come to me. But, you can do things to get on the radar of paying places. Connect with them on Twitter. Comment on their posts. Join http://www.helpareporter.com/ and become a source. Or, even volunteer to write a piece for free & see how it goes; if the reaction is good, they may want to pay you next time.
What’s the best way to connect with brands who want to sponsor posts? Do you seek them out, do they come to you? Again, most have come to me, but it can work both ways. Twitter is a great way to meet people behind the companies. Also, fan their FB pages. Write an honest post about some of your favorite things and send the link to all of the companies you’ve mentioned. It’s just all about connecting.
Have you joined any networks that pair brands with blogs?
Yes, I’ve joined, but never actually participated. I’ve discovered that I’d rather do it on my own rather than as part of a network.
Great post Jill. It’ been said and I’ll say it again…”there are a lot of misconception’s” about blogging for the green. It’s one of those things most think are just “easy” when it’s really not. As with most things it takes a large amount of time and hard work.
Thanks for sharing this post.
Keia recently posted..tardy for the party
I am a writer. My blog has led to numerous jobs, advertising and some swag. I haven’t earned enough to quit my day job but I have done ok. It is not why I do this but I love to write and if I could earn enough then it would become my full time job.
One of the biggest challenges we all face are the hurdles placed in our way by other bloggers. Some of our “companions” are bad business people. Their missteps and miscues devalue our work and make it far harder to be paid for professional work.
I wish that some of them would figure out that their hourly rate translates into somewhere south of a nickel an hour. Really, as obnoxious as this sounds it is like putting out for any man or woman who has the nerve to ask.
When you work for free you make it harder for all of us.
On a side note, the savvier PR and marketing people pay attention to the blogs (bloggers) who contact them. You don’t have to generate a million pageviews a month or have a 2 million uniques.
You just need to be able to demonstrate that you can help them reach their target demographic.
It is not easy, but it is not as difficult as you might think either.
Jack recently posted..What Does Your Blog Say About You
Thank you so much. I am in charge of publishing my mother’s blog and she drives me crazy sometimes. She has been blogging for a couple of months and is constantly asking. When do I get companies offering me money? When have I “arrived?” I have been trying to explain to her that building a blog following is hard work and a full time job.
Kira recently posted..Gardening
Blogging for money can really vary a lot depending on the topic of the blog. I know a few bloggers who have considerably less traffic than you, yet they make a decent income from Google Adsense. I don’t think it works well for mommy blogs, but for fields such as technology, it can really be profitable.
Lynn recently posted..What if the model of public education was applied to food
Im new to all this, and indeed intrested. How do you get started? Where do you go?
Great post. I don’t want to muss up my blog page with ads and stuff either. So, what do you do when people start asking you to do reviews or giveaways. I have recently had some interest but I don’t know the rules…..is there any?
http://www.threegirlies.com
Thank you for this post. It confirms everything that I believe. For me, blogging is a labor of love and getting money for a post here and there is just a very small part of it.
Jen recently posted..A New Look at the Whole Girlie Girl Princess Thing
While it would be nice to get some free swag once in a while…I don’t think I’d be sellout either. I need to believe in the product before I write about it. What I really like to do is promote people who might be starting out.
Although, that’s not say I wouldn’t turndown a freelance writing or designing gig generated by my blog. It’s like someone else said, it’s more like a personal resume than a cash cow.
Speaking of which, I’d love to guest blog (I know you have people do that from time to time.) Wondered if you knew of anywhere else someone who is new to the blogosphere could participate.
Thanks, and I really appreciated this post. It really put everything in perspective.
Brook recently posted..The Price of a Dream
Great post! It is pretty crazy how people approach you about blogging. I get the occasional Really? You make money? But in the long run it started as a hobby. Now its just a rewarding hobby. Not as rewarding as some but perks are perks!
Meghan Cooper recently posted..Is That the Same Kid
Well, crap, there goes my dream of quitting the in-home daycare gig to blog full time. Guess I’ll have to start taking care of those kids before the parents find out I’ve been neglecting them.
Kidding.
