Weekly Opp’s

Weekly Bloggertunities – 5/9

“Twitter is like a tragically hip New York night club. It is a cool, easy way for companies to engage customers in Social Media. But the experience can be loud and crowded.” – Bob Warfield

It’s not just Twitter that’s loud and crowded – the whole social media community, as well as blogging in general, is filled with SO many other voices. That’s why it’s so important to think about what sets you apart – is it your humor? Your awesome photo skills? Your totally skilled writing ability? Do you have any type of niche? If not, figure out a focus. If you tell a new contact, “Well, I write about my life as a mom… and reviews and stuff. I do giveaways too…. Um,….” That definitely doesn’t set you apart from anyone else, right? But if you say – “I share my daily challenges in living an organic lifestyle, and write honest, helpful reviews on the newest green parenting products” – now you have an identity. Going into a busy summer of conferences, it’s super important to be able to pitch yourself quickly to new faces that you meet!

Monetize:

SocialSpark: Make sure you connect your Google Analytics to accurately track your traffic, so you get better paying posts. I have heard that a lot of you run into problems, and get denied – most of you can probably fix the prob and get in too. If you need help or have questions – email me and I’ll see if I can figure them out for you! I was denied at first too, fixed the tiny problem, and now I love it. Apply for Social Spark.
zuuzs: I’ve been shopping with them for about 6 months now, and earn a ton of cash back. AND – I earn when any of my friends and blog readers shop. AND – I earn when THEIR friends shop. So it’s a really steady stream of income for me, and it’s fun to share it, since I love it. Check it out, and join today.
Examiner: I’m working on using my new upgraded access to media credentials to check out some cool local events for free. If you are an expert on ANY topic – {trust me, they have a huge range- from sports cars to Christian music to Irish pubs. You’ll find something you’re passionate about!} – you can write your own local Examiner column too. Learn more and see what categories are available in your area.
Paper Coterie: This is one of the prettiest, most amazingly high quality photo product sites I’ve used. The products are really unique and fresh, and they constantly have awesome promotions to share. Sign up as an affiliate – it’s set up JUST like Escalate, same framework, so it’s super duper easy to use.
Paid Posts: Fill out a form to let the SITS Girls know that you’d love to be considered for future paid posts! I love this network, they do so many cool things.

Reviews and Cool Partnerships:

QuestionMoms: This is a great network – Check out new mom-invented products first, give direct feedback to influence and improve their ideas, and get paid for sharing that amazing knowledge. As a blogger, you totally “get” what works and what is just NOT going to be popular, so your voice is super helpful here. Plus – you can apply to review awesome Mompact products like the Aquaduck and Swim Zip!
Little Tikes: Learn more about their brand ambassador, review team, and deal team partnerships – and send an email to apply to work with them this year. They are one of my FAVORITE kids brands, so this would be pretty awesome.
Brandfluential: Check them out and fill out a Blogger Application, for a chance at cool upcoming opps and campaigns.
Blog it Forward: This is another new one that I just recently came across, so I don’t have too much info on it. But you can fill out the Blogger Outreach application to be contacted for future campaigns too,
BloggerPR.net: Another new network I found this week – I just signed up, so don’t have too much to share. But it looks like it’s worth checking out!
Kids Book: This looks adorable – Sadie: The Paper Crown Princess – They’re looking for bloggers to connect with them and do some reviews. Fill out the form on their site to apply.
Parasol Blogger Outreach: They are looking for bloggers that are interested in syndicating posts or in original posting for the following topics: food, parenting teenagers, parents over 40, all natural and holistic topics. Interested? Contact them at bloggeroutreach@parasolcreations.com. Please share a minimum of three recent links so they can check out what you have done in the past!

Cool Tools:

Copyscape: Enter your URL into the cool tool on this site, and it will search the web looking for anyone show has copied your content.
Dr. Link Check: This is an awesome site that will scan your blog, and let you know is you have broken links. It takes a bit since it checks up to 1,000 links per website – but only a few minutes.
Free ebook: Download a free copy of 10 Ways to Build Social Links, from HubSpot. Their free books are always super helpful!

“Human beings are far more likely to communicate ideas and information with others when they are emotionally engaged. Find the key issues that concern your audience and then inculcate them within your marketing plan to get an emotional response.” – Maki

Share the Love:

As always – Feel free to leave your event info, sign up links, hops – anything that others might find helpful – Post ’em in the comments! And – If you like it, then you shoulda put a tweet on it…. Lol. Share this post with YOUR blogging buddies too –

Awesome new opps, leads, and networks for #mombloggers! sunshineandsippycups.com/2012/05/weekly… #RockYourBlog2012

— SunandSipCups (@SunandSipCups) May 9, 2012

Posted by Meagan Paullin on May 9, 2012 Filed Under: Weekly Opp's | 7 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 5/2

“By creating compelling content, you can become a celebrity.” – Paul Gillin

I realized something lately. I realized that blogging had changed my life more than I had realized. I mean, I already knew that I had made some huge changes – I work from home, instead of working in fast-paced sales and fashion merchandising. I wear sweatpants to work {if I ever wear pants….”, instead of trendy outfits that actually match. But I realized that blogging gives so many of us regular moms the chance to feel like celebrities. I realized this while we were at the {totally, completely, amazing} Nike Young Athletes Innovation Summit last week – and learned that some of my other bloggy buddies were at the Avengers red carpet event, and others were doing a super cool Disney event… I mean, seriously, how cool is that? That regular moms can create such awesome brands for themselves, and have these opportunities. So – whether your a new blogger or a pro, realize how awesome what you do really is!

