It’s no secret that blogging can net you a tidy income. Of course, it pays to be aware of the pitfalls, like thinking that you can quit your day job, start your blog, and pull in a salary by the end of the week. This simply doesn’t happen. Building up a blog to the point that it can be solvent or serve as a primary income could take anywhere from several months to several years depending on the time and effort you put in. But considering how fast the internet is growing and changing, now is a great time to take advantage of the many opportunities available for those who have something to say, a strong voice to convey it, and a desire to learn the ins and outs of monetizing a blog.
Adsense. This handy app for your blog allows you to pick and choose from Google’s gallery of advertisers in order to post related ads on your website. Every click nets you a small sum…let’s call it a finder’s fee. It’s not much, but considering all you do is host the ad, it’s like getting something for nothing.
Reviews. If your blog is pretty popular, then companies who sell related products may be willing to pay you for an honest review. The nice thing is, you will get a free sample to try out (and generally keep) as well as a paycheck. And if the item is worthwhile, you can post it as a give-away for one lucky reader.
Advertising. One of the main goals when monetizing your blog is to secure paid advertising. Think Adsense, only bigger. You place the advertisement, then sit back and rake in the dough. Of course, you have to be a fairly high-ranking blog to enjoy this kind of attention.
Affiliates. Once you have secured a stable following, consider setting up an e-commerce section of your site to cater to affiliates. You simply allow them to post their wares on your website, and then accept a percentage of the sales you facilitate. Since readers will be directed to the affiliate’s page to actually purchase the products, you have no overhead or responsibility to consumers.
Job board. Setting up a job board related to your theme really only works if you have readers who are looking for work and companies who want to advertise jobs. So you may want to do a little research before you consider taking this time-consuming step. However, if you’re willing to do the leg-work, you can charge a premium to companies who need help with hiring.
E-Books. You obviously love to write and have plenty to say. Otherwise you wouldn’t have started a blog. So compile past posts into an e-book, or simply write your manifesto and sell it on your blog. Devoted followers may enjoy the blast from the past while others just finding your message might be interested to know more. Best part? No publishing costs (or publishers dispensing unwanted advice and taking their cut).
Sell your services. Your blog is an excellent forum to offer your services to others. Whether you’re looking to start a web-based business or simply seeking some contract work, let it be known that you are for hire to your cadre of followers and see if you get any takers.
Marissa Montague writes for Christmas Music, your comprehensive resource for the best in holiday music
here in the Philippines, the problem with REVIEWS is that you can only post positive reviews. Well unless you're willing to be summoned by the NBI for trying to INFLUENCE your readers not to avail of their products.
The good thing about Adsense is that I think you can calculate your earnings after about 2 years. Based on my projection you can sustain $100/month after about 18 months.