Sugar Mama recently posted..Blogging & Privacy of “Older” Kids
For awhile I wanted to make it big in the blog biz. Then I saw what happened to some other bloggers when they did, and I know that I could NOT handle some of the lengths people will go to in order to discredit or devalue you someone. I’m ok w/ being a bloggin’ nobody :) I have Blogher ads on them, and I just got my first paycheck from them. It covered from I think May of last year to January. Guess how much it was? $69. :) he he he.
Julie recently posted..Humble Pie
* on “it”, not them.
Julie recently posted..Humble Pie
Good details on making money blogging. My blog doesn’t make money, but it has gotten me noticed — I’ve gotten a couple good “gigs” from it. So I think that’s right on to say your blog is your resume.
Holly recently posted..Weekend by numbers- Blah
And that’s why I like you so much – you tell it like it is!
Gigi recently posted..Three by Nine wait – is that a math question
I didn’t start my blog for money. The more I read the more it seems like the money just is not there — unless you have a remarkably large following…
All the product reviewing available out there is overwhelming and it seems nearly impossible to tell who is on the up and up and who isn’t. I think for now I will stick to blogging…
I appreciate the information though, because I think those of us who are new to the blogger world need guidance. THANKS! =]
MommaC recently posted..Skinny Girl Margarita
My blog is my baby, too and I wouldn’t have any of the opportunities that have come my way if it weren’t for my blog. I think peeps who are just starting out don’t realize the true time investment that is really needed to maintain a successful blog.
Your reference about blogs being our virtual resume was spot on. To me, bloggers that land paid gigs that are the right “fit” for them and their blog – all the power to them.
I did a lot of writing for other blogs and websites and made a respectable amount of money. However, I was miserable and not at all proud of what I was doing. So, I changed “jobs” and took a 100% pay cut to write my own blog. So far, it is the best decision I have ever made. Who knew there was a whole world of mom bloggers connecting out there? Not me. That is payment enough!
Twinisms recently posted..Not A Kid Anymore
I am by no means big fish or looking to make money from my blog. I am just an over-sharer who loves to talk, especially about babies and kid stuff. I have *thought* about monetizing but figure it was useless (too small time). Extra swag or $$ to help keep the little girl in bows or actually halfway support my dream of SAHM/WAHM would be lovely. After reading I figured what the heck, and contacted a company about doing a review for an item I would like. Whats the worse that could happen? They say no? Its not a massively huge company like Fisher-Price and this free thing could make my life with child easier. Hopefully God/Karma/Scary Mommy fairy dust will bless this effort.
Denae recently posted..Too many choices
What a great post, although I’m disappointed to hear that even you do not make money on ads. I was hoping somehow the space they were taking up on my blog would soon be worth it. Oh well.
Anyway, great list and thanks for giving me a few things to think about.
Jessica recently posted..It’s a Blog Party
Thanks for some great insights. While looking around the web, I’ve been surprised at how many sites that do have advertising and giveaways consistently going on. Lots to learn, plenty of time. Thanks again – very helpful.
ChiMomWriter recently posted..Fashionably Late- Joining in the Ultimate Blog Party!
hello – i read your post and couldn’t agree more. It is way more important to be doing what you want to do with your time and for that matter your life. My own experience is that people will ask the $ question if it is something new or something niche – when one start a business for the “love” of it (which is what many mums actually do) – there is a general sense of disbelief. I guess it shows the focus for many people and the still dominant foundation for many to start a business (or blog for that matter). It takes all of us who do what we love to keep going and eventually the energy will be such that the loveliness spans everywhere.
I love getting a boost of encouragement from someone who has experienced much success from blogging. I just keep telling myself to continue to write what is in my heart. The way I look at it is that my daughters will have this “treasure” of memories to read when they are grown. To me, that is worth more than money.
Thanks for the reminder that it takes years to make something work and that success doesn’t typically come instantly. I will just keep plugging along!
Rachel
Hands Free Mama recently posted..Embrace The Reminder
Thank you for this. I left a secure tenured college professor position to focus on my own writing for a greater public and my family after I became a mom 2+ years ago. Many of my friends, former colleagues, family members, and so on, have expressed concerns about my choice, in particular as I was the “breadwinner” of this family, with a younger husband still in grad school. None of us have a full time job with health care. And yes, I’m not making any money so far from my writing, online on my various sites, for others’ sites, blogging, etc., though I am trying as creatively as possibly. But it’s my passion, it’s my life, I feel I need to give it a shot. It’s now. Or never. But it is scary. And hard.
