So, I get this email JUST NOW that tells me I've GOT TO MOVE FURNITURE THAT WEIGHS 10 TIMES MORE THAN ME because the carpet people are returning to fix the waves that are now rolling in our year-old carpet and THEY WON'T MOVE ANYTHING THAT WEIGHS OVER 25 POUNDS, SO BIG, BULKY STRONG MEN ARE BULLYING ME into doing it BY MYSELF because my husband is at work and can't come home and I hate it when people are litigious because this is why the big, bulky strong men won't move anything because they're scared of a lawsuit if they break something…or else they're just lazy.
{{breathe}}
THEN, I find out I'm HATED AND DESPISED looked down upon? thought less of? because I chose to sign up for Sponsored Tweets and there's this whole contingency to unfollow people in Twitter who exercised their right to make a decision apart from group think????
{{breathe}}
Suddenly I feel like I've got a bulls eye painted right between my eyes. N o w I understand what . 🙁
{{breathe}}
I'm not very strong.
{{breathe}}
I was asked by a friend WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD I DO THAT?! That people HATE those who are compensated for tweets. She's concerned about my reputation and though she didn't come out and say it, the general opinion is people like "me" are sell outs. {Revised: in talking with my friend again, she made the distinction that people hate paid tweets not the person tweeting them. Big difference, but potentially the same consequence.}
I appreciate her brutal honesty and because I believe she's concerned about me, I wasn't offended in the least.
But I am confused. I don't understand how the same people who are ranting against people accepting compensation for 140 characters are the same people who
- accept trips from companies who go to great expense to demonstrate they "get it" when it comes to the voice of bloggers (mom bloggers in particular).
- receive free products for review.
- flood Twitter with multiple comments about why a brand [they're in alignment with or spokesperson for or a team member of or whatEVER the distinction…] is one their followers should pay attention to.
And here's the thing: that's fine with me. I understand people have their reasons for the choices they make, and if those choices serve them, that's their business.
I don't disparage others because I don't agree with those choices. I'm not trying to wrangle the masses to take a stand against some perceived injustice or abuse of [name your social media platform]. I don't understand the hostility, the venom I read by others.
By people I like. Respect. Follow. And will probably continue to do so.
I chose to sign up for Sponsored Tweets because I happen to like Ted Murphy. While we're very different people, I appreciate his entrepreneurial spirit and joie de vivre. It's not spamming–the sponsored tweet is published ONCE. I choose what I say yes to and I'm not obligated for anything. I told Ted via Twitter yesterday I saw it as "win-win-win–for sponsor/tweeter/followers; EVERYONE gains something of value."
For me, I'm compensated for lending my voice and sharing 140 characters of cyberspace.
Why would I "sell out"? Because while writing is a passion of mine, it takes time and work and intention and it warrants a second mention, TIME. The Blog Hop last week? INSANE amounts of time I didn't anticipate. For that, I received no financial compensation but it was an honor to encourage others who felt "less than" in some instances because they aren't in a position to attend BlogHer (or like conferences where it FEELS like "everyone" else is going, but few really are); I was thrilled to be a bridge-builder and connect bloggers with others with whom they might not otherwise cross paths; it was FUN to be able to offer a few giveaways and hear the excitement from the winners. I was paid in words and encouragement and kindness.
I've had the privilege of being a mostly at-home mom for 17 years. Throughout that time–until we moved to Tennessee six years ago–I was able to use my education and experience in marketing, public relations and advertising in consulting roles and even to create and run a children's program at my former church. When I moved here, my contacts were non-existent and my focus was on my children and growing roots and starting over and serving our school and leading or taking part in ministry.
Our three children range in age from 12 to almost 17; expenses are greater than ever and I longingly look back to the times I thought diapers and wipes would bankrupt us. For months now I've looked at ways to supplement our budget while allowing me the luxury of remaining available to our children. Flexibility is important.
S i g h….
I don't feel the need to justify my choices to "you".
I don't keep up with how many followers I have in Twitter and I'm not retaliatory (i.e., if you unfollow me then I automatically unfollow you). If my association with Sponsored Tweets is so objectionable to followers that they need to cut ties with me? Do what you have to do.
