Even if you’re just blogging because you love to write, there’s a good chance that the idea of earning money from your blog has crossed your mind.
And if you went into blogging with the hopes of starting up a business, you’re probably on the lookout for ways to monetize your blog(s).
These are seven straightforward ways to make money from a blog. I’ve ordered them, roughly speaking, from the easiest and fastest to implement up to the hardest and most complex – though also most potentially rewarding.
#1: Donations
The simplest way to monetize your blog is to put up a “Donations” button or similar. Some blogs refer to this as a “tip jar” – or the “buy me a coffee” or “buy me a beer” button.Works well if: You just want to cover your hosting cost; you have particularly loyal readers.
Drawbacks: Unlikely to result in much money; can make your blog look rather amateur.
Read more: Buy Me a Beer: Why the “Donate” Button is Dead … Almost (Blog Tyrant)
#2: Advertising
However big or small your blog is, you can run ads: this might mean GoogleAds or selling individual slots for banners.Works well if: You have lots of traffic; you have a niche where advertisers pay well.
Drawbacks: Too many ads can make your blog look unattractive; ads will drive readers away from your site.
Read more: 22 Ways to Find Advertisers for Your Website
#3: Affiliate Sales
Many sites, including huge ones like Amazon, offer an affiliate program. You link to their products with a special affiliate link, and if anyone buys something, you get a cut. (For digital products created by other bloggers, your affiliate cut will often be as much as 50%.)Works well if: You write an in-depth review; the products are a good match for your audience.
Drawbacks: Could distract readers from buying your products; may take a while to build up a steady income stream this way.
Continue reading Seven Ways Blogs Make Money
