What is Your Mom Blogger Status?

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011-3a[3] I’m curious. Has anyone else seen a trend in the SAME mom bloggers who are being handpicked for special events, conference panels, or incredible business opportunities? With the web overly saturated with so many fabulous mom bloggers, it seems that only a select few are being recognized over and over again. Why is this happening? This observation has me intrigued as to how one determines blogger status, and if that method is fair.

I am not a marketing or PR guru, so I do not know or understand the formula for figuring out one’s status or influence. Maybe it is calculated by Twitter followers or subscribers. Maybe it is based on years of experience, college degrees, or frankly, who you know. I personally have nothing against the “high status” mom bloggers, and I think it is awesome that they get to share in these experiences. My only qualm is why do companies and PR firms want to pick the same groups of bloggers? Would it not be more effective to target a completely different pool of mom bloggers, each time, who have not previously worked with companies A, B, & C, and who do not have current obligations with those companies? Would it not be smarter to tap into a new circle of bloggers that would soak up a special opportunity, and thus, put their heart into it more than, say, a blogger who has already been to 10 events that year?

Not all mom bloggers care to attend special events, summits or speak at conferences, but for those who do, how do they retrieve such opportunities? What are the qualifications? Maybe it is just a matter of speaking up and offering yourself, and if so, who do they approach? I have spoken to several others who are also intrigued by this observation, and would like to know how to be among the chosen few. So many of us offer unique talents and skills, and should not be excluded or quarantined because of our “status”.

3770426593_3f94ec977a_o There are companies who get this. Groups like Whrrl and Game House believe in a blogger’s natural instincts (thank you, John Kim, for pointing out mine) and commitment, rather than technorati rating or popularity. Sure, sponsors are going to look at your online influence and stats, or it wouldn’t be a worthwhile investment for them. I don’t fault them for that. Instead, I would suggest that companies use a more “out of the box” approach when selecting mom bloggers to work with. To put it simply, get to know us.

I have no idea what my mom blogger status is, and I honestly don’t care. What I do care about is building positive, meaningful relationships, whether it be in friendship or business, and not worrying about what may follow monetarily. I will not commit to you if I do not believe in your product, service, or cause. It is nice to be noticed, but it isn’t more important than my integrity. I also, in no way, feel any entitlement to anything, and am discouraged by fellow bloggers who do. I feel extremely blessed that people even read my posts or care to meet me in person. Everything else is just icing on the cake.

So, how do we open minds about this issue? Is there a method or tool we can use to show PR groups and companies that more of us would like, and deserve, to be considered for future projects? What does it take to be on a special list? As you can tell, I have many questions.

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128 comments so far

Add Yours

I’m not even on the radar in the world of mom bloggers, but it’s a great post and I’m interested in what people think.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 20th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Ahhh, not true. You are a mom that blogs, no? You are in our world.

[Reply]

April
Aug 20th, 2009
Good question! It’s funny, because I’m highly regarded by my colleagues for my professional blogging (read: ghostwritten) but I don’t get much mommy blogger love.

I’m in talks right now with two awesome companies that I’ve loved long before the concept of conference sponsorships was even an inkling in my head… and I think they appreciate the value of working with a blogger who really loves the company’s services even without any form of business relationship. I’ve used Twitter and private email to make connections here, and at least one of them looks like it’s going to work out very soon!

Stay the course. Make a list of the companies you love – online and off – and see if you can get in touch with their PR or marketing departments. (You’re even luckier if they have a social media department!)

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 20th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
That is great news! Are you going to Type A?

I’m not even specifically talking about myself, but just the idea in general. I feel blessed to have sponsors and the working relationships I do. I just know so many wonderful women who don’t, and I want to help them.

[Reply]

Christina Gleason @ Cutest Kid Ever
Aug 20th, 2009
I’ve been blogging for 8+ years and never really considered myself a “mommy blogger”. But then again, I was blogging for a very small audience of friends and family that I was too lazy to call weekly

I think the term “mommy blogger” tends to identify women who actively blog about their families as a way to earn money. I’ve noticed that their blogs have ads, they mention products that they use, do product reviews, paid or not, and basically their blog is a full-time job. They also seem to be visible members of BlogHer.

Just my two cents.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 20th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Good point you make. Those who are active in the blogging community ARE more likely to be involved in special events, because they are putting themselves out there. I guess the key is trying to stand out from the masses.

[Reply]
Condo Blues Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 3:24 am
What does “active in the blogging community” mean? Is there a right community or one that’s more popular than another? I tweet, read blogs and comment but just don’t time for monitoring and posting to lots of forms,especially ones that are dedicated to moms with young kids. It’s not that I’m against moms or kids it’s that my kid is a dog and the kid stuff I do buy for my 8 nieces and nephews is for older kids.

Also, I’m a weird niche. I blog about green living and saving money. Some big companies are afraid to take a chance on a green blogger because if something isn’t as 100% environmentally friendly as they claim it to be, a green blogger is more inclined to point that out. But not doing so means I would lose the trust of my readers which means everything to me. so I can see where it would be less risky on a company’s part to stick with a more generic Mom stories about her kids kind of blog than some of the other Mom niches that are becoming more popular.

Still, I have a lot of great readers and relationships with other bloggers that I love. I’m fortunate to work with some small companies, some I’d even work for as my regular profession if I could. I feel pretty lucky when I think about it that way.

[Reply]

daNanner
Aug 20th, 2009
Great post! It echoes what I feel was the most glaring omission at BlogHer. A session run solely by a panel made up of companies speaking about what they look for when connecting with bloggers!! What numbers do they care about? Do they care about quality of writing? Quality of reviews etc? There is so much substandard stuff out there in blogland especially when it comes to reviews….do companies care? Anyway, I think the perspective from businesss is crucial. I wonder what conference really addresses that aspect…any ideas?

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 2:44 am
I’m really not sure of a specific conference that covers that.

I would love to know what companies are looking for when selecting mom bloggers.

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Lee of MWOB
Aug 20th, 2009
I agree with you it would be nice to see fresh phases out there. I was recently invited to join lifetimemoms.com and I’m super excited about the opportunity. This is the first time I have been recognized as a blogger – no writer. I’m a little bummed that people have overlooked the “new” faces on the site, like myself. But that’s how it is, I suppose. I agree that Whrrl is a great company and John Kim and the rest of the crew are an awesome group to work with. They totally get it.

I think you are doing some great stuff with your blog and Mom Made That. I hope that we can work together soon. Now I have to go to lunch – you food pictures are making me hungry.

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Mom Spark Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
I’d love to work with you, Stephanie! Sorry to make you hungry.

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Stephanie
Aug 20th, 2009
It seems to be pretty random from what I see out there & it seems that some not that great sites have a lot of connections while really great ones don’t. I don’t know. I am curious to know how they decide what is good to partner with.

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beth aka confusedhomemaker
Aug 20th, 2009
So totally agree, yet I don’t know the answer.

I have nothing against the “cool” mom blogger either but get sick and tired of their blogs, not fun to read when they have so much giveaway so much free stuff they get etc…I think it is great in moderation (Mom Spark!!), and I do wish the companies would spread the love! I think that would help in their marketing agendas more than going to the same blogs all the time! Some personal things are great too.

I think Mom Spark is great in keeping a balance!

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Donna
Aug 20th, 2009
Very interesting post. I’m with April as far as not being on the radar. I am always curious what the special formula is to be picked for certain opportunities.

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Sarah @ Small Slice
Aug 21st, 2009
Thanks for writing this! I have never been a fan of cliques but the mommy blogging world seems a little like my old sorority in some ways. (No offense to the old sisters there!!

I love what you said about making meaningful relationships and connecting. In the end I think my philosophy is not about product pimping but making a real difference and that will lead me where I need to go.

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Jen
Aug 21st, 2009
Hmmm…you raise some valid questions. I don’t really blog for any other reason than I enjoy it. I do get (a little) blogher money but that’s that.

I don’t care if the same people do things for lots of sponsors. I’ll be honest, I tune a lot of it out. When someone tours Butterball to blog about making a turkey, I don’t read it.

Although recently a blog that I sometimes read went on a trip for pampers and blogged all about pampers and how great they were to her, etc. And she has two school aged kids. I thought that was odd. I mean was there NO ONE else who was a little more relevant to pampers?

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Mom Spark Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 2:50 am
I totally understand, Emily. It’s not an issue for those who just simply love blogging, and I think that is completely awesome. I honestly feel quite the same, as it is more of an observation than anything for me. I don’t even bring it up because of any bitterness or jealously. I’m happy with what I have or don’t have. I just know of smaller bloggers who are feeling left out of projects, events, etc. they honestly care about and want to be a part of. I’m sorta speaking for them, as well as pointing out the obvious.

Hope that makes sense.

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Emily Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 3:49 am
Oh that makes total sense! And I know why you blog and I know that you love it and love connecting with people through that medium.

