Like we've mentioned before, blogging for us started out as a hobby, and has now grown into a business that provides work for our whole family. One of the first ways we started to make money was by selling ad space. Here are just a few suggestions that we have when you're starting out:
1. Don't Be Afraid
Starting out, we were a little nervous to start contacting people, but confidence is key. You know what kind of posts you produce, so take some pride in them! Don't be afraid to let people know how wonderful you really are. The worst thing they can say is no, right? :)
2. Decide on Prices
One thing is for sure - never sell yourself short! You can check with other blogs in your niche and see what they are charging, and gauge your prices from theirs. Consider your monthly page views and your other statistics. You should also be clear on what is included for the price. Are you willing to tweet or pin it in addition to the ad? The clearer you are, the less people will try to take advantage of you (which we had to learn the hard way!). You can be flexible, or you can be a stickler - the great thing is, you get to decide!
3. Create a Media Kit
This is like a blog's resume. If you've got a great media kit to send out to sponsors, the more likely they will advertise with you. Include your statistics, your demographics, a short biography, your current projects or places you've been featured, and contact information. You'll also want to include what types of ad sizes you offer (we currently only offer 150x150 ad spaces to simplify things), and your prices. Media kits are a great way to show people the highlights of your blog quickly and to draw people in to get more info about your company. So, pitch yourself! Make them realize that your blog is exactly what they are looking for. If you need some help getting started, these two sites have great examples of media kits:
http://uppercasewoman.com/media-kit-creation/
http://katywidrick.com/2012/06/13/best-blogger-media-kits/
4. Start Contacting
We first started out contacting smaller, non-competing blogs and Etsy shops letting them know we had advertising space available. Send out friendly, personalized emails. Advertisers are more likely to respond to a personalized email, rather than one that is mass produced. Contact those businesses and people you have a personal connection with, too. Be sure to include your new media kit as well. ;)
5. Post It
Let all your followers and visitors know that you offer advertising. Whether you put it on a tab at the top or a button or link on the side, make sure it is in plain site. In addition, you can dedicate a post to it. Make sure you let those who follow you on all your social media outlets know, too. Offer special prices to the first advertisers, or occasionally have a sale on your advertising to get people initially interested, and then go from there. You can always test the waters with a few ads, and if all goes well, you can add a few more.
Looking for more great ways to Make Money Blogging? Check out our newest eBook for more tips and tricks!
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