2. Kelly Whalen: The Centisble Life Kelly Whalen is the owner of The Centsible Life, a lifestyle blog with a focus on family finances, and living the life you want on less. Kelly also co-owns a social media business with a focus on brand consulting and event planning called Just Centsible. In addition to that she works with a group of bloggers as Splash Creative Media to create campaigns based on timely topics (such as back to school) with a charitable component. Twitter: @CentsibleLife
3. Key Takeaways Branding is key. Creating a home base. Set goals. Utilize social media. Opportunities beyond blogging. How to find opportunities. The Art of Pitching
4. Brand Yourself You are a brand Your blog is a brand Design & logo are key What’s your story? Elevator pitch
5. Home Base Create a home base on the web. Your blog LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Google+ YouTube and more…
6. Goals What does your dream look like? How can you get from here to there? Set goals quarterly for growth and income. Re-evaluate quarterly. Find a partner or mentor. Know that it will change.
7. Utilize social media Be active across social media platforms. Set aside time to devote to being active in social media forums. Analyze what works for you. Be yourself. Reach out to brands.
9. Finding Opportunities Pay attention via social media. Form relationships with PR or marketing. Your email is the golden ticket. Pitch, pitch, and pitch some more.
10. Freelance What are you good at? Offer services, or use your skillset. Examples: Writing or editing Consulting Blog Design Social Media Community Management
11. Collaboration Find your ‘tribe’, and work together. Collaboration leads to more dollars. Extend your reach by partnering with other bloggers.
12. Sponsorships Sponsored Posts Get paid to talk about a brand. Spokesperson Roles Could include posts, updates, media, representation, and more. Brand Ambassadors Typically posts via social media and engagement via calls, or in-person event.
13. Create your own Product Craft your own product. Branded products Consulting Informational Products E-books Free or paid resources
14. Why Pitching is like Dating It’s better to date someone you’ve met before than go out on a blind date. Do your research before you ‘go out.’ Make the conversation all about your ‘date’, but be sure to talk a little bit about you. Make sure your date knows what you are interested in. Dress to impress. KISS (keep it simple, silly)