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Emily
Aug 21st, 2009
I wonder the same thing. I’ve seen “small” blogs giveaway huge, awesome products and I’m like.. how did THEY choose THAT blog?! Then I’ve seen “big” blogs give away small and big things… interesting.

I personally am not a fan of the pure giveaway blogs. I like to get ot know people and read about what they have to say.

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Mom Spark Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 3:05 am
I think most people don’t like pure giveaway blogs, either. We do a few here, but that is certainly not the only element to our site.

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beth aka confusedhomemaker Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Yeah, I know I’m not. It’s boring to just have contest giveaways. I don’t if a site is purely for reviews and it’s stated as such. But I pass on those who try to front as family or life blogs but there is nothing about family or life there.

[Reply]

Samantha @ Mama Notes
Aug 21st, 2009
I just had this conversation with my husband. It is my observation that those same mommy bloggers–in general–started in ‘04 or before. They got the ball started first on blogrolling and benefited from a snowball of word of blog networking.

We all heard and probably blogrolled Dooce when we started, yes? Snowball! Rare be those popular bloggers that return the favor. So, without trying to sound jealous, it’s in my opinion a matter of “They got there first” because I find some of their writing questionably worthy to merit their hype and their opportunities.

The few exceptions I’ve noticed have been because:

(A) These newer, post ‘06 blogger are friends with let’s call them the “A list” bloggers that promote them.

(B) Have connections in the SEO/PR game possibly from a previous career.

(C) Are driven and invest all their time and money to start the blog off. Most of us are not willing to pay for advertising or companies to increase our page rank nor can we spend 8-10 hours daily commenting, writing, stumbling, digging, and Twittering the day away.

That said, it is very frustrating to me. I have been blogging since ‘06 and have had 120,000 hits from the beginning of this year, and still the offers of sponsorships or paid ads are not coming in. I know other blogs have such paid ads from ad networks with much lower stats and yet my blog was turned down for the same ad networks. Makes me go “hmmm?”

So, I think it does come down to networking, knowing the right people, and going to the conferences if you are starting a blog later in the game. I have never attended one so my blog hasn’t been put on the radar list with those PR/Social Media departments.

I did recently sign up for fun for a small marketing firm. Since then, I have received several offers for giveaways and paid reviews. I turned down the paid reviews, but was happy to promote companies such a Scholastic Books/Harry Potter and Monkey Business sports because their products applied to my family and my readership. I think it would be disingenuous to review items for which I have no interest.

I have read with interest the changing media perception of grabby mommy bloggers at Blogher and that is a concern. I do not blog for the money, however I do believe Mommy Bloggers deserve compensation. In fact, we demand it and demand to be taken seriously as the powerful force we are on the internet.

So, I plan to test my theory by attending Blogher ‘10, despite misgivings of the cattiness I’ve personally heard about, to see if my attendance will give me more exposure. We’ll see.I just hope to see some new names on the panels.

I’d be curious to see what your other commenters say. Thanks for invoking such a cool topic, my friend.

~Scout’s Honor
United States of Motherhood

[Reply]
Lisa Reply:
August 21st, 2009 at 3:41 am
If you wouldn’t mind, I’d love to hear the firm that works with Scholastic Books.

As a person who has been invited to several events (and I’m not sure if that’s what you are talking about or if it’s the BIG stuff), I don’t know either. Though, I do meet new moms at each one, so it isn’t always the same people.

I did start blogging in 2006, but I just work hard on my blogs. I also niched out and created new blogs too which I think helped. When reviews took over my personal blog, I created a review blog.

I guess I really don’t know either

[Reply]
Maria Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:32 pm
I’m surprised to not see option “D” on there. Compelling content–as in good writing and/or photography.

The only bloggers I know who spend a lot of time “marketing” their blogs are review bloggers.

Many of the “post ‘06″ blogs that have become popular have become so through the organic process of word of mouth. They’re interesting. They’re funny. People gravitate toward good writing.

[Reply]

Scout's Honor
Aug 21st, 2009
Wow, you’ve taken the words right out of my mouth/mind! I’ve always thought the same thing! Great Post!

[Reply]

Liz
Aug 21st, 2009
Right on Amy! I feel exactly the same. I do hope the scope changes to what we feel will win the day – relationships. But it would be hard not to feel jaded by the celebrity like status awarded over and over again. I hope companies start to broaden their horizons but in the meantime I will be still working on making every relationship, big or small, count!

[Reply]

mommy niri
Aug 21st, 2009
This is a good post and raises some very interesting questions. I blog because I like to write. I’m a mom but not sure I qualify as a mommy blogger since I rarely write about being a mom and use some pretty colorful language at times. I do still get product review offers. I only accept the ones that interest me and that fit in with my blog content. For me to review diapers would be absurd. Purses or tropical vacations? All day long! I also write honest reviews, even if that means it’s not always positive.

I think you hit the nail on the head with, “To put it simply, get to know us.”. Some PR firms for major companies do this, but not many. A lot of smaller companies seem to just send out form letter offers. I think getting to know the blog and blogger would allow them to get to know the audience they will be targeting and the offers for me to review baby products or “adult” toys would stop.

[Reply]

Cyndi
Aug 21st, 2009
No one knows who I am, no one cares who I am, and that is totally fine with me.

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:44 pm
I know who you are, Ali, and you’re amazing!

[Reply]

Ali
Aug 21st, 2009
I really appreciate this discourse… although I’m a father who blogs, and a recent one at that, I find the whole world of blogging both liberating and fascinating. As a psychologist who is mostly trying to share ideas, create community around parenting issues, etc. I’m mostly interested in dialogue and seeing if different ideas resonate with various readers.

And as a former writer and filmmaker, I find that if Hollywood is “high-school with money,” then the blogosphere threatens to be “high school with sponsors.” It will be interesting to see if quality finds viral success over time or if popular begets more popularity.

As a reader of blogs, mommy and otherwise, I find that if there is no sponsorship or commercial angle I am more reassured of the integrity of the information/sincerity of heart of the blogger (yet I respect that writers, bloggers, artists, musicians ought to get paid). Finally, the whole notion of “cool” and “popular” makes me think of research on popularity in middle and high-school kids where it turns out that by late high-school the kids who are rated as “popular” are also very often rated as “not likable.”

Either way, thanks for a provocative and intriguing post, Bruce

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:45 pm
I appreciate that, Bruce, thank you.

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Bruce Dolin
Aug 21st, 2009
I think there are a some “favorite bloggers” for the PR companies. I do see them over and over again, but I am tending not to follow there blogs as I get annoyed about hearing them flit here to this city for this company, and then across the country to this place to see how this factory for that company works. In some ways, when they do so much and get so much I feel they loose credibility.

I enjoy writing mostly about my family as a sort of scrapbook of our lives. Sometimes reviews and giveaways are a bonus for both me and my readers.

[Reply]

Momma D
Aug 21st, 2009
Mmm, how to put this without sounding cynical … an am not to do a good job of it .

I DON’T CARE what my status is.

Truly, the only thing that I can do is stay true to myself. I have no qualms about turning down something big if it doesn’t fit with me and I’m sure that doesn’t sit well with some pr companies for future work, but you know what I’d rather stay true to me and to my readers than put something on my blog just because I’m being paid or because they are giving me a free trip somewhere.

Yes I’ve been paid and yes I’ve done work with big companies BUT only if it is relevant to me, or my family. If I don’t get offered anything, no big deal, if something does come my way and it fits, then great, it’s just the icing on the cake.

I also turned down a paying gig today, why, because it wasn’t relevant. I personally couldn’t justify it and feel good about myself and the integrity of my blog if I did it.

‘Some’ others can always justify things. Just sayin’

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* TONYA *
Aug 21st, 2009
an afterthought:

There are some very well known ‘mommy bloggers’ who I do trust their opinions and would read their reviews and do appreciate what they have to say. They have been around for a while. They have the trust of their readers and they say it how it is.

I’m finding that a lot of the lesser known bloggers are trying too hard to be that ‘big blogger’ and possibly putting their integrity aside a little in order to get there and get there quickly, without putting in the time, effort or build the relationships that others have before them.

It doesn’t matter where you are in the grand scheme of things as long as you are doing what is right by you and your audience and you can feel good about what you have done.

Personally Amy, I think you are a rockstar and to me you are one of those who I look up to and admire.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 12:58 am
Thank you, Tonya.

I agree with every word. Many bloggers have worked hard to gain their “status” and the perks that come along with that, and in my opinion, they deserve it.

Like you, I don’t care what my personal status is. I’m perfectly happy being Amy, the mom blogger and friend of Tonya Staab.

I hope I don’t come off as bitter because I feel like I am missing out on anything. I don’t feel entitled to anything. I am just curious as to what PR looks for when selecting mom bloggers for particular things. I keep seeing the same formulas.

