Monetization is Not What You Think

When veteran fashion blogger Daniela Ramirez shows up, expect a full house at the South Florida Bloggers November meet-up. She’s talking monetization and we are listening. Last month we broke the myths on what it means to be truly valuable to brands and potential partners. In case you missed it, here are some of the highlights.

Daniela shared her passion for educating brands on the value of engagement. Many times they just see a number, but we all know it is so much more than that. Brands are learning more and more that a “small” account with less than 10K followers can many times have a greater return than an account with over 100K. It is all about the content.

Oftentimes we work so hard to get our numbers up. Daniela feels that your aim should be to create better content each and every time. So what are you doing to improve your content? Once you start doing what you really love, you will soon see the growth. If you open a blog to make money or be famous, you’ve got it all wrong.

It may not be exactly what we expected to hear, but it is so true. A blog should be a space to share a passion or a story that you really believe in. That is going to create the best connection with the right people. So, you think you are ready to monetize? Then find out what you love, be genuine, and tell us all about it!

Another gem we took from Daniela: You are never too small to ask for money, and you are never too big to do something for free. Some things can help you build that long-term relationship. Later on you may be able to negotiate a rate. Especially if you are just starting out, make a good name for yourself by leaving a great impression on those you come across from the get-go.

In terms of her greatest source of income, it would definitely be from sponsored posts. Although she shared having used sidebar ads in the past, a sponsored post is the most organic way to share something with viewers. If your blog is directing readers to purchase a good, then Daniela definitely recommends working with sites that pay per clicks.

What if you are ready to approach a brand? Daniela believes that your first approach should be all about how you will work for them. Know exactly what you have to offer, and sell it! Just be mindful that you don’t want to give away the whole idea. Leave that for a future conversation (maybe a second or third email). Just keep them wanting to know more about your fabulous idea!

We gleaned so much information from Daniela in the time she shared. Bloggers asked all their questions, and even got some fun selfies with Daniela. Also, our sponsor and host, AC Hotels offered a fabulous space for us to meet at. Bloggers even received some pressed probiotic waters from Suja to cool off from the ever-present Miami heat.