Traditionally, business based blogs were set up to enhance relationships with customers and clients. Naturally, the old time bloggers object to this comment, stating that they are not for business purposes. Of course, if you're reading this blog, I'm sure you're at an advanced enough stage that we can discuss the idea of making money from blogging.



Most blogging “gurus” will advise against direct selling on your blog. The blog is meant to be there for relationship building. However, although making friends and building new relationships is a priority, I prefer blogging to build my business ( and make some money in the progress).

If You're Not Prepared to Show Them What You Have to Offer, How Are They Going to Find Out?

It doesn't really make much sense to me if you're simply going to blog for the sake of it, and not make any offers at the end of the post. I guess some people think that simply stuffing a load of ads in the sidebar is going to make money. Unfortunately people rarely click these ads so that is a misconception. People read your blog because they are interested in what it is you have to say. If you're not going to tell people what you have to offer to the world, how on earth are they going to know?

Contextual offers within your posts is the best way to go about doing this. While your readers are engaged with what you are saying, blend your offer in with the text. Naturally, don't make every blog post about selling, otherwise your blog will become a “pitch fest” ( although, one or two posts won't hurt, as long as they also contain great content). Just try to actively “pre-sell” your visitors, without hard selling.

If you have your own information product, e-zine or membership site that's fits the subject you are blogging about, be sure to mention it.

If you sell a product that addresses the problem you have decided to write about, tell your viewers.

If you are affiliated with a company or products that offers a relevant solution, talk about it.

Your readers don't possess a ESP, They haven't visited your blog just because they like you. Your public is interested in what YOU have to offer. They want to know what it is you're currently up to, and what products you present. Don't make the assumption that your reader base already know your product lineup, and they'll investigate further should they ever feel the need to buy from you. This is not the case - you need to take them by the hand and show them.

This subject is something Lynette Chandler and I make sure to teach you in our Internet Marketing Blogging Bootcamp.

A little insight on how I monetize my blog

Surprisingly, there are a view of people who have cottoned on to my money making endeavor (snigger).

Andy Beard himself has been quoted as saying “they probably have more paying customers than many A-list bloggers have subscribers”. Visit andybeard.eu to read the full passage.

John Reese also mentioned the subject when his team did an audit for BlogRush Members. He especially mentions that most “make money online” blogs were ignored because of the amount of ads displayed in comparison with techniques, tips, and actual helpful advice. Check out the full article on his blog at income.com/blog, as he also mentioned this particular blog as one of the only ones that did things right.

Brent Hodgson refers to the subject as “over the shoulder selling”, as a “type of inclusive sales pitch which just engages people - not as sales prospects, but as people”. I was listed as someone who uses this tactic “either subconsciously, or very deliberately”. The full quote can be seen at brenthodgson.com.

This Knowledge Certainly Applies to You!

And no, writing in this manner is not exclusively reserved for those with ”Internet marketing” blogs. Whatever your niche, you are certain to have products and services to sell, and readers who will enjoy related content, meaning you CAN sell in your blog.

So, should you start selling your blog? Whether Covertly, or blatantly obvious... selling doesn't suddenly turn you into a door-to-door salesman. It simply means you are someone who can relate to your visitors problems, and can offer honest recommendations or solutions.