Bits and pieces of my Alt Summit panel: Being a Contributor

Well, it’s officially been OVER a week since I got home from Alt Summit. As usual, it was inspiring and fantastic. I had a blast! This year I spoke on a panel to share some info for any bloggers looking to land a job as a contributor/freelance worker on other sites. I was joined by 3 other lovely ladies: Capree, Melanie, and Victoria. We had a TON to share… so much that it would probably take up about 4 different blog posts. I won’t talk about all the info with you, but I will share a few bits and pieces (the full panel notes will probably be up on the Alt Summit blog soon). Enjoy! AND, if you have any questions… feel free to leave a question in the comments.

How we got here:

• – Capree responded to a call for contributors, and submitted a post to a big site.
• – Victoria built a site and projects and shared her work with anyone who would have her.
• – Chelsey was approached by companies that liked the original projects and DIY’s on her site.
• – Melanie grew her audience and became more marketable, networked and asked for introductions.

How to be approachable:

• – Find your own authentic voice: A strong, unique voice in a sea of blogs will get you noticed.

• – Engage! Put yourself out there and engage with other bloggers, big and small.

• – Don’t be afraid to start small Consider guest posting on the “smaller” blogs, not just the “big” blogs.

• – Lookin’ good If someone found your project on Pinterest, would they recognize it as your photography/font/graphics style?

• – Cold calls Interested in guest posting on a favorite blog? Ask if they’d ever consider taking a contributor.

The art of the pitch:

• – Get to know people one on one, in person locally and at conferences.
• – Networking is vital.
• – Be confident. Be persistent. Be tough.

What to expect:

• – Be comfortable working on a variety of blogging platforms.
• – Your posts will likely be submitted for review, either through email or a post draft.
• – Each person/company you work with will be different.
• – Some may have traffic goals, some may not.

What Editors are looking for:

• – A unique perspective and a strong voice
• – Writing skills!!!

• – Passion and Energy

• – Creativity and Initiative

• – BONUS: mad photography skillz.

Good Working Relationships:

• – Keep those deadlines: You’re representing your business and brand, make sure you look good.

• – Communication
  • + If you have any questions, ask.
• – Be Professional

Producing Fresh Ideas:

• – Find inspiration and stay original.
• – Set hard deadlines for yourself.
• – Know your limits.

Producing and Balancing Content between Sites:

– Consider keeping specific topics to specific sites.

– Think about topics you’re knowledgeable in but not currently covering on your own blog.

Value of working relationships and networking v. pay:

Providing free content?

– Weigh the benefit of possible exposure and networking opportunities and decide if it’s worth your time

+ Will this site send me enough “traffic profit”?

+ Is this blog/company someone I’d like to build a relationship with?

– Consider agreeing to a trial period (3-6 months, depending on post frequency) and then evaluate.

Providing a post for a friend

• • – Decide if you have enough time, or if it cuts into other work.

• • – Decide if you have enough time, or if it cuts into other work.
• • – It’s good practice.

Negotiating:

– Always negotiate

– Talk numbers with confidence and value your work.

– They are paying for creative genius and that is costly!

– Contracts

• + Always have one
• + Key elements to look for
• + Important points to negotiate

• Setting Rates and Knowing What’s Fair:
• – Don’t sell yourself short. You are valuable!

• – Don’t be afraid to counteroffer
• – Is this a small company/blog?
  • + Rates will be lower, but don’t forget to consider the “traffic profit” you may get.
•  
• The key in all of this: the big ol’ X factor!
• – How will this grow your brand?
• Suggestions to get your work out there:
• Contributor positions:
  • Curbly – www.curbly.com
  • Momtastic – http://www.momtastic.com/
  • Dotcoms For Moms – http://www.dotcomsformoms.com/
  • Vivint/The Neighborhood – http://neighborhood.vivint.com/
• Submit stories:
  • Apartment Therapy – www.apartmenttherapy.com
  • Design Sponge – www.designsponge.com

……………………………..

I was so happy with how the panel went. Gotta be honest: I was so freakin’ nervous. Speaking in front a large crowd of people isn’t usually something I LOVE to do. After the nerves wore off, it was great! We had a great turnout of people… I mean, look at all of them:

ANDplusalso… one more thing. Here’s the crazy outfit I wore for my panel day… I have titled this outfit: Crazy Aunt Louise!

//Heart cardigan: f21//Dress: Anthropologie//Tights: Target//Shoes: LuLu’s//

Happy Monday,

Chelsey