I'm not ranting for the fun of it. I don't stand on a soapbox high and mighty with fist raised in the air trying to persuade you to agree with me.
I'm writing because I want to hear your opinion.
I don't want my voice to become impotent because I'm paid for my time when I write fully-disclosed, occasional sponsored posts. Or tweets.
Guilt by association…it feels like I've been tried and convicted in the court of cyber public opinion…or bullied at the hand of self-appointed judges….
And daggum it, my flesh wants to dig in just because a twisted finger of accusation is cast in my direction. I'm not proud of that.
Do you have thoughts on the matter? Have you written about the subject? Agree or disagree? Couldn't care less? Have no idea what I'm talking about?
Please chime in…I'm listening….
I honestly don’t mind sponsored Tweets as long as they are occasional and not repeated–and if they are truthful. I was following someone who did Magpie, and then they Tweeted something like,
“Hey! Skiing stuff on closeout. Good ’cause I’m going skiing next week.”
FOR WEEKS AND WEEKS.
Somehow I don’t think they were being truthful.
I don’t see how it’s any worse than sponsored posts as long as it’s not overdone. I think you, Miss Robin, can do anything in just the right refined style.
Honestly, no idea what you are talking about. But I’m not going to unfollow you, ever. You, Robin, are the person I want to be when I grow up. You inspire and lead me every single day. You don’t do ANYTHING without praying over it first so I don’t doubt your decisions. It’s your voice and I respect your right to use it.
By the way, hypocrites really bite. How dare those who indulge in paid sponsorships and the like, judge you. Judge not, lest ye be judged.
Here is my thought…
You know your identity in Christ, and He is the only one with the authority to tell you who you are. Therefore, do what is best for your family and follow Him. It doesn’t matter what I think or anyone else.
Personally, I could care less if you have sponsored tweets! The only thing that would make me unfollow you is if you were only tweeting annoying sponsored tweets – but you don’t! You engage, you are encouraging, fun, and I like ya! So my opinion? Go for it and let the “snooty’s” unfollow you! 🙂
oh WOW. So sorry. (And feeling slightly guilty for retweeting a tweet ‘say no to sponsored tweets’ this morning.)
BUT.. let me say this. I feel,.. ambivalent and undecided about Sponsored Tweets. I shy away from the idea personally because I have had several people in my Tweetstream that twittered about Magpie WAY TOO MUCH. But this sounds different, so I’m unsure.
On the other hand, if this turns out to be a nice and easy way of legitimate compensation for you.. then I might be interested, too, because seriously?? Hubs has really complained about the “Time w/o compensation” issue.
So I guess, really, I’m not against Sponsored Tweets. I’m opposed to that other kind of tweeting, the constant repetitive nagging kind of tweeting. And you don’t do that, nor can I ever see you going there. And honestly, even if you did, I don’t think I would ever unfollow you or dislike you because I already like you too much to unfollow you for something like THAT. You’d have to disown the South or Gravy or something worse than tweet-spamming. 😉
Love ya!
I’ll have to SEE what a sponsored Tweet looks and feels like, from you or anyone, to know what I think. If I start seeing Tweets that just look like spam (the bad kind of spam, I mean, not the kind you fry and serve with eggs, because if they come up with a way for somebody to Tweet me fried SPAM, well then you just SIGN MAMA RIGHT UP FOR THAT SERVICE!) from people I don’t hear from otherwise or with whom I don’t really have a relationship, maybe I’ll unfollow. Although probably I’ll be too lazy to unfollow and I’ll just ignore ’em.
But more importantly, I don’t think this means you’re hated by anyone, though, Robin, and I don’t think it makes you a sell-out. Many of us want to find ways to earn a little something in return for the work & time we put into blogging and connecting with people. (Or in your case but notsomuch mine, developing a sphere of influence.) And I think it’s a great to see innovation and imagination offer us new ways to do that. Will sponsored Tweets immediately be a fit for everybody? No. Will they be used or appreciated or lauded by everybody? Probably not.
