October was a good month here at Pulling Curls. I’m proud to say it’s probably my best month, so let’s dive right in:
Why I do these posts: It’s not to say hip-hip-horray, I am RICH!!! it’s mostly to say it’s possible, with a lot of ingenuity and hard work. I love writing this blog, I did it for 8 years before I made 100 bucks off of it.
Visitors
Users: 92,000
Sessions: 101,000
Pageviews 365,000
(all are down about 1% from last month)
*I use padsquad and it inflates my pagviews, I think I actually had 135,000 unique page views
Ads
Padsquad
A GREAT month at Padsquad, it was up 48% and well over 900 dollars. My friend wrote a great post about Padsquad. If you decide to go with them, make sure you mention I sent you. I get credit. 🙂 Padsquad services just my mobile content. I found some objectionable ads on my blog and I was able to allow only “PG” rated ads, they are super willing to work with you. If you’re considering them you can ask for a trial period written in your contract to see if you like them. I highly recommend! Oh, and make sure you sign-up for direct deposit. I learned the hard way that when you use Paypal, paypal takes fees from it. Just FYI (I was nervous to give them my account info when I was just signing up).
The Blogger Network
A very decent month on The Blogger Network — I made almost 300 dollars, which was a 37% increase from last month. I have decreased my # of ads with them because that’s supposed to increase my CPM — not sure if it’s working. This month hasn’t been as good (I’m talking about so far in November). They hvae been great to work with and are very communicative. If you use them, tell them I sent you. 🙂 Maybe I get a tiara or something. 😀
BlogHer
Oh, Blogher. I’m hoping the fact you got bought means you’re going to kick it up a notch because what happened this month was dismal. Just over 100 bucks, which was a 50% decrease. I did have to take their tune in bar off (which I find annoying anyway, so that wasn’t a big loss) because it was acting up. I do make a fair amount off that, but it was only off for a week. Yeesh. No bueno. Mind you, Blogher has my PRIME ad territory, my above the fold ads. Anyone else use Blogher have thoughts? I love them, they’re a great network and very responsive. I love doing sponsored posts with them. I’m torn. I’ve been with them since the beginning. {sigh}.
Media.net
These did better than they ever had. Just over 30 bucks for ads on 6 of my most popular posts. I don’t get paid until I reach 100, so we shall see — but either way I’m happy with the way that’s heading. 🙂
Adsense
I was leaving up a Google ad to make it to the 100 threshold and get paid. I had a pretty decent month for one, fairly low ad, and made 38 bucks. I hit the threshold, the ad is gone. If you’re new to advertising I think Adsense is an easy way to dip your toe into the water, but using another network like The Blogger Network will yield more funds, that’s for sure.
Total Ad Sales: $1394 (a 30% increase)
Affiliate Sales
{sad face} I made 18.97 from Amazon. I know shopping season is upon us, so we’ll see how this continues. I haven’t really figured out a good way to work affiliate sales. I also am so careful with my own money, and REALLY want my blog readers to not over-spend I have a hard time with this one. I do recommend products I love though. 🙂 This is down 6 percent.
I
sold one of my spreadsheets. That’s two bucks in my pocket. 🙂 In case you didn’t know — I have a great Blogging for Income Spreadsheet that will calculate all the good percentages and well as allow you to log them all in. I love it — click to the link on the right and find out more! 🙂 There’s even a screencast of all it can do for you!
Sponsored Posts:
I did 2 this month from Hairfinity and Fresh and Easy. I am having to use other companies besides Blogher since I took my mobile traffic from them (it’s complicated). This month’s posts came from TapInfluence and isway. I had actually only done posts for Blogher prior to this month, so I got to play the “how much am I worth” dance. It’s hard to figure out. But, I have come-up with a bottom line that I am willing to accept at this point. I would recommend each of you do that. Also, it depends on how much work the post will require. It does vary a bit….
Sponsored post total: $400 (I didn’t have any last month)
Blog income total for October $1785 (a 64% increase)
Blog costs:
This is a guess, as a lot of them I don’t pay mothly:
- RFE hosting (love them) 14 bucks
- PO Box (you’ve gotta have one if you have a newsletter) 6 bucks
- Vaultpress 5 bucks
Total costs: 25 bucks.
I think that’s it. I should probably track that a bit more.
Things I’m doing good at:
1. I am working more of the social networks. I am slowly figuring out Twitter and Facebook. Come join me over there, and I’m always ready for some constructive criticsm. I also made a new Instagram account that is public (I still have a private one that will remain only for good friends).
2. I am using Viral Tag to schedule my Pinterest posts. That is going fairly well. It helps my OCD that wants things scheduled WAY out. Yay. OCD. I also found a good new free one. I may switch to that after April (because yes, I have posts scheduled out through April).
