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The State of the Mom Blogosphere
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- Emily 5 comments
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We are looking forward to an AMAZING conversation on Tuesday!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- DebMomOf3 0 comments
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Looking forward to participating today! :)
about 1 year ago
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- Beth 0 comments
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Very interesting to do this texting! I will have to stop by these are some GREAT topics! Thanks
about 1 year ago
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- ScrappinMIchele 0 comments
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Sounds like an awesome discussion. I will be there!
about 1 year ago
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- Mimi 3 comments
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Wish I could make the discussion. Always work on Tuesdays w/ no access to internet. Such a bummer. Sounds like a fantastic discussion!
about 1 year ago
Deborah
It will be here when you do:)
about 1 year ago
Mimi
Very cool! Now all I have to do is remember. =)
about 1 year ago
Deborah
You can come back later and read through, Mimi. Isn't that the BEST? (I always miss something--so I love this feature of these chats).
about 1 year ago
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- Denise 0 comments
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O yay! I can access this from work. I'm looking forward to it.
about 1 year ago
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- @babysteph 0 comments
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I'll plan to be here!
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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We are incredibly excited for today’s conversation and would like to start with a few questions for our hosts.
To each of our hosts: You are trendsetters. You not only lead the way with your blogs, you also lead the way with your support for the mom blog community and your initiatives. We believe the stars aligned when you each started your blogs, and you are all doing incredible things today that, perhaps, you would not have dreamed of just a few years ago.
All together, you, our hosts today, have been blogging for 45 years!
Given your individual and collective wisdom, here are our starter, big picture questions for you:
- When you think about blogging, what excites you? Where do your passions lie? What’s new that you’re interested in?
- How has blogging changed for you over the last several years?
- Have your readers changed? Are they evolving and in what way?
We’ve seen over and over again, that great success comes from a place of passion and love, and we’d more than anything like get a sense of where your hearts are taking you.
(Please feel free to answer either in the comments or start a new post.)
about 1 year ago
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- BlondeMomBlog 0 comments
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Looking forward to this! Hoping I can log in on my lunch break from the office. Great topics!
about 1 year ago
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- Jo-Lynne 0 comments
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This sounds awesome! I can't wait.
about 1 year ago
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- robin 0 comments
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Thanks for the invite/reminder. Looking forward to this!
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 0 comments
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So looking forward to this Talk today. It is going to be amazing! See you all at 1 ET!
about 1 year ago
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- DaDa Rocks! 0 comments
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looking forward to this :)
about 1 year ago
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- Mommiecooks 0 comments
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Will be joining in a touch late, but hope to catch the tail end!
about 1 year ago
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- Christine Koh 0 comments
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Can't wait to chat with you all!
about 1 year ago
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- lauramayes 5 comments
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Wow. A collective 45 years of blogging...that's, what, 285 in blog years. I'm suddenly tired. But I'm really looking forward to discussing your initial questions:
- When you think about blogging, what excites you? Where do your passions lie? What’s new that you’re interested in?
- How has blogging changed for you over the last several years?
- Have your readers changed? Are they evolving and in what way?
- We’ve seen over and over again, that great success comes from a place of passion and love, and we’d more than anything like get a sense of where your hearts are taking you.
Some of my very favorite topics.
Can't wait to type to you guys in 20.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Oh I'm 41 now...EEEK! But so far the 40s have rocked. Trying to embrace it! :)
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I turned 40 in April - it was hard! I don't feel different, but just when I say it scares me still
about 1 year ago
Deborah
Seriously, if you've done your 30's well, you will ROCK your 40's.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I'm turning 40 in November, I don't even want to think about it, lol. ;)
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Don't remind me, I'm turning 37 next month. I already feel aged. :-)
about 1 year ago
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- Joanna 2 comments
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Is this where the chatting is going to take place?
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
The chat is right here on this page Joanna - just refresh to see the latest comments once it gets going
about 1 year ago
Emily
Yes, you're in the right place! Welcome!
about 1 year ago
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- Louise 8 comments
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Looking forward to watching the conversation
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
So true!
about 1 year ago
Louise
Sometimes I wish they would just stop growing up, it's hard to let them go, and sad when they make you feel like they don't need you anymore. ;-) But I know they do.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
Hi Louise! Mine started preschool yesterday and was just the opposite. Today she ran into class without even a wave goodbye. I guess that's a good thing, but still... Sigh.
about 1 year ago
Louise
I think so too, I'm glad someone tweeted about it because I would have forgotten about it
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Awww, I bet she will have a big hug when she gets home for you. I'm going good - excited for this chat today! Should be really good!
about 1 year ago
Louise
how are you?
about 1 year ago
Louise
Hi Robyn, today was Zoe's first day of Preschool and she didn't even want to hug me bye.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Hiya Louise!
about 1 year ago
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- MojoMom 25 comments
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The question I am grappling with is, what happens to Mom bloggers when the kids grow up? What does that feel like, and how do we write next chapters?
about 1 year ago
ConnieFoggles
We will always be moms even as our children get older. Sometimes we can share our parenting advice. Sometimes we can write from a social perspective. Think of how many of us took the advice of our parents or grandparents over the latest and greatest advice in parenting books!
about 1 year ago
Sandie
Mojomom...I just read your blog...and it is beautiful! I can tell you were/are inspired and I love your metaphor of a developing poloroid picture. Thanks for sharing the last chapter of Momma Zen.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
Amen, Amie!
about 1 year ago
Amie/MammaLoves
I'm glad you asked this. My oldest just started high school. I don't have any kids in diapers. And I've been telling whoever will listen that I'm still a mom blogger even though I don't have toddlers (despite what many PR people think). As Laura said, in the end we are telling our personal stories. I love that we are each creating a more dynamic view of motherhood (and women) by chronicling our lives (our thoughts, our art, etc) on our blogs. As for how we talk about our kids as they get older? I know that I hold back much more about my oldest now because I feel he is old enough to decide what stories are his. At some point, I felt that I owed that to the person he is becoming.
about 1 year ago
MojoMom
Your comments inspired my first major blog post on MojoMom.com in weeks...thanks! http://bit.ly/aAjknC
about 1 year ago
Sandie
Maybe...you will turn into grammy bloggers! Time does fly!
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
My kids are pretty grown up, one in high school, one in college, although I still blog in this space. Just share fewer stories about them personally. Yesterday, my daughter wanted to quit her school and made some great arguments for for it. Was she melting down or being smart for herself? I wasn't sure what was happening. I wanted to write about it but it seemed too personal. Today, she's back in school. Whew! These issues do get harder to write about as kids get older.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
My blog has never really been about my kids. Although, they are probably still in the story, somewhere, my posts are mostly about parenting issues I am wrestling (yes, I have them, issues, I mean!) I haven't stopped being their mom, yet. So, the next chapter sort of just writes itself.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
All sound insights! I think our kids growing up will help with the coming trends ~ those "empty nester" feelings will now be embraced {& supported} as much as post-par-depression has been in the past. Community ladies, it's all about community & our voices.
about 1 year ago
socalmom
I'm dealing with this, too and trying to figure out how to refocus it. The problem is, mine has never been focused on any one thing (kind of like me). I wish I had the kind of creative focus (and talent!) that Tracey has.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
BUT parenting issues are always universal ones, I think.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
My girls are 8 and 5 and I definitely am already struggling with this with my oldest daughter, who is now in 3rd grade. I find that many stories I would have normally shared when she was a toddler, are not things I want to share any more. The universal stories become more personal as they grow older.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I'm finding the growth of my blog so exciting as my kids grow up. It's becoming so much more about creativity than about motherhood which has been a joy for me.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I love this question too! (And hm, I guess I need to get a photo up huh?) I do find that the older my kids get, the more I need to differentiate between which stories are theirs to tell and which are my own. Let's just say poop stories seem less uh, appropriate regarding a kindergartener than a newborn. Personally though, I like to write more about parenting culture than my kids developmentally. Hopefully that remains relevant for people!
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
That's a really good question. When I started blogging I had toddlers and a preschooler. Now my girls are getting older and my youngest just started preschool. I can see the things I blog about changing already and have the feeling it'll be something I struggle with even more as they keep growing older. I'm interested to see what everyone else thinks!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I agree that the journey will always be about the mom -- the context will undoubtedly shift as the kids get older (and kids become more vocal and aware about being blogged about) and that is OK. Mary and MojoMom, the good news is that as you are moving into new stages of motherhood, so will a whole legion of bloggers. I have a sense that there ultimately won't be a shortage of reading and writing to ponder.
about 1 year ago
Louise
I'm at the early stages myself but that's how I feel about it. I feel my blog will change as I change, I do what I enjoy and what my family needs from me. When we're all older our needs and desires will change
about 1 year ago
MojoMom
Since I have been blogging for about 7 years, life has really changed for me. I have always written about motherhood in the big picture more than my family stories. But even the 10,000 foot view of what it means to be a Mojo Mom looks very different as the mother of a Middle Schooler rather than a toddler. Interesting times--definitely lots to write about. Both of us are getting ready to head out in new directions.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
hmmm....I'm wondering about that myself. Am I even a mom blogger if I try NOT to write about my kids? ( they are 10 and 16) I am thinking and feeling it's not my place to write about them. Any advice?
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
You are always going to be a mom though - just keep writing about it. My son is 15, I have ALL sorts of things that I can write about being the mom to a teen. However, I do have to respect his privacy also so that makes it a little more tricky at times.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I agree with Laura. I started my blog long before I had a baby, so content simply changes with time & life circumstances.
about 1 year ago
Mary Bernard
MojoMom--yes! My question exactly. Mine are 7, 5, and 5. Already, I find myself clicking away from posts--say, about potty training--by bloggers I've usually enjoyed. I think we mom bloggers must anticipate the changing needs/interests of our audience. New crop of Mommy Bloggers to come? Where will the "first generation" go? I know for a fact that my writing has changed as my kids have grown, as has my audience.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Oh I love this question. I'm sure you'll get lots of great answers on this (and different answers from different people), but in the end, a personal blog is about the person. So it's really a bigger question of what happens to the mom when the kids grow up. That's a question women have been answering for years. And that's always an interesting thing to learn...for the writer and for the reader.
about 1 year ago
Jerri Ann
you will always be a mom blogger, the tales just get taller, I mean the subjects get taller, heehe
about 1 year ago
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- Clarissa Nassar 3 comments
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I guess my flight delay is a good thing :) I am actually flying out to Bentonville to meet with Sams Club! I am one of their bloggers!
about 1 year ago
Clarissa Nassar
It has been about 1 yr now! Yes, I believe we are modeled after the Walmart Moms :)
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Are they doing like a Sam's Club 11 Moms thing, like they did with Walmart stores?
about 1 year ago
Louise
have fun with Sams Club, that looks like it has been quite a long campaign for you guys!
about 1 year ago
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- Jerri Ann 4 comments
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I was really looking forward to this talk. However I have a horrible migraine. Will there be a way to read all the comments after the talk is over?
about 1 year ago
Emily
We'll do a highlights post too - take care of your aching head and we'll see you back here when you're well. xo
about 1 year ago
Jerri Ann
I will soon as the barometric pressure settles down a little, thanks.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
Jerri Ann I hope you feel better soon!
about 1 year ago
Deborah
YES!!!!! The chat will be here when you feel better!!!! Hope that's soon!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 1 comment
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Hi, everyone! Such a great topic. Love it!
about 1 year ago
Louise
Hi Jennifer!
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 6 comments
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Welcome everyone to the State of the Mom Blogosphere! We are so pleased you are here and are THRILLED to have this AMAZING group of hosts for the conversation!
Here are the starter questions (in case you didn't see them below)!
- When you think about blogging, what excites you? Where do your passions lie? What’s new that you’re interested in?
- How has blogging changed for you over the last several years?
- Have your readers changed? Are they evolving and in what way?
- We’ve seen over and over again, that great success comes from a place of passion and love, and we’d more than anything like get a sense of where your hearts are taking you.
Dive right in and enjoy!
Remember to refresh your page to see the latest posts!
about 1 year ago
Amie/MammaLoves
When I started blogging in 2006 I was amazed to find other moms out there who were interesting and funny and people I wanted to know better. It was about sharing and commenting and recognizing each other (maybe validating each other). Today, I feel like comments don't matter as much. Sadly, I feel like we've lost a little of the community and the focus has changed to monetizing. I didn't start blogging to make money, but it was a nice benefit. I'm a bit nostalgic for those days. My readers back then became friends. Now? It feels less personal in a way.
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
do we think if people don't comment they aren't taking stuff in, i rarely comment, but i am reading. perhaps we have the wrong expectation of feedback. we're too facebook conditioned "like" too much instant response
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Hi Louise :)
about 1 year ago
Louise
I'm seeing much more interaction from my readers than I used to. Before, it was all about the giveaway and I will admit the majority of my traffic is still there for the giveaways but my personal posts are seeing much more conversation, so I think my readers are changing some. What is everyone else noticing?
about 1 year ago
robin
Hi! My first blog post was May 13, 2008 so I am still relatively new at this but excited to take the steps to develop my blog into the very best it can be: http://www.labyrinthwellnessllc.blogspot.com I am ready and eager to learn from all of you!
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
blogging has changed for me in a way I feel like I'm actually taking it back and making it my own voice again. I see the most readers that comment are newer, and older readers seem to read without commenting and email me instead of leaving a comment. I see I have a lot of new parents or soon-to-be Mom readers when in the beginning it was more experienced Moms like me.
about 1 year ago
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- Annabelle G. 13 comments
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I have a question, does anyone worry that the field is over saturated and we should consider all blogging in the same place as opposed to asking people to go to different destinations all over the web?
about 1 year ago
Amie/MammaLoves
I often think about some of the bloggers who were around when I started who are no longer blogging. I think many people start blogging but don't keep it up. Twitter was great at first because we could have conversations in one place--with immediate responses. I think my answer to your question depends upon your goals for blogging/social media. Are you doing it to find a community? To make money? To get start a writing career? To promote another business? There are so many different motivations to blog. In the end I'd say the paper clip has been around forever, but I just bought a box the other day because they looked really cool. If you can come up with a new way to blog, then the market is never too saturated.
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
thanks. Question for you Laura. Twitter, i hate it , don't follow anyone, don't want to be followed, does anyone think it is "over" yet, its too reductive for me and just more thing I have to do or check each day, am I alone??
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Actually, that's why we created kirtsy. And kirtsy does have a lot of traffic, but not much engagement, comment wise. It's a lovely idea. But I still think it's ahead of it's time...the space isn't quite there yet. People still want to do their engagement personally on individual sites. Which is great. The whole point of kirtsy is to point them to individuals
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
I like individual blogs on topics that really interest me. I also like reading the blogs of certain personalities I enjoy following.
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
I agree, but I could spend my whole life searching around and then miss something great if its not in a central portal that I visit regularly. so time consuming to surf
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
there's always room at the top.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I prefer individual blogs in general - that way I don't have to wade thru what I'm not interested in. Sometimes portals are nice though when I feel I need something new or just want to come together with other bloggers
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
I just worry that people can only go to so many destinations and say, right here is a great portal, perhaps we need fewer individual spots and more easy to use collective blogger gatherings, although something like Huffpo is so big now I imagine it's endless and turns me off.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
New media is truly in its infancy. Where we're at right now is where TV was at in the early 50's, so those who are active today are literally helping to shape this new industry.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
There is always room for more great writers! No one looked at Jenny the Bloggess and said, "sorry Sweetie, Dooce is already huge." I like the idea that we can own our own spaces, however small there may be. But I also appreciate people who like to write on community blogs like BlogHer or even this one!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Annabelle, honestly, I've always said that there's plenty of room on the web for everyone and I really believe that. I've been blogging since 2006 (which feels young in some ways and really old in others!) and I'm always discovering new (or seasoned) people that I delight in reading. Everyone's voice is so different. That is the beauty.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i think we're still in the first phase of evolution. the vast majority of consumers still get their daily consumption from mainstream media.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
of course, which place would that be? I bet there will be a big shake-out in the next few years.
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 4 comments
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When I think of blogging, I love working with new ideas, meeting other bloggers, and also working with forward-thinking brands. Those three things always excite me!
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
LOL, definitely Robyn! :)
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
A like button would be awesome.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
we need an "agreed" or "like" button I think LOL
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Agreed!
about 1 year ago
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- Brandie 19 comments
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Here's my question - for every piece of advice out there that says "You should absolutely do X on your blog." There is another person out there screaming "only people who don't know what they are doing do X on their blog, so absolutely don't do that!"
How do you weed through all that blogging advice and know what's good and what's bad. Or do you not even at all and just do what feels right to you?
about 1 year ago
Amie/MammaLoves
So interesting that moms here are talking about instinct. For me that's the best way to parent too. I would agree with the advice that you have to do what works for your goals and your community. There are so many niches now even within the parent-blogging community.
about 1 year ago
Jean
This gets me too! There is no right or wrong. It depends on the direction you want to take with your blog. Mine is more of a diary; journaling our lives. I am not as into the numbers or the money aspect. But others are. It just depends on what you are looking for. Make a decision and stick with it. If you keep going back and forth on whether you want to really make this a profession or just be for fun, you will get upset. I know women who say it's for fun and then they get really hurt over their lack of numbers or popularity.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Is there something specific Brandie, that you thought was good or bad advice?
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I do what I want with my blog. It's a teeny tiny blog though. If I get 10 readers a day that is a HUGE deal. I'm a-okay with that. But I have a few people in my life who keep telling me if I just did x, y, and z, I could make good money off of my blog and so why don't I do that. (Interestingly enough, none of those people even blog so why the heck do I even think about taking their advice to begin with? LOL!). On the other hand, having more readers would be nice, so I struggle with keeping on doing my own thing or trying to step it up a notch?