Quizzical mama recently posted..How Sex Affects Womens Body Image
Keep going – it is hard and scary but ultimately so much more rewarding. I did similar and many times asked the same questions you are asking however, I just kept getting the same answer – there is no choice, if you are driven to live a life from the heart there is only one way – so keep believing and keep your eyes wide open to opportunity as it appears. Dont look back :)
Thank you, Deb! Wow, the power of one encouraging comment; I’m truly grateful for it! Your work looks great!
Quizzical mama recently posted..How Sex Affects Womens Body Image
my pleasure – it always helps to hear from someone who genuinely knows what you are saying/thinking. Keep going – I will follow your blog and keep posted on how you are going.
That’s awesome advice, Deb. Also, clicked on you link and YUM.
Jenny @ Crash Test Mommy recently posted..Budget Style – Easter 2011
Seriously, someone shoot me now. I just wrote like 8 hours of a response on my new freaking iPhone and boom, I hit some button and it’s gone. Why did I switch from a good old Blackberry?
Aah, so Cliff Notes version –
1. Great post. I think you have a winning combo – writing talent, humor, networking and marketing savvy, a commitment to your craft, stories to tell. I am totally schizo on my blog. I started off helpful, then got serious and contemplative and now I’m trying to inject some humor… I guess if anyone were to ever pay me, they’d be doing it because they liked my schizophrenic nature.
2. I have only been at it for a few months, but I sometimes wish I had the time and energy to monetize my blog. I realize, though, that my readers hardly comment let alone share my blog content with friends. I think I’d have to go to conferences, network, make this my full-time job and I am trying to set up my accessories business site by summer, so that takes precedence. I’m hoping to link my blog to my biz and vice versa.
3. This was a great Part 2 (or 3 or 4) to previous helpful how-to’s that you’ve done. I had a few opportunities to do paid sponsorships, but I’m still not sure exactly “who I am” as a blogger (see above “schizo”) so I don’t want to shove some random paid post in there yet.
4. I love how your blog has grown organically. I would like to know, though, what exactly was the post or event that brought you out of obscurity and increased your readership? Like the jump from just family and friends reading it to thousands? The Facebook fan page? Twitter? Conferences?
Dani recently posted..How to be a successful Mommy Blogger – Part 2 of 3
I didn’t start blogging for money, I started for connections and to find a way to reach out to other young, single mothers. Since I started blogging almost a year ago, I’ve earned some money through sponsored posts. I never even thought of Sponsored Campaigns, but like you said, I think I have to be really committed to a product/company to do that. I totally agree with the exposure. I’ve done a few posts for more well-known sites and I wanted to do it, because, as you said, I can’t pay for that exposure.
Alicia @MommyDelicious recently posted..A Play Date to Remember with Baby Einstein
Hey Jill, love the post HOWEVER ahum let me scratch my throat. I did started vlogging, since I don`t blog ( and after reading this you`ll probably agree with me I should stick to vlogging! Being Dutch my English writing is horrendous) for MONEY. My business was sinking and all my clients always strongly encouraged me to go do vlogs and show the world what you`re about. And so I did in 2009. Have I quit my business yet???? Have I made any real income yet??? Nope Nade Nothing Niks (yep that`s Dutch lol) However after some incredible hard work, I was invited to review a 5 Diamond Resort with my hubby, which was unreal. So in a way all my hard work paid off. Now learning the robes of social media, which has taken over my life, I now consult small businesses the how to`s of social media. Why? because of my blog oh well vlog website is my portfolio. They get to see the real deal, what I`ve done so far and that is PAYING off now. Am I there yet? Hell no,but hopefully real soon. Thanks Jill for sharing, to others don`t give up! Other things might come your way, like social media came to me. Stay consistent. Peace out peeps. lol
Linda Rihani recently posted..Were On TV! Fun Things To Do While Pregnant- Lets Talk Live
Amen to the ads. I have just started to look for paid ads on my site but really I made peanuts from having click ads on my site so I took them down. I think there is some money in companies sponsoring a post series and our voice if it matches what their product or service is all about. I am trying this now and will let you know. Fingers crossed.