Reviews, Giveaways, & cool Opps

Here’s a quick list of some cool stuff that I’ve come across this week – some great lists to get on, networks to be a part of, and things to check out!

Tastemaker Moms: I’m not sure what this one is all about – it just talks about cool opportunities. You can sign up now, and you’ll get a notice when they’re ready to go live. Might be worth checking out – I signed up. I like to be a part of EVERYTHING, lol. That’s why I have no time….
USFamilyGuide.com: You can submit your info here to apply, and it says – “Drive traffic to your blog, enjoy free activities and earn money through US Family Guide.”- I’ve heard good things about them!
Crowdtap: This has gotten me so many cool opps – And I just got another into another Old Navy campaign, where me and a friend both get to choose our fave pair of shorts from Old Navy, totally free. Super fun, and you can invite non-bloggy buddies too.
Madame Deals: She has a great blogging opportunities doc that you can sign up on – add all of your info, and a bit about what sets you apart, and she’ll contact you if she has any great events or projects that are a good fit!
Blog Critique: This looks really cool – It’s from Moms Do It Better, and you can sign up to get some cool free help – Be a mentor, get a mentor, get a blog critique, or a combo of these! Learn more and sign up.

I would LOVE it if you would share any cool groups that you’re a part of too, by leaving a comment on this post. I’m always looking for new things to join, and love connecting with new peeps.

Makin’ Money Bay-bee

This is the bread and butter, right? The other swag and fun stuff is cool – but for many of us, we need to earn real income from our blogs too. I can’t pay my cell phone bill in free detergent, or coupons for new snack foods. Here are a few that I use successfully…

Sponsored Tweets: Super easy way to earn a little extra cash by sharing cool stuff on Twitter. Sign up here.
Direct Sales: Have you ever considered working in direct sales? With the influence you have on your blog, you have a great platform to promote your favorite product line, and earn with online sales. From trusted choices like Avon, to upcoming trendy brands like Allie Cat Jewelry – and there are LOADS more listed in my Direct Sales Directory.
Logical Media: A big variety of affiliate ads to choose from – baby samples, health and wellness, survey sites, crafty goods, and more. Super simple to use too.
Examiner: I have a Frugal Living column on Examiner, and was promoted to now being able to get media credentials, meaning I can start getting into local events to write about too. I’ve connected with a lot of cool peeps locally, and enjoy writing here. Check it out, and see what categories are available in your town.
Escalate Network: I love that they run a lot of fun promotions and contests for their affiliates – and the managers have always been incredibly helpful to me.
Social Spark: LOVE this place. I mean – they knocked down my sponsored post amount for awhile, since my traffic has been down due to the hacker-extravaganza, lol – But they still are a totally great place to work with. Tip: Make sure to connect your analytics, to ensure you get the right pay for your posts!
Integrate: If you’re already using this one – here is a post with some tips on getting started. I make really good money with them, and the biggest obstacle I hear from others is that they get confused when getting started. I swear that their ads track better than any others I use, so it’s definitely worth figuring out. Don’t worry about all of the stuff on your screen – just get the basics down, see the earnings, then you can worry about the rest!

Share your best tips too – How do you use your voice and influence to earn with your blog? Do you have an ebook? Are you an affiliate marketing ninja? Have tips to scoring sponsored posts? Share your best tips in the comments, so we can all learn something new!

Events to Join in

I was so busy last month – with all the travel, then the site being crashed for a week – that I wasn’t able to join in any events with anyone. {And the ones I had already scheduled, I had to drop out of. Such a bummer.} So this month I’m totally jumping in – and joined 15, lol. Here are a few fun giveaway events, and other fun things to join in on –

StumbleUpon Linky: SU is my #1 traffic referrer every single month. Learn some tips on using it, and link up your favorite posts to drive new traffic to your site too – and then visit the other links to discover some cool new content!
Happy Tails: This is a great giveaway event – totally free to you, and you get a great Happy Tails Canine Spa Line product to review before the event too. Totally free to join – and you’ll see me there!
Sunglasses: Join a few other bloggers in giving away a super stylin’ pair of Liz Claiborne sunglasses – just in time for sunny weather ahead. Learn more and join here.
Blogathon: This sounds like so much fun! The Biannual Blogathon Bash is coming up in June – and you can sign up now. It’s a 72 hour bash to try to get as much work done on your blog as possible, with mini-challenges, a Twitter party, and more. Love this.
Mystery Cooking Box: This sounds fun – I love Mystery Boxes! Another free sign up, and they’re giving away a box of goodies with a value of at least $80 bucks! Join Here.

Have an event, linky, hop, or other cool thing to share? Leave a comment with a sign up link, or more info! You know I love to party with my bloggy buddies, right?

Helpful Blogging Tools

Here are a few of my favorite tools that I use to keep creative and productive – But I am always on the hunt for new tech tips to keep me on track, so if you have any to share – Please do!!

PicMonkey: If you need a replacement for Picnik, you will love PicMonkey. I actually might even like it better – which I never thought I’d say about anything else, lol. It’s built so similar to Picnik that you’ll catch on within seconds, the layout is really cool and kinda retro, and there are some really awesome tools available.
Time Management: This cool tool has you fill in some blanks, then it makes you a customized graphic, with a chart showing where all of your time really goes each day. Very cool.
Shared Schedules: Whether you want to be able to coordinate events and schedules with a team at work, or the “home team” in your household – this rocks. Super easy, totally changed my life. Lol – but for reals.
Printable Planners: More of a pen and paper gal? {I love my online calendars, but totally rely on binders for organization too!} This is a list of all my favorite printable planners from around the web – and almost all are free.