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
You should absolutely do what's most interesting to you. Screw the advice. Including this advice. Unless it's interesting to you. :)
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
There is no right or wrong, just what works for you
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Brandie, I think you do what feels right in your gut. I think there are a lot of ethical pieces of advice that we'd all do well to heed, and some basics about raising the bar for all of us, but you have to do what feels right to you at the end of the day. The diversity is what makes the blog-o-sphere so cool.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I'm a firm believer in following your heart and intuition in anything, blogging included.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Brandi - I think you've hit it on the head: you've got to do what feels right to you. Aside from a very few tried and true tips, the rest of it is all subjective. The important thing for me is to be myself and be genuine - everything else isn't all that important!
about 1 year ago
Louise
For Me, I have to do what's best for me. There are ALL kinds of blogs out there and your voice will only come through when you are doing what makes you happy and feels right to you!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i was on a webinar last week for "do's and don'ts" for brands when working with bloggers. the first thing i said is that this list will look different in the future because we're all still figuring out how comfortbale we are in this publishing paradigm
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
Find your own voice and what works for you. Getting advice and watching what others have done is great, but you have to forge your own path.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Brandie, I am a huge proponent of instinct. In all the instances where I have followed my instincts regarding my blogs, I have been very happy (and seen great results) -- it's when I have had moments where I have let the "shoulds" get to me where I have faltered. Though really, a good place to start is Jennifer James' blog -- I honestly don't think I've ever read a bad piece of blogging advice from her!
about 1 year ago
Clarissa Nassar
I definitely consider the source when taking advice! My "go-to" sources for what to do and what's next are Mom Bloggers Club, Maria Bailey and MomDot
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
Also- are you content with what you have? If not, you might need to make changes, otherwise, go with the flow!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i think there's a set of common sense rules that you don't break. rules of blogkind. then there's a level of "rules" that are more flexible.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
This is a great question, I've wondered about this too.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
do what feels right for you! Sometimes you do need to take risks, but only if they are completely and totally "you"
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I always rely on what works best for me! I read a lot and implement a lot into what I do with my blog and also in my community. I stick with things that work, but also think up my own way of doing things.
about 1 year ago
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- Morra 17 comments
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My question: when my life gets overwhelming (like it is now) my instinct to blog just shuts down. I lose my muse completely, such as it is. How do you all keep blogging through the hard stuff? Does it help you?
about 1 year ago
Amie/MammaLoves
Morra, That happens to me too. I find that if I just get on my blog and write--without anything particular in mind--I am able to get through it. And sometimes, it's okay to be quiet. Unless we are paying for the roof over our head or food for our children with money we are making from blogging, it's okay to take care of ourselves first.
about 1 year ago
Maria Bailey
try shorter thoughts so you can find escape in your blog
about 1 year ago
Brandie
Honestly, if my instinct to blog is gone, I don't. But at the same time, I don't have ads, I don't many readers, etc, etc. I will tell you all this though - some things I don't want people to know it's me writing, but I need to get it out there - I have an anonymous blog where I can go and say whatever I want to without worrying if my mom will read it, etc, etc. I don't really use anymore (which I think is a good thing) but there was a time I needed to process a lot of really personal things and it was a blessing to have that!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Ooh, great question Morra. I'd be so sad if you stopped blogging! When my life is overwhelming, I just pull back. I think it's a matter of prioritization. I'd rather write nothing for a few days than to do a post like, "sorry guys, I'm busy and have nothing to say." I think about how Maureen Dowd never writes a column that says how uninspired she is. But sometimes you just have to push through it and the topic finds itself. Once I was uninspired and starting writing a lame post about Chelsea Market, where I eat lunch a lot. It evolved into a post about feeling challenged as a full time working mom, and envious of the SAHMS there... and well, it ended up like this: http://www.mom-101.com/2010/02/grass-greener.html
about 1 year ago
Clarissa Nassar
When I got to that point I had to figure out ways to work smarter not harder. I naturally got overwhelmed with all the options out there for ad networks and things like that but at the end of the day just sitting down and writing a list of my goals is what worked for me. I now blog a few times a week but my income comes from sponsored posts, freelance writing and s Working for MomTV. All that came out of blogging.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Hi Morra!! I find that blogging my overwhelming times helps me. In fact, I blogged a very stressful time earlier this year and my readers were so encouraging that blogging became a bright spot in my otherwise hectic day. I also, find that if life gets too crazy and I stop blogging, it's SO hard to get back into the groove. Check out this post that I wrote: http://mamalaw.com/2010/07/unplugging-recharging-and-plugging-back-in/
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I'll be honest, it's hard for me too. When I'm up to my eyeballs in life, it's hard to me to sort through everything and write in a complete sentence. It's easier for me to find pretty things on the internet (from design sites or other blogs) and post about those. Or post about recipes. Something easy and light and fun. And it usually puts me in a better head space too.
about 1 year ago
Louise
I have this same problem. I have to take a break from everything before the muse comes back. I'd be interested to see everyone else's ideas.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I love the idea of having posts in the bank. Or maybe guest posters on call.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
There are times when I do just walk away for a bit because I need the space in my personal life... I think that's okay too.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I try not to think about it - just take one post at a time and eventually the enjoyment (and muse) comes back. At least so far it has. Some days are better than others though. And I agree about taking a break when you need to - I do that from time to time and it definitely helps!
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Good advice Allison. I love that.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Morra, I think there are natural points where things will shift around with blogging and that is OK. It was so interesting to me to be on a panel at Blissdom with Megan Jordan (@velveteenmind) and hear her talk about literally walking away from her blog for months and coming back when she is ready. There's a lot of power in really taking ownership of your time and inspiration. For me, I've made adjustments along the way. I used to blog at Boston Mamas 3-5 times a day (gulp!), then I went down to twice a day on weekdays and now I do once a day, seven days a week (unless something is pressing and I do an extra post here or there). I finally found a pace that works for me... it was all about experimentation.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
Morra - in those times when you feel really inspired, try to resist the temptation to post all at once. Keep a few posts in the bank for the day that you hit the wall. That way even if you don't feel like writing you will have content!
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I blog while I'm in the hard stuff and find it to be a kind of therapy for me. I don't go into a lot of detail but it feels good to put it out there. It helps when you know you're not alone.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I sometimes just have to put my head down and charge through. A lot of times, most of the time anyway, I end up writing my best posts when I thought i had nothing to say. Just put one foot in front of the other. Although, it's okay to take a breather until you have something you really want to write about.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I love getting creative, even when I think there isn't another idea I can churn out. I read other blogs in different niches and other industry news like sports, for example, for inspiration.
about 1 year ago
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- StockpilingMoms 2 comments
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Blogging for me went from hobby to business and I often wake up and can't remember what day that exactly happened...but I love it!
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
Very! Hard to go from SAHM to WAHM though...
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
I know the feeling! Isn't it cool?
about 1 year ago
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- traceyclark 2 comments
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Happy to be here with all of you. This is going to be wonderful!
about 1 year ago
Maria Bailey
hello traceyclark!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Welcome Tracey!!!
about 1 year ago
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- Denise 0 comments
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hi everyone! I'm a little late - sorry- but looking forward to a great conversation!
about 1 year ago
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- Mom101 10 comments
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Hey, my photo worked! Hi everyone.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Oh hey you're right!! Thanks Christine. You get full credit.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Wait, I just looked closer -- I think I took this picture at the Nate Berkus event!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Wow thanks ladeez! I forget who took this one - Maybe Maggie Mason?
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
HOT. I might change my avatar to be yours. You think people will fall for it?
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
Beautiful!
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Hi, Liz. Lookin' good!
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
You look amazing girl!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Yay! Hi Liz!!!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
you look GORGEOUS in that photo. laminate it. ;)
about 1 year ago
socalmom
Beautiful photo, BTW.
about 1 year ago
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- @AndreaUpdyke 3 comments
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I have been blogging for 7 years (in Nov) and I have always had a lifestyle blog. What has changed for me is the audience! I have been embraced by the mom-blog community since having my son in 2009 and in a sense feel like I am starting over. My content has improved as have my opportunities. I love it as much as I used to but love that my reach has expanded.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
That's really interesting, Andrea. It always amazes me how the Mom blogging community is so creatively supportive.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I have been asked to guest post on a few sites and have recently made my first "sale" (conference sponsorship) I want to walk the line between blogging for me and blogging for free. Of course everyone wants to make a few bucks but it has to be worth it!
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
when you say opportunities... what type of opps?
about 1 year ago
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- Andrea Hatfield 1 comment
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Hello everyone! I am excited to be here!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Welcome, Andrea!
about 1 year ago
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- DebMomOf3 3 comments
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Blogging has changed over the years for me - it started off as a cool way to connect with other moms and a hobby, but now has grown to the point where I feel I 'have' to post every so often, especially with product reviews. It's hard to keep the balance and remember why I love it sometimes when it starts to feel more like a 'job' (but without the paycheck). I think that's one reason I keep my personal blog separate from my review site - no pressure, I just blog about whatever, whenever.
about 1 year ago
MojoMom
When I first started blogging I was so glad to get any sign of recognition it was tempting to say Yes to every request/product review, etc. But I've had to learn to not take on things I can't be sure I want to do. Still a lesson-in-progress actually.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
That's true, and I've been doing that somewhat. Think I need to sit down and reassess altogether though. Boundaries and expectations - I like that.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Dont take more than you need or want...some of it will eventually been seen as a waste of time. My wife has been at it for some years now...and I told her to cut stuff years back...you have to set boundaries and expectations...
about 1 year ago
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- FunniestMOM 2 comments
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I am an accomplished writer, but feel like blogging is so over saturated... i've been submitting my "articles" or pieces I write magazines now, online and physcial magazines...
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
I have a blog on my website... how do i get people to read it?????
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
That is my suspicion too.
about 1 year ago
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- Louise 7 comments
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How do you come up with ideas to work with brands? For the larger campaigns, do you sit down with them and discuss something that fits?
about 1 year ago
Louise
Wow, I never thought about just coming up with an idea first then finding a company to run with that idea. Thanks guys!
about 1 year ago
Maria Bailey
you want to also differ your brand so integrated marketing is best
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Outside of our ad network, a lot of times, I will just dream up a fun idea...sort of a 'wouldn't this be cool to do?' and then dream up types of companies that would be interested in doing it and proactively reach out to them. (Also, my background is advertising and pr and I'm very familiar with what makes a good proposal) This always takes a bit longer. But the resulting project is usually a lot of fun.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Ah good point PE. I was thinking of brands who come to us first. Both are viable!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I think of the idea first, then think of what brand might be a good fit before I take the whole campaign in hand to them.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
A lot of brand campaigns at Cool Mom Picks come through our media partner, FM. But we brainstorm a lot of ideas. I'm lucky in that I have an ad background so I can come up with interesting things - but generally we'll throw an idea out and see if it sticks, or we'll offer up a few different tiers. Like, if you spend x you'll get y...but for A MEEEELION X'S you'll get this...
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
as with everything it takes time. usually it is through my ad network or through a PR agency with which i have a good relationship
about 1 year ago
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- juliepippert 4 comments
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I'm here as paparazzi. :) Don't mind the bright flashes of light -- I'm just RTing you.
about 1 year ago
Jean
Fun!
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Oh wow TOTALLY unintended lol
about 1 year ago
Denise
great- now I got Gaga in my head:)
about 1 year ago
robin
Ha!
about 1 year ago
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- Denise 11 comments
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my question- for me, I jumped into blogging thinking I knew what I was going to blog about and how I would work it. I found that as I got into it my blog evolved and some of the decisions I made in the past might not be the best solution for my blog. Now I worry I will make the wrong decision again, which is almost paralyzing. I'm afraid to pick a new name(I have a poll up on my blog hoping readers would help) and can't decide which platform to use either. Any thoughts on how to work through this?
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
This is the beautiful part of this space. Constant editing. Believe me, we are always doing that at kirtsy (we changed our name, a year and hundreds of thousands of links into it). And we're reworking it now completely again, based on things we've learned over the last two years
about 1 year ago
Denise
Cooper/Alphamom- I love those mantras. I will have to remember those. I just am afraid the deeper I get in the harder it is to move to another platform or decide on a name. Then I'm afraid I will always feel like I'm starting over. How long does it take till that feeling goes away:)
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
It's cliche, but we learn from our mistakes! and you never know what decision will turn out be a brilliant one if you don't take the leap. Also, don't put too much pressure on yourself. If you pick a name and decide later that it wasn't the right one, change it. It's not a big deal!
about 1 year ago
Mary Bernard
Denise-- I hear you. I am trying to step back myself right now and "reevaluate." I think I love info so much, that it all sounds great! But then it backfires, doesn't match my skills, becomes a "mistake" or whatever. I just posted a question at the top asking for others to comment on how to "shut out the noise." I need some help on how to become laser-focused.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
As far as a platform - I'm on Wordpress on my personal blog and Drupal on the website I run. I chose two platforms because the sites have completely different functions and long-term goals. The nice thing is that it's always possible to change down the road so don't feel like you're forever stuck on a platform.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
Denise, I just started within the last month a new blog and new name. Starting from stratch. I know those feelings. Follow your gut.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
my motto is "I'm always in Beta" that helps me realize that the process is a fluid one. that is the nature of the beast.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
I love the saying "Always make new mistakes!" and making mistakes usually, ultimately makes a blog all the better. Can't wait to see where you go!
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
And you can always change things back if you don't like a decision. :)
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
It can be debilitating, can't it? I think we have all felt that a few times. I wish I had a good answer for that. Baby steps I guess. And then, sometimes you just gotta take a leap of faith. Note to self: follow my own advice.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I have made a lot of mistakes - it's all part of the journey. You never know- it just might work for you! :)
about 1 year ago
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- robin 16 comments
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Question: A few months ago I was contacted by someone who wanted to know what I charged to advertise on my blog. I had never done that (yet) but was intrigued but this person refused to tell me anything about their company, product, etc. I backed away completely as that seemed odd but is this typical?
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I agree with Alphamom, Del - any legitimate marketer will share some basic business info with you.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
so headed to find that e-book RIGHT now!!!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
I disagree Del. It's not about being friendly. This person sounds downright unprofessional. You need to share some info. In blogging for the vast majority it's personal first. Any professional person wanting to work successfully in this world needs to know OUR rules of engagement.
about 1 year ago
ABDPBT
Does the ebook give rates for advertising? As I recall it did not.
about 1 year ago
Denise
o I will check out that book for sure- I wondered on rates myself as I have been approached by a great company.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
You totally know that was a terrorist operative, right?
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Just dont be too afraid, you may lose out. Not too many mom bloggers make money, or very little. Not everyone is personal and warm and friendly like PR that approach moms. Just an FYI.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Agree that From Blog to Business is a FANTASTIC eBook - worthy of printing out even (I did). Jennifer and Esther did a fantastic job with it!
about 1 year ago
robin
Thanks everyone. I am glad I trusted my instincts. Christine, I will look for that book as just clueless on the rates. Thanks!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
you can find it at Sheposts.com
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Tell them to show you the money or paypal payment. Dont give out info, they know who you are. Once they dont renew, pull it. Simple, make some money if you can.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
a great source is the FREE white paper that fellow panelists Jennifer James & Esther Crawford did on "Blog to Business" You must read that if you haven't.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Robin, if they refuse to tell you who they are, I think it is OK for you to balk! that is bizarre behavior! Also, re: rates, have you seen Esther Crawford and Jennifer James's blogging for business e-book? It's a free download and will help with the nuts and bolts.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Good point, Jennifer!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
not typical. usually they don't hold their cards to the vest like that.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
When people are vague, always watch out! When everything is legit there is nothing to hide. Good instincts!
about 1 year ago
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- @DelTheDad 6 comments
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Hopefully you allow dads to chime in a watch? :)
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
They launched Father's Day - StockpilingDads.com
about 1 year ago
Brandie
Absolutely! =) Welcome! Hope you jump right in!
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
www.delthedad.com...its young, like a little baby. :)
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
Del what is your blog? My hubby blogs too!
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Thanks!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Welcome!
about 1 year ago
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- Sarah56 2 comments
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Hi everyone, Sarah here, from Practically Green. Looking forward to this conversation with all the great mom bloggers!
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
Hi Annabelle, good to see you too!
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
Hi Sarah, Annabelle Gurwitch here, nice to see you!
about 1 year ago
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- 24/7 MOMS 11 comments
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Hi..Trisha from 24/7 MOMS excited I made it..Im in Hawaii enjoying the sunshine
about 1 year ago
Louise
Yes, I hope we can connect some time. I'm just north of Seattle
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Louise OK OK now I recall....we need to connect
about 1 year ago
Louise
I blog at Mom Start. I was supposed to meet you at MNO but I spent the whole time at my table and never had a chance to go watch your show
about 1 year ago
Denise
I'm jealous. It's just darn hot here in FL and will likely pour again tonight.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Stockpiling moms...Im on day 14 here in Hawaii can not complain...I have all my kids here as well its been a great family time
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
No burn off? Its gray skies down here, may burn off this afternoon and hit the 80's. Lucky you Trisha...
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Louise do you have a blog?
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
honored you're here.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
SO jealous! LOL! =)
about 1 year ago
Louise
It's gloomy today in WA Trisha, bring back some sunshine when you come home
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
You lucky, lucky girl!
about 1 year ago
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- Mary Bernard 12 comments
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I would love to hear how you "shut out the noise" of the Internet! For example, out of the gajillion blogs and web sites about "how to" blog, how do you prioritize what to read, who to follow? How do we whittle down so that--when it comes to information, especially--we do not succumb to the "good" being the enemy of the "best"?
about 1 year ago
Mary Bernard
Thank you for the suggestion of "read it later"! Awesome!!!
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Another approach {the one I use} is to have a few quick clicks in place ~ I use the site "read it later" for when I accidentally surf over to something interesting but not in line with what I'm trying to accomplish ~ I click the little add-on in my browser & immediately get back to what I was doing {it's synced w/an app on my phone ~ so it's like carrying a magazine around ALL the time ... hello waiting for kids to surface from school!} Another thing I prefer is to subscribe via email to blogs I like, again ~ I read it when ready. If I find I'm not really digging the posts I just unsubscribe And like the ladies before recommended, I check out what the folks I read are reading ~ creativity is fueled by inspiration & inspiration often comes from the others we surround ourselves with. I tried using readers & it was too much of a chore ~ maybe some of these solutions can help you?? :)
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I think you sometimes need to put blinders on. Just put your head down and do what you love, and don't worry so much about what everyone else is doing or saying. Focus on what you're passionate about and the rest will follow.
about 1 year ago
MojoMom
Great question. For me the overwhelming flow of information has gone beyond a tipping point.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I think you blog by blogging. Don't spend too much time reading about "how" to blog. Read what you love, what inspires you. See what people you admire are doing, as Jennifer and Tracey say.