[Reply]

* TONYA *
Aug 21st, 2009
I think there are tons of types of mom bloggers out there. I think to be picked for those sorts of events, you generally need to be the type that writes about products, that has a big following, and that is PR-friendly. I think that is a small segment, but I don’t think that means that they are the most valuable bloggers. It may mean they are the most valuable to companies that are looking to promote their stuff for as little money as possible.

I wrote a while ago about all the different types of mommy bloggers that exist. I’m glad most of them are not the type that would get invited to one of those events!

http://www.phdinparenting.com/2009/08/13/typology-of-the-mommy-blogger/

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 1:06 am
I think you hit the nail when you said, “It may mean they are the most valuable to companies that are looking to promote their stuff for as little money as possible.”

Do you think most PR reps are more focused on numbers than a blogger’s genuine interest in the product?

Thank you for the link, you have really come up with some great groups! I’m still not sure where I fit in, though, but I think that’s just fine with me.

[Reply]

Annie @ PhD in Parenting
Aug 21st, 2009
Here I was thinking I was the only one who wondered these things. I’m not jealous of these mom bloggers (well, ok, maybe a little)…but why pick the same ones over and over? The world could really use a little less “favoritism”. It’s great that these bloggers are popular…and their opinions don’t matter any less because they’re popular (just as ours don’t matter less b/c we’re not as well known), but what about the “little” people? Are we so “little” that our voices and opinions don’t need to be heard?

[Reply]

Kris
Aug 21st, 2009
Meh. I was never one of the cool kids in high school, either.

I wish I had the time to go around the Blogosphere, making pithy comments and linking love all around, but the truth is, I work 50+ hours a week, parent my kid all by myself with help from my parents for babysitting and after school. I don’t have time to be a super mommyblogger.

I am grateful for the folks who read me, nonetheless!

[Reply]

Solomother
Aug 22nd, 2009
I call myself a “mommy blogger”, because that’s what I am. I write about my life, which being a stay home mom, includes my children most of the time.

I’d love to be a “high status” blogger, but I will never be. I’m happy with what I’m doing, and don’t think I could do any of what they are doing. They are great, I have a lot of respect for them. I just couldn’t keep up.

Quite frankly, I’d like to be like you Amy. You rock!!

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:46 pm
Thank you, Kim.

[Reply]

KimK
Aug 22nd, 2009
I really appreciate this post Amy. I have felt this very often, that the same bloggers are being sent items, to events, conferences, etc., etc., etc.
Sometimes I feel that no matter what I do, I won’t be able to get on the radar because companies have found bloggers that they trust and want to work with.
And while it is great to build relationships for working, give someone else a chance to shine and show what they can do.
I am not even a blip on the “Mom Blog” radar, but would like to be.

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:49 pm
Thank you, Kim. Many of us feel that way, but I truly believe if you put your heart and soul into something, like your blog, you will be noticed and, most of all, trusted among other bloggers and PR reps. Stay true to what you believe in!

[Reply]

Kim Borchert
Aug 22nd, 2009
This very issue has been on my mind. I am very new to blogging but I have already detected a trend as to what bloggers are selected for panels, conferences, etc.

It seems to me there is a niche that could be filled that would provide opportunities for new bloggers to experience some of these things.

[Reply]

Tammy
Aug 22nd, 2009
This is so funny to read…. because I was thinking the exact thing, this morning, while visiting a blog on the “A-list”. I saw she was added to yet another “Group of Moms” for this company or that company. I thought, why did she get this, too? Aren’t there many bloggers who could adequately represent these companies, products, television networks, etc. Anyway, I have enjoyed the comments and conversation that this post has started.

I would be lying if I said I didn’t care what other bloggers thought of me. However, that is not WHY I blog. I started the blog as a way to keep family and friends up to date on our life. It has grown and I now host a weekly recipe carnival. Also, a Christian publisher contacted me and I now receive faith based children’s books for review and giveaway. I feel VERY blessed to have this opportunity because it has supplied my family with great books my daughter loves. However, when starting my blog, I never ever knew that would be possible. I don’t make any money. But I have receied a few nice books for my kiddo. But, I realize I don’t have the “numbers” or “rating” that makes me appealing to the PR gurus in the sky. I, like you ,don’t know what those numbers should be. I see how it could really bother some, and they could get a little obsessed trying to be one of the “A-listers”. That is more time and effort than I have or want give.
Thanks again for starting the conversation.

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:53 pm
Lisa, that is awesome that you have that great contact with the books!

I think a lot of people are thinking about this right now, and I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment.

We all just need to continue what we are doing and love it for what it is, whether that be in the comfort of our homes, or at an exclusive resort on the beach.

[Reply]

Lisa@BlessedwithGrace
Aug 22nd, 2009
I’m a newbie to PR and the blogging mommy community. I have been blogging for a few years in my own personal blogging bubble oblivious to the whole “mommy blogger” world until the beginning of this year. My blog has grown much faster than I anticipated, but I still don’t expect to become one of the elite. And like you said Amy, I don’t care.

My blog is not a full time job, it’s a hobby. I started out doing product reviews for fun, and now that particular part of my blog has grown. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that it would be nice to make money off of it, but that’s not a goal for me. I’m perfectly happy blogging for fun and for the occasional product. My goal is simple: I want to create a place where other women can come to relax, laugh a little, learn about new products, and maybe win some free stuff. I work hard on my reviews, and I want others to respect my opinion but I know that kind of respect is earned over time. I recently did a review for a company that as a result of my observations changed their product design. That’s what I’m talking about! Most of the opportunities that I get are small, but I’m very happy with the way things are. I have a full life as a mom and wife, and don’t really have time to be attending all these great events. Since I don’t get invited or don’t have the mulah to attend anyway, that makes it easy! I do have to say that I would love to attend one at some point just to meet all these awesome blogging friends I have made!

Okay, so this was more of just a “telling you what I think” comment. Sorry!

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Thank you for your thoughts, and it’s just fine to tell me what you think. I appreciate it!

I didn’t realize how many of us had this on our minds…

[Reply]
Angie Knutson Reply:
August 26th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Amy,

I’ve noticed that some mommy bloggers look down on review bloggers as if we are doing something wrong. Since I haven’t been around for very long, I was wondering if that was something that has been happening or something recent. I do realize that a blog can’t be all PR. You have to add some of you in there somewhere, and I think I do a good job of that. Anyway, just wondering. The biggest reason I got into the review thing was because there are so many great products out there that you’ll not find out about browsing the shelves at Walmart, you know? If we weren’t spreading the word amongst us moms, these companies would not be growing. I know this is off topic, but I was curious to know and you’ve been around a lot longer than I have in the “mommy blogger” realm. Thanks!

~Angie

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 26th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
You know, Angie, I have wondered about the same thing. I have only been blogging for a year now, so I’m pretty new as well.

We’re all consumers, so I don’t know the big deal is about reviewing items. More power to you, I say.

Angie Knutson
Aug 22nd, 2009
I honestly have no idea how companies determine who they invite. I work with a lot of companies and PR firms and I’ve been invited to some blogging events and not others. It would be interesting to find out what their criteria is.

Great subject!

[Reply]

kailani
Aug 22nd, 2009
Very interesting post and surely you aren’t the only one wondering about these issues in the blogging community.

It would be nice to get the experience with PR companies and their products every now and then. Especially for things that really pertains to my family in our day to day living. I wouldn’t need something to overwhelm me. When doing a review I like doing it at my own pace and not have to churn out 3 or 6 reviews a day like a robot. I have a family to take care of and it’s demanding and I’m always in awe at these mothers with even more children than me who can be online it seems all the time.

I have to have my own pace and be genuine with whatever I’m reviewing or giving away to my readers. If I can’t do that, then I wont do it.

It would be nice if there was a PR person or two who could really answer some of these questions in what they look for and how?

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 11:59 pm
Yes, that is really I want to know, what PR is looking for specifically. I would not be surprised if it is purely judged on technorati scores or impressions. I understand this to a point, but what about the moms who are heavily immersed in social media and their audience? There is something to be said about that influence as well.

[Reply]

Jamericanspice
Aug 22nd, 2009
Thank goodness someone finally wrote about this. I started talking about this with my inner circles of mom just yesterday! Thank you!

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 12:00 am
I have been amazed at the response on this issue. I no longer feel so crazy for being the only one that has noticed.

[Reply]

Nikki @ Blasian Baby
Aug 22nd, 2009
Great post!

I am new to the blogging community as a whole but not new to the world of marketing and pr. I have also been blogging for others for years and just started my own blog earlier this year.

I have actually gotten some amazing opportunities this year and have been very fortunate. However, a few of these opps, I asked for or kind of invited myself to.

I heard about the event, contacted the PR rep and basically asked if I could attend. My rule for this is simple, ask once and follow up once. My follow up always says that although it may not be feasible to invite me right now to please keep me in mind for future opportunities. This has always worked to my advantage as well with some giveaways or campaigns.