I’d love to see some comments and suggestions from you guys too – and if you’ve written a post with some great tips, share that in the comments too, or even on my Facebook wall!

Good Reads

Here are a few cool articles I’ve come across this week that I found helpful, and wanted to share. I also am constantly adding new stuff to my Blogging & Social Media board on Pinterest, if you want to browse that for new info to read too.

Klout: Wondering what the heck this whole Klout score thing is? This is a great post to get you started – and she’ll be doing two more parts as well.
Facebook Promotion Guidelines: This links to the actual video from Facebook, clarifying the rules for giveaways. It’s not rocket science, but it confuses a lot of people. Hopefully this will help you out.
10 Ways to Ignite Your Writing: Jump start your writing with some of these creative ideas. Maybe you have lots of things to write about, but you can still use some new tips to find new ways to write about them.

Have some good stuff you’ve written lately? Feel free to shamelessly self promote by leaving your links below. I love learning new tips. {Obviously, since I’ve mentioned about 27 times in this post how I’d love for you to share your stuff in the comments, lol.}

Hope these have been helpful – and can’t wait to read your comments!

Posted by Meagan Paullin on May 2, 2012 Filed Under: Weekly Opp's | 27 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 4/24

Weekly Blogging Opportunities

I’m BAAAAACK!!! As most of you know by now – I was hacked. Not just a little issue – I was knocked down, repeatedly, for almost a week. If you want to know what happened, how to know if your WordPress site was hacked, and what do if you DO get hacked, you can read the whole story in my last post. Long story short – It sucked. But, I learned a lot – including what a great group of bloggy buddies I’ve built up over this past year. You guys all ROCK! So – this post was started almost 2 weeks ago, but wasn’t able to be posted due to the issues I had going on. If anything is outdated by now, I apologize. I tried to check ’em all – but I’m in a posting frenzy today, so I might have missed something! Just leave me a comment so if you find something that’s no longer valid. Thank you!

Learn to be a blogging ninja – @sunandsipcups shares her weekly tips and tricks sunshineandsippycups.com/2012/04/weekly… #mombloggers

— SunandSipCups (@SunandSipCups) April 24, 2012

Good Reading for Bloggers

As a blogger – or anyone at all who works primarily online – you MUST be constantly learning and staying updated. The web, social media, search – they are all constantly changing and evolving, so it’s important that you are too. Here are a few great reads this week –

Dealing with Disappointment: My friend Ellen wrote a great post about why you might not be chosen for a specific blogging opportunity – and why you shouldn’t let it get you down! She also offers some tips to help you improve, so that you can start getting more of the opps that you want.
Social Media: This book just got delivered today – 30 Days to Social Media Success: The 30 Day Results Guide to Making the Most of Twitter, Blogging, LinkedIN, and Facebook – and I am SUPER excited to get started reading it. I’m part of a group that will be going through the book together, and sharing our thoughts. Watch for a review of it coming soon – and buy it too if you’d like to follow along with my updates.
Rafflecopter: Read this great post with a tutorial on how to add giveaway images right to your Rafflcopter form. Love it.
Time Management: This is a round-up of posts from some of my favorite bloggers, sharing their time management tips and tricks. Good stuff.

Want more? I have a whole board on Pinterest devoted to Blogging & Social Media – tips, resources, cool tools, creative ideas, and more. Check it out and find some good stuff.

Earn an Income with Your Blog

As always – the biggest question I am asked by other bloggers is how to monetize their site. So, here are a few things you can use to start earning more money with your site – and watch for a more comprehensive series of posts on smart monetizing skills coming in a few weeks!

InfoStable: Super simple, and it’s very easy to earn. They have a limited amount of offers, and they’re mostly giveaways to promote. I signed up for a few to test it – no spam. Check it out and start earning today – InfoStable Sign Up.
Maggie’s Direct: This started out a little crazy – but they’ve simplified their Pro Blogger program, making it MUCH easier to participate! Set up a free account, then sign up for the Pro Blogger program! Learn more on their site – but it includes shopping credit for you, free products, and more. I haven’t used this much yet – and I’ve heard mixed reviews. But it’s working GREAT for some people, so it’s worth looking into.
Social Spark: Many bloggers start with posts in the $15-$25 range, which is where I started with them around 6 months ago. Now I average $65 per post, with some as high as $100-$200. Super easy, and pays via PayPal as soon as you reach $50. Sign up and learn more.
Bloggertise: This one is a little trickier. I earn quite a bit with them – BUT, not all of their offers are, um, quality. And I do NOT ever recommend posting something JUST because you can earn some bucks. So, only post if the required info can educate or entertain your readers. That said – I find loads of projects that I can make into interesting articles, and use it weekly. Learn more and sign up here.
Examiner: I just got promoted to be eligible to receive media credentials to local events – I’m so excited! I love writing here, love connecting with more local companies, and have a lot of fun having a forum to share on besides my blog. Interested? You’re already a writer, so this may be a great fit for you too – Examiner.com Application.

What are your favorite networks to connect you with sponsored posts or other opportunities to earn an income with your writing? Share them in the comments – maybe I’ll find a new favorite!