But that’s okay, because not everybody likes fatback in their green beans, but that doesn’t make it any less delicious (critical? mandatory?) to you and me. Heck, if some influential somebody had said, way long time ago, Imogene, I don’t think you oughtta be puttin’ that hunka fatback in them there green beans!” and everybody’d just dropped the fatback and listened and obeyed, then we’d be eatin’ our green beans without fatback (or whatever your preferred delivery system for pork fat flavor, be it fat back or bacon or what have you) to this day. And I don’t know about you, but to me that sounds like a fate worse than death.
And so in conclusion, I’d just like to say that I laud and support your pioneerin’, entrepreneurial spirit, ma’am.
Now pass the SPAM and green beans.
DARN IT. I’m gonna to be speaking in italics for the rest of my life if I don’t add this.
First of all, thank you for writing such an honest post. With all that is swirling in the blogging/tweeting world, we need people to ask these questions and give the opportunity for opinions.
I had not heard of Sponsored Tweets until I read your post. Since reading it, I have visited sponsoredtweets.com as well as some other websites with information about it.
Frankly, I do not see what the problem is! I don’t believe Sponsored Tweets is any different than tweeting about giveaways, contests, or bargains at a particular store or website. Maybe the difference is that you are receiving payment? Well, I say good for you…if you can make some money doing that then I am seriously glad for you!
Those doing reviews are compensated as well in the products they receive. Also, by tweeting about giveaways, they get traffic to their blogs (which you probably won’t get from the Sponsored Tweets), which in turn can increase their appeal for companies to buy ad space on their blogs. So, in my opinion they are really reaping even more benefits that you. I can’t understand why that would be viewed as acceptable, yet they are accusing you of crossing some invisible line?
My personal opinion is that bloggers and tweeters should be free to do as they see fit. There is no compulsory following or subscribing. Different people are comfortable with different things. If they have a problem with something, then they can unsubscribe or unfollow. I would rather not have followers who expect me to fit some formula or be a part of an unspoken “tweeters union”. To me, these mediums are opportunities for creative expression and for sharing information. A Sponsored Tweet could be very informative and even helpful. On the other hand, it might not interest me, but can’t I just ignore it and move on if that’s the case?
I have no doubt that you will choose your Sponsored Tweets with good taste and class, just like you have in everything else I have seen you touch (on your blog and in your tweets). I certainly will continue following you on Twitter and subscribing to your blog.
Sorry I’ve been so wordy again. Whenever I comment on one of your posts, my response seems to go on and on. You just raise very good questions, and I always seem to have a lot to say. 🙂
Bottom line, in Christ alone….
We all have to make choices in life that are right for our families, for ourselves, for our beliefs and our needs….
I am sorry your experience is being judged for compensation or endorsement….the truth is most if not all of the ones who are publically denouncing the pay for tweets are themselves being wined, dined, or tripped for their opinion and I do not see the difference…
Know that your authentic heart and sharing of your fantastic mind is what keeps so many of us coming back for more!
God bless you and protect your heart today!
hugs
Sweetie
(waves hand)
I am the guilty friend.
hehe
My thoughts? If you are comfortable with it, do it and the heck with what others think. I can’t imagine that anyone rational would truly take issue with the occasional sponsored tweet (and if they do? unfollow). We all spend a lot of time writing our blogs (and your BlogHop looked like WAY too much work – thanks for it though) for little or no compensation. If we are able to pay ourselves back with a little something through reviews or sponsored tweets or trips paid for by companies as long as no one makes it appear as something other than it is where is the harm? I do about 1 review a month and receive the product (always something of small value) and a $20 gift card for my time – I don’t say anything other than my true thoughts and opinions and through that have saved up some gift cards to off set a little bit of the purchase of a new digital camera. I don’t feel bad about it at all and those who disagree can choose not to read.
My long winded way of saying – do what you like. Most of us will continue to hang with you.
I guess I’m with everyone else. As long as it’s not spam-y I probably wouldn’t even notice!
From the viewpoint of a tweet receiver and as an independent thinker, I would probably unfollow someone who’s every tweet is aimed at selling me something. However, if it is only an occasional tweet, I wouldn’t. I look at that more along the lines of seeing someone in public wearing a shirt with a company logo on it- not offensive to me in the least.