I completely get what your saying about the A list bloggers. Some of them seem to be invited to everything. What frustrates me about this are those A listers who no longer engage their communities and the people who helped to make them popular in the first place.

There are several A listers who I love and follow so I can see what they are up to (Katja and Lori come to mind). Others have really turned into PR machines and it seems that they could care less about their readers.

I also truly believe that we have not missed the boat on great opportunities. Keep looking for more and more in the next year as companies get more immersed in social media.

There is also some great advice from Trisha at MomDot that has served me well from day 1. If you get an opp that is great, ask if there is room for someone else. Get your friends invited. I do this almost everytime, if I can. This is how we can make ourselves the new A List bloggers!!

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 12:11 am
You bring up two very relevant points.

I agree that it’s okay to just simply ask to be invited or considered for events, if you know who to ask. There is definitely no harm in that, and it may open new communications with a rep that wasn’t previously aware of you. The key is knowing who to approach, which is one of the questions I had in my post.

The second point you make about A list bloggers being tied up in too many projects, and then are left with too little time for their readers is something I didn’t think about. Very good observation, and just reconfirms why I think the love should be spread out more.

I do think it’s okay to try to get your friends in, like you said, BUT only if those particular friends are beneficial or relevant to the event or sponsor. It just not be fair to anyone if it were otherwise, in my opinion.

Thank you for your comment, very nice!

[Reply]

Stacie Haight Connerty
Aug 22nd, 2009
Holy crap! Why does the time say 9:53PM? Is this my computer or yours?

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 22nd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
I just fixed that, the new update jacked up my time.

[Reply]

Stacie Haight Connerty
Aug 22nd, 2009
I also have observed the same phenomenon with respect to certain bloggers popping up in seemingly every big blogger event or campaign. Being that companies are spending a minuscule fraction of their marketing/PR outreach on bloggers in the first place, I think that getting more bloggers involved from all areas would be a good thing for all involved.

There is no value to me to see a favorite big name blogger grumbling about travel to and from an event and then reading a half-hearted write-up with crappy photos afterwards to satisfy an obligation to the sponsor.

This post is food for thought!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:22 pm
I agree, Heather. It seems more logical to me to spread the campaigns out, too.

[Reply]

Heather
Aug 22nd, 2009
It’s the repeat offenders on the conference panels I’m confused at? 1) they don’t always have ‘expert’ information.
2) why would I want to hear the same blogger more than once at a difference conference hello! Why would I go to the different conference?

ya know?

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:24 pm
Yes, good point. I think it would be valuable to have different panels at each event as well, but I’m not sure how that would work if the conferences were run by different entities. Each group would have to make a conscious effort to mix it up, which isn’t a bad idea.

[Reply]

carissa
Aug 22nd, 2009
Maybe I am completely sheltered from all of the “mommy blogger” hype that I truly try to avoid because there are positives and negatives to the connotation. I really would like to know who these “A-list” bloggers are? I mean I can think of ONE that comes to mind but I feel that she is no different from the rest and find contradicting she can attend so many PR and bloggy events but cannot afford other “additions” per se. Not being nasty, just observant really.

I think the “mom blog” community is putting way too much emphasis on what each other is doing, rather than rallying around and supporting one another…which I personally don’t see many doing unless they are trying to dish a piece of the pie for themselves as well, so their motives have ulterior linings of gain and not pure support.

At one point we ALL started blogging as a voice, to share with family because phone calls were impossible with screaming kids, late nights were reserved for us just to sit, surf, and disconnect from our other world, and now we have evolved blogging into a media marketplace. Either we all learn to share and support, or ignore what others are doing. Who cares really? Tearing one another down and being outright nasty gets people no where, a-listers or not, and continuing on the path that has been traveled now for the last six months, at least that I have read so far, PR will be sick and tired of the high school minutiae bloggers, moms, and others alike dish out. No one wants that kind of publicity attached to their product, voice or not. I think stick to what you love and if you love your blog because you think you will become rich blogging…then keep at it….but don’t bag on the next person because they enjoy the free swag and opportunities for fun and just to share with their audience.

[Reply]
trisha Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
@Karie

1) I am not an A list blogger. I have been around just over a year and am far from A list status. Sure, I have a voice, but inside my own community, as most bloggers do.

2) I take MASSIVE offense to you comparing me not wanting another child due to the economy and recession to a BLOGGING trip. The very few events I have been privileged to be a part of, the companies fully sponsored my trip, therefore it wasn’t out of my pocket. Even if it was, you cannot compare a 2 day trip to a lifetime of a CHILD.

Yeah, totally great comparison. And definitely “supportive” like you were pointing out.

3) EVERY TIME I am invited on something and any time i am offered a PR product, I ask the rep involved if they need anyone else and refer a friend. Its because of this that bloggers that normally wouldnt have been on the “PR Radar” get invited. This year we were invited to Hallmark and we sent another blogger in our place to blog for us there. When we were invited to iRobot for a charity event, we recommended a blogger and she was picked up for it. For general mills, which we are not attending, we sent over a list of people we would love to see there and many of those were picked.

For me, its not about waiting for what I want, its about going for what I want. If I want the girls that I have gotten to know online involved and i have a shot for whatever reason, I am going to make sure THEY get the same shot.

I also run a VIp section that connects bloggers and PR together and bloggers share online opps they receive amongst a private group. This ensures that we all support each other on events, paid ads, public relations, etc.

4) Blogging, Life, you name it, is about creating a goal and an outline to get there. If community is your idea, grow that. If PR is your idea and you want to be on trips, then grow your PR brand.

The fact is, you cant do both because both require massive amounts of effort and time.

Sure, there tend to be a lot of the same bloggers out there, but the same are a) referring each other and 2) going after it big time.

While I dont get the biggest and best opps on the market, I really dont care because the goal of my blog is to be myself, have fun, and make friends. If my goal was only PR, i would be on the phone, in email, on twitter and marketing the hell out of myself to the companies. I wouldnt use the F word. I wouldnt dance half naked. There are a lot more rules with companies and I dont like to follow them.

Whatever you want your blog to be, the only limitations are ourselves, plain and simple.

~Trisha

[Reply]
Karie Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
Trisha, well my intent was not to offend this is my perception. Perception is reality. So your perception is different, as is your reality. I wasn’t being “unsupportive” just that your “PERCEIVED” priorities in my “perception” were a bit off.

You seem to have taken great offense to someone who really has no bearing on your life. You also went to great lengths to Tweet and reply to me so that is great if only you directed it at me. I appreciate your free negative publicity to this, so I thank you. But again, never my intention to offend as you claim. You are the only “PERCEIVED” A-lister I know in the blog world thus far. Only because I don’t go to GREAT lengths to search the web all day, but that is cool if others do, their perogative, their time, their business.

I think that your support that you claim to give in my opinion is biased (dually noted above about your “girls”)….again, my opinion based on my interaction with you…which has been one sided to gain an ally, online friend, supporter, to which I went elsewhere for support, online friend, ally. So I thank you truly for your continued transparency. I also think you calling me a “stalker” is weak…and sad. I never said anything negative or harmful towards you, so not quite sure why you went to great lengths for lil’ ‘ol me. Sorry you took such great offense to my perception, my intent was only to post an opinion and a perception, like as*&^%$#….everyone has one.

[Reply]
Kristin Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Don’t you know that’s how she rolls? Come on that’s what she’s know for!

Karie
Aug 22nd, 2009
Great post!
I’ve wondered about this same thing and the conclusion that I came up with is that adult life, whether it be in blogging or at work, continues to be like high school. There will always be the popular crowd, that group of people that everyone knows about, and they will almost always be the first ones to be invited to take part in the big campaigns and the conferences.
While I may at times look at that popular crowd and think “Wow how would it feel to be a part of their group?”, there are just as many times where I let out a sigh of relief thankful that I’m not them. I like the intimacy of being a “smallish” blogger. I like being able to go and visit each and every persons blog who leaves a comment on mine. I’ve left comments on the “A-list” blogs and they haven’t commented back. If being popular and getting the good campaigns means giving up that sense of community, then I would rather continue being unknown.
I’m happy with my blog the way it is right now… I get some review offers – nothing big and fabulous, but that’s ok, because I don’t feel pressured about them and can still stay true to myself. I really don’t care what my blogger status is most of the time, but I will admit that I am human and sometimes I do think “Why can’t that be me going to that conference or getting into that great campaign?”

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:29 pm
Michaela,

I like your point about not getting interaction from the “A-list” bloggers when you leave comments, etc. I know that it isn’t always easy to reply to each comment on a post or @reply on Twitter, but there has to be some participation with your audience.

[Reply]

Michaela
Aug 22nd, 2009
I have absolutely no idea what my blogger status is since I only started a few months ago, to share my projects and ideas on how to preserve our memories.
It would be nice to be recognized somewhere, but for now, I would just be happy to know that my tips and ideas are appreciated, even if just by a few.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:30 pm
Good for you, Michelina. I respect that!