Networks to Join

I’m a member of so many great networks – I love meeting new people, sharing tips and resources, and having access to some really great opps and info. Here are a few that I’m a member of…

Mom Spark: This is the only network that I pay to be a part of – and it’s definitely worth it. I get connected to awesome opps through them, and having access to their tutorials and community is priceless.
Moms Do It Better: This is a really helpful new network that I’ve just joined – A lot of fun tips, and great opportunities to be found. Join here.
Mommy PR: She is an awesome chick, with equally awesome stuff to share with other bloggers. Sign up for her PR Friendly Bloggers mailing list to learn about new opps each week.

What are a few of your favorites? What do you like most about them – and what do you find most helpful?

Cool Opportunities

Hopefully these are still available – Most of these were opportunities that I came across last week – but some are brand new too.

Fashion Bloggers: Belt Buckle Boutique is looking for bloggers who write about 75% of their content focused on fashion to do an upcoming review and giveaway opportunity – Fill out the form if you are all about fashion!
Foodie Guest Posts: Trio of Tastebuds – my favorite foodie site! – is looking for people to contribute a favorite recipe to their “three views” posts. Get details and contact info here.
Paid Posts: Fill out this form to be considered for upcoming paid writing opps, or for paid guest posting on your own site. Sounds cool.
Mom Ambassador: I’ve been a member here for a couple of years – It’s called Moms Meet, and you get to do regular house parties to share all organic, green, healthy products with your group. The shipments are always very generous and actually worth sharing! Learn more and sign up here.
CBS: If you have a mostly US based readership and audience, fill out this form for a new partnership opportunity with CBS.
All You Magazine: What’s your most clever way to stay on top of all of the paperwork that comes home from school (and your mail too!)? Tell us at Reallife@allyou.com for a chance to be featured in our magazine.

I hope you get connected to some fun review and giveaway opps here – I LOVE hearing stories from people who got into a great campaign from hearing about it in my post :) Some of you have gotten into things I REALLY wanted too, but I didn’t get chosen, lol. But I love being able to share!

Events to Join

Again, some of these I added awhile back – so if something is no longer taking sign-ups, and I missed removing it – just leave me a comment so that I know to remove it from the list!

Birthday Bash: This will start May 11th – and prizes will be announced as more bloggers join! It’s only $2 a link, I joined with 2 links, and hope to see some of you join us too – Sign up here.
Free Event: You get one link for free, $1 for each additional link. Very cool, right? Sign up and learn more.
Baby Shower: This is another totally FREE event – you get one link free, and can get a second one if you share the sign up form. This is Facebook and Twitter only, and starts soon – so get in today!
Huge list of events: This is a really great list of tons of giveaway events that you can join – with loads more free options too! Check it out and sign up for some fun stuff.
Bloggy Bootcamp: If you can’t attend any of these great events this year due to the travel costs, why not check out the awesome online-only package option? Very cool! Online Bloggy Bootcamp.

Do you have a cool event coming up that you’d like to share – or need sign ups for an upcoming giveaway? Share your sign up link in the comments!

Love it? Share it with your own network of awesome bloggy buddies too!

Posted by Meagan Paullin on April 24, 2012 Filed Under: Weekly Opp's | 6 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 4/4

“Opportunity is always knocking. The problem is that most people have the self-doubt station in their head turned up way too loud to hear it.” – Brian Vaszily

In the blogging world, there are SO many amazing opportunities out there to find. The more networks you join, the more people you connect with, the more posts you write… They all lead you on new paths – and many times to some amazing things. So, in everything that you do, every day – be the type of person that others want to work with. There are so many people that I’ve met over the past year that are awesome – always there to help me, answer questions, or just give me a cyber-high-five when I have cool news to share – there are also other people who seem to want to tear down every idea anyone comes up with, and make sure that everyone knows that they – and their ideas – are the best. But, while being pushy and domineering may get you ahead for awhile, in the long-run, being someone who is known as fun, positive, and helpful will bring you far more success and happiness. So my tip this week is to make sure, in every online interaction that you have, that you are the kind of person that others will want to work with again! :)

Freelance Writing and Guest Posting

Finding new places to share your writing can be a great way to reach new readers, drive new traffic to you site – or just a fun outlet to write about other topics that don’t fit your blog’s niche. {And there area a couple sweet writing contests to enter too!}

Bloggy Momazine: BloggyMoms.com is looking for new writers to add to their current line-up. There’s no info included on whether this is a paid writing opp, or if it’s just a great way to guest post and build traffic – But you can apply here if interested: Write for Bloggy Momazine.
Real Simple: The Simply Stated Blogger Contest – Write a post telling them the most difficult thing you’ve ever had to give up to balance your schedule, and be entered to win a chance to blog for them, and a cash prize. Very cool.
ProBlogger: Enter to win 1 of 10 spots as a Queensland Blogger Correspondent. This is an over-the-top amazing opportunity, and one that I would love so much. I’ve wanted to visit Australia since I was a little girl – it totally intrigues me.
Examiner: I love being able to connect with more local readers through this column, and share some of the really cool things that are going on in my city – that might not be that interesting to readers on my blog. If you’re an expert on a fun topic in YOUR city – sign up as a writer for Examiner.com today.
Blogger LinkUp: This is a cool way to find new opportunities for guest posting, and get quality back-links to your site. Really diverse stuff to choose from – Join Blogger LinkUp.
Squidoo: I’ve heard that this gets addicting really quickly – and I’m eager to get started writing here. The pages you make – called “lenses” – look really cool, and are fun to create. And you can earn bonus extra cash and Amazon sales too.