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
I agree...form a group and network...I am going to say that most of my peeps I met through Mom Bloggers Club.
about 1 year ago
Mary Bernard
Oh, yes, I agree ... thanks, Jennifer.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Ditto to what Jennifer and Tracey said. My general approach is I read a small group of bloggers (they never fail to inspire me) and then also make a point to click around and follow recommended leads via Twitter/FAcebook friends and discover new writers as bandwidth allows.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I find it helps to also set a time limit. One hour for surfing/"research" then it's time to get down to work on other projects.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I agree Jennifer. I have found amazing people that were friends of friends online.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
There is a lot of noise out there for sure. Find one person you admire and then see who they talk to, converse with, and link to. You'll find a great community of people you can learn a lot from. I learn a lot from the fabulous ladies on the right :)
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
good question!!
about 1 year ago
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- Andrea Hatfield 2 comments
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IS there a video we are supposed to be watching too?
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
Okay thank you!
about 1 year ago
Emily
It's all text, right here!
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 11 comments
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My question has to do with blogs as creative outlets - I'd love to hear about some of the ways everyone is using their blogs to express themselves and engage with people online.
about 1 year ago
Holland
I'm VERY late to the "party" but am enjoying reading through the posts and comments. I started Life Simplified as an outlet for all the gazillions of magazine articles I have saved over the years, websites I liked, and things that I just couldn't through away. They morphed in to Short Cuts, Suggestions and Solutions in a variety of categories. I've loved putting out helpful info that could honestly simplifiy someone's day.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
Thank you, Robin!!!!
about 1 year ago
Denise
I'm not a huge fan of a lot of the memes out there because they are geared towards bloggers but I just started one specifically because I wanted to interact with my readers and let them interact with each other. So, I created Monthly Milestones. It's once/month and we share a milestone we've encountered that month. Even non-bloggers can participate because it is comment-based. If a blogger wants to do a full post they can add a link to their post in their comment. I just started yesterday and it is going well so far- slow, but well. It's on my blog if u want to check it out and come interact:) www.letsshop2gether.wordpress.com
about 1 year ago
robin
Hey, Deborah! LOVE your new "Apples in Wonderland" BTW :)
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Both my blogs (personal and shutter sisters) are creative outlets for me. If they weren't I don't think I'd be nearly as committed. I guess my blogs started out as true journals. I have always been a journal girl, even when i was young. Blogging is the kind of journal i love sharing. Everything about it for me is creative.
about 1 year ago
robin
Well, I have kind of a reverse problem since my blog IS my creative outlet, I can't seem to get my "real" work done! Every photo I take with my iPhone I see through the "lens" of whether it will make a nice post. I set it up my blog primarily to help introduce people labyrinths (I thought), but now it is becoming more a place for me to share my own Journey.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
I think I'm using my blog as a way to STAY inspired creatively. I'm not really posting about my kids much and it is the perspective that photos and artwork and the written word has on me that pushes me further. I'm totally re-vamping all the I've done on-line in the last few years--and this just feels so right to me. That's my guide. Nothing else. I may sink....but I'll sink smilin';)
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
I find my blog to be where I write my thoughts, opinions, etc and Twitter & Facebook is where I do more engaging. I have a lot of discussions about my posts on Twitter or FB.
about 1 year ago
Jean
My blog niche is special needs. I mostly blog about our lives with Autism. It has become a great source of support and community for me and other moms of kids with special needs.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
We sue our blog as another venue for our viewers of our weekly Live webcast...we are re-designing our site now to be easier for moms to navigate and interact....
about 1 year ago
Mary Bernard
Blogging has always been--first and foremost--cathartic for me. I must remember that when I get sidetracked about ad revenue or numbers or whatever. I write because it's my primary creative channel.
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Bailey 9 comments
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Hi it's Maria Bailey- Great Topic! I think the blogosphere is changing as our children age. Parenthood and motherhood takes on new demands putting demands on our blogs
about 1 year ago
Emily
Agreed - my focus changes by the year, and often by the day.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I think it's a flow- the more you write, and through the years, change just happens!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Hi Maria. I love the idea that a memorist aways has new areas of her life to mine. I don't think it's exclusive to moms!
about 1 year ago
modernmami
Do any of you feel you have to "announce" the change or just go with it and readers will figure it out?
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
I think that's right. And our blogs are a reflection of ourselves, so it's only right that they change as we do.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Hi Maria!
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I think the same will happen for me as my child(ren) gets older. And I have always blogged with the season of life so what was once a wedding blog became a pregnancy blog and is now focused on Parenting.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Agree Agreee Agree
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
My blog (s) have changed so much since I first started. I don't even talk about my daughters/family like I did way back in the day. My perspective has completely changed.
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Bosak 0 comments
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Glad to be here and enjoying the conversation.
about 1 year ago
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- kdc521 3 comments
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Hello everyone! I'm glad to be here and read the thoughts of some of my personal favorites. Great topic!
about 1 year ago
Jo-Lynne
Hello, dear!!
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Hi!
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Hi there! Always great seeing you.
about 1 year ago
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- FunniestMOM 14 comments
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My intentions for blogging is to get my name out there, not really to journal so I feel better... how can I take it from just a hobby to something more intentional? Do you all just blog on other's blog sites?
about 1 year ago
GraceD
Getting your blog "out there" is a matter of your writing content, as far as I'm concerned. If you have a niche, say family travel, then I think your tips for taking baby/kids on a plane will generate a lot of hits.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Agreed! A huge component of blogging, to me, is the networking aspect. Think about the "social" in social media. Connect with bloggers in your own community. Nashville has a large blogging community and we recently launched a Facebook page so we can interact in one cohesive space.
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
GREAT stuff ladies! Thank you!
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
I have networked on blogs, communities, conferences, local events.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
I think in order for a blog to be intentional it has to be personal. It is your words, your thoughts and ultimately all of your passion and energy that will make it a success. The more you are "out there" on other people's blogs the bigger your following and readership (is that a word?) will become.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Twitter! :-)
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
I'm the queen of networking... but with oversaturating on the internet, it's hard get noticed
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I think engaging with your audience is huge. Don't focus on other people's sites, focus on your own. And you have to get yourself out there. Go to conferences, be active on social media sites, comment on other people's blogs.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Agree with Louise: You have to network, write out a plan and write a great blog. Well-written, thoughtful and consistent content is what is going to make you last if you want to flip your hobby into a biz.
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
but network where? on other blog sites?
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Yes, join networks, attend conferences and the opportunities will flow from there.
about 1 year ago
Jean
My blog is the opposite, I blog for me and my friends and family. But what you need to do to get out there is social networking. Join as many bloggy/mommy/women social sites as you can keep up with and get involved! It is a lot of fun too! It won't seem like work because you are socializing, meeting others, and getting tips!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
IMO, the first important things to focus on are: 1) honing your own voice, and 2) being a good reader. Comment on other blogs, engage, become a part of the community. That karma will come back to you.
about 1 year ago
Louise
Lots of networking to get your name out there.
about 1 year ago
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- juliepippert 36 comments
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How has microblogging affected your overall approach to blogging as outreach, and how do you work all the mediums (geolocating, microblogging, blogging, etc.) together for your overall blog/brand/personal outreach?
about 1 year ago
Holland
Just getting a chance to catch up on the "talk" today, so far, great info. I have really had a lot of traffic from facebook but I'll admit I haven't "gotten" Twitter yet. I set up an account but have not been able to send my first tweet as I'm still trying to figure out if it's the same life simplified tips as from the site.
about 1 year ago
Jo-Lynne
Yes, Twitter is a great way to keep in touch with other bloggers that I'd like to read but don't have the time.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I don't do the geolocating thing- I will tweet about stuff but usually don't like to give my exact location. Definitely don't do 4square.
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
I admit they have caused a decrease in the frequency of my blogging, mostly because my blogging is usually a brain dump. I LOVE geolocation and Twitter, not as wild about Facebook, but I do it. I look at them as additions to my blogging.
about 1 year ago
GraceD
@AlphaMom Molly, WHO IS NOW 19 (as I scream to myself) and her entourage are not geolocating yet. College kids in her circle are still texting and rarely utilize the internet on their cells.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I think it's a great way for everyone to "hang" out more and feel like we're all on the same page no matter what your stats/how often you blog, etc. It's a great way for me to keep up with my readers vs. having to read a lot of blogs that I don't have time for. Twitter gives me the cliff's notes!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
My blogs are the centerpiece to what I do in social media but I do utilize Twitter and Facebook as tools to get the word out about what I'm writing about. Though I think it's important to note that Twitter and Facebook appeal to different swaths of people for sure. It's important to adjust accordingly.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
For me my blog is still the heart of what I do. I'm a writer above all and I want to have a record of my life on there. I really try hard not to put all my energy into Twitter. I love it...but it's so fleeting. Make some funny tweet and eventually it's gone. The writer in me likes the permanence and ownership of the blog. (Although the mad NJ Housewive Fan in me LOOOOVES the microblogging on Twitter!)
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
My twitter/FB audience are different and I communicate with them differently. Twitter is definitely more of a conversation. It is the ultimate networking tool. I also make sure my blog posts are tied into my fb, twitter, linked-in, etc..
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i'm only concerned about geolocating for kids, not adults. i think the innovation for connecting the offline/ online is gonna happen through apps like 4Square and now FB's similar app.
about 1 year ago
GraceD
I think Twitter lends itself more to blog outreach. Facebook is a more "gated community" as you are among chosen neighbors/friends who will read most if not anything you write, whether on your home page or on your blog.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
I utilize Twitter quite a bit. Facebook is more personal for me to intereact with friends & family although I just launched a Facebook page for my blog and have seen quite a bit of traffic come from that. It's hard for me to imagine that there are people who don't read blogs but DO read Facebook but there are tons of my friends who fall under that category! I have yet to get too excited about geo-locating. I had some weirdness on Facebook with someone creating a fake account and using pics of my girls as their own! Shut them down but that was freaky, to say the least. I don't know..after that I'm hesitant to use geo-locating. I did set up a Whrrl account last week, though. I can see it would be great for sharing pics from social media events I attend.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Abbie: I think of it that way because it's the only place I put pics of my kids online, due to my husband's wishes- so I curate contacts more carefully there than anywhere else.
about 1 year ago
xiaolinmama
Agreed! I get WAY more comments on FB. I tweet a random thought that isn't quite right for a full post.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I love twitter - but I don't often tweet things I would put in the blog. I really am not a big fan of facebook. I am for the most part only linked with family and good friends. And I only link to the blog on facebook if I've written about our family or things I think people there want to read. So maybe 1 our of every 8 posts I link there?
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
@JusticeFergie- what do you like about Foursquare? Not sure I quite "get it" yet...
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I agree babysteph. I love fb and Twitter for that. I have so many things I like to share now that i wouldn't have shared on my blog. It's fun to be able to talk about things and share in smaller snippets.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
I wonder if twitter has as big as an impact as many including myself think. I hope, since I have wasted time on it. But I have met some genuinely nice people...
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
@Alphamom -- how do you want to use geolocating? Which tool? Do you worry about privacy/security?
about 1 year ago
Maria Bosak
I feel FB gives a nice portal for followers to preview topics but to also keep track of many blogs at the same time and allow them to be reminded of the blogs they loved without needing to go directly to the blog.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
@RobynsWorld, twitter - wow. I think FB does better for me but I feel like Twitter has become such a billboard on a highway, KWIM? How do you make it work for you?
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
@rockandrollmama I find FB more personal too, also a great medium for connection I find that FB steals comments, though! Once upon a time all my comments were on my blog, and now they are all over the place (FriendFeed, Buzz, FB, Twitter, etc.).
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
I probably don't use Twitter as much as I should, but I do really enjoy the immediacy and intimacy of it. Whereas blogging feels like me giving a speech, Twitter is a conversation. Oh and I love Foursquare :)
about 1 year ago
DaDa Rocks!
Twitter has become my main focus in term of conversation in the family/parenting focus
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
tweet , FB, Blog Frog and NING
about 1 year ago
robin
I adore Twitter! Love the short and sweet of it all...
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
Cooper, I have a website www.thefunnymom.com that I also have a blog tab.... but nobody reads it... so i lose interest started just submitting my articles (for lack of a better word) and get them picked up by magazines
about 1 year ago
Abbie
interesting that you think FB is more personal. I find since I have less contacts on twitter I actually open up more on there!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I get the most traffic to my blog directly from Twitter
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I think I find that communicating with my readers & peers on Twitter made room for me to only write my "diary" type thoughts on my blog, I keep it for me and save the links and things I want to highlight for tweeting it and posting on Facebook.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Here's the definition of microblogging: "a form of blogging that allows users to write brief text updates (usually less than 200 characters) and publish them, either to be viewed by anyone or by a restricted group which can be chosen by the user" It's usually Twitter or Facebook or things like that. Here's a great article at RWW about it: http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/10_micro-blogging_tools_compared.php
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i am so excited about geo-locating. i can't wait til hat reaches critical mass.
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
Cooper, I tweet and FB!
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Facebook and Twitter have both really changed the rules of engagement, I think, and I like to leverage them both in different ways- FB still being the more personal by far to me.:)
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Julie, do you mean Tweeting and FB etc.?
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
I am so new at blogging, forgive me, but what is microblogging?
about 1 year ago
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- Miss Magpie 2 comments
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Hi -Dana Freeman from FindandGoSeek in Vermont. Excited to hear what everyone is saying!
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
Hi Liz - this was great!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Hi Dana!
about 1 year ago
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- FitsNGiggles 4 comments
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First timer here--Is there a way to get the text to continually feed or is it a matter of hitting refresh? Thanks!
about 1 year ago
FitsNGiggles
Ok I'm on the case. Thanks everyone!
about 1 year ago
Emily
It takes a refresh!
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
you have to hit refresh
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Refresh!
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 16 comments
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Over the years, have your readers changed? How?
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
Liz, Tracey, Jo-Lynne! Yes, yes, yes. Our time availability has changed, the size of the community has exploded, and our needs for support as parents and writers is different now. All of this affects (for me at least) how much I comment and participate. Ironically, I care as much or more about the friends I've made online as ever. But am not as visible.
about 1 year ago
Jo-Lynne
I can relate to Liz. I used to have more of a reciprocal relationship with my readers, but I'm so busy now, and so many of us are in that boat, that there seems to be a growing disparity between producers and consumers. I do respond to many (most?) of my comments, so relationships develop that way, but I rarely to go other blogs and read and comment anymore.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Thanks Tracey, it's true. I think we check in with each other through other venues - FB, Twitter, email (there's the answer to Julie's microblogging question) - but not through the blogs as much as frequently.
about 1 year ago
modernmami
Readers have definitely changed over past 4 years. From a small community of fellow new bloggers, to connecting with local bloggers, and more recently connecting with other Latinas. It definitely evolves.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Liz, it's an honest answer and i think many can relate. It's hard to do it all. There is an ebb and flow about it.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
When I first started blogging it was more like a mini community - a group of us all read and commented on each others' sites. Over the years we've gotten busier, don't read or comment as often. Or we're communicating in other ways like over FB or Twitter. It's different, but I can't really explain how.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
@AndreaUpdyke: I found the opposite. My readers were other moms (and dads) who were online, as well. Now, as family and friends IRL are becoming more connected via Facebook, they are finding me online, as well. Which, of course, could be a bad thing ;)
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
Since my blog is primarily a review blog with many giveaways a lot of my readers are sweepers but I have found that as I expand out from reviewing to more personal posts I am getting more and more "regular" readers. I like that!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I think my readers used to be "online friends" - we commented on each others blogs, and formed relationships through our writing. I hate to admit this but since I've become busier, went back to work full time, added another rugrat, I can't comment as much. So my readers are still friends, but now more people who simply what I write, and aren't commenting out of any obligation to reciprocate. I can't wait until I have a million free hours a day to just read and comment on blogs again. I miss it a ton. Wah.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Like, beyond being just my mom? :) There's more diversity in that I think more moms are online who relate openly to rock and roll and their own ident=ity as aprt of motherhood, but my mom's still usually my first commenter o a post.:)
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I find I'm getting more non-bloggers reading lately.
about 1 year ago
FunniestMOM
how do you get readers?
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I feel like I've watched my readers grow and change with me. With many of them i feel like we've kind of grown up together. I love that!
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
Aside from more of them :-), My readers have grown old with me. Their kids are no longer toddlers, they are in grade school. Or they are in Middle School...
about 1 year ago
xiaolinmama
HI everyone! I think my readers have changed as I have changed, refined what I like to write about and found new interests. Is that bad?
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
Definitely. My readers were once only my friends. Then I found people online who were also planning/blogging weddings/pregnancy etc. Still mostly women, but at many different stages of life.
about 1 year ago
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- DaDa Rocks! 3 comments
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Hiiii can I tell you how amazing the panelists for this are... I've gotten to meet many in real life.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
How awesome are you! (Very. That's the answer.)
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Hey fellow Dad!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
hiya Adam! so nice to see you here!
about 1 year ago
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- GraceD 9 comments
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Greetings to all!
about 1 year ago
GraceD
@Mom101 Belated birthday love to you, Fearless Leader Liz. @xialoinmama Lovey! Kumusta ka kaibigan! BlogHer Decompression/Recap on 9/23!! @Alphamom Isabel, sending you a big hug. Laser beams of admiration and adoration have been shot in your direction. @ThisFullHouse Liz! My Liz! You get the Love Laser treatment, too!
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
MWAH!
about 1 year ago
GraceD
Emily, I curtsy and kiss the hem of your frock. Tracey - Ditto on the curtsy and hem kissing!