[Reply]

Michelina
Aug 23rd, 2009
What a great post Amy!

Although blogging since about 2005, I only this year began doing reviews, and working a bit with PR people, just to see what it would be like. I’m still feeling the waters in that area, and still trying to figure it all out, being even more confused since I attended BlogHer in Chicago (and disappointed that I didn’t meet you!). I remain a bit conflicted because my personal blog is where my heart is really at, and the review stuff is a fun adjunct, which I know will never go gangbusters on its own. If I get approached, fine… if there’s an opportunity that makes sense to me, fine. But I don’t have the real need or time, really to take it further.

And I think I’m more than okay with that.

That being said, I can see how it might be frustrating for those who want to break into a seemingly tight circle. So it’s great that you posted this!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:31 pm
Thank you. I hope this conversation leads us down a more open-minded road.

[Reply]

Karen MEG
Aug 23rd, 2009
my fricking sentiments EXACTLY!!! i’m been working on a post about this exact same thing! we need to talk! you may be interested in a project i’m working on.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:32 pm
You would not believe the buzz this is creating. So many of us feel this way..

[Reply]

melissa
Aug 23rd, 2009
Ohhh the ups and downs of social networking. My blog provides a vehicle for my writing but my audience is obscure. I know I have fans and everywhere I go in Aspen people tell me that they are enjoying my blog but the reality is I feel that my posts vanish into thin air when published.

I have almost 2,000 followers on Twitter but I have no idea who actually reads my blog. I have joined endless amount of social networking sites and have made only a fistful of connections.

Had I gone to the ‘09 Blogher Conference I am certain that I would have a greater sense of security as me and my fellow bloggers would all be out there supporting one another but alas I did not attend. I was so new at the time, I barely knew what a blogger was.

I appreciate your attempt to get us all recognized and agree that there are so many talented bloggers out there who should get a chance at fame.

I say bring it on!!!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 23rd, 2009 at 11:34 pm
We are all in different places in our journey in blogging. I hope you can make it to BlogHer, or any blogging conference in the future, because the IRL communication is so worth the time and cost. To be with other like-minded moms is amazing!

If you ever have any questions for me, please let me know.

[Reply]

Jillian
Aug 23rd, 2009
I find it frustrating that people are even categorized as A-list or Cool or whatever. It really is so immature in my opinion. I mean, we are grown women, not teenage girls anymore.

I wish I knew how PR chooses too. I do think building relationships, networking, staying authentic & genuine are key. So many bloggers today are saying yes to everything. They need to learn to say yes to the things they absolutely believe in. Give yourself high standards. Example: If you’re gonna praise Tide today, don’t pimp up Wisk tomorrow and Purex the next.

Always pay it forward. If a campaign, event, or whatever isn’t right for you, pass on a name that would be a good fit, regardless of their “status”. I guarantee you that will earn a great deal of respect…..simply saying no thank you, I’m not a good fit but “she” is.

Have you ever thought about asking a PR person what they look for? I haven’t but I have asked if they were happy with the campaign I did and if not, what would they have like to see, etc. I think just like with anything else, word of mouth.

well now, I went and rambled away didn’t I……..just wanted to share a couple of things I’ve learned over the past two years.

P.S. I’m seeing the comments about how THEY need to “get to know us”…well, maybe YOU should get to know them;) Works both ways ya know!

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 8:57 am
I agree, Lori, and that was my main point in the article. I wanted to be the voice of the small bloggers who would like to know what it is that PR is looking for, then strive for that, if they so choose. You do have to put yourself out there to “THEM”, but I think the problem is that most don’t know who “WHO” is and how to access “THEM”.

I think there are some bloggers that are just simply jealous of the success of others, and want the same successes with out the work, but I think the larger group of us just want to know the tools to use to access special opportunities.

Yes, I have already put plans in place to speak with PR reps and will do a follow-up post, and even a possible live conference between PR and bloggers. I’m excited to take this idea further, and try to help those with these unanswered questions. If we can find out what PR is looking for, we can rule out the idea of favoritism, which is what so many are concerned about.

[Reply]
Lori (A Cowboy's Wife) Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 9:30 am
“I think there are some bloggers that are just simply jealous of the success of others, and want the same successes with out the work,”

You hit a big point there. I think people forget that some of those folks that do get chosen have proven themselves and are well established. They have paid their dues.

I know that NOBODY knew who I was at Blogher 08 and I have worked my tail off getting to where I am. I never really went out hunting PR down though. I took the ones that came to me and built a strong relationship with them. I personally don’t pitch myself to PR folks. I just work really hard on whatever campaign, review or whatever I’m doing for a company and make sure it’s good AND AUTHENTIC. If I do a good job, I’m sure they take note of that and the rest is word of mouth I suppose. I’ve only really pitched myself to one company and that is Dyson because I really really wanted to work with them.

I think another problem is bloggers pitching themselves to every Tom Dick and Harry. I would think, and I don’t know, but from a PR’s perspective, it just looks like a bunch of product hungry people willing to work with as many companies as possible just to get free stuff. So I’m sure you can imagine how careful they have to be in choosing authentic voices. But that’s just my thoughts on it..who knows if they really think that.

[Reply]

Lori (A Cowboy's Wife)
Aug 24th, 2009
Hi there!

This has become quite the issue lately, as moms are given more opportunities as proven voices within the blogosphere. The conversation and discontent is less about *what* moms are doing and more about the level of exposure certain moms are experiencing. Am I right?

While I won’t pretend to know all the answers, I did write an article, back in May, touching on many of your questions regarding brand/blogger relationships — http://www.fromdatestodiapers.com/2009/05/why-all-the-bloggy-events.html. I even asked some very pointed questions to the PR reps with whom I work, and am *still* working on putting together a follow-up post, with their thoughts and ideas.

I would have to agree with Lori, though… Don’t wait for the companies, brands, and PR folks to come to you. Instead, reach out to them. There is no “special list” or “clique”… It really is all about who you know and what you do with that relationship.

[Reply]
Amy Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 9:06 am
Thank you for commenting, Christine.

You make a good point that the conversation seems to be leaning less to *what* moms are doing. As I told Lori above, I think there is a group that are just simply jealous, and want instant success, but the larger audience just wants to learn the ropes. I think it is important for bloggers who are participating in said opportunities, to share and help those who also strive for that.

I, too, will be working with PR reps to get answers, and I would love for you to follow-up with me on your results. Also, I plan on putting together tools that bloggers can use to take their blog to next level, if they choose that path. If you have any input or tips for them, that would be extremely helpful.

[Reply]
trisha Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 12:22 am
I 100% with Christine.

I get out of my blog (and my community) what I put into it. I dont have a star on my forehead that says pick me. If i want something, I pick up the phone and ask for it and its not because of stats.

The first WEEK my blog was open, we had over $5000 worth of giveaways to celebrate the launch…we just ASKED for them. We were nobodies. We wrote a nice letter to request items and they found the relationship worth the risk.

As a blogger, if you want all this recognition, you have to be willing to take a risk.

You also have to be willing to work your ass off. The girls that work with companies all day work their asses off on public relations, phone calls, meetings, proposals, campaigns. Its not exactly that glamourous. Then at the end of the day, instead of celebrating, they get bombarded with other bloggers upset they dont have the same opps. Its like lose/lose!

I admire someone like Lori and Christine who can do it and do it with grace. But by all means, they deserve their success and should not feel like they shouldnt have it.

They work for it, treat their blogs like a business, and if they were not professional, the companies wouldn’t still be coming in. In fact, a lot of these “A” list bloggers opened the doors for corporations to even be involved.

Maybe if we all stopped focusing and comparing what other people are doing and focus on what we are bringing as individuals, then a lot more people would take notice.

Just saying.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 12:50 am
Trisha, I agree with you. You cannot expect opportunities to come to you just because you are a mom blogger. I don’t think anything in life really works that way.

I think many bloggers just want tools to use for moving their blog and/or career forward. Even if those tools are as simple as, like you said, picking up the phone and asking for something, they want to know that.

Yes, I think the work that goes into making a blog successful is insane. Many underestimate the time and effort that goes into a blogging career. I am often asked who manages my blogs & sites. Um, me. Who designed them, created them? Me, too. I am blessed with contributors who help with articles, but the rest is on my shoulders, and I LOVE THAT. It’s crazy, but it’s my passion. I work tirelessly to excel, and there is always a payoff. Payoffs don’t always come in the form of cash, but in friendships, partnerships, and special opportunities. Comments are sweet, too.

I really think the issue is simple. Smaller bloggers are seeing the same bigger bloggers involved in the same things, and they are wanting to know how to get there themselves. Like I said, they want advice, tools, anything, so they can work towards their goals. Sure, some are just experiencing jealousy, and that is sad, but I don’t think that is the majority.

I appreciate your input.

[Reply]
Kristin Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Exactly! Well said Christine.

