If your goal is to monetize your blog, here are seven ways you can start earning an income through blogging today.

Many people blog just for the enjoyment of blogging, but sometimes a blog can turn into a real job. I should know, since that’s how I started out!

Nearly ten years ago I was blogging just because I enjoyed writing, then I started getting free products to review, then that led to paid posts, and now blogging is my full-time job.

Making Money with Your Blog

Below you’ll find six great ideas for monetizing your blog. Some will take more work than others, and some your blog may not be ready for yet. But you can start laying the foundation today if your plan is to monetize in the future.

Companies often check a website’s traffic stats and domain authority before working with a blog, so you’ll want to make sure to get your own domain squared away, and a bit of traffic before you start monetizing.

Advertising

Displaying ads on your blog can be a straightforward and easy way to earn revenue. Join ad networks like Google AdSense or work directly with brands for sponsored content and banner ads.

WordPress makes it even easier by giving you the option to activate ads in your dashboard. You’ll need a paid plan to use the ads program, and you can choose where you want the ads displayed.

Don’t be dismayed if it takes a while for the ads to generate revenue. Honestly, I made $13 my first year through WordPress ads. The bad part is you can’t cash out until you reach $100! So, ads aren’t usually the first thing that makes money on a blog.

Affiliate Marketing

You can partner with brands and promote their products or services through affiliate links and earn a commission for every sale or lead generated through your referral. You can do this through brands directly or join a website with lots of brands like CJ Affiliate or Reversion.

Affiliate marketing is something you can do right away and have success at, depending on your social network and how much you hustle.

Joining Amazon Affiliates is also a good way to generate affiliate income. I shop at Amazon all the time, so I am able to incorporate the links pretty easily. I don’t push it a lot and still make a couple hundred dollars a month in passive income from old blog posts with Amazon links.

Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content and paid posts usually come after the blog has been around for a year or two, because it needs to build Domain Authority, or DA to become attractive to sponsors.

You can collaborate with brands on sponsored blog posts, reviews, or social media campaigns. Just remember to ensure transparency and authenticity in sponsored content to maintain trust with your audience.

I have a rule that I am honest in my reviews, and I will tell you if I don’t like a product! I also don’t publish any first person sponsored content that doesn’t come from me.

Digital Products

Create and sell digital products such as e-books, online courses, templates, or exclusive content for subscribers. Leverage your expertise to provide value-added offerings.

This one takes a bit more work and planning, and I haven’t actually gone through with trying this yet. But it seems like a great way to generate passive income.

Membership/Subscriptions

Offer premium membership or subscription plans with exclusive access to content, resources, and perks. Provide incentives such as ad-free browsing, discounts, or personalized support.

WordPress does have a paid subscriber option on its paid plans.

Freelancing/Consulting

Use your blog as a platform to showcase your skills and expertise. Offer freelance services, consulting, or coaching sessions to monetize your knowledge and experience. You can offer your services on freelance job sites like Fiverr.

Blog on Monetized Platforms

Instead of having your own website, you can blog on a platform like Medium, where you make money off your posts when people view them.

You do have to work at it and hustle to get your posts seen. I have an account on there, and don’t post much. I made a whole dollar this year so far! You can find my profile here: Candy Keane – Medium

Blogging Success

These are just some of the popular ways to monetize, but you will find more ways as you develop and grow your blog. Monetizing your blog requires a strategic approach, dedication, and ongoing refinement. It’s been 10+ years and I’m still refining!

By defining your niche, creating high-quality content, building a strong brand, and implementing effective monetization strategies, you can transform your passion for blogging into a sustainable and profitable venture, and yes, even a full-time job.