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
[blows kiss]
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Hey beauty!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Hi Grace!!!! xoxo
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
hey, hey, hey!
about 1 year ago
xiaolinmama
hey grace!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Hi dahlink!
about 1 year ago
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- rockandrollmama 33 comments
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Hey mamas! How do you see storytelling evolving in 2011? More video/collaborative, or a return to writing roots? Nice to "see" you all.:)
about 1 year ago
GraceD
You know, video was "huge" in 2007. But, three years later, it has not exploded like I thought it would. I think writing is something more tangible. You can print out a blogpost that is life transforming and put it on your mirror to remind yourself of life's awesomeness.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
I guess I'm fairly old school. I never vlog. I need to try it! I'm admittedly not one to watch videos, though, probably because I usually live in my car or office and I'm on my iPhone. ;)
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
love Animoto.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
I'm just about to take down all my written blogs & replace them with the Vlog over at TMCC {the mental clutter coach}, but I made this decision based on the content I'm providing. I'm not the focus of the video ~ the "stuff" is. For me, it's much easier to produce a how-to video than to write a how-to article. And, it's easier for the recipient to understand just how little judgement I bring to the topic of clutter {especially when it's in my own home! ~ hello voyeurism!} ;)
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Very cool, guys, thank you!
about 1 year ago
Jo-Lynne
I've done some vlogging, and I find that my readers like it. It gives them a more tangible way to connect - to hear my voice and see my mannerisms. That said, I'm a perfectionist, and it took so long to do video well that I've stepped back from them for the time being. I'm a writer at heart, and I agree with Steph. I will always read writers. I'm not one to watch videos. I think my hardcore readers are the same.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Anyway ANIMOTO is a nice easy tool regardless of platform. If you go to this link http://bluestarfam.org/drupal/ look in top right corner for image of people looking at a painting. That's the *very first* one I did. Learning curve was about 5 minutes. Including kid interruptions.
about 1 year ago
xiaolinmama
Thanks @Robynsworld will check it out!
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
@xiaolinmama -- remind me, PC or Mac?
about 1 year ago
Emily
I want to try vlogging, but have been a bit intimidated, I gotta say. Might have to make the plunge after this. I like the videos when the hosts aren't all made up and styled and are just showing up as themselves, so at least that part won't be hard!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
That makes sense Esther - I know my videos are very raw. extraordrinarymommy does a lot of hints & tips on making videos - she used to be a TV person
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I go back and forth about video - I use it sometimes, mostly on my review site. I have a hard time thinking about what I would say if it were just me and a camera... Writing is much easier for me.
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
I enjoy mixing video with writing. It's very easy using the Kodak vi8 camera. I was really intimidated before someone showed me how, now I feel like a pro. So it has to be easy if I feel like a pro.
about 1 year ago
xiaolinmama
aack, seems like a great video piece takes forever to put together. I would love to try it more, but the time factor... any suggestions for places to get a quick lesson for free?
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I often am on-line with a lot of noise in the background of my house. I won't lie, I don't often listen to videos/music/etc unless it's something I really want to do. I think vlogging is cool, but my sound is on mute 95% of the time. I don't need more noise in my life most days LOL! I know I'm missing some good stuff because of this, but that's how it works for me.
about 1 year ago
Louise
I've been avoiding it for as long as possible but now it just seems like Vlogging needs to be done. People can connect to you and brands love it. LOVE IT
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
eightymphmom.com has a "monday mingle" that is a vlog meme each week. Great place to start vlogging and practice. There are 3 questions asked each week (random stuff) - you just record yourself answering and post on your own blog and link up. Fun and easy.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
RobynsWorld: I think the challenge is that when working with brands, they want a more polished product than many bloggers are capable of producing.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I see a lot more video happening. It's such a fun way to engage readers, give them a taste of who you really are behind the keyboard.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Video is intimidating, but I think the next wave. I would love to do videos, but when it comes time to do one...I chicken. Its nice to see a real person speaking...you can tell alot about ppl.
about 1 year ago
kdc521
Oh my gosh. I'm just starting to get the hang of blogging and video blogging is becoming huge. Several of the companies that reach out to me who want to do (paid) partnerships are starting to see if I do vlogs. Argh.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
To elaborate, I've found Keynote on my Mac VERY effective at creating compelling presentations that work for a variety of tools: presentations, blogs, Web sites, etc. Even quarterly reports lol. So using cool tools like that I can make something interactive (uses words, photos, video, recordings, etc) that works for many places.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I am definitely a reader. I find that I only tend to watch vlogs of people I already know and am trying to support. It's just not my medium! That said, I have done one VLOG and it got a lot of really good feedback so I still consider doing it once in a while. If you like it, give it a try but don't do it because you are "supposed to"
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I agree Esther! Video takes a lot of work to be effective. You know the video biz and are a pro at it. Using video effectively is something the mom community needs help on. Very few of us use it.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Video is so quick and easy though - just say it instead of typing, formatting, etc. It is easy when you are having lazy blogging days
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I think there's always a place for good, solid, engaging writing. At least I hope so!
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Hi lady!! I think it will be a combination. Lots of bloggers are trying to get back basics and focus on writing, but video is an engaging and fun tool that shouldn't be ignored!
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Yes, I see it becoming more cross platform, cross tool, and cross media.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I will ALWAYS want to read writers- I am not a video watcher. So for me, tell me your stories and write write write! :)
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
One thing I'd like to see is more bloggers teaming up on projects using a mix of platforms. Video is tough because it requires a broader skill set but I think we'll see more brands expecting bloggers to use it.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Great to see you, lady! Not so sure about video. Collaborative works if done well. In 2011 I see those who stand out have to be creative with their content and bring a new spin to things we talk about every day.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Admittedly, I have not really gotten on board with video; I'm a writer through and through I guess! But I have been incredibly moved to see photo slideshow type work (e.g., Karen Walrond, Katherine Center)... it reminds me that people may choose different ways to tell their stories to incredibly powerful effect.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
good question....
about 1 year ago
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- Abbie 4 comments
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I live in Wisconsin...can someone tell me what time this thing starts for me? HA!
about 1 year ago
Brandie
It starts now =) No, it started at noon - we are one hour behind edt =)
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
Hey Abbie - I'm in Milwaukee, and it's going on now :)
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Right now!
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
It's already started! :) Started 20 mins ago for CT
about 1 year ago
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- JodiG 9 comments
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Hi Everyone - I'm lurking. Need some inspiration as I make changes to my main site next month.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i agree with Jo-Lynne, change is exciting. it's like getting a makeover.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Jodi, I recommend taking some time away from your computer with a pretty journal and pen and jot some notes about what inspires you and what you want to share online and how those things intersect. And then think in terms of how to translate that in a cohesive way.
about 1 year ago
Jo-Lynne
Oooh, that's exciting. I think the advice to take it slow is great. Too much change at once might lose your audience.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
Can't wait to see what you've got going on, Jodi!
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Looking forward to seeing your changes Jodi!
about 1 year ago
JodiG
Thanks - definitely great advice!
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Slow and steady Jodi. Just keep working toward your vision.
about 1 year ago
JodiG
New logo, less reviews, more parenting tips and videos.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
What kind of changes - design? content?
about 1 year ago
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- Justice Fergie 3 comments
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I think that, since I've started blogging, mom bloggers are being taken seriously now as change agents, influencers and the like, by brands and traditional media.
about 1 year ago
Denise
Yes, I see more and more companies using mommy bloggers to promote their product rather than traditional advertising
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
Agreed. DId you see this article where the Associate Press made an announcement that bloggers should be cited as a source! http://thenextweb.com/socialmedia/2010/09/07/ap-begins-crediting-bloggers-as-news-sources/
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
Very true - I've noticed the same thing since I've been blogging as well.
about 1 year ago
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- Louise 19 comments
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How do you find the time, do you use childcare?
about 1 year ago
Ms. Mary Mack
I'm so glad this question was asked. I'm relatively new to blogging (5 months) and I have a 19-month-old son who likes to stay busy. Plus, I'm a writer, working freelance journalism/media assignments. Since we moved 2 months ago, I've been doing this: Wake up at 5 a.m. and work, during nap time I work, and in the evenings--guess what?--I work. Don't watch TV. No real time to read.Not enough time to chat w/ my wonderful husband. It's wearing thin. I always wonder how these hyper tweeting moms WITH blogs pull it off.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
When I first started blogging my oldest daughter was in daycare and I was working from home with my youngest daughter (who was an infant.) It's great when you still have kids who nap! Now I work part-time in an office at a small publishing company and my girls are in school full-time now. I usually do a lot of blogging work early in the morning before anyone else is up or late at night. I'm actually on my lunch break right now. ;) I'm with Liz. I rarely watch TV. I'd rather spend time engaging online! (Except for Mad Men...that's my "show.")
about 1 year ago
Emily
Childcare is critical when the kids are younger for sure, even if only for short amounts of time. When I first started blogging with Cooper in 2004 I remember feeling like giving myself the time online was a gift to me and to my kids - that my sanity was at stake and the cost of childcare so worth it. As they say, if mamma aint happy, no one's happy.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
@ChristineKoh - so true! If you try to do too much at one time you won't be really present for either. I'm trying to be with the kids when I'm with them, and fully at work when I'm working.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
mostly don't sleep enough. at all.
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
I don't use childcare...but use school time and after my son is in bed as my major work times.
about 1 year ago
Denise
Lack of time is always an issue. I work FT outside the home but luckily (like now) I can make time to write at work. Otherwise it is mostly midnight writing sessions for me:)
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
Good question. Since blogging is part of platform building, I do it during work hours when I have childcare (but always a struggle to figure out the balance between long-term platform building vs. assignments that tie directly to the bottom line)
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Hi Louise, I've always worked full time (though for the last four years I've been independent) so child care has been a must. I really feel that it's important to be present -- whether you are parenting or working -- in whatever you are doing, versus trying to do both simultaneously and feeling totally frazzled.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
The answer for me depends on the year. When I first we had childcare, but I was working, so I did everything at night after my son was asleep. Then I wasn't working and didn't have childcare and so I did it on the fly. Now I'm working inside the home and my child is in school some, so again, I'm doing it as I can. I think with moms (in general) everything is sort of a "do what's best for you" type of an answer. And sometimes, that answer just depends on the day.
about 1 year ago
Ana L. Flores
I do use daycare. For both sanity, work and blogging time
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I'm a full time working mom. So I don't find the time! In fact, I should be in a meeting now. Shhhh... But yes, I have childcare, I make do with less sleep, and I have sigOth who is very supportive (more than he used to be, heh). I think a supportive spouse makes all the difference. Also, I don't watch much TV anymore. Big time suck right there.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I work full-time in the space... most of my pay comes from one long-term job that's a mix of consulting & content creation. Blogging is part of the whole mix and I had to hire a nanny after my son was born last year because I couldn't possibly do it all without childcare.
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
When my son was still at home I did my blogging during nap time and of an evening after bedtime.
about 1 year ago
Jean
I'm with you. I find the lack of time so overwhelming! Between blogging, working at home, and being a stay at home mom to 2, one with Autism, I can't do it all. And my kids are my priority so I always choose them first.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Ha! What a great question. It's a challenge for me, definitely, b/c I work FT outside of the home and when I'm home, I want to be focused on my family. I usually try to get most of my computer time in after 9pm (when the kids are asleep). Quality time with hubby suffers then though, too...It's a constant balancing act.
about 1 year ago
modernmami
I used to blog nights and weekends when I worked outside the home. Now, working from home, I at first had my daughter in preschool twice a week, so those were the big work days. She's in preK 5 days now, so it's becoming easier.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
No - which is why I hardly posted much over the summer. Too busy with the kids and too tired at night. It's easier when they (at least some) are in school all day and now my youngest is in preschool too. Evenings are still when I do the most though.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
naps! night time after they are in bed or any little minute that I can!! I try not to let it take my focus away from them too much but like right now I am trying to multi-task and get them fed while I participate! How about you?
about 1 year ago
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- robin 33 comments
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What are some of the best conferences about blogging that some of you have attended?
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Laura- anytime! Last year was my first time, and I can't wait for Nola!
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Maria and Lindsay, those are the best compliments (about thoughtful programming and content). That means a lot to me. Thank you.
about 1 year ago
GraceD
@rockandrollmama Woot! Fantastic! Will this be post or pre BlogHer in San Diego?
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
And for all you social media types that want a whole event about traditional publishing, I'm having Women Create Media on August 4, 2011, San Diego. (Shameless plug.) It's really not a blogging conference, though.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Mom 2.0 and EVO are my favorites. Such high quality, amazing things.
about 1 year ago
kdc521
I went to Blogalicious last year and it was great (especially for socializing). It was great to experience BlogHer this year in NYC. I'm going to Type A next week...moreso for a new/different experience. I only personally know like 5 people who are going! My goal is to try a different conference each year - to expose myself to a variety of information and people. Perhaps it will be Blissdom or Mom 2.0 next year (based on everyone's recommendations!)
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Hollee- Really top-notch content at Mom 2.0, and a carefully curated mix of sponsors that "get it", which insures that aspect doesn't overshadow the rest of the conference.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I think what's great about this is that each conference has its own focus, so individuals really have the opportunity to dig deeper into what is most interesting to them. Even conferences that focus on specific niche topics like ALT (for designers) or BlogHer Food, etc.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Luuurve Mom 2.0, (bought my tix for Nola already! Also EVO, and I wish I could hit Blogalicious but will be in Austin that weekend, darnit.:)
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
Campblogaway was fabulous! Great for a foodie blogger. I am thinking Blissdom 2011
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Mom 2.0 was a good sized event with VERY thoughtful programming and a respectful way of bringing brands together with bloggers. The value to me was that I had the opportunity to consider marketing trends and new media in a way that I don't really address at all on my blog (but I do all the time for my work.)
about 1 year ago
Mommiecooks
For food bloggers, I just got back from Food Blog Forum and loved it. Am heading to Type A in two weekends and will let you know. :)
about 1 year ago
robin
Wow! Thanks!
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
also agree with local stuff. I have an AMAZING local group of bloggers that I have learned a TON from.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
BlogHer this year was my first and it was awesome for networking. I am also going to Type-A next week which I have heard is really great for learning.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I've only been to BlogHer - none of the smaller conferences (yet), but would love to go to those someday, finances permitting. The best conference I've been to though was a teensy one here in MI - so much easier to connect and learn with a small group!
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I'm completely biased, but I do love Mom 2.0. :)
about 1 year ago
Maria Bailey
I am going to Type A, Blogolicious and hopefully Mom 2.0
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Mom 2.0. I'm crying over the fact that I'll be, like, 2 weeks postpartum when it happens in 2011.
about 1 year ago
Louise
I loved blissdom
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
Blissdom was just okay for me. I am attending Type A Mom in 10 days and hope I get more out of it.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Mom 2.0 & EVO hands down!!!
about 1 year ago
modernmami
But definitely take advantage of local meet ups and check if there is a social media club in your area.
about 1 year ago
holleeinbalance
What makes Mom 2.0 so special? Curious.
about 1 year ago
modernmami
Content at Type-A was great last year and I'm looking forward to attending Blogalicious this year for my 1st time!
about 1 year ago
Ana L. Flores
I´m looking forward to Blogalicious since have heard it´s more intimate and very well done
about 1 year ago
JodiG
Mom 2.0 is the best, absolutely! I also like Blissdom and BlogHer.
about 1 year ago
holleeinbalance
I am excited about Type-A next week. I went to Blissdom because some of the women in my book were going to be there to interview, but I also made terrific connections.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Mom 2.0, hands down. But I'd love to attend events focusing more specifically on writing. Or! Events focused more broadly on social media and not necessarily female bloggers.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I love the smaller conferences: Blogalicious, Type-A, Blissdom etc..
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Mom 2.0 is amazing.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I loooooove Mom 2.0 (hi Laura!)
about 1 year ago
GraceD
BlogHer! And, any local get togethers.
about 1 year ago
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- YvonneMoss 10 comments
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Any help on how to market your blog better? Mine started out as a way to give makeup tips and host my online portfolio. Then, those who knew me and always asked me sort of life coach questions or how -to in organizing or cooking began asking me to cover that too. Now, I wonder if I should start another whole blog just for photography. I have been told that my blog is too 'all over the place' to those who absolutely love my diversified info. I'd love some profession advise here. Thanx.
about 1 year ago
YvonneMoss
GraceD, what on earth does that mean? I'm 55. Is that a good enough excuse for not knowing what "trick it out" means?
about 1 year ago
YvonneMoss
I really really appreciate all the advice. I would love to increase my readership. Now, I average around 160 a day. Sometimes more. Also, getting adverts would be nice if it doesn't make my blog look to busy. Any thoughts?
about 1 year ago
YvonneMoss
I use Blogger. I don't know where tabs would be found. Silly as that sounds... I am somewhat of a handicapped tech girl. How I have managed is to have a Mon. - Sat. subject listed that always stays the same (except in days that I think it's Monday till about 9 am and I posted at 6 am, haha).
about 1 year ago
GraceD
I love blogs with a bunch of topics going on! Just trick it out with tabs (curtsy to @juliepippert) and tags and categories.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
There are a lot of blogs that speak on a lot of topics. Maybe just organizing it in a different way would be effective. Maybe keeping the topic specific to a certain day of the week. That way when someone is looking for make up tips they know to come on Mondays. With photography, it lends itself to many topics so I'm not sure you need new blogs for different topics. Maybe finding a model to follow of a blog or site that features many topics would help. Just to give you some ideas of how others are juggling content.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
well I am just a newbie too but I think the categories that you can use to keep posts organized could really help. This way your readers could just look at the posts on topics they are interested in.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Hi Yvonne: I've been feeling "all over the place" too lately! So I decided to launch a professional site that would tie all of my endeavors together. From the main site you can find my food blog, my parenting blog, my conference blog - whatever interests you. Here it is - (yikes!) I haven't even announced it yet! http://justicefergie.com/
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I think it's fantastic to be diverse. Those are some of my favorite blogs! I think the most important thing is organizing it so your readers know what to expect, and how to find all your information.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
I've created tabs on my blog -- almost every blog tool lets you do that now, have pages with tabs off the main page. It's made it nice to be able to sort content.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Can you set your blog up with pages for the different content buckets (that simply feed in your categories)? That would be a simple way to do it. It's a great thing to be diverse!
about 1 year ago
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- Ms. Mary Mack 5 comments
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Hello, all! I've been five minutes (or more!) behind on everything today. Feeling rushed. Sorry for my tardy to this party. This is my first "talk." Glad to be here.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Hello, Ms. Mary Mack!
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Welcome!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Welcome Mary!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Welcome!
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Welcome!
about 1 year ago
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- juliepippert 12 comments
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Talking about microblogging below and geolocating tools such as Foursquare made me think about a panel I went to on Friday titled "Commonsense Security for Social Networks."
What are your privacy and security concerns and protections you employ?
For example, I was unaware my iPhone camera had geo data in every photo I took until this panel. It's shut off now but when I think of how earlier that week I'd so carefully snapped photos of the backs of my kids' heads to protect their identity but to share a moment on FB with friends...and my location was right in the photo, unbeknownst to me, and I shuddered.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Cammie is a rock star- I adore her, and learn something every time we talk.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
That's really good to know, Jules, thank you!
