How to Get Paid to Blog

Back in the early days of blogging — circa 2004 — blogs were mostly online journals. Moms wrote about their new babies, college kids wrote about their love life angst.

Today, however, blogs are part personal catharsis, part PR and part income stream. Every major brand has a blog, and most non-profits communicate with donors via blogs. Personal blogs share ideas, foster community, spread the word and help raise a little (or a whole lotta) money for their owners. From bloggers that earn six figures from their blog writing to those who bring home a little pocket change, blogging has definitely become much more than just a ‘dear diary’.

I recently interviewed one rising blogger to learn more about how some people are making a living from blogging. Crystal Collins, owner of The Thrifty Mama, has converted her knowledge and passion for saving and living green into earning green. After Crystal and her husband both lost their jobs — and eventually their home — they knew they had to get creative about cutting expenses and saving money. Crystal quickly learned how to stretch her family’s dollars through bargain hunting and coupon shopping. So she started her Thrifty Mama blog to share advice and tips for saving money, living simply and embracing a greener lifestyle.

In just two years, Crystal has grown her blog to over half a million hits each month, which means advertisers are clamoring for ‘ad space’ on her blog. Now not only is she sharing tips for saving money, she is earning money too. We featured our interview with Crystal in this week’s JobMonkey newsletter about becoming a blogger (if you’re not already a subscriber, you can sign up here), but saved a few of her best tips to share with you today. If you want to get your start in blogging, read on:

Q: What are the top 3 online resources you recommend for someone who wants to start their own blog?

1. SavvyBlogging.net – Website by five successful bloggers, including myself, that helps you take your blog to new heights.
2. ProBlogger.net and his book: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six Figure Income
3. CopyBlogger.com

Q: What is your best advice for someone seeking to monetize their writing?

A: Well placed, relevant affiliate links are one of the best ways I earn an income on my blog.  But if you over-do it, you can lose credibility with your readers.

Q: You mentioned Savvy Blogging above. Can you tell us a little more about it?

A: When you first start blogging, it can be overwhelming.  Savvy Blogging steps in to help you grow your blog with a good foundation and knowledge that will empower you to be a professional blogger.

Q: Many JobMonkey readers are looking for ways to earn a living by working for themselves — at home. Do you think blogging is a good fit for them?

A: Blogging isn’t for everyone.  It takes hard work, dedication, and it can be a year before you start to see some good income.  But if you will work hard you can reach your goals for financial freedom, and a business that is all your own.

Have you tried your hand at blogging? What’s worked — and what’s flopped — for you in terms of income earning from your blog? Tell us in the comments section and be sure to leave the link to your blog so we can check it out!