Have you found some great ways to earn extra income from writing, other than your own blog? Do you do free guest posting, in an attempt to connect with new readers? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments!

Monetize Your Site

While there are a million reasons why we blog – and so many amazing experiences that are out there, just waiting to be connected with new bloggers – we do still all have bills to pay, right?

Amazon: This isn’t available in some parts of the country, but if you live in a state that is still eligible, I definitely suggest that all bloggers sign up as an Amazon Affiliate, no matter what type of blog you have. If you have a recipe, you can link to some favorite kitchen gadgets or utensils that are helpful, if you’re writing a review you can link to the product on Amazon, etc.
Integrate: I really like the unique tools available here, and the wide variety of higher paying offers. Plus, for me, the conversions are MUCH better than on many other networks. Join Integrate.com today. {Already using Integrate, but not sure how to work it well? Read How to Get Started with Integrate.com.}
Escalate: My favorite thing about this network? That they pay out around the 10th or so of each month, for the previous month. I don’t know anyone else that pays that fast! Very cool. Join Escalate.com.
MySavings Media: If you post a lot of freebies and deals, this is a perfect network for you. And if you DON’T post those types of deals, you’ll still find some great things here to promote – cooking, baby stuff, crafts, and more. Join MySavings Media.
Logical Media: This was one of the first sites that I joined when I started blogging, and still use it today. Wide variety of offers, and very responsive management team. Join Logical Media.

If you have a favorite network that you use to earn with, feel free to leave a comment with some info on why you love it – with your affiliate link, so we can all join too.

Other Cool Stuff

Here are a few more randomly cool things that I thought you might find helpful, fun, or informative.

Mamavation: They’re looking for some super motivated mommas to join their weight loss bootcamp-from-home course. You’ll turn your life upside down, in a good way! – and they’ll get some awesome swag and support. Apply for Mamavation.
Moo.com: These are the BEST business cards I’ve ever used, and with a busy conference season coming up, it’s a perfect time to upgrade your own business cards to something really rad. There are so many unique ideas, the paper quality rocks, and I totally recommend these – Get awesome blogging business cards. {Check out the mini-cards too – so fun!}
Pinterest: I’ve got a whole board devoted to just Blogging & Social Media tips – there are a ton of really great articles, videos, tips, and tutorials on there. Check it out, and maybe you’ll find some of them helpful too!

Got any randomly cool tips or finds of your own this week? Feel free to share them in the comments! I love reading tips from you guys.

Have a great week!

Posted by Meagan Paullin on April 4, 2012 Filed Under: Blogging Resources, Weekly Opp's | 5 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 3/22

“The only race you have to win is the race against yourself – there will always be someone faster and stronger but there will never be another you, so look within and push your own personal boundaries.” – Unknown

How is blogging going for you? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work you have to do – Or excited to have so many great opportunities? Are you feeling burned out and bored – or energized and motivated? I’d love to hear some comments about what’s going great – and what’s challenging for you lately. Maybe your biggest challenge is something lots of other bloggers face too – and maybe I can write up a post with some solutions? Love hearing from you guys. Until then – check out this list of opps, ways to monetize your blog, and tips and tools to help you this week. See you around the blogosphere!

Monetize Your Blog

This is, for most of us, our biggest challenge. Whether you’re blogging as a career, or just wanting to earn enough to pay the hosting fees on your hobby – here are a few things I use to pay the bills.

Integrate: Learn the basics of how Integrate.com works, how to maximize your earnings, and how to sign up if it looks like a good fit for you – Getting Started with Integrate.com.
Social Spark: As you know – this is one of my favorites lately. You get some products to sample, the posts are simple and quick to write, and after you’ve been with them for awhile, you can earn a really steady paycheck. Learn more – Social Spark Sign Up.
MySavings: They have loads of coupons and deals to post – and they’re super easy to use. Check them out at MySavingsMedia.
zuuzs: I am such a big fan of this site. Here’s what I like best – You earn cash back from shopping, which you can do anywhere. And, you earn cash back from people you refer there too – but again, that’s pretty common. The differences are these: Shop a lot on Amazon? You get rewarded for that here! No where else does that. You don’t earn cash back on your Amazon purchase – but by shopping there, it increases your cash back everywhere else. Cool, right? And – you earn cash from your friend’s friends too! I have a consistent stream of income from this every month – and it’s a service that I trust, so it’s great to promote.
Escalate: This is a favorite of most of you – But if you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s a great place to work with. The affiliate managers are really great, it’s simple to use, and the best part – They pay out super fast at the beginning of each month! Join me at Escalate, one of the top networks for women and deal bloggers.
InfoStable: This is a new one for me, and there aren’t a ton of offers yet – But the ones I’ve used convert really well. Most of the offers are things like this one – Full Set of Graco Gear Giveaway – If this is a good fit for your site, sign up here.

If you have some great suggestions too – Feel free to leave your links {yes, your own referral links are totally ok with me!} in the comments below. I’m always looking for new places to join, and if it can benefit another blogger when I sign up, that’s a great bonus.

Reviews & Giveaways

This is another category that I get asked about a lot – How to find review and giveaway opportunities. Here are a few specific opps I’ve come across this week – and some networks that work well for me.