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Well Cammie Moise is my go-to expert for this and she lead the panel (her site: http://www.cybersafefamily.com/). On my iPhone I had to check in my settings and I found where all the geo and locations settings could be set to OFF.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I am really not into geolocating stuff. I actually have a stalker in my past (actually, he's not totally in the past) and I prefer to keep my whereabouts somewhat vague.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
location option is off for me on the iphone (i think!). also, whenever there's something new with FB, i recheck my privacy options.
about 1 year ago
robin
This is freaking me out. I don't photograph my son either for my blog except from behind. How did you turn off the geolocator on your phone, Julie?
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I hate that things are now being auto-tagged with location so much of the time. I have it all turned off. I don't do Foursquare either. The only time I EVER mark location is on flickr for my photos of when we are on vacation. Because when I go back to journal, it helps me remember which spot that pic was taken at. But that is the only time. I have a very uncommon name. Both first and last are not popular. So I try to not put out too much location info, because if you google search my full name, I'm the only one who comes up! Sometimes that makes me nervous and wish my name was, oh Ann Jones or something like that LOL!
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Yes - it's crucial to know the ins and outs of all of the apps and hardware that you are using. I just realized for example, that the default Twitter app on my Droid included my geo data in my tweets! NOT what I signed up for. Now I'm careful about learning the settings of each app. I also only try to Foursquare as I'm leaving somewhere :)
about 1 year ago
Emily
Deborah, that's wild. Sounds like a Law & Order episode.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
My husband's company was able to bust someone stealing proprietary infomation with a photo and it's data.
about 1 year ago
Denise
wow - that is scary. I'm still on the fence about including pictures of my son at all on my blog and try to avoid it. But then I fear I lose the personal feel. I haven't turned on the location option in twitter- it kind of freaked me out
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Wow I didn't know that either. Augh.
about 1 year ago
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- Denise 10 comments
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I'm on wordpress.com and love the features and that it is free but is there any indication that followers come a little easier to one platform over another? I'm trying to decide whether to switch to blogger or wordpress.org. But I'm a little nervous that wordpress.org might be complicated, even with my web design background. I want the flexibility to include ads and widgets, which wordpress.com doesn't allow.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
The back end on WP is almost identical whether you're self hosted or not. you can just add a lot of great features once you're self-hosted. Some are silly but quite a few plugins make things easier for you and the reader.
about 1 year ago
Denise
Thanks! that makes me feel better. any recommendations on who to use to host then? Will I be able to keep all of my current subscribers and automatically transfer them over? 24/7 moms- hmm... that is interesting -havne't heard of any of these. Where did he find out about them.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
I'm a big self-hosted WP fan- have 3 websites on it now, and can pretty much do my own updates- and I was newb of the web newbs when my first one went live. I didn't know what widgets were.:)
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Hi there - as a fairly new convert to Wordpress, I can say that the transition has been a good one. There is definitely a little learning curve, but we have been pleased overall. I wouldn't switch to Blogger since WP is much more sophisticated and offers more features.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
These are some great pieces of advice.
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
Love Wordpress.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I would definitely go with your own hosting so you can have more control. (Then again, I'm a bit of a control freak...) And I'd definitely recommend Wordpress over Blogger.
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
I would recommend going to self hosted Wordpress. That way you own your site and can do whatever you want with it.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Denise see if there is a wordpress camp in your area...we are moving to wordpress and my hubby went to 2 camps he learned a tons and connected with so many others
about 1 year ago
modernmami
If you're already familiar with wordpress.com, I would do wordpress.org and not blogger. It's not too complicated...unless you want it to be. ;)
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 16 comments
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Veteran moms: What is your biggest piece of advice for mom bloggers who want to work with brands?
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Make sure that there is a quid pro quo - your blog, content and audience are valuable!
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I completely agree with Mom101. Know yourself, then be thoughtful about who you approach or who you agree to work with.
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
ALL great advice. I'd add: do your homework. Understand what their objectives are. Know their competition.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
Do your research. Be sure you can put yourself fully behind it because people will attach you to the brand. It's just how it works. Also, go with your gut, and don't be afraid to say no because you're worried you'll miss out on a future opportunity. If it's meant to be, it will happen. And if you say no to one thing it could open the door to saying yes to another!!
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Know YOUR brand first. You spend thousands of hours building your blog and cultivating your readership. Don't sell that out for any old brand with a checkbook. I think it's better to work with brands you can really believe in, who lend something to your audience.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
To consider each pitch thoughtfully. No two pitches are the same. And also to remember that you don't need to say yes to everyone; only engage with the brands that resonate with you and align with your point of view.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Yep Deb. Being true to yourself is the best compass when it comes to decision making and working with brands. I agree.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
Also...make it easy for folks to contact you (i.e. have your email address visible.)
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Be professional. 100%. Even if you're doing it as a casual thing, not a business, please for the love of all that's holy, be professional. It muddies the water for everyone else if you aren't.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
Start slowly and don't expect big things right away. Be true to yourself and opportunities will come your way.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Amen Andrea.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
Stay true to yourself and work with/write about campaigns that move you, or that relate, in some way, to your life, at the moment.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Make sure you are approachable and have all of your pertinent contact information clearly visible on your blog. Don't make PR contacts have to "work" to find the basics, like your email address! It also helps to list (perhaps in bullet points) what your interests are and your demographics. For example, my girls are 5 and 8 and I am not interested in reviewing infant or toddler products.
about 1 year ago
modernmami
Be professional. Provide what you promise, don't promise if you won't have time to deliver.
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
My biggest piece of advice is not to undervalue yourself.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
Write really good pitches showing solid value and metrics for brands you already love. Show them what you bring, every step of the way, let them be able to quantify it to their finance people. Then deliver what you promise and invoice on time.:)
about 1 year ago
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- Annabelle G. 4 comments
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Hey, I have to jump off, thanks for the insights ladies,
love from the west coast, Annabelle Gurwitch
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
And, looking forward to Gretchen Rubin talk, reading her book Happiness Project right now!!
about 1 year ago
Annabelle G.
Before I leave, thanks Cooper, I was feeling disconnected today, started a new book and really enjoyed this talk, inspiring! new book title, tell me if you like it: 49 Prayers upon turning 50.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Hi and bye and thank you so much for being here!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Annabelle, it is ALWAYS great to see you here!! Everyone, you all know this, but Annabelle is the star of a favorite show, Wa$ted on Planet Green. She is a.w.e.s.o.m.e (and hosted a Talk here a few weeks back)!
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Melee 21 comments
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What are your thoughts on drawing more attention/focus on newer bloggers in the "mommy blogger" community? I feel like they often have a purer form of expressing themselves and are less tangled up in the meta/drama. I think beginners/new bloggers bring a breath of fresh air to the scene!
about 1 year ago
ConnieFoggles
I used to work for Murray Newlands, a social marketing blogger. I interviewed all types of bloggers and it helped them get noticed. Interviews, guest posts and spotlight posts are helpful. I write Spotlight Interviews on my health blog - MyChronicLife.com It's a meaningful way to give back.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Emily -- also we have the Mom Bloggers Circle here at TheMotherhood! We could do something there too.
about 1 year ago
Julia
Thanks for thinking of us newbies!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Christine, I LOVE the spotlight idea and Julie's Pledge Class. Very cool.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
I love this question. We totally believe in that and make it a priority to have "new" and "unheard of" bloggers as speakers at Blogalicious. It's important to make sure that everyone has access to the platform, and also to pay it forward.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I like Christine's idea. I'd be happy to feature a section like that on She Posts if others contributed names...
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I love to RT posts of new bloggers I find that I just can't keep to myself! There are SO many out there not getting enough appreciation, and almost all of us get where we are because someone else spread the word about us in some way.
about 1 year ago
robin
Me, too! I am so thankful for the support/guidance I have found here in The Motherhood. You have all been really kind to me!
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Christine I love that blogger spotlight idea. When I was super brand new BHJ posted about me once, and I got a solid handful of readers and it was a huge, huge boost to morale after feeling like my voice was sort of echoing out into space.
about 1 year ago
Julia
I'm a new blogger, just started in August, and I'm loving it. But I'm having trouble expanding my audience. So far I have about 35 devoted followers. It's been so much work just writing the content. When I take the time to try to do social networking, I don't really see the affects. Does this make sense? Any suggestions?
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
I used to do a weekly "pledge class" where I asked people to recommend new bloggers. It was fun (work, but fun). It was hard to maintain on my own as I got busier but everyone liked the idea.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I think this is exceptionally true. I love finding new bloggers...and/or bloggers who are new to me.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
But it is the real small time newbies like myself that can't afford to go to a big conference like that that could really use a mentor? How do we get connected to a bigger mommy blogger to learn from?
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
as a newbie blogger I appreciate this sentiment very much! thanks!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Maria, I think this is an awesome post and I would totally take recommended reading from you as I love discovering new bloggers. More logistically speaking, I think it could be cool to do something like a new blogger spotlight series featuring awesome people you have discovered, or simply linking up and RTing their work. As I said in another thread, one of my favorite ways of discovering new bloggers is based on recommendations from people I admire and respect (like, um, you).
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I agree! That's why sometimes I like to keep them safe and a secret LOL
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
I agree—new bloggers need love, too! And with the blogosphere expanding insanely every single day, it gets harder and harder for anyone to be heard or get a nod.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I agree! Also, you suck. I hate you. I hear you said mean things on twitter. #mariameleeisapoop
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I don't think everyone is tangled up in "the scene", but it's really fun to see new blood, new ideas, new content all the time. I love it.
about 1 year ago
GraceD
Greetings, dollin Maria. Long time, no see, miss you. Anyway, I embrace the idea of embracing new bloggers. I like to chat with the lovely newbies when they show up at BlogHer, confused, sitting by themselves, no business cards, just their unblemished blogging selves, wondering what is going on with the swag.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Maria, that is such a wonderful observation. Some kind of "mentoring" or at least a way to help make introductions would be so helpful to newcomers.
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 24 comments
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I have a question from a brand about working with mom bloggers:
What is more important for a mom, the price point or the quality/eco-friendlyness of a toy? Quantiy of toys or quality?
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
Well, I think it depends on the blogger, the purpose and the object. I used to like clothes that were inexpensive, but now as a Mom I will totally spring for the slightly more expensive quality clothing that lasts and doesn't shrink or irritate child's skin etc. To me that is eco-conscious and also thrifty in its own way. For toys, mostly the same, but that said there are a few items I can deal with as super low cost and short shelf life. First and foremost, all of it must be safe for my family - primary importance - safety and health. We have all been victim of some item or brand that had a recall for safety issues and is truly horrifying to us because it was an item so well used/mouthed/handled by our children.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
For me right now I need toys that are endless in the amount of playtime and different ways that my kids can use them. I am also HUGE on eco-friendly and American made!
about 1 year ago
Sandra Foyt
While both quality and price are important, these values are dependent on three more variables: utility, educational use, and fun factor. Sometimes I'll buy cheap toys for party favors or to provide a variety of surprises on a voyage with young children. These are quickly consumed, but they serve their purpose. For our Lego League team, we had to purchase Lego Mindstorm robotic components. These are very expensive, but well worth the price for the learning opportunities that they provide. Finally, sometimes we buy crap just because it's fun. This weekend we paid for stuffed toys in the shape of the human reproductive egg and sperm. They were $10 each, which seems like a lot for items that probably cost less than a dollar to produce. But, teen daughter really wanted them because they are hilarious. I guess it's educational too.
about 1 year ago
Emily
Agree, Robin!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Sorry I should qualify by "little junky PR stuff" I mean like junky little mice with a logo on it, or junky little iPod speakers with a logo on it, etc.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Aw thanks Laura. It was like 1600 women too - not a small sample.
about 1 year ago
Crissy
Quality and safety is important, but since my son would just as soon play with a wooden spoon and some pots and pans as a fancy expensive toy, I will not pay an arm and a leg no matter how wonderful a toy is said to be.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Emily - while my son is older now, at the tale end of the "toys" era for him I found myself feeling the same about those little junky toys. It's kind of the same as the little junky PR stuff some brands hand out - junk is junk and I would rather having nothing than junk.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Quality! To me that means: appealing to me and my kids, safe, meaningful (aka not disposable, aka worth the time and money), and eco-friendly. In short. :)
about 1 year ago
Emily
I've heard so many moms talk recently about not wanting the plastic party favors, or the cheap toys that will get thrown away after one use. It feels like there is a wave of moms 1) not wanting all the 'stuff' around; 2) wanting to lighten their impact and less their trash; and 3) spend money on things that will stand up and be appreciated by their kids.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I love knowing that the Cool Mom Picks survey came back with quality, quality, quality. That makes me happy.
about 1 year ago
Denise
Price is the ultimate decision but there is a correlation between what you are getting and how much it is worth. If it is something that will last a long time and not be age-inappropriate in a few months I will likely spend more. In the end, I just have to feel like I am getting the most for my money and it is worth the price.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
So interesting. Of course "value" can interpreted differently, but Liz your point so great. We seem to have (hopefully) learned some lessons as a society that lots of stuff doesn't equal better. That one, good, quality item can be so much better than a lot of low quality things.
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
I am a frugal blogger and though I love a great deal the quality is always more important to me. However, we promote going green and how to live frugal by nature.
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I'm with Robyn - I have to think about price, but I don't want to buy something cheap that's going to break on the first use either. Definitely has to be a good value.
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
I agree, good value is what you're going for.
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
we see that the concern for eco-friendliness in toys and ANYTHING our kids touch is huge. We can almost watch it grow. Same goes for household supplies, cleaning stuff, personal care, on and on. Of course, cost is totally important as well.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Value is actually always been my 1st priority - the quality has to be good, but I'm also not going to pay an arm and a leg for a toy that I can get a lesser one (but still safe and the kids love) for a more reasonable price.
about 1 year ago
Stacey
Quality. I would rather spend a little extra on a toy if I know it's going to last a little longer!
about 1 year ago
Mommiecooks
Price does play a roll in my choice, but probably not to the level that quality does. If I'm going to invest my money in a toy, I want it to last; especially since I have three boys who will all hopefully use it as they grow into it.
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
I value quality over quantity. I would rather have once nice item as opposed to several items that just won't last. Safety for my children is also high priority for me.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
It's a balance. It comes down to value, which is a combo of what you get vs what you pay for it. We did a comprehensive survey on Cool Mom Picks about this with our readers when the recession got bad and overwhelmingly, moms said they'd buy fewer items but still the same quality.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
That seems like it depends entirely on the individual reading/writing. Quality and safety are paramount to me when it comes to toys. I might BUY cheap stuff sometimes, but I wouldn't want to promote it. I love what indie and eco-friendly toy brands are doing. (I do appreciate good value though.)
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
For me always quality over quantity and since I'm an eco-geek it's gotta be green. I think the key for the brand is learning about the blogger (beyond reading the latest 1-2 posts) to understand what their vibe is. It's more work but it pays off in the end in relationship building.
about 1 year ago
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- Ms. Mary Mack 10 comments
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Experts, how did you break out of the middle and make the move to the front of the pack? With so many "mom blogs" today, how did you get out of the fray and get a loyal, healthy following?
about 1 year ago
Ms. Mary Mack
@thepublicityguy: How? How do you build up your followers and blog numbers in a real way? And, most important, stay true to your brand--or what you hope your brand will be?
about 1 year ago
Ms. Mary Mack
@Mom101: I'm just not a fart jokes kinda gal. Guess I lose there. But everything you said is where the challenge lies. I'm writer and I have to make sure that my content is solid. Or at least that I feel like it's something I'd want linked back to me in two years (or two weeks). I take it seriously. Juggling putting up good content with trying to build a brand is exactly what you said: shitload o' work. Then there's trying to get followers or subscribers... man. Yeah. Shitload. @Christine Koh: I agree 100% about write what resonates. I believe that's how you get your voice. I guess when you see the lists of top bloggers, superstars with super stats and numbers, you just wonder if you'll ever get there, you know?
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
Ha! So the secret is fart jokes?! Too funny.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Mary, I am a big fan of organic growth. I write about what resonates with me, build partnerships that I feel passionate about, etc. And above all, I follow my instincts. It all renders authenticity of voice and that is what attracts readers.
about 1 year ago
thepublicityguy
Forge relationships with brands and/or their PR reps. Build up your monthly visitors/Twitter followers. Facebook is the next top platform for PR execution, so try to get ahead on that platform too.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
For me it's been building relationships. I like to think that people know me, my personality and what I can bring to the table. Also, being nice never hurts :)
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I do think a lot of us started blogging before others - but you know, there were already "superstars" then too. Blogging is a shitload of work and most people don't realize that. It takes time to write great posts, or to go back and make a joke funnier, or to be as engaging with your comments on blogs as you are with your posts. Think of every bit of yourself on the web as part of your SM footprint - not just the blog. Also? Fart jokes. Fart jokes are always funny. It's true.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Authenticity. It may sound trite but it's true.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Work, work, work, work. And tons of strategy. Figure out what it is you're after and go get it. What are your goals, what do you want to achieve? Write it down, figure out how you need to make it happen, and go get it done.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
excellent question!
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Bailey 11 comments
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It's amazing to think that ten years ago when I wrote my first book on Marketing to Moms, not one company would hire me. For three years, they told me that marketing to women was enough. Just look at what's happening today. Although the power has shifted, I also think it's important to recognize that it can shift again in another direction.
about 1 year ago
Maria Bailey
Believe me, it's been a much longer evolution than 2 or even 6 years. Ask women like Liz Lange, Kit Bennett of Amazingmoms.com, Mia of Mainstreetmoms.com, these moms were fighting the wars to get noticed when most bloggers were drinking beer from a keg or still in high school waaaay back in the 90s. Tells you how old I am!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
It's come a long way even in two short years hasn't it? Kind of unbelievable how fast trends shift as well.
about 1 year ago
Gina Rau
I remember just 6 years ago at one of the first M2M Summits...it was so small & we were "introducing" the concept of marketing to moms.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
We've come a long way, baby!
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I feel like the blogospher is always in a state of flux in some way or another. Like the tide. Just when you think you've figured it out, it shifts. I can feel it all the time. It's challenging and exiting.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Thats important so people do not start to think they are the greatest gift to blogging, 'big head' syndrome. I think that is just a good rule of thumb for life. Confidence and arrogance are very different.
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
Thank you for that advice.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I think it's really important not to get too attached to one medium or social media platform. Will twitter still be a big deal in 10 years? Who knows. I think we have to stay on our toes!