3. I’m working to meet other bloggers (on the internet). Until my family can be a bit more self-sufficient without me, that’s what it has to be. I’m excited to try a conference sometime. Anyway, working on commenting more on posts I like. Do you have a favorite post? Put it below, I want to meet you!
Things I’m working on:
1. Views are down this month. I think it’s because I tend to not be holiday-crafty. That hurts for Pinterest traffic, but I figure this gives me some time to work harder on Twitter and FB.
2. Finding the balance of ads/sponsored posts etc. I HATE blogs that jump the shark and just turn into a giant ad. Yes, we all know who they are. I don’t want to be them, but I do need to be compensated for the ENORMOUS amount of time I’m spending on this blog. As always, I’m working to get all the blog stuff done before the kids come home from school. I fail at that fairly frequently — today, in fact. 🙂
So, that’s what the CFO has to say this month. She also says she LOVES the fact that people are READING this blog. That’s also worth quite a lot to me. Love my readers, always.
If you liked this post, be sure to subscribe to my Blogging for Income newsletter,and get them right to your inbox the week I publish them.
I hope you found this helpful. For blogs bigger than me, you can have a nice laugh at my piddly income, and those who are working on growing, be sure to check out my other blogging for income posts! 🙂
Katelyn F says
Thanks for the shout-out to my post!! And you are doing very well! Are you saying in October you did your first two non-Blogher-sponsored posts?! That’s crazy! I have had so many sponsored posts lately, probably too many, as the balance to non-sponsored and sponsored is definitely not the “ideal” whatever the heck that means. But, man, do they pay the bills, are a great motivation to write a great post, and keep me busy creating content.
Hilary says
Katelyn, I have a hard time with sponsored posts — but I’m slowly learning what I’m comfortable with, and NOT comfortable with. I just need to stay true to myself. I also have a “real” job (which I am supposed to leave for in 30 minutes, yikes) so it’s all a balance, right? 🙂 I have REALLY enjoyed reading your blog, I like “you” (as if I’ve met you, but I like your blog an awful lot!). 🙂
Jill @ Blog Chicka Blog says
Love reading reports! Thank you for sharing! It helps us all!
Hilary says
Thanks Jill!
Katie @ Clarks Condensed says
I always enjoy these reports – thanks for sharing, Hilary! 🙂 You are doing great with your income. I should do that with an adsense ad – keeping one up until I reach the threshold .I’ve had $50 sitting in my account for like six months now. And it kills me. haha
Hilary says
Yes, don’t leave 50 dollars lying around. 🙂 The problem is, even though it’s “gone” my cookies still have it and it’s still earning me money, but I can leave 5 bucks more than I could leave 65….
Lauren Tamm says
Whoohoo! Awesome job! I got Padsquad Oc 21. So Nov will be my first full month with them. And I got TBN tags in place a few days ago. My traffic is similar to yours right now, so I’m excited to see what November brings for me. I also do a bit of Amazon sales, but money-wise it’s nothing earth shattering. I did a small sponsored post, but since I am living overseas via a military move, I am pretty limited in that income stream. I am interested in sponsored social media though, and I plan to look into it in the near future. Have you used that ever?
Hilary says
Lauren, Padsqaud had some GREAT days last month. My visits are down this month and their cpm hasn’t been AS great (although, still good). I keep hearing Christmas time is the time for AMAZING CPM. We. shall. see. 🙂
Manuela@A Cultivated Nest says
Good job! Oh BlogHer…like you I’m hoping the buyout increases ad revenue but I think I’m going to drop them next year unless they really step up. They are so restrictive and they take up prime real estate. I don’t really do sponsored posts. I think I’ve done 2 in the past 2 or 3 years. Good to know about PadSquad – I’ll look into them.
We’ve been a one car family for years so even though there are lots of blogger functions in my area – I haven’t gone. It’s just been too hard to coordinate!
Hilary says
Yes, totally look into sponsored posts — I am working ot figure out what works for me (so I don’t feel like a sell-out) and what doesn’t. It’s a slippery slope, especially since the money is so good. Blogher’s a mess. Do you think they KNOW they are a mess? 🙂
Havok says
Sounds like you’re making your blog work for you, and not the other way around! That’s fantastic!!
Hilary says
Mostly…. 🙂
Janet says
Hilary,
64% increase! So excited for you! I almost want to start doing a monthly earning report. They are some of my favorites to read.
Have you considered affiliate programs where you get paid per lead or download? I know a few deal bloggers who crush it. My lateat post on Newspapergirl has some suggestions. Look at the top 100 on ShareaSale. Btw, I have a friend who’s whole income is selling checks online as an affiliate..
Blog on!
Janet
Hilary says
haha, I SHOULD focus on the 64% more than I do — instead of my inability to work affiliate links. 🙂
Janet says
One tip: on your organizing post with the binders you like, also link up photos of products with your affiliate link.
