by Doreen Martel

Created on: January 10, 2011

It is not that uncommon for writers and others to start a blog for the sole purpose of generating income. However, finding ways of making money with a blog may not be as cut and dried as many think it is. There are thousands of blogs online, and while some are wildly popular and generate hundreds or even thousands of hits in a day, most blogs probably do not have the amount of traffic needed for the blog manager to earn a living. There are several different methods available for making money with a blog, and not all of them will work for every blog or for every writer who has a blog. 

Using common advertising programs

Some of the more common advertising programs that are available to bloggers include Google AdSense and Kontera (among others).  Writers open individual accounts with these companies and they may have relevant advertising posted to individual blog posts. It is important the blog writer understands exactly how these programs work so that they are getting the highest possible return from advertising revenue.  It is important that bloggers realize that using these programs means they agree to adhere to the Terms of Service posted on the individual advertising site. It is also critical that blogger understand that none of these advertising programs are "get rich quick" methods.

Using affiliate products for income

Finding affiliate products to generate income is no longer as complicated as it was at one time.  Click Bank and Amazon have programs (as does AdSense) where blog authors can identify advertisers who wish to sell their products through a blog.  This type of program may be especially helpful for "niche" blog sites where the blog owner can find various products that enhance the value of their blog.  This may also be helpful if the blogger is recommending specific products (or services).  It is important that if a blogger is doing product recommendations that they follow the new FCC rules regarding disclosure.

Selling advertising space

Depending on the popularity of a blog, some bloggers may be approached about selling advertising space. This can be a great financial boon to the blog owner.  Some companies look for blogs that target specific demographics while others look for blogs with high reader counts. Bloggers who are approached about selling advertising space want to research the company thoroughly so that they are not promoting a company they are not comfortable with.

Summary

Bloggers have several opportunities to generate income. In most cases, it will take several months to develop a blog that will earn steady revenue. Bloggers who are interested in blogging for money would be wise to look at all of their options, learn promotional techniques and find a niche market where they can thrive. Each blogger will have to determine their own motives for blogging, and follow up on various ways to make money blogging.

Learn more about this author, Doreen Martel.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.