Thanks for the honesty and like other commenters have said, I think it has been wonderful to watch your blog grow organically and because people love your content.
Cheers Jill! You rock.
Brittany {Mommy Words} recently posted..What’s Your Word Let’s Get this Party Started!
Thanks for this great post. I love your fresh perspective on it.
So, you are not living in a palatial villa being waited on hand and foot… Damn, there go my dreams of instant richness and countless designer bags…
Thanks for the tips though, for someone who is thinking about starting a blog this is helpfull.
I agree. I have researched blogging for a few years and wanted to make sure I was ready before I started.
I decided that if I make $10 a month from advertising it would be enough. No I’m not doing it for free but have noticed that the real money is in either writing web books or finding a niche service you can offer. Such as I will be offering a few services on my blog once I build up traffic.
Thank you for this very informative post! I look forward to more.
I’ve never thought of making money with my blog, most likely because of my experience with promoting the two books I’ve co-authored. We’ve sold thousands of books and have made no money, because of the miniscule profit margin. We’ve spoken at tons of women’s conferences and organizations and led lots of workshops, all gratis. Do I sound discouraged? A tad.
lifeintheboomerlane recently posted..Snooki Speaks at Rutgers University
I have made money. $1.67 to be exact. This comes from months of google ads.
I’ve been thinking of taking them down for some time now.
myevil3yearold recently posted..Move over Evil
This has been a helpful post. I’m just getting started in the blogging world and there’s so much to take in. I started my blog because I love to write and I thought it would get me going, especially getting use to others reading what I write. I really like the support everyone gives each other and how I can relate to so much that everyone writes. It lets you know your not alone in how you feel about different things. Making money with a blog is a bonus, but bloggers are doing so much more than making money. They’re helping people in many different ways. That’s something to feel good about. Not many jobs offer that.
Chantelle recently posted..Mondays and farm life
True – and not only that – but in my blog for instance, i am just documenting what I do to save money. I am trying to cut my groceries bill to 50%. So I am “making money” in that I am not spending it – but I could do all that without blogging. I don’t know, it makes sense when I try to explain it to hubby, but he thinks I am wasting time…although he likes all the freebies! Hey – I may be wasting time, but I am having fun and like you said, meeting lots of great ppl and enjoying the commraderieship! Is that a word? Blogging keeps me going – I HAVE to find the next thing to post to help other ppl, and in doing so I help myself too.
Coupon Newbie recently posted..Got My Free Bumper Sticker!
I love the creativity of a blog. I am not a scrapbooker but with a blog I can post pictures, keep records of family happenings, etc. I don’t think family blogs are the best way to put money in the pocket, unfortunately.
I love the part about your blog being your virtual resume. This is true even if your field isn’t writing. With more and more employers heading to the internet to research potential candidates, a person’s online persona becomes very important. My current boss found my blog online (and hired me anyway). I do have to write business reports and he was looking for someone that could put sentences together to form a coherent thought. I’m glad I passed.
Jennifer recently posted..Walk of Shame
Great list of recommendations to make some money blogging. I love how you also mention that your blog can lead into a position that does pay – that’s so important to remind people!
I do make a full-time income doing this and it is a LOT of work for sure! I also think the niche I’m in allows for many other types of opportunities (including affiliate marketing) than a memoir or parenting niche. Having said that, there definitely are ways to include organic links in posts for those types of blogs, but it takes work. You have to find the right affiliates and know where to insert those links so it’s not like “buy this please” type of stuff.
I’m just glad you mentioned it’s all possible because we have some bloggers who want to tell others to forget about it and that’s disappointing to hear, especially at large blog conferences!
For those wanting to explore advertising that is a bit more lucrative (though much more labor intensive), selling individual ads to brands/blogs is another way to monetize. Affiliate marketing is also a great way, if you don’t mind being a sales person for another blogger/brand.
Ashley Pichea recently posted..Blogging Through the Gospels- Day 2 Matthew 2-3
Holy page views, Batman! As long as I’ve known you, I had no idea that I was in the presence of blogging royalty. ;) I guess that’s the beauty of this business; you can stay in the dark in terms of who’s big and who isn’t and just know people for their writing.
Wait a minute, that’s not what we were talking about. I stayed with BlogHer ads, but I was really curious about what Clever Girls would do with Federated Media. We’ll have to chat about that one of these days.
