Questions

Should I offer a commission? a free service plan on my site? discount coupons for their readers? etc...

As a professional blogger myself, I get numerous requests every month to promote different services on my blog, so I can comment from my experience on what has proven effective enough to get my attention and support.

I'm going to assume you're aware of any legal issues here, and not comment on that. Just blogger incentives.

1. Find bloggers who want your product

Don't try to get just any blogger to promote your product or service. Instead, get crystal clear on your target audience and find bloggers who fit that profile.

When you reach out, acknowledge aspects of their platform that relate to your product or service―show them you've done your research (this isn't just a cold call/email).

2. Offer a preview or test

Most bloggers are very cautious about sharing products or services with their audience that they don't have experience with, for good reason!

When you start by offering a free account (even if for a limited time) or a massive discount so that a blogger can explore your service themselves, you're more likely to get a fan―not just an advertising outlet.

3. Offer a compelling incentive to promote

Don't worry about paying per click, instead focus on commissions from converted accounts―that way you're forming a partnership with the blogger in question.

The most effective incentives are purely monetary, and typically represent at least a 30% commission or $25 flat fee (depending on your service).

If you have a recurring service, you can even offer a lower commission if the payment actually recurs every month as customers stick around―that kind of offer is rare, and bloggers love it because it means recurring revenue for them.

4. Offer a discount specific for readers of the target blog

Bloggers love to come across looking like a hero. When I tell people to sign up for a hosting account with A Small Orange using promo code "MEESE" for a discount, they love it! And I do too.

As well, when blog readers see a discount or bonus offer attached to a promotion they're more likely to be excited about the promotion rather than see it as an ad.

In short... make it a win-win. I could go on, but I hope that inspires some ideas.

Of course, if you want to dive deeper into this topic, you're welcome to schedule a clarity call 😉


Answered 8 years ago

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