Automobiles: A major car brand is looking for new blogging partners. You’ll get to test drive a brand new car for a week in exchange for a review. Cool, right? Check it out and sign up – Blogger/Auto Partner Form.
Nuby: This awesome baby brand is looking for moms with babies or toddlers to partner with them on product reviews. And I LOVE Nuby products! Check it out – Nuby Blogger Partner Application.
One 2 One Network: I don’t get a lot of opps through this network, but I do get some fun ones. I just was approved to do a project for the new Rascal Flatts album, which I’m excited about. And – they do offer a lot of those types of campaigns where, “Post about this for a chance to win!”, and I know many people hate those. But – Last year I won about $300 bucks in Visa gift cards with them, plus other prizes. So if the content is good, I share, and sometimes get rewards. One 2 One Sign Up.
Mom Select: I love this network! We’re in the new Baby Brezza Cookbook, are going to be reviewing a new {and much needed!} sleep system for Abby, and loads more fun stuff – all connected by Mom Select. Check them out – Join Mom Select.
Mom Ambassador: Join Moms Meet! Apply to be a Mom Ambassador, and get access to really generous packages of new products to share with your own mom groups or playdates. Always great green and organic brands. I’ve been a member for years.

Which networks are your favorites? Share some suggestions in the comments, so we can all find some groups to join!

Freelance Writers

If you love to blog, you probably love to write. If so, why not widen your net, and write for places other than your blog? There are always tons of cool places looking for guest posts!

Free ebooks: Get a big list of really helpful ebooks on topics like formatting your own ebook, publishing on Kindle network, and more – Free ebooks for Writers.
Examiner: Get your own local column, write about anything in your local area that you’re passionate about, make great connections – and earn a paycheck each month too! I’m the Yakima Frugal Living Examiner, and I have a lot of fun with it. You can learn more too, and sign up for a topic that’s perfect for you, by reading here – Examiner.com Writers. If you have any questions – don’t hesitate to ask me!
Constant Content: This is a great place to submit your work to be purchased, or find quick writing projects to work on. Sign up here – Constant Content Application.

Do you do freelance writing, or write anywhere other than your blog? I’d love to hear your tips for being successful with it!

Events & Hops to Join!

Who loves to party? You know I sure do, right? So – Join some blog hops, link parties, and giveaway events today! It’s a great way to connect with new people, and drive some new readers towards your awesome content!

Events List: Find the best upcoming blogging giveaway events to join – Check out the great list on Koupon Krazed – Bloggers Event Page.
Meg’s Moxie: One of my favorite bloggers is celebrating her 10,000 on Facebook! It’s very cool – Because I’m almost ready to start celebrating my own 10,000 mark too :) Join the fun in the big giveaway – Sign Up Here.
StumbleUpon: Each week I have a great link party, and you can join too. Just submit your favorite link of the week, give some stumble love to other links that you really do like, and have your own post stumbled too! SU is always one of my top referrers of traffic, and it can be such a useful tool for bloggers!

Do you have an awesome giveaway or event coming up? Share the sign up sheet or info in the comments below!

Staying Productive

Does anyone actually stay productive around here?? Lol. This is one that I struggle with – I have a toddler, two nephews that live with me, a busy house of crazy people and animals… It’s hard to keep up. So, my biggest focus is always on trying to stay as organized as possible, to be productive during those moments when I actually have some time to focus!

Pomodoro Technique: This is a really cool idea, and I’m going to start using this to help me be more productive in short bursts. Let me know what you think, and if it works well for you – How to Increase Blogging Productivity using the Pomodoro Technique.
Printables: I’ve been meaning to put together a post on how I built my own Blogging Binder from free printables – Hopefully I’ll get that done soon. Until then, you can check out my collection of favorite printable planners and organizing sheets, and get started on your own.
Humor: This post explains exactly why I fall behind every day, lol. Anyone else relate?? My Time Management Crisis in Poorly Drawn Graphics.

How do you stay on track? Do you have any great posts that you’ve written about staying organized and productive? Share them in the comments so I can share them with my readers too!

Financial Info & Tools for Entrepreneurs

Here are just a few things that I’ve come across this week that I think are super helpful – so maybe they will be for you too!

Living the Dream: This great post, Burgers or Blogging? is about following your passion. It’s difficult, but rewarding. Discusses many views, and I loved it.
Calculators: This is packed with awesome tools – 100 Calculators that Every Entrepreneur Needs – so many cool things to check out.
To Blog for Free, or Not Blog for Free: This great post covers this topic really well. There is no real answer to this – but the article helps you figure out when and why writing for free can benefit you.

For more tips, tools, and great articles on Blogging & Social Media – check out my board on Pinterest. There’s some good stuff for ya!

Wrapping it up

Whew! That was a lot of info, right? I’ve been super swamped lately… I feel like I’ve never been able to really catch up yet after my computer crash, and am still trying to get through emails and reviews. So I don’t have a ton of specific opps to share this week, {and yes, I got the emails from those of you who noticed that I didn’t get time to post last weeks Bloggertunities – Sorry ladies!} – but I hope the info included is helpful!

Want to Rock Your Blog? Check out these great leads, tips, and opps from @sunandsipcups! sunshineandsippycups.com/2012/03/weekly…

— SunandSipCups (@SunandSipCups) March 22, 2012

Posted by Meagan Paullin on March 22, 2012 Filed Under: Blogging Resources, Weekly Opp's | 19 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 3/8

Weekly Opportunities to Boost Your Blog

Welcome to another edition of Bloggertunities! I hope everyone’s new month is off to a rockin’ start – I know I’m about as busy as I can be. Woah boy! {When I finally figure out this whole “Clone-a-Blogger 5000” invention, I’m going to be rich. Right??} – Anyway…. As usual, if you have a great opp to share, linky to join, or event in need of new sign-ups – Share the info and link in the comments here, so everyone has more great stuff to check out. And – all contacts and opps in this post are always things that I have permission to share, which means you can share them too – feel free to post this link in any groups or networks you’re in. Blogging isn’t a race – there’s room for us all to be awesome. This week’s motivation for ya… “12 Stressful Things to Stop Tolerating” – By one of my all time favorite sites, Marc and Angel Hack Life.