I would like to see the community stop blogging about brands and products for free. When that stops, everyone will start seeing more paid work.
Thanks for a great post!
Tara @ Feels Like Home recently posted..10 Ways to Use Cheap Flatware
This is honest and inspiring. After an unused degree in art, years wasted in a job I didn’t like, and now staying home with 3 kids 3 and under, I know that writing/blogging is my passion and I want more than anything to pursue it. We’re all so lucky that the blogging community is so helpful and that other bloggers like yourself are willing to lend a helping hand.
Leigh Ann recently posted..Um- where are you
What a rocking post! You answered questions that I always had, but would NEVER have asked. :)
What good information. Thanks for sharing. I have no aspirations of profiting off of my blog. I average a whopping 5 views a day and made $4.67 over the past two years. Yay me!
Beth recently posted..Whats the weight limit of a dishwasher
Very good thoughts, Jill! I am so glad that I discovered a few other ways to make money off of my blog so that I didn’t have to “settle” for the $10 posts and 25 cents a day from google ads. :) I think I’ve tried a bit of everything. And then I realized that I am usually worth more than all of that. Usually.
Lolli @ Better in Bulk recently posted..Miniature Crane
Wait, you blog for the money?
I mean, really Jill?
I’d just thought better of you.
But I suppose you’re just like those other crazy people.
Seriously, there’s only one real reason to blog.
World domination.
Anything less than that is just sad.
Megan (Best of Fates) recently posted..Supporting the Troops Yet Forgetting My Bloomers
So true that in any other industry people would never think to be so straight forward with their questions about pay scales, etc.
I am definitely working the most I ever have in my life with my blog and the opportunities it continues to lead me to…. but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love it. I love the community, I love the friends I’ve made, I love the campaigns and brands I’ve been fortunate to work with I love it all…. but very honestly, I can’t say that when I started payment was even on my radar. I think for many new bloggers today, it is- which I imagine can dampen the whole experience.
I tried blogging for money but I later decided to blog for passion. The money became second. Nice writeup.
I love that you don’t mind laying it all out there. So many bloggers keep things like this close to their chests. In the past 4 or 5 months I’ve been hearing more and more that if people want to make money related to blogging, they need to use their blogs as a platform for other projects, like you said. Brand partnerships, freelance gigs, etc.
I agree with what you said here and in the She Posts quote about needing to really believe in a product/company in order to “work” for them. I paid my own way to Blissdom and will again for Type A because I have a hard time with the idea of what I need to give in exchange for a sponsorship.
I am part of a couple networks that give me opportunities for sponsored posts, and do get hit up for other sponsored post opportunities. Many more times than not, I say no or do not apply because I feel it has nothing to do with me nor my blog. There are some bloggers who will do anything for a buck, which is their call to make, but that’s just not me.
Great post, Jill, and I love that you aren’t afraid to say it!
liz recently posted..A Mother Reminisces
How you wonder that being payed will do much bad than good for your writting?
Maybe this is the way God tells you that your thoughts, feelings and Life has no price that adds can pay.
I really believe that things come at a certain moment and what the hell, maybe someone will give you a bucket of cash when you least expect it. Who knows?
Thanks! As a new blogger it’s so helpful to hear what’s realistic to expect and how to actually go about monetizing a blog in a worthy way.
Dana recently posted..Ode to an iPod
ok. I love you.
Janice (5 Minutes for Mom) recently posted..Ultimate Blog Party LIVE Webcast on MomTV
Well said. Realistic and straightforward. I’ve said this before (somewhere) but blogging is about passion. It’s the passion that drives us to both write for our own blogs and read/participate in other people’s blogs. That’s my take.
I make a little bit of cash with my blog on my local paper’s website. I think of it like a journal that someone is paying me do do. I love it. I have a great job as a law librarian, that affords me flexibility and less hours away from home than my former job, so this helps make up the difference.
I rarely blog unless my kids are asleep or otherwise occupied, so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything, really, other than t.v. and the occasional work out. I saw a panel on Oprah of blogging moms and I never thought I would be among them. http://tiny.cc/onehonestmom
Allison Killins recently posted..Dynacast hiring 36
Thanks for the honesty and insight and realistic expectations. And I’m with you on that Uma Thurman movie — I didn’t last more than 20 minutes before I deleted it from my DVR.
