When I first started blogging, I never even thought about having advertisements on my site or becoming an affiliate for various companies. But, as I got more comfortable with my place in the blogosphere and started gaining a following, I started to receive emails from different companies asking me if I would be interested in reviewing their products. Over time, I realized that advertisers and affiliates can definitely benefit us bloggers just as much as we help them. Here’s a little about each and how they can help you:
{woohoo for free Christmas cards…and they were GORgeous!}So far, I haven’t made any commission from any of my affiliate companies; apparently no one has made a purchase after clicking on one of my links, but I have definitely gotten some fun free things. As of now, I’m an affiliate for: Tiny Prints, Mixbook, My Memories, Shabby Apple, and Frecklebox.
If you’re interested in being an affiliate, there are two ways it happens. One is that the company contacts you and makes you an offer to join up. The other is to apply to them. Most sites have a link for Affiliates that give more information. Shabby Apple and My Memories handle their affiliates independently while others use sites like shareasale.com, where you can browse for other companies that might be a good fit for you and your blog.
Meanwhile, speaking of advertising…
if you’ve found this series helpful, would you consider sharing a button on your blog so others can find it too?

Sarah says
Hey Amy, I’m enjoying your series!
It’s always nice to hear what has worked for someone else!
I signed up for Bloglovin’ today & followed you! And I just followed you on Linky Followers. Although I agree with you that Bloglovin’ is better!
Katie @ Pincushion Creations says
Hi Amy!! Thanks so much for your series! I am really enjoy reading everyday the different topics! You should definetly link some of these posts up to my “Homemade By You” Party
Ashley says
Thank you so much Amy for sharing all of this great info! I still consider myself new to blogging and I have really like reading your Grow Your Blog series. You’re awesome!
Amy says
Thank you for this series–great info. and very helpful.
micki @ ADD housewife says
Loved your tips!
Christina at I Gotta Create! says
This is a great overview! Thanks so much for sharing your helpful tips at the Blog Tips Cafe linky party over at I Gotta Create!
<3 Christina
http://igottacreate.blogspot.com/2011/12/fresh-new-year-blogging-tips.html
Izzonet Ecommerce Web says
I’ve been thinking about joining an affiliate program just because I read your beautiful write-up ‘bout it here. I guess everything’s just so right!
Faith @ Artistic31Mama says
I’ve been following your blog now for awhile but am just getting around to reading this series. Love it. A lot of what you have suggested I’m doing so it’s an encouragement to know I just need to keep at it. 🙂 I added your button on my side bar. Thanks!
http://www.artistic31mama.com
Mums make lists says
Great tips.
I would love for you to link up this at the making money from blogging link up on Empty Your Archive, Alice @ Mums Make Lists x