Blog Networks: A Faster Way to Make Money Online, or Not? (Part III)

In Parts I and II of this series, we looked at the pros and cons of joining a blog network.

Whenever I’m stuck trying to make a decision, I always write it down in black and white, asking what I call “root questions” of myself along the way. There’s nothing like seeing it on paper to make it clear. With that being said, following are some questions to ask if you’re trying to decide whether or not to pursue joining a blog network.

Questions to Ask When Trying to Decide If a Blog Network is Right for You

How much control do I want to give up? If your gut is saying nil to very little, then you want to stay away from blog networks. The reason gut is italicized is no matter what your head says, your gut doesn’t lead you wrong.

So if the idea of giving up any type of control over your blog doesn’t sit right in your stomach, then listen to that. You’ll probably be miserable in a blog network.

How many hours a week can I devote to blogging? As mentioned in the previous posts, when you join a blog network, there are parameters you have to meet, eg, sticking to a regular posting schedule.

If you don’t have the time to do this – consistently – then a blog network is probably not for you (at least not right now).

How passionate am I about the subject matter of my blog? This piggybacks on the last point. If you’re not passionate about your blog’s topic, it can be difficult to not only adhere to a schedule, but to come up with fresh, relevant content day in and day out.

How much do I want/need/expect to make from my blog? This addresses the question of compensation. If blogging is a hobby and you don’t want, need or expect to make money from it, then anything you make is a bonus.

But, if you plan to make money from blogging, then you need to factor in the fact that whatever you make as part of a blog network is going to have to be split in some form or fashion. Now you could make more money quicker inside a blog network. But on the other hand, if you went it alone and started to make 4, 5 or 6 figures a month, then you’re going to have to split that.

Again, listen to your gut on this one. What’s it telling you?

For how long do I plan to blog? If your answer is, “I don’t know,” then don’t join a blog network for there are contractual obligations that have to be met. Your life plans may change, your desire may change, your passion may change.

If you do decide to join a blog network, you will at least have to commit to the contract terms. Just know this going in.

What are my life/career goals three years down the line? The reason I say three particularly is that you should have a life plan at least this far out. It’s hard to know where you’re going without a plan. If you have a life/career plan, then you can see where this “blogging thing” fits in – or not.

Judging by the number of dead blogs on the web, a lot of people don’t have any type of plans. To be successful takes first a plan, and then the implementation of that plan. You’ll start off on the right foot immediately if you can see where you want to be.

If you answer these questions honestly, you will be able to easily answer the question, “Is a blog network right for me?”

Written by Yuwanda Black from Inkwell Editorial
Posted on February 18th, 2009 and filed under Making Money
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