Here’s my input as a mom who’s only recently been invited to these events.

Every invite I’ve gotten I’ve been previously working with the PR rep. Like Hallmark. I worked with them prior and was surprised when they decided to host an event to get an invite.

I think if these “smaller bloggers” as you say wnated help and advice they should reach out. Email someone ask them a question. It’s all about building relationships.

Off topic but everywhere I go I always comment! Always make yourself heard.

[Reply]
Toni Reply:
September 7th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
I absolutely 100% agree with Christine as well. Those of us who are real and honest work our butts off. I have never been invited to anything in my over 2 years of blogging and then 2 companies within a week asked me (General Mills and Nestle).

I was flattered and I fully plan on talking with my Nestle rep to see what they were looking for, I do know per her quote they spent hours and hours going through tons of blogs to narrow it down to the 20 or so (which I think you will be there both Christine and Momspark yay) and I still have no idea what the criteria was but I do want to know.

I don’t agree with labeling blog A listers because really who is it to determine what an A lister is,I also agree with Trisha’s point about getting out of your blog what you put into it. Just like any job out there what you put into it is what you will get from it.

This is a great article and conversation. It has actually sparked me to possibly contact the general mills reps and get their input on what they were looking for just out of my own curiosity now

[Reply]

Christine
Aug 24th, 2009
This is a really thought provoking post – thanks!

I think a lot of it is that the popular bloggers, in addition to usually being talented writers, put a massive amount of effort in their profile in the blogosphere – or at least they have in the past.

There are a million ways to get yourself talked about and promoted and it’s not all that hard actually, it’s just a question of whether it’s worth the effort. For me, it’s really not. I used to have some illusions of trying to make my blog a full-time endeavor but I’ve come to realize I’m just not interested in doing that.

[Reply]

Don Mills Diva
Aug 24th, 2009
I’ll answer this one as a new entrant in the “dad blogger” world, and as a longtime marketer who drove some blogger outreach for one really big tech brand and a couple tiny ones:

It’s one part laziness, one part “scale”, and the two go hand in hand. The marketers and agencies driving these promotional efforts are going for the big names in part because they already reach the most people and have proven influence, and in part because they can’t be bothered to dig any deeper to find, contact, and invest in less well known bloggers.

The same holds for any market, not just mom bloggers. When I did blogger outreach work for tech products, everyone had the same 15-30 superstar blogs at the top of their list: TechCrunch, GigaOm, ReadWriteWeb, and so on. For many companies, they ran their pitches to those guys, and checked off their blogger marketing efforts as done. Because those big names got all the scoops, invites, and sponsorships, they gained more traffic and appeared “validated” in the eyes of other marketers, and attracted more and more readers. The cycle just repeats itself and a small # of highly visible blogs become ever more so.

Client: “Shouldn’t we be doing something with mommy bloggers?”
Agency: “Absolutely! Here’s the top 50 by subscriber base as listed on Technorati (or wherever), a perfect way to get started.”
Client: “Done, let’s move on to our ad strategy.”

The hard part for a brand is making the decision to invest the time, money, and energy in reaching out to great bloggers who may not command huge traffic numbers, but may be very influential within their specific community. Once we did, we started to get some terrific responses and built fantastic relationships that, I feel, paid off tremendously over time. Just depends on the brand.

To my mind, there are two ways to get more attention from brands as a blogger: the obvious one is build your traffic to get on one of those Top XX lists, which can always be done but requires equal parts dedication, skill, time, and luck. The other is to carve out a very distinctive niche – don’t just be Yet Another Mom Who Reviews Products. Focus on building a great name and fantastic relationships as THE Mom To Listen To for [insert Specific Product Niche, Problem, etc].

You can stay smaller in terms of readership, but be viewed as highly influential in a narrower space. You might not attract the attention of the mega brands, but you might start getting a lot of attention from the smart, more focused brands in your chosen space.

There’s actually a third way, which is to become a hugely controversial or at least wildly different voice, but that is both the easiest and hardest route to take. If that makes any sense.

Hope this helps, great topic and post!

Kevin

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Wow, Kevin, this is extremely helpful. I never thought about the extra time it would take for a brand is go out and “scout” for a new mom blogger, and it also may not seem safe for them to branch out.

Yes, we have to stand out! This is so very important. There are SO many of us, and unfortunately, only a few opportunities to go around.

I appreciate you taking the time to weigh in on this issue, and I’m sure my readers do, too.

[Reply]

Kevin Briody
Aug 24th, 2009
Hi Amy -
This topic is really interesting to me, a mompreneur with a brand new company, because I am always looking for authentic parents who blog to help me spread the word about Pigtail Pals and my message of Redefinig Girly. This world of mommy bloggers and product review sites is all new to me, and learning the rules borders on fascinating. I am by no means a big company, nor do I have lots of dollars, so when I approach a mommy blogger, I do so because I think she’ll care about my message, see its potential and enjoy the designs on my tees. As my company grows (we’re aiming for world domination) I intend to remember the people who helped me get started and hope to send advertisements or sponsorships their way.

So to those “little people”, I just want to say that I may not be Pampers or Toys R Us, but I think your smaller blogs are just as important and relevant. There are companies who look for authenticity over popularity. Maybe the “big guys” need to change tacks.

[Reply]

Melissa Wardy
Aug 24th, 2009
PR people tend to be lazy and risk-averse. They see what has worked in the past and stick with that because it’s easier to sell to clients when you have past performance to use as a comparison. Also, they’re just noticing blogs now–their timeline is like 4 years behind us. As more and more companies become involved with social media, I think you’ll notice more diversity. For example, yes there are a set of usual suspects, but they are representing similar brands. I would not, for example be a good rep for many of these brands, but as more market segments join the fray, I expect the offers I get will be more appealing.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Yes, I agree, it does seem the safe route is taken more times than not. I hope times are changing.

[Reply]

abdpbt
Aug 24th, 2009
I thought I would give everyone some input from a PR perspective. My company conducts blogger outreach campaigns on behalf of clients so I can tell everyone that some clients specifically request that we approach specific bloggers who have an established reputation and some notoriety. This is why you will see the same bloggers at multiple events and get the ‘prime’ opportunities. Do I agree with this logic of categorizing into A-lists – NO! But trying to convince a client otherwise can be difficult (depending on the client).

Clients want to see a return of investment in their PR activities and one of the easiest ways to evaluate the impact a blogger has, has been through the number of readers/the following of that blogger. This includes unique visitors, page counts, google ranking, twitter followers, facebook friends. They will even look at whether that blogger has received press coverage on their blog because it stands for proof that they likely have a high quantity and quality of followers.

That being said, I believe that since each client has a unique story & product that not all mom bloggers will be a match. Therefore, we take the time to come up with a custom list of criteria that will ensure that the mom bloggers we reach out to (or that come to us) will be appropriate for each client. Things that we look at are: the blog’s focus, how long the blog has been around, have they done a review on the client’s competition, do they accept ads from a competitor, do they incorporate their reviews into their blog or have a separate review page, how many kids they might have & the kids age(s), their writing style, the networks they belong to & do they cross-promote their blog between all their networks, and yes – web stats, # of twitter followers, etc. Perhaps we are not the norm in conducting such assessments but my feeling is that if we are all going to work together then the more we know about each other, the better the environment & end result is going to be.

I believe that some of the smaller (less established) bloggers can have just as great an impact as the larger (more well-known) bloggers and as such, a good campaign will include a diverse mix of bloggers and reviews.

I’ve had the chance to work with a few of the bloggers who have reached out during this post’s conversation and in some instances I found them, and in other instances they found me. I encourage all mom bloggers (that are interested in working with PR companies) to reach out to agencies and be clear (and honest) about types of clients that are a good match for your blog & readers. Also, be realistic – don’t expect to land the ‘whale’ the first time out.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Thank you so much for giving us some insight from a PR’s perspective. I feel encouraged that you don’t always agree with picking the same bloggers, and I hope that this will eventually change.

You have listed some great information that we can consider for our blogs. (writing style, reviews, networks)

I plan on doing a follow-up post, and I would love to include this!

[Reply]

Jeanette
Aug 24th, 2009
I think there is more to being a blogger than a page rank and an alexa rating. I am starting to get some product reviews, but I have chosen to be selective about my product reviews – I only review things I feel would be a good fit for me personally. Does it leave me off the radar for a lot of these PR firms and companies? I’m sure it does. Do I get to go on Disney Vacays and review and giveaway expensive electronics. No I don’t. And honestly, I don’t begrudge the mom bloggers that get to do that. But I am at peace with the fact that I am a blogger first and a reviewer second. Do I have high status in the blogsphere? No. But I really enjoy writing about the things that matter to me and reviewing products I care about.

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Yes, I believe the products or sponsors we work with MUST have relevance to our normal life.

[Reply]

KnitPurlGurl
Aug 24th, 2009
I have been watching this for a while but have yet to post.