As a mother struggling with a very limited budget, I fully understand your desire to help enhance your family while attempting to remain accessible to your children. I see nothing wrong in compensation- as long as it’s not for an immoral act. Something like that is a personal choice (I choose not to, but only because I couldn’t sell fire during an ice age). As far as public opinion goes, I try to think for myself first and foremost. And if my personal opinion happens to go against the flow, I just remind myself that it was once public opinion that the world was flat, and that Galileo was an idiot. So yeah, I don’t put a whole lot of stock in that.
The only opinion I have here is this–you shouldn’t have to justify these decisions to us or anyone else. It’s clear from this post (and your posts in general) that you have a heart to encourage, to inspire, and that you’re about as diplomatic and sweet as they come. So, take heart, sponsored tweets or not, you know who you are, and those who don’t know (and misjudge you)…well, they’re just missin’ out!!
I don’t have an opinion on sponsored tweets (although I did unfollow some Magpie people cause it was freakin’ driving me nuts), but here is my 2 cents on all this stuff/crap for what it is worth.
I am VERY tired of people criticizing other people’s blogs because they disagree with whatever form/fashion they are using to make a little money on the side. If you don’t like it, don’t read anymore, unfollow whatever. It doesn’t make me less or more of a blogger because I stick some ads up. At the end of the day it is MY blog and twitter and I am really frustrated with all the wasted energy people are devoting to telling people what to do.
That being said, I respect open and helpful dialogue like you have presented, but must of what I read on these subjects is neither. A whole big bunch of us are SAHMs for whom blogging become a part time job of sorts with no pay. I applaud anyone who finds a way to make a little extra as long as they do it with integrity. And I could not agree with you more that talking for months on end about a product/ company they are clearly affiliated with is no different than a sponsored tweet.
There needs to be a whole lotta looking at the plank in our own eye before pointing fingers. I have had the pleasure of meeting you in real life and I cannot imagine a less offensive person. And the fact that you are welcoming this discussion speaks volumes to the kind of person you are. I will be following both your blog and your tweets faithfully 🙂
Yeah what everyone else said;0!
I think you hit the nail on the head when you point out that the same people have no problem selling their own products, receiving stuff for giveways or reviews,etc. It’s sort of like “I’m going to make some $ blogging but how dare you do something out of the mainstream”
Wow, so that’s what all the “sponsored tweet” drama is all about that everyone is all a-twitter about? Hmm, I was wondering.
Part of me wants to say “where do I sign up?” I could certainly use the extra income, and I spend enough time on Twitter, that I’d love to make it worth something financially. then I might feel less guilty about all the time I “waste” on there. 😉
Seriously though, I agree pretty much with what everyone has already said.
Here’s my thing, and I’ve actually been thinking of doing a blog post on this topic, because I’m always confused by it…I don’t understand who decided what the rules of “blogging/tweeting” ought to be.
Who died and made anyone “king of social media”?
I don’t blog to make money (thank goodness, or I’d be broke, because I’m not very good at it), and I certainly don’t Tweet for that reason, I do it because I ENJOY IT. Therefore, because it is a fun thing for me, I don’t “follow rules”. I make up my own rules, just like I do with pretty much anything in life.
I follow human kindness and decency rules. I treat others with respect, and I expect the same. this is true in life, on my blog, or on Twitter. So, if the people I follow stick to that basic system of human decency then they’re okay in my book.
Am I going to unfollow someone because they don’t follow me back? Nope, never. I don’t care.
Am I going to unfollow someone because once in a while they send out a “sponsored tweet”? Nope. Like everyone said, as long as it doesn’t become THE ONLY THING they ever tweet, I don’t care.
Am I going to unfollow someone because they post links to their blog? Nope. I do it too on the rare occasions when I do write a blog post.
I will unfollow someone if their tweets offend, annoy, or bore me. If I realize after a while that we don’t have anything in common and I am constantly ignoring your tweets, then yes, I’ll unfollow you. (that very rarely happens by the way).
I am also not going to immediately follow someone because they follow me. I’m sorry, but that’s just the truth. I need to be interested in what you have to say.
I follow people on Twitter for two reasons: because they are friends of mine and we actually converse on there OR because I find them interesting individuals.
Those are my rules. All the other “unwritten rules”, I don’t care about.
