I mentioned yesterday that I'd eventually like to sell ad space. But I'm not sure what I do until then. I'm not even really sure where to start.I've heard of becoming an affiliate. I know a bit, but not much about AdWords. I don't know if either is for me. Or if anything is.
Do I build up my page and then just approach companies? Or do I need to have some sort of stats that show how likely my readers are to click on ads?
My biggest hold up with advertising is that I don't want to sell out. I don't want just any ad popping up on my page. I don't want to send someone to a company that I don't have experience with; or a company I don't trust.[
For example: I would not want an ad for Medela on my site, I have a few issues with them. Lansinoh and Ameda on the other hand I have experience with and I trust, so no problem there. Hygiea I would consider, but I'd like some first hand experience with them before I could justify putting their ad on my page. How much say do I get in what goes up if I'm not approaching a specific company
I also don't want to cover my page up with stuff. I like a clean look and, in my opinion, ads can really junk up a page fast. On the other hand, I would like to eventually make a little money for my time effort.
I'm just beginning to think about this and haven't even really gotten into the research yet, but I'd appreciate any advice or tips. How has using ads helped or hurt you? What do wish you had known or done differently?
Share your thoughts and come join me on Google+, Facebook, and/or Twitter!
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This post is part of #SummerBlogSocial 2011 hosted by Liz and Jessica and is a response to Prompt 6, "Tell us about an element or two of your blog or social media presence that you are unsure of and would like opinions on."
I have BlogHer ads on my page, but that's it for now. Most collective advertisers like that have all sorts of options in terms of who/what they allow to run on your page, so you can definitely opt out for things you aren't comfortable putting on your space! I don't have much advice, though, because I am just starting out!
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize that BlogHer had anything like that. I'll have to check it out, thanks!
ReplyDeleteI don't do ads yet either. I think if I am inclined to do advertising of some sort on my site, it would be through affiliate links. I just was accepted into an affiliate link company, but haven't had time yet to start working on it. (Summer's getting the best of me right now).
ReplyDeleteI think the question of whether to sell ad space or not depends on your goals. Is your blog offering other services? Is it a hobby? Do you want to parlay your blog it into a full time job? (These are questions I've been pondering, so I don't have any concrete answers - yet.)
ReplyDeleteIf you are getting serious about ads, then I'd suggest putting together a media kit if you don't already have them. Don't be afraid to mention what types of products you are interested in either.
ReplyDeleteAlso, consider adding a Contact or Advertising page to your site, and in it include a brief bio, your email/twitter, the types of products you are interested in and a mention that a media kit is available upon request.
If you are ready to solicit for advertising I would put together a media kit. Bloggymoms.com has some examples of where to start. You could also apply for blogher ads or Clever Girls and try to join the FM campaign. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThanks, I will check all that out!
ReplyDeleteThanks, sounds like a good project for next week!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely something to think about...thank you!
ReplyDeleteYeah, I'm hoping to be a little more organized and get into more of a routine in a couple months when we move...
ReplyDeleteGood questions. I wonder about this myself. I currently have affiliate ads and use adsense, but I honestly haven't made much at all. I'll be reading your comments to get more info on this.
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