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
If you have NOT read Marias books they are a MUST ready I actually read it when I was working with a MOM organization and it changed my entire thinking...they are the BEST books for really understanding the trends , where we need to go and how to reach MOMS./.and Maria did not pay me to tell you this...everytime I speak to MOM leaders I tell them read read read Marias books
about 1 year ago
Abbie
great point!
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
Maria, you are definitely a pioneer! I agree with you that we shouldn't get too comfortable with how things are now because things are continually changing.
about 1 year ago
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- Gina Rau 7 comments
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I'm late to the chat, & will need to catch up on the many great ideas here. My question is around working with brands. How did you initially get started down that road? Did you reach out direct to them? I'd love to hear your thoughts on approach. Thanks!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Everything I've done, every campaign, everything has come from me knocking on someone's door.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i have had success with cold calling but it was a unique situation. I think it's great to take risks.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i think you need to be very clear when you approach brands. Look at the Blog to Business E-Book that J. James & E. Crawford wrote. You can find it on Sheposts.com
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
@petit_elefant ha!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Um, maybe I'm a little lazy in this regard but I just started handling the pitches as they came in (they came in pretty quickly after I started my blog, possibly because I have a niche blog in a hot market).
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I reach out to everyone who has an email address!
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
I started by digging around on the internet to find PR contacts for brands that I already used and loved. It takes time, patience and perseverance.
about 1 year ago
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- Karen Quinn 3 comments
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I have lots of subscribers to my site and the list is on aweber. I'm starting a new site and with related content and want to move them over there. Do I have to ask everyone to rejoin or can I just move the list over? Does anyone know how that works?
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
I would send out a message to your subscribers and tell them what you are doing. Give them the option to either opt in or opt out.
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
Thank you!
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
If you use Feedburner I think you can do a redirect, but I'd ask a pro for assistance for sure.
about 1 year ago
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- inkscrblr 11 comments
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Hi. I am jumping in after picking my daughter up from school - she's being staggered in this month slow and steady with EA support half time and Mommy support full-time. I myself began with blogger just over one year ago. I am constantly growing and I struggle with how much more to extend myself - where to draw the line. FB and Twitter make sense to me as does Linked In, still not sure about Foursquare and Good reads and Scrib'd and all the other stuff. I love to experiment and have logged on to all and registered but then I find I need to step back and think wow does this bring anytthing new to the table or am I just diluting the blog?
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I thought you were referring to EA as in Entertainment Arts - I thought maybe you worked for them part time. Oops!
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
Thanks
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
EA is our neck of the woods is educational assistant for special needs students. Anyways busy September and Mommy is at school a lot helping "ease transition and educate" others. Maria: thanks you got right to the kernel of it. If it doesn't add traffic or generate enjoyment on my part really and truly then I should perhaps just leave what I have got in place. It does truly become a time suck otherwise.
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
Glad I'm not the only one. I'm starting a healthy lifestyle, however, I must go to Dairy Queen to retain my majoy status. Talk about conflict!
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
I tend to use the communities that make sense to me. For example, I use FB a lot because my family, friends, neighbors are all on there so I can keep up with them. Twitter is where my blogging friends are. Then from there, I tend to go to techy/social media or scrappbooking communities on specific blogs or ning because those are the niches I enjoy.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Also, please know that the person who just gave you life advice is obsessed with retaining her YMCA Foursquare mayorship, even though that actually brings no value to her life in anyway. Except in her head.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Laura, wow. You should share that question with EVERYONE. That was powerful. "Am I just diluting my life?" Love that.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I think the key is starting where you are comfortable and adding *if* you want to. My central piece is my blog and then I use Twitter and Facebook but I find that that's really all I have bandwidth for right now and I'm OK with it. The technology isn't going away -- you can always add later!
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I love all these life metaphors here. Inkscrblr, I love this sentence "I find I need to step back and think wow does this bring anytthing new to the table or am I just diluting the blog?" Change "the blog" to "my life" and there's your answer.
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
What is EA support? I'm thinking EA SPORTS Active, but I don't think that was what you meant. Now I'm curious what it means. :D
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
I don't think Good Reads or 4Square are traffic generating really. FB certainly can be. I think it comes down to what you ENJOY and have time to do. Anything that's a hassle or true time suck would, to me, totally screw up the creative process. Plus if it isn't fun, who wants to do it?
about 1 year ago
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- IzzyMom 33 comments
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I'd like to hear your thoughts regarding Twitter. Many said it would affect blogs negatively and in some ways, I think it has. Instead of expanding on something in a blog post, we reduce things to 140 characters and tweet it.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Twitter is great to meet people and make connections. I've made my best connections via twitter, hands down.
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
abbie - Mashable has a great Twitter (and facebook) guidebook. Get started here: http://mashable.com/guidebook/
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
Abbie: I love twitter. (@inkscrblr) I think it fuels the blog and vice versa. Hashtags are like this #rethinkinglunch used for specific streams of conversations. You add the hashtag and do a search and can comment that way back and forth to a likeminded group. They can be used with twitter parties which are fun and good ways to meet other twitter users. Several people do twitter parties @ResourcefulMom is a really good one to follow. In the beginning you might wish to justy tinker around a bit and find likeminded moms and follow them. Most bloggers will follow you back. It is good etiquette. If they don't folo you back you can find that out through twitter friendorfollow and unfollow if you get numbers out of whack. #GNO every Tuesday is a really good twitter party also to folo. it's @jylitforward . Leave comments on blogs and drop your twitter ID etc..
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
There seem to be a few camps on that. Those that use Twitter to strategize and those that don't. It's interesting to me to look at both sides.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
ahhh.. all these new terms for a twitter novice! Does anyone know where someone can get a quick tutorial on how to use twitter? What are hashtags and how do I use them? How do people find me? How do I find other people that might be interested in my blog?
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
@busymom Ditto on that.
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
My business is hyperlocal, for me twitter has helped me build my following. We have a hashtag for our community (towns and state) and so aside from using things like #kids, #family, #travel, etc...I can help to cultivate the exact audience I am looking for. We also Tweet-up every 4-6 weeks. Which is a great way to actually meet the faces behind the avatars! Again, an amazing networking tool.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I get a ton of traffic from Twitter. It's been an amazing marketing tool in finding brands and in promoting my work. But more than that, it's established & cemented relationships I might not have had otherwise.
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
I may be in the minority, but Twitter usually isn't a "strategy" for me. I might promote a few things here and there, but I mostly use it for the interaction. Sometimes, I get a little discouraged by all the "strategizers" there.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
I agree on the the downsides to twitter....things do get buried...and blogs overlooked...how do you change it?
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I've found Twitter is also great way to connect with local folks - not just other bloggers. My husband @bullmeister is really into the Milwaukee scene and in addition to making us a lot more active in our local community, it's produced a lot of great leads + connections for both me and my husband's family tree & landscape business.
about 1 year ago
BlondeMomBlog
Personally Twitter is a huge time suck for me but I'm not very disciplined. I have found a lot of new followers online, though, by engaging on Twitter. Not to say everything I Tweet is very "deep." ;) I think it all comes back to balance, like so many things. Twitter can be used to enhance communication, not muddy it up.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
As much as I love twitter, I feel like it's made me a very lazy blogger. The immediate gratification of Twitter is always there, calling to me lol
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
On twitter, you say it like to mean it (which can be deleted). Blogging is where a writer can sculpt their thought to fit a view, meaning, message. And they may look back after some comments and change their view. Twitter is good at brainstorming in a way to create an even better rounded message to blog about.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I still blog just as much but what I find Twitter really wonderful for is discovering new reading (recommended by friends) and using it to query people for opinions about topics that I am working on for editorial.
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
twitter is amazing... going to tweet about this convo right now. any special #hashtags to use? @handles?
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
LOL! I think the headline is the hardest part which may be why I recraft my Twitter messages over and over too. :D
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
Twitter is really addictive. I think it's becoming less effective at driving people to one's blog now, as everyone gets more followers/follows more people. Messages just get buried. Even with careful sorting, etc.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
I agree with Robyn, you can thrown an idea out to twitter, and see what comes form it. You may get shut down by it, or it can be popular and more ideas flourish. Its good to reflect on the things you say...
about 1 year ago
Emily
Hi Asha! I'm with you Tracey! I don't blog nearly as much, but when interesting things pop up, I can share them without the dedication of a whole post. Love the connections as well.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
Andrea - I would love to hear just HOW you have expended your reader base using twitter? I just don't get how to find people on there or make connections.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I agree Robyn! I think you can "workshop" ideas through twitter. But you know, don't give away the cow (or whatever that dumb sexist expression is) on Twitter. Use it to make your blog work more for you, if blogging is what you love.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
A headline. Not an headline. (This format is doing nothing for my spelling...or my ADD).
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
It's a different type of thing. As an old (ahem, former) copywriter, I think of Twitter and writing an headline and blogging as writing actual copy. The headline is always easier. The harder-to-do copy is always more fulfilling. I think there's a life metaphor in here somewhere.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
I love Twitter! (maybe a little too much seeing as I blog a lot less now)
about 1 year ago
Mommiecooks
I have actually learned to really like twitter. It has allowed me to really connect better with my readers in a personal way that I can't do through the blog or facebook. I think it's really helped my blog to grow and bring in new readers.
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
Hi everyone! Such a great conv and group! I love how Twitter, etc. has really opened up the conversation. Remember back when we were all wondering if we should add forums to our blogs? No need now...the conversation is all around us.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Hey Izzy! For sure it has changed things but i feel like i love the option of just throwing a shout out on Twitter when deserved. Since its impossible to write about everything we are feeling on our blogs, twitter feels like a nice, easy way around that. Don't you think?
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
it's definitely impacted my blogging, i don't write as often. But, I keep swearing I'm going to do something about that. #later
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I think there is a lot of truth to this. There are times when I want to tweet something and don't so I can make it into a more interesting post. Conversely there are times when I think man I should have waited and blogged that instead of tweeting. In the other hand, I have also taken tweets and expanded on them and even referred to them in a post and sometimes Twitter is the starting point for Blog inspiration. I have also increased my audience through Twitter more than any other platform so I can't dog it completely!
about 1 year ago
Abbie
Robyn I would have never thought of it that way...good idea.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I definitely blog less now. But the advantages of Twitter, for me, far outweigh blogging less. I can now share more even if it's only in tiny snippets.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
instead of thinking of it as a place that sucks your ideas up, instead use it as a sounding board. Throw something out there and see what types of reactions you get - the more the better that the thought might be evolved into a great post.
about 1 year ago
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- Stacey 19 comments
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Question: How do you (experts or anyone else) find time to write on your own site, read and comment on others, and participate in forums/Twitter parties?
about 1 year ago
Jean
Laura: "(This advice does not apply to puppies or children)" Hysterical!
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I think, in the end, this (and anything you put your time into) should be fun. It's easy to make time to do what is fun for you. If it becomes a complete chore, ditch it. (This advice does not apply to puppies or children).
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Editorial Calendar all the way baby!! You don't necessarily have to stick with what you planned, but if you're stuck it gives you a sense of direction & it can help "place" great content that may not be timely for later. It also depends on what habits you have ~ do you like having time blocked out each day to write or are you the more creative type that would be much happier dropping everything to quickly compose a post in your head?
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Sadly, for me, something ends up being sacrificed. The week when I post several times, I may not have time to read other blogs and comment. And vice-versa. Same with Twitter - I CANNOT multi-task while tweeting - it's all or nothing, lol. It's all a fluid process.
about 1 year ago
YUMMommy
I like to use my free time pre-writing blog posts and schedule them to post on days that I know I'll be busy and won't have time to actually sit in front of the computer.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
There's not enough time in the day. If I have extra time that I'm not working on my projects or things at home, I'll hop on and comment on other people's sites. I try really hard to comment on bloggers sites who've left comments on mine.
about 1 year ago
Gina Rau
For me, engaging in community gets prioritized with everything else. Some days it happens, some days it doesn't. I do my best to stay involved and in touch.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I don't ...I can never do it all. If I lean heavily on one area, the others seem to flounder a bit. I figure it's all abotu seasons - I have periods where I can write and write and others where I am commenting everywhere. I should probably try to be more organized about it all (like writing 3 days, commenting one, etc, etc) but I just don't!
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
Definitely the hardest thing I struggle with every day! There's just not enough time to 'do it all'. I'm trying to make a routine and schedule time in the day, but it's still hard to balance everything.
about 1 year ago
Stacey
And gentlemen :)
about 1 year ago
Jean
I make a list of MUST do/ should do/ could do. Unfortunately, all my could do's are my wants, my personal times things and they always get pushed aside :(
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
Don't give up sleep :)
about 1 year ago
Stacey
Thanks ladies!
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Its like riding a bike, the more you do it the better and faster you can go. :)
about 1 year ago
Deborah
Yeah, go with modernmami's advice as I was thinking of giving up sleep.
about 1 year ago
Mommiecooks
Honestly, I struggled as well. Just this week, I started posting three days a week instead of five (I run a cooking blog so it may be different from other niches) so that I could better manage it all. It's so much easier and I'm finding that I'm enjoying blogging more than I did before.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I love dividing it into different days! Definitely seems more manageable that way. Great idea.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Hi Stacey, I've simply built writing into my day. It's just a part of me now. My commenting is a bit more sporadic but one thing I've been trying to do lately is to comment immediately when I see a post I want to weigh in on (versus saying "I'll get to it later" because that never happens). I don't do Twitter parties but I do check Twitter and Facebook a few times a day to jump in on the convo and share links... again this is built in during my days. But then when it's time to parent, I shut everything off so I can be fully present.
about 1 year ago
modernmami
Create/use a routine. Block out time for blog writing, time for commenting/reading, and time for marketing and using other social media tools. A social media routine has worked great for me. Remember, you don't have to do all of them every day. Maybe one day focus more on reading/commenting, and the next focus on writing.
about 1 year ago
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- @AndreaUpdyke 19 comments
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I'd love to know thoughts on recycling old content. I have a popular posts tab and have started a little archives series on the weekends. I feel like there are some older posts that deserve a little revival. Ideas?
about 1 year ago
cheeriokeeper
Great ideas! Wish I'd been around for this talk! :)
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
Love these ideas!! Thanks everyone
about 1 year ago
Ana L. Flores
We did a "Beginner's Guide to SpanglishBaby" post on our 1st anniversary. We linked to our favorite posts in different categories. We also use Related Posts, Popular Posts widget and a Featured Content gallery which rotates posts randomly
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
The "related posts" plugin in Wordpress is also a lot of fun and a no-effort way to bring older content to the surface.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I love everyones thoughts on this. Awesome ideas.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
I like that swap idea Cooper!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I do it once in a while. I think sometimes readers weren't around for something I did in the early days, and seasonally I bring back relevant stuff. Totally.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Good question. Old and burried content can still be so relevant. I love the idea of rehighlighting burried content. As long as its billed as such, i think it's good.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i think the easiest is basic proper tagging, then having a plugin widget at the bottom of the post for "related posts." I think the Link Within widget is nice if you have pretty pictures. But you need to go back and tag everything well first to make sure your older posts show up in an automated way. I also like Emily's idea.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I think it's fun to do that - and I love reading other people's old posts - it can be a good gauge on how far you've come, remember a special time, etc, etc.
about 1 year ago
StockpilingMoms
I have a tab that says "Good Reads" for mine.
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
I think putting together aggregations of posts by topic (think "Best of") really helps. Also, get a good-quality site search installed. My Google Custom search isn't perfect, but it helps. There are "related post" widgets, but they only go so far.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Oh man I hadn't thought of that. I REALLY enjoy reading older posts from bloggers I've only recently or somewhat-recently discovered. One cool way I enjoy personally is when someone just links to an old post in the middle of a new post if it relates. Like back when [this happened] I felt like [this] but now I feel [blah blah blah].
about 1 year ago
Cooper
You could do an oldie but goodie guest post swap with blog friends!
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I've been reviving some old posts as guest posts for other places (HuffPo, etc.) Figure it's a different audience, tweak it a little to update...
about 1 year ago
Emily
Lots of blogs have tabs where they link to their favorite posts - it's a great way to invite your readers to get to know you and see your best.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I would recycle old posts, but I wouldn't do it much because you don't want to turn off people who have already read it before.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I like to occasionally give myself a break and post from my archives from time to time. Lots of times I forget I even wrote certain posts, so it's fun for me to read, too.
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
you could write a little pithy intro on why you decided to report it, what's happening now that made you think of it?
about 1 year ago
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- Ana L. Flores 20 comments
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Thanks for putting together this great chat! Question: How do the experts manage their online brand identity vs their own "name as a brand" identity. How do you tie both in? Is it necessary to do so?
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
I have a brand, Miss Magpie (see avatar). She is the Editor of FindandGoSeek.net. When I write, tweet, fb, I am Miss Magpie. But inside she is me. I don't have a personal twitter account. My personal facebook account is just that - personal. I don't friend work people unless we are truly friends in real life. I encourage them instead to become a fan of our findandgoseek facebook page. I think brand identity is very important to your business therefore I have tried very hard over the years to have just one personality/name representing me.
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
I'm just fortunate that my real name is Busy Mom. Worked out so nicely.
about 1 year ago
Anita
I think RobynsWorld hit it right on wrt how companies see bloggers.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
Yep. Asha you are right on.
about 1 year ago
Ana L. Flores
Wonderful advice and funny stories (@Liz-LOL!) @JusticeFergie--sounds like a poolside convo in Miami next month! I have been considering a personal blog to tie it all in. Just one more thing to do.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
What Asha said! (parenthacks)
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
JusticeFergie.com: Loves it!!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I'm kind of in the same boat as Liz (Mom101). I have Boston Mamas, I do a lot of freelancing as Christine Koh, and then have my design business Posh Peacock. And periodically all these things intersect. What was actually very helpful to me was creating a site (christinekoh.com) where I made clear all of my different hats in one place. I felt somewhat less chaotic.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Ana, we should talk! I am wrestling with this too. I'm known as "Mamalaw" and "Blogalicious" (which is fab), but I'm "ME" too! I just launched a site to help develop my individual identity: http://justicefergie.com/
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Also, the key is authenticity and integration. And yet, another life metaphor.