I don’t care about gaining more followers, I dont’ worry about my stats, etc. I never have, even with my blog. I don’t do it for the numbers, I do it for me, and for the amazing friendships and connections I’ve made in the cyberworld.
And all tha being said, Ms. Robin, you have been one of those amazing connections I have made, and although my life has gotten busier in the last year, and I haven’t dropped in here as often as I’d like, I’ve been grateful to at least be able to still “know what you’re up to” thanks to Twitter.
So, worry not, I will NOT be unfollowing you. 😉
Hey, why not? I’m glad if you can make a little money off of Twitter or blog ads. I’ve thought about it before. It would be nice to earn a little cash for all the gobs of time I spend online, but I just haven’t wanted to figure out how to do it. I don’t really get Twitter anyway. It seems like what it is best for is promotion–of your blog or whatever. Otherwise it’s just kind of babbling about insignificant minutiae. Why would anyone care what I’m eating for lunch or that I just enrolled my kids at school? (I don’t know, and yet I tweet anyway.) The only reason I’ve continued with Twitter is because I thought I might like to use it to promote my blog more, but I’m still not sure of that. Anyway, the point is, I’m happy if some SAHM can make money and help her family out while being able to stay at home and available for them. Am I following you yet? I’m going to go check and add you if you aren’t already in my list. So there:oP
I’m not a big Twitter person, but I’d say do what you think is right. Pluck up and remember that Jesus was anti-establishment, and He turned out ok. 🙂
Maybe bear in mind that if you’d be annoyed by your own twitter stream, then it’s probably too much, and you can back off.
ARE YOU SERIOUS??? People are giving you grief over a decision that neither concerns them nor their family? SHESH!! I just don’t understand people sometimes. I don’t get why YOUR decision to do sponsored tweeting has anything to do with them or why they feel the need to lash out at you for it. It’s your decision whether to get compensation for something that you do everyday anyway. Good grief, my response is, GO GIRL GO make that money at talking, or blogging or tweeting. Get paid for something you do already!
I’ve got your back on this one! You aren’t doing anything wrong. And if they don’t like seeing your tweets, they can just not read them! MY TWO CENTS!!!
Groovewoman
I’m w/Diaper Diaries. OMG, I’m sick to death of the whole THEY-said-I-CAN’T-do-this-on-MY-blog/twitter conversation. Ugh. Robin, seriously, if you put up a tweet that said, “Click here and I’ll make 5cents.” I’d click it twice.
Wow. Didn’t read all of what’s here but here’s the thing:
I read you because of your integrity. I can’t imagine that you’ll drop your integrity for a few bucks. Participating in a program that might yield a few bucks for your family? Good for you. Seriously.
I’m still new (somewhat) in the whole blogging world thing, and when I run into the people who have a few well chosen words to say about a sponsor who is advertising in the sidebar I don’t mind. I run away when it seems like every post is about what this sponsor gave them or how they can’t live without such and so product. Honest comments on something mixed in with a majority of posts about non-sponsored things that mean something to me? I’ll stick around.
It’s people like those who are so loud about making money that make me wonder what is really going on with them and why they are so vociferous about it…. are they really comfortable with what they have done or is their attack on others a way of blaming someone else for their own sell out?
I love your authenticity and your voice… I’ll be sticking around.
SHEESH! I feel about this topic the same way I did about the PR Blackout … it’s your twitter account/blog/life ~ do what you want with it!! UGH! I wrote a post about the PR blackout that likened this “conversation” which has already denigrated into absurdity to “crabs pulling one another back into a pot of boiling water.” Why can’t women just ENCOURAGE each other and be supportive?
I’m going to stop typing because I am just going to get even more frustrated about the neverending drama … we are not in middle school anymore! Really!!!
So, if you annoy me with your sponsored tweets, yeah, I’ll unfollow you … and if you annoy me with your unsponsored tweets for long enought, yeah, I’ll unfollow you. Until then – and honestly, even after that – I’ll defend forever your right to write, blog, tweet, whatever however you want!!
Just don’t lose touch with your heart and the drive that makes you good at writing and honest with yourself and your loved ones….Other than that, let the market and your fans be your guide….
