When I started blogging I assumed that if I simply posted good content and grew a strong readership, sponsors and money would begin to fill my inbox. That didn’t happen.
My blog grew and interest in sponsorship did increase, but to keep the sidebar ads filled I had to put in a lot of effort for minimal profit.
A contributor position became available that was a good fit, and I had a close connection put my name in for it. At first I was turned down, but the company kept me in mind and eventually I was contacted!
After that the opportunities snowballed, and I made the transition to full-time online work.
What did this experience teach me?
- Don’t assume money will fall into your lap
- Work hard and don’t be afraid of being persistent
- Understand the benefit of networking and asking connections for help
- Don’t be afraid of rejection, eventually you will hear a “yes”
These are simple lessons, but the simplest lessons are the ones you need to be reminded of the most.
If you’d like to learn more about making money online, join me for my class Bringing Home the Bacon When Your Blog Isn’t Huge.
Post by Melanie Blodgett. Photography by Kajsa Cramer.