Thank you for being so honest about your experience and the details of how you make what you do. Yes, it is rude to ask – and that kind of honesty IS hard to come by.
You’ve done an amazing job at building complete trust with your readers. We know you’re not going to BS us or bore us. Kudos.
The Flying Chalupa recently posted..Government Shutdown- Cancun or Daytona Beach
When we were doing our taxes this year my accountant looked and me and said (with a straight face) – “can we put you down for $5K for 2011?”. BAHHHHH! What a funny guy!
Great post – Great Comments!
After two years of blogging, I still have no interest or desire in making money. I’ve been approached by companies, but never responded.
I am glad someone with your traffic acknowledges that adsense and ad networks doesnt net you much money. I learned that pretty quickly.
i never started my blog for money, i started it to learn about blogging and social media after I was laid off from my marketing job where I knew nothing about social media. My blog has led to some consulting gigs but not many but has enriched my resume.
Again thanks for the honesty.
NYC Single Mom recently posted..Air Hogs Pocket Copter Helicopter Giveaway
Thanks so much for sharing this information. I used to have a blog on blogger.com and thought I would get some extra cash from google ads. Good to know that it isn’t worth holding your breath for. Truthfully, I never started blogging as a way of earning money. After becoming a mother, my vocabulary was rapidly shrinking and I thought blogging would be a nice way to improve my writing skills. It never dawned on me that I could actually meet some pretty cool people in the process, as well as get parenting tips and recipes. The whole experience has been really cool. Some free products would make it all even better, but I am terrified of doing product reviews because I don’t know how not to make it sound like a sales pitch.
Bohemian Hijabi recently posted..A Hobby That Pays
This is all fabulous advice. I was pretty sure I wouldn’t make money blogging per se but I’m attempting to make freelance writing a part time career while I stay at home with my girls. It keeps the brain functioning so it doesn’t go to mush. Haha.
Nicole@MTDLBlog recently posted..Blog Idol Interview- Taming Insanity
Thanks for all the tips in this article. I’m glad that this is working out for you. Congratulations!
http://blog.beingmom3.com
Makeda Rodriguez recently posted..Look Forward
I’ve been blogging for years. My blog does “okay” but I’d love to “up” exposure. I guess I need to do some creative thinking…
Thanks for the advise. I’d review any product sent to me (Feel free to send me stuff) :D
C.B. Grace (Casey) recently posted..Savings
THANKS so much for the advice! I fell upon this blog today based on the ten most influential mommy bloggers! So… as soon as I finish supper, put away the laundry, make a post and pour myself a glass of wine… I’ll take a good look around. In the meantime, quite enjoying what I’m seeing so far.
I’m just beginning to make money from my blog but mostly because I live in a small area and my name is getting out there a bit… I’m going after local advertisers and they’re jumping on board. I’ve thought of the google ads and blogher ads but chose not to do them… and won’t promote/test anything that’s not monetarily worthwhile for either myself or my readers. So far so good… but what a lot of work to keep it up! Good think I love it.
Do what you love… and the rest will follow…
Thanks for the post. I just took down google ads after having them up for 3 months (been blogging 12) and didn’t make a dime I don’t think. Maybe a dime. I guess I need to try to run down some reviews – I would love to do them, just nervous about asking! LOL, time to get over it I guess.
Coupon Newbie recently posted..Got My Free Bumper Sticker!
Thanks so much for this info. Love the straightforwardness of it! For me, the payoff of blogging is getting the instant gratification that comes from writing in today’s world. Writing is passion number one. Hearing from a reader is like biting my own tail. It drives me to write the next post and the next and the next . . . For years it was just me and my journals. Welcome to the new millenium! PS. Love your blog ;-)
Love that analogy!
Coupon Newbie recently posted..Got My Free Bumper Sticker!
Honestly, I started my blog reviewing baby stuff last month with the hopes of never having to ‘work’ again. After reading your post I haven’t realized, but can admit, that I will never make any money off my blog. But you know what… I really like recommending good shit and/or ripping apart crappy products, so I will continue to write… but I am going to have way more fun with it from now on. Thanks.