I really don’t have an opinion one way or the other about sponsored tweets. Is it something that I’m interested in doing…no. That’s not why I’m online, blogging and tweeting. I’m doing it for the connection to the outside world while I’m at home with my children and to have an outlet to share my life. If it becomes so draining and time-consuming that I feel like I need to be paid, I think I’ll give it up….but that’s just me. At the same time I’m not judging you for doing what you feel like is a good decision for yourself.
I’ve really never heard of sponsored tweeting until reading this. As long as you continue writing good, thought-provoking/interesting/entertaining posts and tweets I’ll continue to read them, subscribe to this blog, and follow you on twitter. That’s all that matters in my world.
I was where you are when I first started doing sponsored posts a few years ago (back when Izea was just PayPerPost). I felt like I had a bullseye painted on my blog. So, I guess I have a thicker skin now that the pay-per-tweet debate is heating up. Guess which side I’m on? Well, my profile is on their tweeter profile page, so yeah, I’m on the “this is ok” side of things.
I really appreciate your readers taking the issue with the us versus them mentality. We can all blog and take up space in the same sphere, right? I love Diaper Diaries take, “It doesn’t make me less or more of a blogger because I stick some ads up.”
And yes, I think trips, products, and sponsorships are forms of being paid.
I know a few people here in Chattanooga who have bartered their services for memberships at the Y. Because that person uses their talent to help the Y make their talent less valuable? Apparently the Y doesn’t think so and offered them a membership to compensate for their time. I see using my tweets to put the word out about a service/ website/ company as valuable time as well, and if I get cash or product in exchange, then great. Keeping it inline with what I already tweet or blog helps keep it real, even if I am getting paid.
Well, I don’t “tweet” (except when baby stellan is in critical/hospital condition) so I can’t really say much about that.
But here is my 2 cents on the whole “pay” thing. I have NO PROBLEM with ads, endorsements, etc…as long as I know what they are ads or endorsements…I *welcome* them from bloggers whose work I admire (ahem..youknowwhothatIamcommentingon) because it allows them to do what they do and I benefit from that…like ads on TV or internet pages.
Simple enough with me.
I don’t really understand the backlash, but then, I am an engineer and not an “artist”
I only have a vague idea of what you are talking about. If you make it clear that it is a sponsored tweet, and it is not constant, then I don’t see why it is a big deal. As you said, it is really no different from posts that are written as part of an arrangement involving free merchandise or whatever. Full disclosure and openness seems sufficient. Sorry you are getting such negativity.
I think it’s silly for people to act outraged about something like this, which basically just comes down to personal preference. I follow several people who do the whole sponsored tweets thing, and it’s no big deal. If it gets to be too much (hasn’t happened yet) I have the option of unfollowing.
UGH. What is wrong with people!? Robin, you spend your time, a LOT of it, faithfully pumping out blogs that people read, why should you not bring in a little bit to help make your time more accountable? I know nothing about twitter, have never been there as I’m a single, full-time, homeschooling mom working more than full time from home, but I trust you are not doing anything you shouldn’t be. To those whining and unfollowing for such a little thing, how about taking a positive approach to life and appreciating the time Robin takes and the help she has brought to many children in the Compassion program and just ignore the little thing that is bothering you? I WISH I had a way to bring in a little extra income like this. I am scrabbling to survive and constantly looking for little ways to bring in a few dollars. Anyone who cared would not begrudge me but would support me.
Keep those great posts coming, and while I know I would let it get to me too because I am a caring person like you, try to ignore those who cannot be supportive and do what you need to do and want to do with your own blog and twitters.
I pretty much agree with what everyone else has said – if you’re upfront about what you’re doing, and don’t retweet the sponsored tweet every 20 seconds for 30 days, who the heck cares?
I really don’t understand why everyone calls bloggers who make a little money “sell-outs.” I mean, hel-lo, why shouldn’t you get paid? You’re performing a valuable service – for FREE!
I spend 40 plus hours of week pimping other people’s products (I’m an ad writer). You know why? They pay me. And all I ever wanted to do was write for a living.
So use your God given talents to put food on the table! There’s no reason you shouldn’t!
