Can you tell me how much it costs to take out an ad at your site?”

asked a publisher in Arizona back in April. Unfortunately, like many bloggers who blog as a labor of love, I never gave serious consideration to earning pay for my say. Not until then. To make a long story short, this publisher had been “following” my blog for some time, and thought that the quality of posts and my target audience would be a great match for her products and services. Caught with my proverbial “pants down,” I did what I often do when in need of immediate answers; I quickly Googled it. With a little strategic research, I assembled some facts and figures that highlighted my blog’s success story, along with potential benefits to advertisers, and closed the deal. And with the “write approach” you can too. Let’s face it: blogging requires a considerable investment of time and effort. If you would like a greater “return” for your sweat equity, a well-crafted media kit can help to promote your blog, increase your visibility and your bottom line.

With this in mind, here are three compelling reasons your blog needs a media kit.

1. Much like a media kit used for promoting authors and celebrities, a media kit puts you in the spotlight. It helps to establish (and reinforce) your blog’s brand, and distinguish you from the thousands of bloggers in the blogosphere.
2. A media kit allows you to work smarter, not harder, by identifying and addressing repeatedly asked questions and routine concerns. Things like pricing, traffic numbers, and target audience. The answers to these questions help others to assess the likelihood of potential sales or sign-ups at their sites.
3. A media kit communicates that you mean business. It says to outsiders that you view your blog as a “commodity” worthy of the attention and investment of advertisers and affiliates; not just some recreational pursuit.

Now that you know why you should have a media kit, here’s what it should include:

1. Identification of your brand. Specifically, what is your blog about? What’s your blogging philosophy? Who is your intended target audience? Think of it as your “elevator pitch” in print.
2. Identification of your traffic and demographics. For example, according to the analytics at my site, my blog is read in seven different countries. My primary audience is women in the age range of 25-35, with a graduate degree education. Alexa.com can also help you with assembling this data.
3. Success highlights. Have you won any blog awards, or received recognition by industry peers? Keep it professional. Though it’s nice to get that “Versatile Blogger” Award from one of your loyal followers, investors are typically looking for something that carries greater weight and credibility.
4. Pricing and ad requirements. What types of ads will you offer? Text or button? Will prices be based on where the ad is located on your blog and the frequency? Does “size matter”? Will there be discounts if multiple months are purchased in advance? Do you accept PayPal as a method of payment? Inquiring minds will wanna’ know.
5. “About me” page or Bio section. Even in business, establishing a “personal connection” is important. People are more inclined to spend money your way if they like or trust you. Share a little about your background and what brings you to blogging. Perhaps there’s a funny story behind it. Or, maybe you have a unique hobby or celebrity affiliations. Make it brief but substantive. Follow these timely tips and your blog can help you earn “15 minutes of fame” and some extra cash along the way.

Image credit: Pixabay.com

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