Looking to earn some extra moolah through blogging? From blogging networks to freelancing, I’ve got you covered..
First of all, let me begin this post by saying: if you’re looking to become a blogger just to earn some extra cash, you are not looking in the right place! Blogging is, first and foremost, a wonderful hobby and business. It can lead to some amazing opportunities and also ways to expand your skills. But earning or monetising money through your blog should not be your sole reason for starting one. Many bloggers barely earn money through their blogs – if at all!
That being said, I have been blogging for nearly ten years now and I’m going to be honest. It is nice to use my skills to earn some extra moolah on the side. I tend to actually use this money to invest back into my blog. It helps pay for my hosting and domain name, plus essential courses (SEO etc) to help expand my skills.
There’s a fine line between selling out and earning your way. But I think it’s safe to say we’re definitely a generation who likes to work beyond the typical 9-5 to build a business and earn extra cash!
Therefore I thought I’d pull together a little guide about the different blogging networks bloggers can join and ways like-minded creators can put their skills to good use.
Okay, here me out. Any blogger will know that Facebook is useful for a lot more than just spying on your online friends’ dirty laundry! I use Facebook for a manner of different things. I take a lot of inspiration from what pages share – but blogging groups and networks are especially helpful. These are, in my opinion, the best way to get blogging opportunities. Opportunities such as invites to events, trying out new products and discovering new brands to partner with. However, if you join the right groups, you’ll also find many people posting about looking for freelancers and sharing sponsored post opportunities.
Most of the time, you apply by replying to the thread or filling in a Google Form. However, it’s always important to remember that these are just found on (reputable) groups on Facebook and don’t always come with a contract, as opposed to an actual company that helps link brands to bloggers. Make you do your own research – especially into payment terms – to ensure you get paid correctly.
Get Blogged
Get Blogged is probably one of my favourite blogging networks for paid blogging jobs. It’s one I have used for quite a few years now. Its system is simple: sign up and browse through available assignments (you can filter these by DA number – the higher your number the higher the payment fee), click on any that take your fancy and write a short application letter outlining any ideas you have for the post. Each assignment is set out in an easy-to-read project too. You’re given any must-include links upfront, a deadline and a clear outline of requirements. It’s as simple as that. Get Blogged will come back to you if accepted and they pay extremely quickly once your post is submitted.
People Per Hour
If you want to get into freelancing but you’re not quite sure how to make the leap, sign up to People Per Hour. This website will allow you to offer your blogger/copywriting/marketing skills (basically, anything creative) or browse jobs on offer. These can vary from subbing a 1,000-word document within 48 hours or long-term projects like data entry. The only downside is that you have to ‘bid’ in a way on jobs you’d like to help with. So there are always lots of other people applying for the same jobs. However, I will say most people tend to prefer quality over price. So don’t think other freelancers are getting chosen because they’re offering lower prices.
You can sell yourself really well on your profile by different levels and feedback from other clients. There are always blogging jobs available. Just remember to keep all work on PPH. They do take a small admin fee, but it’s worth it to know your money is secure. Even if a client goes quiet on you halfway through, PPH still ensures you get paid your money. But only as long as the communication is kept on the website. I once took on a long-term freelance job outside of PPH without a contract and, predictably, had a lot of trouble getting paid in the end.
Other Bloggers
I think we often tend to forget how lovely the blogging community is. I have blogger friends who often tag me on Facebook or Instagram if there’s a local event or an opportunity they particularly think I’d be good for. More often than not, when I’m approached for an opportunity, I’ll give the brand some names of similar bloggers I think would be worth approaching. Additionally, some fab bloggers such as Kelly Jackson of It’s More Fun in Your 30s have a great little blogging opportunities tab!
Having been blogging for nearly ten years now, I think it’s good to share honest advice about this type of thing. No one should ever get into blogging for the money aspect and it should always be something you enjoy doing above all else but, let’s face it, blogging can also be expensive! Between paying for a domain/hosting, and then, of course, travel to events = it all adds up!
So I’m also a firm believer in the fact that there’s nothing wrong with wanting to drive your blog to the next level and to start earning some extra cash with these skills.
Are there any networks I’ve missed off? Do you have any other tips? Let me know!
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