I’ll admit, Robin, I am not a fan of sponsored tweets, and I have unfollowed several Magpie people who were driving me crazy. BUT they also didn’t interact with me or engage me at all, so I probably would have unfollowed eventually anyway.
I won’t do sponsored tweets, but I am SO opposed to this “gang mentality” of trying to boycott some perceived horrible social media injustice and those who participate. (although if someone sends me another mafia thingy or “peace and happiness” gift, I swear I’m unfollowing!)
There is too much sanctimony in the blogosphere and people trying to exert their power to ruin others. I have been a victim of it, and I think it’s important to speak out about it. I can tell you that I will NOT unfollow you because of a few sponsored tweets, you are far too valuable to me than that!
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but can we stop the mobs with pitchforks, skewering those who make a different choice?
That is all.
I wish I were more witty, like Megan was.
In this day and age, in this economy, why is everyone out to attack everyone else for trying to make a little something? Really? Because I’m pretty sure there’s a war going on overseas and soldiers are dying – that deserves more attention. Or starving people, homeless people, and children who need adopting – that warrants needing more attention. Instead, people have to get their panties in a bunch over someone trying to help make an extra buck? If only they focused that attention on something that truly needs it.
So long as it isn’t hurting anyone in any way, scamming someone out of something, stealing, or illegal, then it should be no one else’s business what you do.
Do your thing, girlfriend. Much love for you here.
I have no problem with the idea of sponsored Tweets. And I love that bloggers, especially mommy bloggers, are finally getting the recognition and compensation from the advertisers who realize our worth. We oftentimes guide our families buying power, and we’re in the trenches with these products, so YES, we should be a voice.
I agree with the above. You are adorable. And the least offensive person I can imagine. Do what’s right for YOU and your family. 🙂
First of all, I love that Allison waived her hand as the guilty friend. (that cracks me up)
Second, when I moved to self-hosting my blog last month, it was in an effort to search out this whole idea of making money from blogging. I’ve been doing it for more than three years, with ever-increasing interest in social media and every-increasing time spent on the computer. Time to trade it all for a little bit of dough. (ah…if only it were that easy!)
IZEA was the *first* place I went to search out the idea of sponsored posts, etc. Mostly because, as you say, there’s a fun vibe to everything Ted does there. I’ve signed on to Social Spark (I’m on the “I’m Not a Famous Blogger” crew. Truer words have not been spoken.) and now by extension, the Sponsored Tweets.
It’s only been a few weeks, and my enthusiasm is tentative. I’m so conflicted with the idea of making money from my presence online – how do I do it while still being ME? With as complicated as my feelings are, I cannot begin to judge another blogger for the choices they make. I think sometimes that we’re all just figuring this out as we go, evolving online as we evolve in our own comfort levels, goals, and personal perspectives. I’m happy to be associated with IZEA and this new program for Sponsored Tweets. That may change next week, but I’m going to give it a good look-see before I make any moves.
And by the way, I’m constantly amazed by what I call the “keyboard courage” some bloggers have online. It’s hard to imagine that people so ready to judge can really be like that in real life!
I love working with Ted Murphy and IZEA. I do Pay Per Post, Social Spark and Sponsored Tweets. I ONLY accept opportunities that fit with my niche. I make sure my paid posts are separated by my regular content. I have tried magpie and it was spammy. I am using TweetROI but it is more work than Sponsored Tweets and I make more money with Sponsored Tweets. IZEA is a leader in full disclosure and I appreciate that. If I lose readers or followers, I am sorry…my family needs to eat and I made 4x more with IZEA in July than I did from my regular job so…Thank you IZEA!
I follow you on twitter, but don’t know what you are talking about. I’ll keep following happily and assume the rest is none of my business!
I think the one time-ness of the sponsored tweet is the best feature. I agree with so many others who say it is your business how you choose to make money for your family, and your choice how you work with sponsors, whether it is by reviews, blog sponsors, or by sponsored tweets.
I am totally green in the area of blogging as well as sponsorship and advertisement, I will admit that. But it seems a private matter to each, in my opinion.