I agree with so many. I blog as an outlet. I am a SAHM. My husband is the bread winner. I am sure at least some of you know how I am feeling when I say, I want to contribute too.

I know I contribute on the home end and that is “priceless” but if I could earn enough cash blogging to say… help pay for my Old Navy shopping sprees or for my need to craft fabric buying habit, that would be great.

I am not in it for the cash, but a little would be nice

I am so new. I don’t get much traffic (GO TO MY SITE : http://www.thoughtsnstuff.com/ ) -had to, just had to, shameless I know

I do, money/profit aside, love writing. I don’t want to make a professional commitment and I want to stay at home with my boys so blogging is a great place to do that.

If people read my stuff. Fantastic. If not… I have been left out of the A-list group before. (I feel very akin to Kathy Griffin a lot of the time)

What was the point of my comment? Oh yes. I am just learning how this whole community works. I think it is fascinating and I want to know more about it.

Thank you for the post Amy! and to all who offer advice in the comments thanks to you too!

[Reply]

MeganS
Aug 24th, 2009
I completely agree that Alexa & PR are not everything. I assume also that since this whole social networking/marketing is completely new for many companies, that the PR firms want to show them the most ROI upfront to prove to the companies that it CAN be done. If the companies feel like they have to put in more time and effort than they do now on something that does not have a long proven track record, they probably won’t go along with it.

Does that make it right? No, but from a business standpoint, it is probably how they get more companies on board with the new media world.

But again, often it is the companies who go out on a limb and take some risks that reap the greatest rewards.

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Michele (scrappinmichele) McGraw
Aug 24th, 2009
I couldn’t have said this any better myself: “I have no idea what my mom blogger status is, and I honestly don’t care. What I do care about is building positive, meaningful relationships, whether it be in friendship or business, and not worrying about what may follow monetarily. I will not commit to you if I do not believe in your product, service, or cause. It is nice to be noticed, but it isn’t more important than my integrity.”

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Nanette @ AMomBlog
Aug 24th, 2009
I wrote a blog about this recently too! I will never do a paid product review. If I give a shout-out to a product it’s because I love it and want to tell others about it. I don’t get free shit. My soul is worth more than some cloth diapers or Legos. I also don’t have any ads on my blog. You’d have to be of god-like hit status for those to generate any income anyway. But that’s just my opinion. I don’t read review blogs and I think that if you post a review or weave a product mention into your post you should inform your readers that you got that product for free in exchange for a mention on your blog.

[Reply]

Lauren
Aug 24th, 2009
Great post, Amy! I myself am only a mommy to pets, so I am certainly NOT a mommy blogger. The name and the niche confuse me. I think that PR is sort of the reason that niche was ever created, though. At this point, becoming or chosing to be a mommy blogger will help women interested in getting involved with reviews and such. PR will look to mommy bloggers first. For some reason PR reps seem to value and seek mommy blogger’s opinions the most, which I am confused about. I am not a mommy blogger, but I am still a consumer. I would think all opinions are valuable. So, to me, the real question is . . . what about all of the non-mommy bloggers!? Where is our niche market? How do we succeed in the world of PR and reviews? What PR reps are seeking women out as a whole, and not mommy bloggers alone.

[Reply]
Carolyn G Reply:
August 24th, 2009 at 11:58 pm
I always wonder why PR does seek out mommy bloggers. I think there are products that I couldn’t review because I have no children and that’s fine. But I could review that same products that the mommy bloggers so although I don’t have kids. I do laundry, I cook, clean, travel etc. I am also a consumer. I also wonder why PR hasn’t figured out that non-mommy bloggers might actually have disposable income to spend since we don’t have kids. Plus, our demographic might be different as well. It could open them up to new audiences. I think we need to start a non-mommy or childless blog club. LOL

[Reply]
Sara Bonds Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 1:18 am
Great points! I agree with a lot of what you’ve said. I have all the same household and wifely duties that ‘mommy bloggers’ do. I do find that I have more money to spend freely and time to use freely than mothers do, which I would totally think PR reps would want to take advantage of.

Again, I am not sure of their reasoning or why they haven’t seeked out non-mommy bloggers more. I just work hard to find my own niche. I am many things. No one thing defines me. I have done reviews from tv shows, to beauty products, to green cleaning products, to pet products (since I am a mommy to four pet children), etc.. Maybe us non-mommy bloggers just have to work extra hard to create our own niche market instead of being able to jump onto an already established one?

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 10:20 am
You ladies bring up a whole other issue that needs to be addressed. I have written this idea down for a future post. No, it is not fair that you aren’t being considered because you are not moms.

Andi @udandi Reply:
September 6th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
I, too, have been curious why the interest mom bloggers, rather than women bloggers in general.

[Reply]

Sara Bonds
Aug 24th, 2009
Very interesting topic!

I started blogging in 2006 as a way to chronicle my struggle with infertility. When I gave birth to my son last year, I was suddenly thrust into an existential crisis. I didn’t really fit in with the “infertile/subfertile” crowd anymore since I had a baby. My readership dropped a lot as I made the transition to my parenting/ mommy blog.

Just this month, I ventured into the review/giveaway territory. It just sorta happened by chance. I was approached by a PR rep to do a review. I had fun with it but didn’t want it to take over my personal blog. So, I started a separate blog where I could share bits of myself but also give honest reviews on baby things since research in that area had become a passion of mine.

I’m a newbie and I don’t expect to get pitches for $1000 strollers and the like. Basically, I’m networking and trying to meet new people. I’m writing reviews for products I’ve won in giveaways or that I have purchased and been impressed with. I’ve reached out and gotten some review opportunities and I’ve also been approached. I’ve yet to say no because I want to build content. Eventually, once I have a foundation, I figure I can be more selective. It’s all for fun right now. As a SAHM, I feel like this is a hobby. I can do research and write – both of which I love. If I get some free products out of the deal, that’s just a bonus. I don’t plan to make it into a full-time job. I won’t be writing multiple posts every single day. Time with my family is much more important to me. If I would have to give up my QT with the family to focus on reviews, well, then that is where I draw the line personally. If that means I’ll never be “A-list” then so be it.

I think the quality of my reviews is great (of course, I’d be bias!). It’s just convincing people that I’m worth the risk. I only have 9 followers and 5 subscribers right now so it’s hard getting some to see past that. But there have been people that read my blog and could give a crap about the numbers. It’s about building relationships and trust. If you are sincere, I do believe that will come through in your pitches and if you are confident in what you do, PR reps or whoever will see that too. Eventually.

[Reply]

Kristen C.
Aug 24th, 2009
I totally agree that Alexa and PR are not the be all , end all.. My PR is a 2 because I chose to remove the nofollow on my site… I went from a 4 to freaking 2.. UGG> I hate PR. I still have decent readership and statistics.
I’m not sure why it seems the same people get chosen over and over. I guess it might have something to do with connections they have? I don’t know.. I’m not one of them I’ve been blogging for years now, and love what I do regardless of what pitches I’m getting.
All I can say is keep up what you do because you’re doing an amazing job! If I can help, let me know!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 10:26 am
What is the “nofollow” that you are referring to?

I think it would be easy for you to work with brands, you are so likable.

[Reply]
Kristen Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
The no follow is a default in Blogger blogs…not sure about others. It’s done so that Google doesn’t spider out to blogs from comments…hence the “no follow”–the Google robots won’t follow the comment source. I also have it removed from my blog so that Google will spider out from comments on my main blog. It’s supposedly a way to have readers become more “interactive” because they know that by commenting the robots will be led to their blog. I honestly haven’t noticed a difference but some people have complaints–stating that because of the no follow they have quite a few spam comments.

[Reply]

MommyBrain
Aug 25th, 2009
In the end, I think you just have to be true to yourself and your blog. I think that is the bottom line. I actually think it’s great that women have found a niche and make it work for themselves and their family. I admire that. I do a few reviews and giveaways a month and it’s hard work. I can’t imagine how much work the “bigger” bloggers are putting in. Plus, mommy bloggers also have kids they have to deal with as well as the blog. So more power to them. I think in the end, if you have a good product (blog) someone will notice and you will get opportunities.

[Reply]

Carolyn G
Aug 25th, 2009
Interesting question which I’m glad you asked. The questions and responses here are thought provoking. I consider myself somewhat of a hybrid as I’m a multi-generational blogger – I try to add content from the unique perspective as a woman, career professional, mom, grandmom with some product reviews & giveaways thrown in. I probably put more hours into my blog and social networking than I do into my full-time job. It would be nice to be able to attend some conferences to get the first-hand perspective. I think I might be off the radar perhaps because I’m not a “young mom” but rather a baby boomer. But hey, in my family, I’m the matriarch, and I pack a lot of punch when it comes to being asked for my opinion!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 25th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Wow, a whole new issue… I wonder if brands are looking for specific ages of their mom bloggers? Interesting.

I think you rock, Cindi!