Monetize Your Blog

The perks of blogging are great, right? But momma also needs to pay the bills. Here are a few of the ways that I’ve been earning cash this week – I have received at least one payment from every one of these sites, so they’re all legit.

BlogServicesInc: I don’t have a lot to share on them yet. I just signed up, and have heard good things from other bloggers. Learn more about monetizing your site.
SocialSpark: Love this site. Super fast payouts, easy to write posts, and fair compensation – I earn from $60-$200 per post. Tip: If you apply, and get denied – Email back and ask why. I was denied twice in the beginning, due to errors on their end. Many times if you contact them, you WILL be approved – worst that can happen is they give you tips to improve, and you can apply again! Join SocialSpark.
INFOstable: This is a new affiliate network – and if you’re a member of Escalate, you’ll recognize the structure right away, it’s exactly the same. There aren’t a ton of offers, as it’s very new. But there are some great baby product giveaway offers, and it’s converting great for me. Learn more and sign up.
Blogvertise: Earn cash for posts. Fair warning – there is a lot of… Um, not so good offers here. But, I do find plenty that I can post too – and taking 20 minutes to write up a $10 paying post, once a day, equals almost $300 a month. If you check in often for the grab bag tasks, it can be worth it. Just be careful, and make sure you’re only posting things that your readers will really like.
YaySave: Are you signed up with them yet? I joined almost a year ago now, and love it. You can stock up on household products like cleaning supplies or beauty products, and they compare all prices to both Walmart & Amazon, to make sure you find the best price. You also earn SwagBucks with your purchases. And now, to sweeten the deal even more – they just launched a referral program! Earn up to $100 for each person you refer. Wow, right?

What sites do you do best with to earn cash payments? Great affiliates you want to share? If so, feel free to leave your own sign up link in the comments. If I’m going to join something new – I want one of YOU to benefit from it too!

Reviews & Giveaways

We all love getting to try the best new family-friendly products on the market, and sharing some insider info with our readers to help them make the best buying decisions. And being able to reward readers with some fun prizes is always a good day!

Maggies Direct: Sign up to be a member of their Blogger Network for some great opportunities. I was approved as a member today, and the program looks really amazing. Learn more and Sign Up – Join Maggies Direct. You get certificate each month to choose a review product, have opps to do giveaways, and more.
Influential Media: Sign up to be a part of this new network. You can indicate which opportunities you are interested in, from reviews and giveaways, to sponsored posts and ads.
Kidstuff Public Relations: Email them to apply to be a partner blogger with them. You can read their terms, and what they expect – and they require a screenshot to give them information about your monthly page views. Learn more and see if you qualify: Kidstuff Blogger Inquiry.
Mom Central: One of my favorite places to work with for reviews – they’re super organized, and make it really easy to complete their campaigns. Sign up as a Mom Central Blogger.

How do you get products for reviews and giveaways? Do you pitch companies yourself – any tips to share? Or do you have a favorite network not on this list? Share your great info in the comments!

Writing Jobs & Guest Posting

If you’re a blogger, my guess is that you like to write. If you do – there are SO many places to share your writing on the web. {FYI: I’m going to be opening up a guest blogging program next month – watch for the form to fill out, and share your great posts on my site!}

The Mommies Network: There are a ton of different opportunities here if you’d like to expand the places that your writing is published. Check it out – Learn more and apply to post.
Examiner.com: If you’re an expert in your town – find your favorite topic on Examiner.com and apply to write your own column today! I’m working on getting more active with this – it’s a really fun way to get new exposure and experience as a writer, while earning a consistent income too!

You can also check out the great tips on About.com in their freelance writing section for more great ideas on getting started.

More Great Stuff

Here are a few more random things that didn’t fit into the other categories – but that I thought you guys might like. You can also check out my boards on Pinterest for Blogging & Social Media Tips, and Tech Made Simple.

Giving Back: Join Mom Bloggers for Social Good! No, this doesn’t monetize your blog or get you free stuff. But it’s a great way to use the huge influence and trusted voice you have to push for great changes in the world. I joined, and it’s a wonderful group of women – I’d love to have you join us too!
StumbleUpon: Join a great, free, linky event and increase your traffic with StumbleUpon – I get over 10,000 page views each month from SU, and I find a lot of new pages to follow myself when I use it just for fun. Love it.
Pinterest 101: A pretty comprehensive guide to everything Pinterest – It’ll help show you how to get started if you’re a beginner – but it’s also got some cool new tricks and tips to learn if you’re more of an expert. Pinterest 101: Pin Like a Rockstar!
FREE Giveaway: This is a free giveaway event that you can join – Plus, you can purchase additional links if you want to really boost your blog. Check it out, learn more, and join this sweet new event I’m co-hosting!

Any other cool articles, ebooks, websites – anything you’ve found helpful this week – share it with me and the other amazing ladies reading this, in the comments below. You’re awesome!

