How to advertise your blog 2/2

Read the part 1 HERE.  

Payed options

1. In addition to regular blog ads, many bloggers offer other advertising options. For example they might have a social media option. They will advertise your blog and your posts on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest etc. I've noticed that this is a great way to get more readers. In my case, it's been more effective than blog ads on blog sidebars. 

2. Some bloggers offer a chance to co-host their extremely popular link up/blog hops. Usually it's free, but there are exceptions. Co-hosting has also been an effecting way for me to get  more readers. 

"Friendly" (and free) options

1. Comment other blogs. First of all, I never comment just to get readers. I only comment if I really want to say something to the blogger. I believe it's really tacky to comment only to get readers. But I've noticed that many of my comments have brought me new readers. Especially comments on smaller blogs. 

2. Mention other bloggers' posts on your posts. This is a great way to form blog relationships.

3. Link ups/Blog hops can bring you more traffic. Check out Top 3 link ups traffic wise 

4. Share your posts on Facebook. Don't do that too often, though, so your friends don't get annoyed. Twitter and Instagram are also great!

5. One word: Pinterest. Pinterest has brought me tons of traffic. This post about "pin"able blog images helped me a lot!

6. Guest post. This could also be under Payed options. I've guest posted couple times, and I enjoyed these experiences. I recommend this option!

How do you advertise your blog?

How to advertise your blog 1/2

Payed ads (Passionfruit, Adproval, Adlet, etc.) 

1. If you have money, buy the in-post ad instead of the sidebar ad. They'll bring you more traffic and you'll be the "VIP sponsor". (Buy sidebar ads only if there are only couple spots on the blog.)

2. Make sure you know exactly what is included in your sponsor month and make sure you get what you were promised. (Social media love, guest post, giveaway etc.)

3. Before buying the ad, email the blogger. How many times will she/he post during your sponsor month? Is there something you could do? This email will motivate the blogger. Also if there're concerns on your mind, email during your sponsor month. You are the customer.

4. If possible, change your ad image during your sponsor month.

5. If the blogger offers you a chance to be part of a giveaway, don't hesitate! 

Swaps

1. These might break your heart. Just kidding. But it is true that swapped ads are usually tiny and under everything else. Your ad gets lost among other tiny ads. So don't expect tons of traffic. Be happy of small victories :)

2. If possible, change your ad image during your swap month.

3. Remember to be a good swap partner. 

About the ad

1. Find out what kind of ads will be around yours and design one that will stand out.

2. Make it the right size so Passionfruit (etc.) doesn't make it look weird.

What have you learned about advertising your blog?