[Reply]

Cindi @ Moomette's Magnificents
Aug 25th, 2009
wow! food for thought for sure-thanks so much for sharing! we are a community so you are right who cares about status…but if someone want to pay for me to take a (hot)trip somewhere..I’ll blog about it anyday..haha

[Reply]

sian
Aug 25th, 2009
Thank-you so much for putting your thoughts down – I totally agree. As a mom blogger and small business owner, I have to say that I have become quite suspicious of some blogs where all they seem to do is contstantly plug products – and they get paid for doing this. We don’t get to find out anything about who the blogger really is. In my blogs, and blogs by guest bloggers, we focus on issues like food choices, environmental issues, etc. Yes, I am in the healthy food business, but I like talking about food in general – not just what we make!

[Reply]

Kalpna Solanki
Aug 25th, 2009
This is a good discussion to have – thanks for posting about this.

I see the problem is that companies now recognize that “moms” are an important demographic and that mom bloggers are influential. I think companies are trying to find a way to reach out to mom bloggers – and mom bloggers are trying to find a way to interact with companies (with integrity). The Blog With Integrity website discusses that.

I think one way to deal with it is for mom bloggers who want to do reviews or obtain sponsorships to state clearly what their “niche” is. Then it would be easier to figure out what bloggers should be contacted. For example, food bloggers are a perfect demographic for food companies to contact for events. For moms that want to cover mom/kid products state that. I am a mom technology blogger so I hope to be invited to technology related events only. I get invited to some events and not invited to others and I don’t really let it get to me because I have so little free time.

Overall – I am thrilled to be part of such an amazing mom blog online community – that is the biggest prize of all to me!!

[Reply]

TechMama
Aug 25th, 2009
Interetsing topic. Def. a great read!

[Reply]

Kristin
Aug 25th, 2009
I noticed Ford has done a great job of diversifying the bloggers they pick for their “testing campaigns” (is that a good term?), but you are right about certain bloggers being picked over and over. If I was a company, I’d do it like I’ve noticed Ford has been doing things… mix it up a bit because otherwise the same people are seeing these campaigns and the audience is the same which makes no sense!

Great post!

[Reply]
Mom Spark Reply:
August 26th, 2009 at 9:56 am
I attended the Ford event the day before BlogHer. They asked the BlogHer attendees if anyone was interested in going, and then picked the first 60 of those replies. Because of this, there was a great mix of bloggers. As far as I know, none of us were handpicked, just quick to reply to the email.

So, yes, kudos to Ford!

[Reply]

Courtney Velasquez
Aug 26th, 2009
I blog because I love the being connected to a world larger than myself.
PR is simply a plus as it grows the audience I have–giving me more hearts to invest in:)

I have no idea what I’m doing though….I just want to do it the best I can.

sarasophia

[Reply]

sarasophia
Aug 26th, 2009
The more I read these things, the more upsetting it is. Perfectly wonderful woman revert to sophomoric girls and passive aggressive comments. Envy’s green monster whispers into their ears. Typical everyday blogs about the tribulations of motherhood, wonders of children and the general world surrounding them which I thoroughly enjoy reading are replaced with complaints about ‘cool kids’ and whining about sponsorships.

I’m not an active commenter on blogs. I have too many on my blog reader and I keep up as best I can. I read it because I find myself with the time to do so (very slow full time job) and because I enjoy the content and some of the bloggers. But this entire hubbub about sponsors and a-listers and mommybloggers (worst word ever) is downright annoying.

We get it. Stop beating a dead horse. Get on with blogging again. If you are bitching about not being in the elite, getting sponsors, etc. Do something about it (and thank you momspark for this post as it reflects that and I hope in between the people who are as interested in learning as you are and some petty comments you are getting real information on this.) Put yourself out there and do your research and figure it out (call up firms directly; find out what their protocol is. You’d be surprised how many will actually TALK to you.) If you are tired of so called a-listers having market driven blogs and not enough interesting content, unsubscribe and stop reading

[Reply]

LaFlacad
Aug 26th, 2009
Here’s how I feel… It took me a few days to get my thoughts together…
http://acouchwithaview.blogspot.com/2009/08/quantity-over-quality.html

[Reply]

CaseyDeuce
Aug 27th, 2009
I don’t even think I have a status. I’m a small fish in a big sea. While sometimes I think it would be nice to have thousands of followers and comments each day, I also enjoy the small handful of people who do comment on my blog. I read their blogs, we get to know each other.

With numbers comes also responsibility and dare I say it, pressure to perform. I blog for me and I hope I don’t lose sight of that. I blog because I feel I have something to share and to give, not necessarily to see what I can get in return (which I believe a good number of bloggers have started doing). Don’t get me wrong, I would welcome the occasional sponsor. I receive products and review them. I have performed paid reviews. I would love to go to BlogHer one day. In the meantime, I will blog for me and learn the ropes slowly so I don’t look like an ass at BlogHer when I go (as I’ve read many accounts of).

[Reply]

Usedtobeme
Aug 28th, 2009
I’ve been blogging over at The Mogul Mom for two years now and my “stats” (Alexa, PR, Technorati) are on par with some of the top “mom bloggers”. But I think because I’m a mom who blogs about mom entrepreneurs and business, I’m excluded from the typical “mommy blogging” PR pitches. My readers have asked that I keep my blog “strictly business” and I honor that. I don’t blog about baby food, toys, diaper changes or wifely duties. I blog about taking an idea from concept to consumer, about how to start an at-home freelance gig, how to build a blog, and how to succeed in whatever “mom entrepreneur” business you’ve started.

That said, I think PR folks that represent companies with business products & services are missing a HUGE opportunity by NOT pitching me. Or maybe such companies aren’t even aware of this opportunity because PR folks and big brands are so nearsightedly (is that a word?) focused on the same group of mommy bloggers.

Interesting topic…thanks for bringing it to light.

Heather

[Reply]

Heather Allard
Aug 28th, 2009
What a great post – I have noticed the same thing recently, seems like the same handful of folks are tapped into the social networking PR of all the major companies. I think it’s FANTASTIC that big brands are recognizing how important it is to reach out to the mom blogging community, but you don’t really get a true taste of who we are if you are only speaking to the same fifty people over and over again. My status? I have no idea. I blog because I like sharing what I learn with anyone willing to listen, and because I love connecting with other bloggers. I love that my blog helps me grow. And I have fun! If some big corporation cares about my opinion, then great. If not, I don’t feel like a “second rate” blogger because of it!

[Reply]

SavvySuzie
Aug 28th, 2009
I think it is great that several of you whom I think influential are speaking up and out…

I really can’t add anything to the convo that hasnt already been said…other than BRAVO-when you wrote you wrote on behalf of us all

[Reply]

Georgie
Sep 8th, 2009
I’m late to this discussion, but I thought I’d chime in anyway…

I am sorry if Janice and I happen to be amongst those you think are offered too many blogger trips. I’ll try not to be offended. LOL

But to be honest, I think this concern will resolve itself over time. Yes, companies are noticing the trend and already the groups are becoming more diversified.

Blogging trips are great networking and relationship building opportunities and I do encourage bloggers to attend whenever possible.

If you’re wanting to get invited to more events… as everyone says the key is building relationships. But not just relationships with bloggers, you need to build relationships with the PR companies over time.

Janice and I have worked since 2006 with many of these PR companies and we treat these relationships with a great deal of respect. If someone from a PR company sends us a poorly worded pitch, we don’t get upset. We might even help them work out a better idea.

I believe the key to every relationship in life is respect. You want to treat bloggers, PR reps and brands with respect at all times… even when you disagree.

I do hope that nobody out there is under the impression that the bloggers who go on blogging trips just happened upon an easy life. Not at all. I’ll be honest, Janice and I work sooooo hard it is ridiculous. It’s rather shocking, actually.

But that’s not to say that others are not working just as hard as we are… we know countless women are working extraordinarily hard on their blogs and that is why we love to promote the online mom community.

We sincerely love to see others succeed!!!

Talk soon,
Susan

[Reply]
Amy Bellgardt Reply:
October 13th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Susan-

Thank you for chiming in. No, I wasn’t talking about you guys at all! I mostly just wanted to open up the communication and learn from it. Relationships are so important!

[Reply]

Susan (5 Minutes for Mom)
Sep 24th, 2009
I too have wondered these things.

It seems to be, that the reason companies began working with bloggers is that they knew their posts were honest, and the readers trusted them. Now, with so many selling out, especially to more than one company at a time, you start to wonder… did they do this for the money?

And I’m not talking about reviews. There’s really no money there.

I’m talking about big sponsorships to conferences, paid blogging, etc.

I’ve had a couple of grand opportunities and trust me, they were just luck and being in the right place and the right time. I have a lot of people to thank for them.

But, I do wonder sometimes, why the very deserving, hard working seem to be overlooked in favor of the ones popular with their peers…

[Reply]

Erica Mueller
Jan 4th, 2010