Blog on
Janet
Hilary says
Janet, I looked into Staple’s affiliate program and it looked so convoluted I gave-up. Maybe I should try harder…..
Kristen says
Piddly?! I don’t call what you made last month piddly! Gee! I’d be jumping up and down and making a total idiot out of myself if I made that much! I’ve been blogging since 2010, but just dabbling – just started a new blog and I’m determined to put my big girl panties on and make it work! Thanks for being so open about your income and where it’s coming from! It seriously helps!
Hilary says
Kristen, I am SO glad you found it helpful! I guess my issue is that it’s not good income for how much time I’m spending, but it’s all baby steps — right? Thanks again. 🙂
marisa says
Hey 🙂 I have blogher too and was hoping to apply to padsquad for mobile. How would this work? do I need approval from blogher first?
Hilary says
I was upfront about moving with Blogher. I did lose some sponsored post opportunities, because they don’t see my mobile views anymore. BUT, the income more than makes up for it, and as you can see I am slowly adding new sponsored posts opportunities (which is always a balance for me, I’m not running this blog to get free stuff) (although, it is nice). 🙂
Holly says
Very inspiring to see your progress through your hard work. I hope for similar success one day. Your willingness to share your progress is wonderful too.
Hilary says
Thank you Holly! Off to check your site out!
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
This was so interesting to read Hilary! I’m getting ready to go independent with my blog and I’ll be thrilled if I do this well! 🙂 I’m going to check out BlogHer and Padsquad.
Just curious about something. You say you have too have a PO box to do a newsletter. Why is that? I never had heard that anywhere else so it made me curious.
Hilary says
Lydia, if you check them out- – tell them I referred you. 🙂 I actually might not go with Blogher, the income has been really sad. I’d go with Blogger Network — or AdThrive, I’ve heard a lot of good things about them (both for the desktop platform).
If you do a newsletter through MailChimp (or any other “big” newsletter program) you have to provide a physical address for your newsletter. It was news to me too. I had a fake one for a while, but dodging the law wasn’t what I wanted to do. 🙂 SO, I got a po box. I think it’s just over 50 for the year. Worth it for my peace of mind, I think.
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
I’ll do that! I probably will wait a couple of weeks until I get my new site setup more. And yes, I meant the Blogger Network, not Blogher. I’ve heard great things about AdThrive too but not sure my traffic will be high enough initially….unless they would go off the stats at my current site.
So the PO Box is more a thing to protect your privacy. Got it and totally makes sense.
I saw that you joined the Inspired Blogger Network. Glad to have you there- it’s a great place to learn things! Also the Learn to Blog hangouts are another great site that has a FB page that is helpful too in case you are interested.
Hilary says
AdThrive has lowered their limits. I heard there’s quite a wait list. I just got on it. Yes, the PO box is totally to not have my home address hanging out on my newsletter. How did you get a blog on parents.com — that’s pretty fancy!
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
Well, I’ll have to check AdThrive out then!
Yes, blogging at Parents.com has been a blessing in many ways, although like everything, it has its downsides. But I’ve gotten a lot of great experience because of it! You wondered how I got my blog there. They were looking for a frugal living blogger and one of their editors happened across my small hobby blog and contacted me asking if I’d be willing to move to their site! I almost deleted the email because at first I thought it was spam! 🙂 So it was just a very random thing, nothing I went looking for!
Hilary says
Huh, but you can’t get your own advertisers or you probably can’t do sponsored posts — right? how funny that you almost deleted it. I’d do the same thing. 🙂
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
Yup, you got it! They did give me a sponsored post a couple of months ago that was amazing, but I’ve had a lot of opportunities that I’ve had to turn down that have come directly to me. Like I said, it’s been a blessing in a many ways- I’ve learned a lot and improved my blogging immensely, my blog has grown much faster than I likely would have otherwise, it’s created some good connections-, but I’m excited about the opportunities that I’ll have by being independent again.
Hilary says
Are you going on your own? When? Be sure to comment once you’re on your new site! I want to see it!
Laura @ Little Bits of Granola says
Hillary, these posts are so great. It is so helpful to read about what you are doing behind the scenes! I’m curious, since you are a working mom too, how many hours a week do you typically spend on your blog? And how do you find time to fit it all in?? That is my biggest struggle. 🙂
Hilary says
Laura, I try to hit 2 hours/day on my days off. I only work one full day/week (normally). That brings me to about 10 hours/week. I bet I end-up hitting 3/day though…. so, that’s 15’ish. not too bad. I think if I keep it to that, I’m making it, financially, worth my while.
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
Yes, in a few weeks I’m going to on my own independent site. My new address is http://www.thriftyfrugalmom.com- but it’s still in the set up stages, so if you visit, you’ll have to excuse the mess! Looking forward to visiting here more!
Hilary says
VERY cool! Off to check it out!