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
I mix my personal and professional "brands" freely, mostly because the whole reason I got into this gig was to have real, human conversations with other parents! The "brand" stuff came later, and is secondary for me. However, that's my balance...I definitely think that being professional online includes creating boundaries, both in tone and content.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I can give you the textbook answer on this that someone will give when there's a college course on this...but I'm with Liz. I have nine lives. I think as working moms (and all moms are working moms) we are very used to juggling a lot of identities.
about 1 year ago
Ana L. Flores
@Cooper--I want to differentiate. I'm *known* as SpanglishBaby but I talk, write, have more interests that go beyond my passion for bilingual/bicultural kids. I do have 2 Twitter accounts to keep conversations separated, but I'm starting a totally new blogging/online venture and I don't know how to handle so many identities!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Not an expert - but I think the reason brands have loved the bloggers so much is that it is a real personality behind it - that is the appeal to them. You and your name are the brand now that they are connecting to. The problem is that they don't know if they should market to bloggers to work with them as business to consumer or business to business.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I sort of think I'm one and the same. Which I'm okay with, it's all tied together, my blog is who I am, I am my blog, and any campaigns I accept are a reflection of that. Did that even attempt to answer the question?
about 1 year ago
Mom101
I am a disaster in that department. I'm Liz Gumbinner, which to some people is Mom101, and to some people it's Cool Mom Picks and to some people it's my advertising career, and to some it's all and some people are like wtf kind of name is Gumbinner?
about 1 year ago
Gina Rau
I'm working thru this right now. I want my own brand identity & contribute/demonstrate expertise & thought leadership in many different places and wondering how to roll it all up and share. Not easy.
about 1 year ago
JodiG
I'd love to hear more on this too.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
It's a juggling act. So many bloggers peronalities are tied in with their online brands. I think it's what makes so many of the bloggers on this panel successful. I would love to hear the other experts thoughts on this too.
about 1 year ago
Cooper
That is an interesting question. Do you find that you want to differentiate or consolidate your personal branding?
about 1 year ago
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- Jennifer James 34 comments
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Question: If we see behavior in the mom blogging community that could hurt our brand as mom bloggers, should we call it out or let it go?
about 1 year ago
cheeriokeeper
I would have to say that depends... at what point does calling it out make us look like the bad guys? And also, at what point does it hurt our own brand? I've found that sometimes just walking away from those situations and distancing myself from bloggers that are catty or manipulative is the best option.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
i agree with Laurua -- I'd like to hear more about the good stuff or folks who are doing it right, too!!!
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Haha, right on @AndreaUpdyke. :) Gotta do what ya gotta do sometimes.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Christine Koh exactly! It is how we learn and grow as adults and individuals. I didnt realize how many have dealth with hurtful bloggers. When is the line crossed? Remember that we are all individuals and not just puppets for bigger enterprises. I know everyone wants money, but sometimes principles and values need to be upheld its called integrity. What am I saying its 2010.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
@Del I wasn't thinking about specific slander in this instance but yes, that would have to be dealt with. I read the question with more of a behavior/gossip/swag-hag vibe in mind. Stirring the pot might be just that. Getting people riled up for the wrong reasons. I think that being direct with the offending party FIRST is the way to go. And if that doesn't work and the only way to see change is to bring it to the masses, then so be it.
about 1 year ago
Emily
Nice, Laura. Love that.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Another tactic I often forget is to just DO what you believe in and hope that you're setting a positive example for someone. I often forgo this and end up all butthurt and judgy on Twitter or somewhere. And then I feel like a bozo.
about 1 year ago
Crissy
Totally depends on the situation. If it is a personal issue, I tend to go straight to the person and address the problem. If it is a blogging behavior that simple rubs you the wrong way, well, I think it's generally best we all play in our own yards and try to accept or ignore the choices that other bloggers make.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Laura that's such a good point. It's totally possible to "call out' bad behavior by shining a light on people who are doing good things. It runs the risk of saying "you should be doing things _____ way" but I think that's often way more constructive than saying "people who do things _____ way are doing it wrong." If that makes sense. ;)
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
But then again, if others are being hurt, it can be better for you to move up cause people want to stay out of the issue. Its happened to my wife, she had to play catchup and those who said they were friends dont really care cause they are doing fine. So I can see why some dont care...
about 1 year ago
YUMMommy
I say separate yourself from situation or person and let them know that you can't be associated with such negativity. I think more people are willing to call others on stupid stuff, but then when it's something serious they choose to turn a blind eye to it.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I am all about calling out the good...good work, good ideas, good words. I believe good wins in the end.
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Yes Justice Fergie - constructive is good. "You feed your kid X so you're going to hell" Is not good.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
@AndreaUpdyke Unless you have experience with dealing with another hurtful blogger, its not as easy as saying walk away. What if they create lies and rumors about you. Do you just ignore it and let them grow and spread? It may not hurt you, but it does hurt someone.
about 1 year ago
Deborah
I would treat it as though we were in person. Sometimes that means letting it go. Other times that means a private chat. Nobody should to be berated in public.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
I love you Grace.
about 1 year ago
Denise
hmm.. that is a tough one since blogging is so subjective. It has a different function for so many. Some are in it just to vent, others to make money, and many just to not lose their sanity as they navigate parenthood, working, life in general. If you call it out you risk putting your ultimate goal over the other blogger's. If it is something you don't agree with I would just recommend stating your opinion via comment. But if you don't like the way that blogger is conducting business on their blog, I don't think there is a way to win that one. For instance, I know some bloggers who are adamantly against bloggers contacting companies to ask if they can do a review for free products. But for others, it has opened many doors. When you are starting out you have to go after the business until you get to the point where they are knocking down your door.
about 1 year ago
GraceD
I had a previous hobby of Calling It Out. I stopped. Though it was a rush to be something of a cop, it is counterproductive. Though, I must say I do appreciate it when someone does take the poorly behaved down to the mat.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
If the pastor guy would have been ignored, it would have made its way to youtube and some news channels and carried through with. Even more turmoil around the world. Its was dissolved, dealt with, and now we can ALL move on.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I do have to say taking care of it privately is best. Through google alerts I found out about a blogger I didn't know was blogging negatively about me. I emailed the blogger and was VERY hurt, it was a misunderstanding on her part and she publicly apologized, and we worked it out and actually developed a relationship over it to this day. I enjoy reading her blog and I had never read it before that incident! LOL!
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
Mom101 has been an amazing advocate for the mom blogosphere as a community, and I have always been grateful to her for opening up the discussion on issues that affect all of us. It's not about call individuals out...it's about thinking about how our actions affect all of us.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Do you mean generally or tagging a name to it? At any rate, I think it has been very powerful to see the dialog about various issues. I mean, isn't it amazing all the "swag hag" stuff that went down at Blogher 2009 and then measures were put in place and people were reminded to behave and I don't believe I saw anybody knocking anyone else over for eco-friendly sponges at BlogHer 2010.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
I like Liz's response. I find myself having an overly-emotional reaction to things in the blogosphere sometimes. I've sat on things and I've also blogged about them. It doesn't always go well. But I agree that reflection and introspection and discussion are important. And I TRULY believe that women can have heated conversations and disagreements. It doesn't make us catty or crazy. Everyone's lines and comfort levels are different. What one person might consider to be an appropriate "call out" might be considered drama by another.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Sigh. I like to be constructive. So it would be a judgment call for me based on the specific situation. I might even approach the bad actor individually first...
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
I think you should as parents and good people. but many dont want to speak up cause they think that brands wont work them, cause some 'drama'? But if you allow it, what happens when bad things happen to your kids by others?
about 1 year ago
Tésa @ 2 Wired 2 Tired
I agree. My first reaction would be to call it out, but it would depend what it was and in what context.
about 1 year ago
traceyclark
That is a good question but i think it's a losing battle if one was to take a 'calling out' approach, don't you think?
about 1 year ago
Stacey
That is a tough one. I think it depends on the "behavior". Is it something we just don't agree with personally or are they out there trying to hurt another blogger....
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Ooh great question! I think you have to weigh the impact of the behavior. I think of like Pastor Crazypants with his Koran burning stunt and how if we'd just have ignored it, it would have gone away and not drawn more negative attention to the US. I also think that sometimes our responses to bad behavior can be a little overwrought. That said, there's nothing wrong with introspection and reflection, and the fact that we talk about our community is in part what makes the community so cool.
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I think it almost always gets called out by someone. I am not confrontational, so it probably won't be done by me. It will just affect how I feel about the mom blogger in question.
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
For me, it would depend on what the behavior was and how it affected me.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I say call it out privately and then let it go. I think it makes the community look terrible when the hashtags start flying. Even if the complaints are legitimate.
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Share it Jennifer! Not everyone may agree - but I know I love reading your posts on the blogging community and really feel you have a true insight into it.
about 1 year ago
Maria Melee
Ooooooo that's a tough question.
about 1 year ago
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- BlondeMomBlog 3 comments
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I've got to sign off, but I'm looking forward to reading the feed later tonight. Bye from Nashville, everyone!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Glad you could be here!
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
Bye :)
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Bye!!!!!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- kdc521 25 comments
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I have a question (sorry if it's a repeat). How do you all control your email "inbox"? Email is my preferred method of communication, but it can get to be overwhelming. (I'm one of those crazy people who needs to go through each email within 24 hours.)
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
There is a new service I just tried yesterday for email called etact.com (not sure how good it will be for me, but I'm trying it out). But I love the new priority mail for Google. I have gone back to reading my mail on google just for the priority mail. I'm hoping that with time it will learn which mail is most important to me as I give it hints. But specifically, I don't have control over my email. ONe of those things I swear to get control of, but it always get pushed to the side. I do flag & star as Stacey mentioned. I read that if the task in the email will take less than 2 min to do, do it now and trash it. It's gone and done. But I don't follow that. :D
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
Meh. At least I see I'm not the only one flailing here. My current Gmail strategy (which I'm trying to become better at using every day) is 1) to check 2x day ONLY, 2) to quickly scan Inbox and star email I intend to read, 3) delete the rest, and 4) deal with the starred email every day. Also, filters and autoresponders. No filing at all.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
@kdc521 I set up separate inboxes in Applemail and file stuff as it comes in. And I try to delete the junk immediately. (Note: I have SEVEN email addresses)
about 1 year ago
kdc521
Thanks everyone. I think that this is one of those instances when I just have to admit that my expectations are unrealistic! (I host my blog through Yahoo Small Business so that's where I get my email. I'll have to try the folder system.)
about 1 year ago
robin
Cooper, with Gmail just make sure you pull your messages up on your iPhone or Blackberry a couple of times a day as I have missed a few "replies" on my laptop the way Gmail files your incomings. Found out nearly a month late that I had sold an article and it was published and everything but I had totally missed the editor's Gmail. A happy thing but a big wake-up call.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
lol @modernmami ME TOO
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Cooper ~ using the "labels" in Gmail is like using tags on your posts ... it makes them searchable AND you can tuck them away via "archive" so they aren't right in front of you. The big trick w/any email trick is the follow through ~ sure you see it when it comes in, but it's not really the right time to deal with it ... now what? Stick a label on it pertaining to the project it goes with & move on ~ when your in that project mode look back over the correspondence that came through your email {as well as your DM's & FB messages} Then ... ignore away!!! ;)
about 1 year ago
Mom101
Oh my gosh I wrote about it here and got a TON of great advice. http://www.mom-101.com/2010/05/drastic-inboxes-call-for-drastic.html The new priority inbox in Gmail labs has been super helpful too.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
I have a limit of e-mails I'll let myself keep. I usually let it build up a bit from that and then go on a deleting rampage. On gmail I occasionally mark e-mails with stars so if they get buried I can see right away I thought that was important. But in general, it's delete, delete, delete, seriously, there aren't many e-mails I ever have to go back to so I try to keep only those I know I'll need. And once I don't need it anymore, buy-bye.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Kim, I recently wrote a post that hit on this topic: http://popdiscourse.com/2010/08/we-all-drive-the-bus/ -- right now I feel best using my instinct and dealing immediately with emails. Filing the ones that I'm just not interested in (and not feeling guilty about not responding personally to every single things), taking action immediately on others, etc. For the last several weeks I've been closing out the day with my inbox at 25 or less emails. It is very calming.
about 1 year ago
Emily
The Priority email box has changed my life. Not solved the big picture problem (sorry Laura), but improved upon anyway. Now, if only I had used a decent member name for Gmail before getting completely sucked in...
about 1 year ago
modernmami
I think the stars in gmail have caused more harm for me than good! lol
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I heard from one company that was developing an artificial intelligence for your inbox (like Gmail priority but a little higher-level). Guessing what you actually want to read and filing accordingly. That could be a big business soon...
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
MY INBOX IS STUPID. I try to stay on top of it, but it's stressful. One tip I do use is the "flag" or "star" feature, so I know that I need to come back to that email later. I also try to delete as much as possible. @Cooper Google just launch a new feature called Priority Inbox last week that's supposed to help. Haven't had time to figure out how to use it though!
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I am perpetually behind and I struggle with the guilt it causes because I would like to thoughtfully respond to everyone, but it's just not realistic. Occasionally I go through and just purge my inbox & start from zero. If nothing else it makes me feel better. ;)
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Cooper - I use gmail, but it all comes to me via Outlook. All of my various email address I bring in via Outlook - I love it!
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Gmail can be a lifesaver because they lump everything together for you. If you're not using Gmail, then you have to use folders. That's the only way I stay semi-organized.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
I admit I use Gmail's Priority Inbox and find it helpful. I also sort. But I learned my lesson from Seinfeld -- nobody will ever know which list they are on LOL!!!
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Alright Laura ~ I'm taking that as a personal challange {teehee}
about 1 year ago
Cooper
The eternal question!!!! Does anyone have a trick to using gmail? Some swear by it. I haven't quite mastered it yet.
about 1 year ago
Tésa @ 2 Wired 2 Tired
Not an expert but I try to follow the "handle it once" method. If I open it to read it, I must do something with it whether reply, delete, or file it for response later. I do get backed up sometimes, but this method works best for me.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Would someone please create the solution to this? You will make a kabillion dollars. And I will love you forever.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
I just don't file emails. Ignore them. Let them pile up. At the end of the year, I doubt I'll list as an accomplishment "I filed all my emails." :)
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
What email platform are you using? Gmail just integrated their "priority in-box" ~ helping things float to the top of the list ...
about 1 year ago
@babysteph
I get SO behind and try to file things in folders, but ultimately it can take me a month to get back to certain emails. but, if it's something I wanted to respond to, I think later is better than never!
about 1 year ago
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- Mom101 15 comments
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Okay, I have to go back to work now and thanks for having me and for the great questions! Now I can give The Motherhood readers a little scoop...
http://twitter.com/coolmomtech
:)
about 1 year ago
Momtrends
Ahhh, so excited for Cool Mom Tech. Go Liz go.
about 1 year ago
Miss Magpie
rock on!
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Awesome!!!!!!! Thank you Liz!
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
following
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
me too!
about 1 year ago
robin
Gotcha!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Mom geeks of the world unite!
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
So feeling out of the loop! What will it be??? :-)
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
LIZ! That' so cool. But when do you find time to sleep?!
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
woo-hoo!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
ohhh - I'm following already!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
LIZ! Nice....
about 1 year ago
Karen Quinn
That looks great!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Awesome, awesome, awesome!! Can't wait!!!!
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
Looking forward to the launch! :)
about 1 year ago
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- GraceD 3 comments
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Thanks for this. I am looking for inspiration to revive my blog. As usual, The Motherhood did the trick. Blessings to all.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Grace is the best name ever.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
Me, too Grace...we should send each other nagging emails every week!
about 1 year ago
Emily
Grace, it is ALWAYS great to *see* you!
about 1 year ago
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- @AndreaUpdyke 4 comments
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How do you walk the line between confidence and arrogance? Getting a new reader does wonders for the ego, but if I am feeling feisty it can go to my head. What do you do to stay grounded?
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Ha. I spend time with my four-year-old. I'm instantly grounded.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
It's just another one of those things. Put blinders on, don't even think about it going to your head. It's a privilege they're reading, now continue to give them something to read about. It's harder sometimes to keep readers than it is to get them in the first place, so don't even let it get to your head for a second! ;)
about 1 year ago
Sarah56
perfect sequence of questions! brilliance meets waking child
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
also, why is my child awake!? ;-)
about 1 year ago
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- Justice Fergie 13 comments
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So what are people's predictions for mom blogging in 2011?
about 1 year ago
Momtrends
I like that prediction Isabel. And people will be paying big bucks for your autograph!
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
@Jennifer {blushes} @Julie - I saw that (I'm just bad at commenting these days)! I've always thought that blogs really serve as an online portfolio, and can result in wonderful things.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
I agree with Laura ... Quality. I also think a trend to watch will be those new bloggers who will observe the growing pains of those who came before them & set into the blogosphere with clearer intentions of how to leverage their voice as a business/brand with a plan
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I think this is an excellent point. I think so many of us without a specific marketing background tend to shy away from putting a price on something that may have started as a hobby. In my case, I had to change my mindset from "I am asking for money" to "I am offering a service". Brands have the right to walk away. And so do I.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
@Christine, I have to say that I just blogged about that--valuing yourself in a concrete way, for your work -- then ended up being able to offer a free ticket for a local professional women's conference. The replies I got were extraordinarily compelling, and now I'm working with the conference to create a roundtable or something to organize around this idea of how to value yourself and your work. Blogs can be a great launching point for this kind of off-line development.
about 1 year ago
Alphamom
i think BlogHer will get as big as Comic Con. But not in 2011. It will take some more years. But that is how big I think blogging will be.
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
That's because you rock, Christine :)
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
God, I hope quality. Quality, quality, quality. I'm putting it out there. "The best way to predict the future is the create it." So whatever we're putting energy into...writing, video, lasers...let's set the benchmark for awesome.
about 1 year ago
Esther Crawford
I think we'll see more bloggers used by brands in traditional media.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
I think money will be in play more. I still see a lot of instances where people do a lot for free and it devalues, but then I'm seeing change too. Probably because I'm a professional freelancer and designer but I've always stood for valuing my work. When I used to respond to people via Boston Mamas about things that for profit companies wanted me to do (e.g., consulting, hosting, etc...) with a dollar value attached, they'd either say no thank you or not respond. Now they respond and say, "OK, we'll pay you that."
about 1 year ago
YUMMommy
I think that we will see more moms joining the blog world and using their blogs as a jump start for their businesses and brands.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
I think blogging tools will become more "catch bucket." I already see it in TypePad. I can add "short posts" and "conversations" as well as longer blog posts, and the multi-media. I admit it has gotten me posting more often again!