I am glad you share with us. I love how honest you are, and having met you, can see you talking a mile a minute and deep breathing between 🙂 I appreciate your taking the time to tell us how you really feel, and I am glad you are receiving encouragement and validation. *HUG*
I saw a tweet this week from a “big name” mommy blogger, pointing readers to a link on their blog to sign up for a “free” kitchen idea book. The book is from a brand name cabinet company, and I know, because I get emails from the same ad network that offers this, that this blogger will recieve a tidy little sum for every “lead” they generate–sign up for your “free” book, this blogger gets some money.
How is this any different than a sponsored tweet?
Or for that matter, any one of the Wal-mart moms, or the K-Mart moms, or the Target moms, or the “insert-major-company-who-sponsors-mom-blogs” moms, plugging services or products from their sponsor?
Just sayin’.
I have no opinion on the sponsored tweets because I have no idea what they are. When it comes to All The Possibilities that are available via social networking, I’m about as clueless as a lemming. Only I’m the lemming running the opposite direction as all the other lemmings.
However, I DID want to say that I TOTALLY get the fact that blogging takes an inordinate amount of time and energy, and there is nothing wrong with getting a little compensation out of the deal. You bless people, and receiving a blessing, even if it is (gasp!) monetary, is nothing that should be sneered at.
So sayeth the lemming.
I don’t know nuthi’in bout buy’in no twitters!
If it doesn’t contradict the Word, I am fine with it. Historically, money does seem to tweak(twit) the tongue of the media and authors. It might be a slippery slope for the community in general, but I am not worried about you in particular. Go for it!
Honestly, at the end of the day, it’s all about integrity, being true to yourself and being transparency. You are an amazing woman and will know the right decision. Bless you on your journey, girlie!
At first, I was like you. But then I decided I might as well be making money for my efforts. So I signed up too. 🙂
I believe in “to each his own”. I’m not here to judge anyone.
Robin, you don’t have to justify anything to anyone! True, some may “unfollow” you. But the ones that stay are the ones worth keeping.
And your audience will grow!
‘Cause you’re WORTH it, Baby!!
((((HUGS FROM HOUSTON))))
Robin, I have only been following your blog for a short time now. But from the day I first read your blog, it was clear that you are a truly a genuine person. As you mentioned, many of the people who are against Sponsored Tweets are the same people who accept other forms of compensation such as freebies, trips, and payment for advertising. What is the difference between this type of activity and a sponsored tweet?
It would be ignorant to assume that everyone in the Blogosphere should have the same tastes and interests. I do not follow people or support them solely based on the fact that they agree with me all of the time, or that we share the same tastes in products or services. The beauty of the world that we live in is that we all have different interests, diffeent tastes, and different methods of getting on about our lives. If I find a product or service desireable, I share it with my friends and colleagues. Does this change simply because my “sharing” this is backed by compensation? The product or service that I endorse may not be for everyone, but if I like the product I will endorse it; regardless of what others may think.
Robin, you have built a great relationship with your readers, and I truly feel that your DEVOTED readers would not change their mind about you based on what type of marketing in which you choose to engage. The other, less devoted readers..well, not to sure about them. But who needs fairweather friends anyway?
Sometimes I feel some bloggers are being immature. To think that some of the immature lot are moms. What would they teach their children!?
I don’t mind paid tweets/posts. I read them, skip, go to the next tweet. Done. Totally painless. If the tweets are taking up all the API’s in my Tweetdeck, then I’ll probably unfollow but like you said, tweet ads are tweeted ONCE so that’s ok.
Don’t let them get you down, Robin!
I don’t get the whole Twitter thing. I mean I belong to the club and all, but I’ve never really gotten it. I would much rather change my status on Facebook 5 times a day because I know all of those people and at least 1/2 of them really care what I’m having for dinner. I suspect at least half of the tweets that come my way have something to do with promotional or business-ish stuff and I generally don’t read those anyway.
I say if you like to Twitter and you can make some money at it, then go for it.
Some of those same folks who are pointing fingers are hosting blog give-aways that offer extra entries for following or twittering or bowing. It’s a numbers game for most of them.
Exposure.
Exposure because it means more perks, more sponsorships, more PR opportunities, and more paid advertising.
At the end of the day, all of us would welcome a little extra money doing something we like to do or would do anyway.
Just my 2 cents.