Posted by Meagan Paullin on March 8, 2012 Filed Under: Weekly Opp's | 11 Comments

Weekly Bloggertunities – 2/29

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” – Michael Jordon

What obstacles have you faced lately? Is it a lack of motivation? If so, that could be because you’ve lost the excitement about what you’re doing. Think back to why you started your blog – then make a list of 5 things you LOVED back then. Then take a couple of days to work those things in again. Or think about your long-term goals…. And dream big. Write down those giant ideas, and smack ’em up on the wall where you’ll see them every day! Is it a lack of time? Maybe you just need more help getting organized. I have a great list of free printable planning sheets, and some sweet tips on setting up a schedule system that goes everywhere you do. What other challenges do you deal with? Share your trouble spots – and any solutions you’ve found! – in the comments. I’m sure someone else will benefit from what you have to say too.

Reviews & Giveaways

Here are some great places to find new products and services to review, as well as opportunities for sponsored giveaways. Giveaways can be a ton of work – but they also are a great way to say Thank You to your readers for being such loyal fans!

Giveaway Blogs: This is a great network – You can meet great bloggers and connect with new brands. I’ve found some very cool opportunities with them – The forums are filled with fun companies looking to connect with new bloggers. Sign up here – Join Giveaway Blogs.
Doc Milo: Click the link to see their totally gorgeous products – then up in the right corner, you’ll see a big yellow link for Blogger Sign Ups. Click there to be taken to the blogger partner application.
MyBlogSpark: Sign up for a free membership with this site to do fun product reviews and giveaways – See an example here – I’ve been a member for a year, and have had some fun opps. Nothing huge, but very fun. Blogger Program Sign-Up.

What other networks do you use for review and giveaway sponsors? Share in the comments! And, if you’re a review blogger – You do NOT want to miss the biggest event targeted towards us this year – Reviewer’s Retreat 2012! Will I see you there?

Events and Fun Stuff

Here’s an assortment of cool happenings around the web, for moms and bloggers. If you’ve found something cool going on – I’d love to hear about it!

Mompreneur’s Challenge: Join this 30-day challenge from Business Among Moms – Small Steps to a Big Business. Each day you’ll get a new tip or trick emailed to you. Then challenge yourself to do that task, and watch as your business improves day by day!
MamaCon: This is a SUPER fun event coming up – and it’s not just for bloggers, so plan to attend with some of your best girlfriends too. You can learn more, and enter to WIN tickets and a stay at the totally gorgeous Hilton Bellevue too, from The Maven of Social Media.
LeapPad Explorer Giveaway: This sounds like a totally amazing event – $10 bucks gets you any two links you want. The giveaway is HUGE – full LeapPad Explorer set, games, accessories – the works! Learn more here – LeapPad Giveaway.
The Mommy Club: Each week Crystal & Co does my favorite link up of the week – Share Your Mommy Solutions! Totally me, right? Check it out, find some amazingly cool info, and link up your own favorite posts too!
Furst:Access: Sign up for an account here to get notification of new movie screening events. Very cool, right? Furst:Access Sign Up.

Who loves to party? This girl! Are you hosting a Twitter party? Share the info with us in the comments. Excited about a cool conference or event coming up? Let me know about it!

Networks

Here are a few of the cool networks that I’m in, that I thought you guys might want to check out too. They’ll give you new ways to network, find cool partnerships, and more.

Zurker: This is a really cool idea – they want to let users be more in control of this social network, and give you ownership in it. So – for inviting friends and helping to build up the site, you are actually given stock in the company! How cool might that be, right? Check it out and sign up here – Zurker, new social network sign up.
SheSpeaks: Join their Blogger Society – You get to share opinions, try new products and give feedback, and participate in cool events.
Blogaholic: I’ve been featured here a few times, and realized lately that I’ve kind of been a stranger over there! It’s a really great place to connect with other bloggers, and learn a ton. Everyone interacts so much – You’ll love it. Join Blogaholic Social Network. Already a member? Connect with me too!

What are your favorite networks, and what do you love most? Are you a part of other networks, outside of the blogging world? I’m looking for some new places to join, for moms – something fun, where I can meet some new faces. Any suggestions?

Cool Tools

Are you ready for the big Facebook change? Here’s a tool to help you prepare. And another great tool that can help you build your Twitter presence too.

Facebook: Are you ready for the new change? Yep – On March 30th all Facebook pages will switch over to the Timeline format. Are you ready? If you want to get started now, so you can optimize your layout before it goes live, this might help – Free Facebook Timeline Cover Templates.
Paper.li: You’ve probably seen these on Twitter – and they’re a great way to share posts of people you follow, meet some new faces, and share your own best posts. People can subscribe too. Want to see an example, and get your own? Here’s mine –The Daily Sunshine. {Tip, when you set it up, make sure to click the settings button that has it go out automatically. I missed that the first time I did mine.}

Share your favorite tools too. I am ALWAYS looking for the newest ways to rock my social media. So…. Yep, you guessed it – share your tips in the comments!

Love it? Share it!

I love to be able to help out my blogging buddies – which is why I put together this resource each week. So, if you found something helpful – pass it on! Use this easy button to retweet it out to your buddies too, or share the link to Facebook, StumbleUpon, Pin it, or whatevah! You’re welcome to post it wherever you think it’ll help out more peeps! Thanks for reading – and I look forward to reading YOUR comments and tips too.

Want to be a #blogging rockstar? This resource will help you earn more money, join cool events, and have more fun! sunshineandsippycups.com/2012/02/weekly…

— SunandSipCups (@SunandSipCups) March 1, 2012