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Everything like 2010, but bigger and better -- hopefully. Definitely bigger. My hope is that everything gets gradually better particularly relations between brands and bloggers.
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Bailey 3 comments
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I am so bummed I have to go catch a plane to San Diego- this is a great conversation. I'd like to leave with one more thought- it's really important to evolve your brand and your blog with technology. This is not a plug for MomTV, use what you will, but integrating video content into your brand is timely, also, podcasting or doing Lexycasts, Lexy.com. It's important to be different and ahead of the trends. Don't ask a year from now, "how did she get to be so big?" It's because "she" whoever she is, didn't mimic what everyone else was doing, "she" put her in places that other bloggers weren't. I can tell you from experience, it's not always the friendliest place to be, can be lonely at times and you often hope that everyone catches one soon, but you'll be happy that you were there first. Thanks Emily and Cooper for hosting this great talk.
about 1 year ago
Momtrends
Coming to the chat late (was trying to be somewhere different wink, wink--to get some scoop). And I love this point Maria. Don't chase. Lead.
about 1 year ago
@DelTheDad
Video is fun...and the results you can obtain with it are enormous. But like with anything great, it comes at a cost and not everyone can do it.
about 1 year ago
IzzyMom
Great advice, Maria! Thanks :)
about 1 year ago
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- 24/7 MOMS 8 comments
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When asked by brands about my fees - I always wonder if there is an industry standard and why they don't just make an offer I feel like they are seeing if they can get one blogger for a cheaper price while paying another blogger more..HELP how do we decide prices on our influence
about 1 year ago
thepublicityguy
First rule I learned in my negotiation techniques class is to never be the first to throw out a number. With that said, I still think you should have a number in mind and you can create your rates similar to how any agency (PR/marketing/adv/law/etc) would... hourly for labor and separately for out-of-pockets. Your value (followers, visitors, etc) should factor in as well.
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I said don't sell out for a cheap price. I'm Petit Elefant. Allison.
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
what did allison say
about 1 year ago
24/7 MOMS
Petit No selling out here ....I will look into the ebook..just need to make sure Im doing what others are doing
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
What Allison said!!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Some brands really are shopping around to see who they can get for the cheapest price. Stick to what's true for you, what feels right, but please don't sell out.
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
I need to read that ebook too!
about 1 year ago
RobynsWorld
Read Jennifer & Esther's ebook, From Blog to Business - they offer a lot of great advice on this
about 1 year ago
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- Cooper 6 comments
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I love this Talk. I just had to say that.
about 1 year ago
rockandrollmama
We love YOU.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Me too. And this is like Twitter on crack. Party.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Thanks so much to you all for hosting - you ladies really are fantastic.
about 1 year ago
juliepippert
Fantastic idea, fabulous conversation and ideas. You -- friends, experts, TheMotherhood -- are awesome! Thanks!
about 1 year ago
Andrea Hatfield
Thank you for hosting Cooper.
about 1 year ago
laura vanderkam
lots of fun, thanks for hosting it!
about 1 year ago
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- Abbie 9 comments
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As a mom of two toddlers, both home full time, I really struggle with the time consumption of all of these activities. Do any other mommy bloggers ever find that between posting, reading, commenting, doing chats, finding new blogs, facbook, and twitter that the REAL reason we are here (being a mom!) gets lost in the shuffle? And if I use all my evening time for those activities WHEN do I work on the most important relationship, my marriage?
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
too much, not to much. I am bad at typing.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
Do what works for you. And helps you. If it's stressing you out or "diluting your life", ditch it. If it brings you joy and creativity, pursue it. As women, we are brilliant at taking on to much and making ourselves miserable. I hope we use this as a forum to help each other be our best, not to feel bad for one more thing that we're not doing well or right or best. Seriously, do what works for you and ignore the rest.
about 1 year ago
YUMMommy
It is easy to get caught up, but I think that you just have to have self control and set aside time when you devote attention to just playing with your kids, getting out of house or even enjoying some me time.
about 1 year ago
parenthacks
As someone who just took a long break from blogging and online stuff in general, I am here to say that it will all be here when you return. I'm willing to take the consequences in terms of traffic and attention (and, thank God, my husband has a job). There is nothing more important than a life built around your priorities.
about 1 year ago
Brandie
Sometimes I get caught up in it, at the same time I never make myself do it all. Never at all. In fact I almost hardly ever blogged (or read blogs) this summer at all. I was too busy living life. I'm okay with that. =) Here's how I think of it ... when people I know have babies, I love to make them their gifts - little baby things are so much fun to make. And whenever I make a little baby thing I longingly sigh and wish I had a little baby to make things for, but the truth is if I had a little baby I couldn't sit and make things - I'd be too busy taking care of the baby. I'd be able to maybe make a few small things if I played my cards right during nap time, but as baby grows, I can sit and make more things. That's how blogging is for me. You have to live to have things to blog about. But when you're busy living you might not have time to blog about it all. So you squeeze in what you can and enjoy the life you have to live =)
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Abbie, I really, really think everyone needs to do what works for them and not feel overwhelmed by the shoulds. I've said in other threads here that: a) it's important to be present in your work or your parenting (and that trying to do both doesn't usually lead ot good); and b) that the technology will always be there. You can always add or subtract.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
There is a definite balance with keeping up my so-called blog life (just had to say that, sorry) however, I am blessed that the relationships I've made online have added value, in some way, to my life and, in turn, have made me a better mother, wife, etc...
about 1 year ago
inkscrblr
Marriage? Yikes! I haven't had much time to work on that recently. Good point.
about 1 year ago
Shasta
So there right now!
about 1 year ago
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- FitsNGiggles 12 comments
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I play both sides of the fence. I'm a blogger and I also work with brands who reach out to bloggers. I'd love to hear what other bloggers think about what brands should be doing better.
about 1 year ago
FitsNGiggles
TWLS: That's What Liz Said :)
about 1 year ago
FitsNGiggles
Great advice, everyone! Thank you!
about 1 year ago
YUMMommy
They should do a better job at not discriminating and getting to know bloggers and their blogs. My blog is not just about diapers and playdates. So, when I get an email from a brand stating that they're not looking for mom blogs to represent their brand it's a little annonying. It shows me that they just took one look a the title and assumed that's all my blog was about.
about 1 year ago
BusyMom
What ^ Liz said.
about 1 year ago
ThisFullHouse
If you are unsure on how to proceed on building a relationship with a blogger, don't be afraid to ask questions.
about 1 year ago
Abbie
And for a brand, wouldn't it be cool to be one of the first advertisers, reviews or giveaways for a blog that might become HUGE someday!!?
about 1 year ago
Abbie
Amen to the small blogger idea! I would love to be approached but because I don't have a huge following yet no one will give me the time of day!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
Do the research before the pitch. And don't expect the world in return for cereal samples. Be willing to compensate for high quality branding outreachl
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
Brands should really figure out who are the best mom bloggers to work with. It's hard work, but pays off in the end. Emily and Cooper are pros at it.
about 1 year ago
Christine Koh
Tailoring outreach. Thoughtfully. Personally. Blanket pitches to "Dear Mommy Blogger Parenting Blogger Christine Koh Boston Mamas" (yes, I really have received pitches like that) go to trash immediately.
about 1 year ago
Stacey
Don't be afraid to take a chance on a smaller blogger. Take some time to look at their site to make sure it's a good fit but then give them a chance.
about 1 year ago
Mental_Clutter
Listening
about 1 year ago
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- Maria Melee 1 comment
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Gotta get back to work. Really enjoyed your insights, Experts! (And everyone else!)
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Thank you!!!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- RobynsWorld 6 comments
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Emily & Cooper - this has been a great chat! Can you make this a regular event here on TheMotherhood? Maybe weekly or monthly or something?
about 1 year ago
Emily
Agreed!! The topic is so big, and as we talked about today, evolving so quickly. We MUST do this regularly!!!
about 1 year ago
Tésa @ 2 Wired 2 Tired
A weekly or monthly chat would be wonderful! I think it could go both ways. Maybe a specific subject to give it direction and draw others in but then room for it to move toward asking each other any type of question to keep the friendly format and help answer those questions that have plagued us in the time apart.
about 1 year ago
Justice Fergie
Yes, this was great!
about 1 year ago
Cooper
YES!!!!!! So many great suggestions came out of today.Yes, let's do it. Want to keep it broad like this where we can ask each other any type of question? Or specific subjects?
about 1 year ago
Mommiecooks
Thanks guys! I just caught the tail end but learned alot!
about 1 year ago
Jennifer James
I agree! So fun!!
about 1 year ago
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- modernmami 0 comments
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Great conversation everyone! Will try to check back later for additional responses, but must get going now. That inbox is a-calling! ;)
about 1 year ago
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- robin 0 comments
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My mind is spinning, and I have so much to research now thanks to all of you great experts! Yippee!
about 1 year ago
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- Esther Crawford 1 comment
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Thanks for hosting this Emily - I loved reading through everyone's responses!
about 1 year ago
ScrappinMIchele
Thanks for the great chat. I know I missed a lot. Will have to go back and read it through again.
about 1 year ago
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- parenthacks 0 comments
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Signing off. Thank you all for a fantastic chat, and thank you as always, Cooper and Emily, for making it possible. I always learn so much here!
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 4 comments
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Thank you EVERYONE so much for an incredible conversation!!!!!!! The hour has flown by and it's been wonderful, fascinating, inspiring, informative and FUN!!!!
I can't wait to go back and read the whole transcript to get every single nugget of wisdom.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, especially to our illustrious hosts!
We will post a highlights post here later.
xoxoxoxo
about 1 year ago
Maria Bosak
Thank you. It was a GREAT chat.
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I can't wait to go back and read everything. Thanks for hosting. Happy Tuesday, everyone!
about 1 year ago
Brandie
Yes, great talk everyone!
about 1 year ago
Abbie
Can't wait to read the highlights! There was so much great content! Thank you ladies for hosting this!
about 1 year ago
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- robin 0 comments
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Peace for your Path, Cooper and Emily, and BLOG ON, Sisters!
about 1 year ago
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- traceyclark 2 comments
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What i wouldn't give to be having coffee with all of you right now chatting like this. It's been such a pleasure and so enlightening. Thanks to The Motherhood for gathering up the group and hosting. What a great chat! Bye all!
about 1 year ago
Petit Elefant
I agree! Thanks so much Emily for organizing this.
about 1 year ago
Emily
Next time, I'll bring the cookies. Loved every minute of it!
about 1 year ago
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- Christine Koh 0 comments
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Thank you Emily and Cooper and everyone who logged on for a fascinating discussion. I can't wait to go back and read everything!
about 1 year ago
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- Tésa @ 2 Wired 2 Tired 0 comments
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I'm sorry to have joined this late. But I'm so happy it's all here for me to read and respond to. Thank you so much for offering this chat, it's so full of valuable information, I'm excited to start looking through it all.
about 1 year ago
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- Denise 0 comments
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Yes, I am excited I could participate while at work(we don't have access to twitter here and I miss out on so much). Would love to do it again. Thanks for all the great advice!!!
about 1 year ago
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- Ms. Mary Mack 0 comments
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Back to work for me. It's nap time. :-) I'll come back tonight to read all of this great information. The comments... gems. Thanks.
about 1 year ago
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- Deborah 0 comments
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So much information here--I'll be up all night. Putting on another pot of coffee. Thanks for this FANTASTIC chat!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- @AndreaUpdyke 0 comments
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thanks for the great chat! I can't wait to go back and read what I missed.
about 1 year ago
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- Mental_Clutter 0 comments
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Emily & Cooper ~ awesome job {as always!}
about 1 year ago
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- DaDa Rocks! 0 comments
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cool chat :)
about 1 year ago
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- altdotanise 4 comments
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Thanks, all! I followed along instead of jumping in, but I'm looking forward to reading back through everything more deeply later.
about 1 year ago
Anita
You too!
about 1 year ago
altdotanise
Hi! Great to "see" you!
about 1 year ago
Anita
Hi Anise! It's Anita. :)
about 1 year ago
DebMomOf3
I know - it was moving so fast! I'm back to read through everything again now. :)
about 1 year ago
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- @DelTheDad 2 comments
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Nice hearing from some grounded and nice women. I love to know what you are thinking and how many of you feel on different subjects. I have been raised by women from childhood and am currently surrounded by my wife and 2 little girls. Thanks for being nice to me. Check me on twitter, I am nice: @DelTheDad. Thanks and everyone have a good one.
about 1 year ago
@AndreaUpdyke
I agree Laura!
about 1 year ago
lauramayes
I think Dads are what's next in Mom Blogging.
about 1 year ago
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- ConsumerQueen 1 comment
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Did I miss it?
about 1 year ago
Cooper
Hi! We will be having more, but you can read through!!!!
about 1 year ago
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- ConnieFoggles 0 comments
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So sorry to have missed the live chat. Had to pick up sick daughter from school. Will read through text though.
about 1 year ago
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- Joanna 0 comments
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I had to run to the store.....I guess i will just have to read thru all the text......Sorry I missed it! This is a neat thing, gonna have to make sure the next one I can sit thru without being interrupted:) Have a great day all!
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Related to our conversation here, TheMotherhood.com surveyed more than 200 top mom bloggers last week on the topic of which social media tools and platforms they use most often. Here's "TheMometer (TM)" - what we learned:
Despite recent hype about emerging social networking platforms Foursquare and Whrrl, survey results showed they were not often visited by mom bloggers. More than two-thirds (68 percent) of respondents said they had never used Foursquare, and nearly half (45 percent) said they did not use Whrrl.
Aside from their own personal blogs, Twitter and Facebook were the clear leaders in the online space, with a large majority of respondents (93 and 91 percent, respectively) reporting heavy usage of the popular social networking sites.
Questions about other online tools revealed that usage of YouTube and online games falls far short of Twitter and Facebook among mom bloggers. Approximately one in twenty respondents considered themselves “power users” of YouTube (7 percent), and only 3 percent labeled themselves power users of online games.
If you'd like to read more detail on the survey, here's the link: http://beenthere.typepad.com/been_there/2010/09/themotherhood-survey-of-mom-bloggers.html
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk: The Big Picture
Click on the links below to read the community's answers to these great questions:
Q. What are some predictions for mom blogging in 2011?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481298
Q. How is storytelling evolving in 2011? More video/collaborative, or a return to our writing roots? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481269
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk: The Personal
We talked about finding time, taking care of ourselves, keeping it going. Below are some of the questions raised - click the links to read everyone's responses.
Q. When my life gets overwhelming (like it is now) my instinct to blog just shuts down. How do you all keep blogging through the hard stuff? Does it help you?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481239
Q. Between posting, reading, commenting, doing chats, finding new blogs, facebook, and twitter, how can we keep our life from getting lost in the shuffle?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481302
Q. How do you find time to write on your own site, read and comment on others, and participate in forums/Twitter parties?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481289
Q. How do you find the time, do you use childcare?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481273
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk: Technology
No surprise - top mom bloggers have strong feelings about technology. Check out the top technology questions from the Talk. Click on the links to see the answers.
Q. What are everyone’s thoughts on Twitter?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481288
Q. Controlling your email "inbox"?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481294
Q. How has micro-blogging and geo-locating affected your overall approach to blogging?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481263
Q. With geo-locating tools, such as Foursquare, what are your privacy and security concerns and the protections you employ?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481277
Q. Do blog followers favor one blogging platform over another?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481278
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk: Mom bloggers and brands
Mom bloggers and brands were a big topic, with thoughtful answers, and great advice and Do's and Don'ts.
Q. Biggest piece of advice for mom bloggers who want to work with brands http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481279
Q. What should brands be doing better? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481303
Q. Working with brands. How did you initially get started down that road? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481285
Q. How do we price on our influence? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481300
Q. If we see behavior in the mom blogging community that could hurt our brand as mom bloggers, should we call it out or let it go?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481292
Q. Question from a brand - What is more important for a mom, the price point or the quality/eco-friendlyness of a toy? Quantiy of toys or quality? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481282
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk: Blogging
Really, there is no better group than this one to answer your questions on blogging.
Q. What are your thoughts on drawing more attention/focus on newer bloggers in the "mommy blogger" community?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481281
Q. How do I take my blogging from just a hobby to something more intentional? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481262
Q. Experts, how did you break out of the middle and make it to the front of the pack? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481283
Q. What if I make mistakes on my blog? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481251
Q. How have readers changed over the years?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481266
Q. I have been told that my blog is too 'all over the place' and others absolutely love my diversified info. What’s better for marketing my blog? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481275
Q. Ideas on recycling old content?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481290
Q. Out of the gajillion blogs and web sites about "how to" blog, how do you prioritize what to read, who to follow?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481256
Q. How do the experts manage their online brand identity vs their own "name as a brand" identity. http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481291
Q. Should we should consider all blogging in the same place as opposed to asking people to go to different destinations all over the web? http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481236
Q. What are the best blogger conferences?
http://www.themotherhood.com/post/show/id/481274
about 1 year ago
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- Emily 0 comments
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Highlights from the Talk
Ten hugely influential mom bloggers led a conversation on the State of the Mom Blogosphere ... and TheMotherhood.com rocked!
Really, it was pure magic.
So much great information was shared – from predictions for 2011 to advice on blogging, finding time and inspiration, working with brands, thoughts on platforms like Twitter, Foursquare and Gmail Priority Mail, and so much more.
In the posts below are links to highlights from the Talks, organized by category.
Thank you to our amazing hosts, and everyone who contributed to this AMAZING conversation!
about 1 year ago
Ten celebrity mom bloggers led a Talk on trends in the Mom Blogosphere. The community talked about: - Twitter, Facebook, Foursquare - enhancing or taking away from blogging? - Advice for bloggers wanting to get the word out - Mom bloggers and brands - here to stay and the Do's and Don'ts for bloggers and brands - Predictions for 2011 and more!
Melody
Super group of guest bloggers. Will definitely read through texts later if I miss the real-time talk. Enjoy!
Jacquie Chak
Looking forward to it gals!
StockpilingMoms
I will be here for sure!
ConnieFoggles
Me too! And thanks to Robyn I should be able to take part on my iPhone :)
RobynsWorld
I just saw this - thank goodness! I will be here listening to what all of these marvelous women have to say!