Blog Communications
Blog communications are happening all around us. They happen on your blog, on my blog and the blogs of your friends. Have you ever put thought on how those communications can affect thousands of people we will never get to know?
If you think about it, most of us go around in circles. We visit Brett, Cath, Jenny, Friar, Kelly, MwP, Davina, Rita, WD, Cathy, Bec, Alex, UP, UL, Leanne, Steph, Ebele, WD, Liz, Melissa, and the dozens of other bloggers I have failed to mention. All these people are individuals or couples who we have come to trust and love.
They have evoked a special feeling within us that makes us go back for seconds, thirds and dessert most days.
It doesn’t mean they can cook better than other people. But they are bloggers who have managed to capture what Liz Strauss calls blog communications. Each of these bloggers has managed to create a community of like minded bloggers. We are all part of something much more powerful than we realize.
Blog communications are the key to successful blogging. A typical example is Clay Collins of The Growing Life. Not long ago he was a new kid on the block, but within a short time span he has managed to wow bloggers around the world. His blog has become a communal get together as are many of yours. He is in fact so successful now that he recently turned down an offer of $12,000 for his blog.
This offer was so strong that he stated “I almost shut down The Growing Life forever.”
What would you do if that happened to you? Would you sell, or would you keep blogging?
Certainly not an easy decision to make. That kind of money could be close to a yearly income for some. Plus, once you know the format of creating successful blogs you could just rinse and repeat – right? Well, you will be the judge of that.
However, one thing is for sure. All the bloggers I mentioned and thousands more, wouldn’t have the success they do, if it wasn’t for their blog conversations.
I think it is safe to say that Brett is the undisputed hero of this art – beside Liz Strauss of course. The guy seems to be prevalent everywhere I go on the blogosphere. Good job he is my friend, otherwise I might have to send the contractors his way. LOL, but kidding aside, it is in fact thanks to Brett that I have managed to increase my own blog conversation and build a community of like minded people from all across the world.
Many are now dear to my heart and while I will never meet most of you in person, I will never forget you guys either. You are the essence of what this blog is all about and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Brett, you deserve an extra special thanks. And for those of you who don’t know Brett yet, go and check out his community at 6 Weeks. You will be glad you did.
Monika
If you feel like communicating some more, please stick around for more great posts here on Freelance Writing.
About the Author: I'm a passionate freelance writer and problogger. To further build my business I'm also in the process of building my own niche empire which pays me residual income.
Lodewijk | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
Yeah it’s a good thing Brett is a friend, he has inspired me in many ways as well. It’s awesome to see how much conversation is going on in the comments at 6weeks.
I do have to learn to master more of that blogging communications though. I’m learning, but there’s still quite some way to go.
Oh, and I would not sell my blog. It’s a personal blog after all, and revolves around my name (in the domain name anyway). So I guess it’s best not to expect an offer either
Alex Fayle | Someday Syndrome | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
I’ve been working hard at creating more community after two years of being a blog introvert. And it’s a challenge.
I’m the sort of person at parties I can have great conversations forever if people come to me, but for me to approach them first, um, I think I’ll stay over here in the corner.
In public I used to force myself to go interact, but now my boyfriend talks to everyone and anyone, so he does the approaching and I join in the conversation. Yay for me!
Online, however, I have to force it. I read posts, think about them for a bit then post something. As much as I enjoy the sense of community it tires the Internet-introverted part of me. I enjoy the benefits more however, so I just push through the discomfort and post.
Glad to see you feel it’s paying off!
Cheers,
Alex
Monika | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
@ Lode: Great to see you man. It’s been a while since we visited each other, although I do read your blog in my reader I still have a long way to go in regards to making myself as prominent as Brett does.
I appreciate your input in regards to selling or not selling your blog. It is always interesting to see what bloggers think and you certainly made a great point when you said it was personal.
Monika | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
@ Alex: I can totally relate to you. Like you, I’m the wall flower at parties ( I know, hard to believe). I guess I just don’t like senseless chatter, so I rather sit and watch the crowd quite happily. Give me a friend though and I don’t shut up.
It is hard for me too at times and when I look at people like Brett I often wonder how they do it. It takes me 3 hours minimum to make the social rounds and I just don’t have the time for that every day.
What I did notice though is that when I do, my blog picks up as well. I guess this will lead us back to what goes around comes around. Certainly interesting to see though.
Like you, I also get tired at occasions. It isn’t easy to keep up with all the communications while running a business and trying to fit in private time too. I suppose we all learn and the beauty of our little community is that we share and learn together. So it’s all good.
Brett Legree | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
Wow Monika – thank you very much for saying that. You’ve made me smile today. I consider you one of my closest friends and we’ve not even met – but we will, I guarantee it.
Your stories inspire me on a daily basis.
Would I sell? No, I wouldn’t. I have such a great time interacting with people out here, that I have still not even bothered to pretty up my blog yet! But I will, soon…
I would not sell as I would miss the great people I’ve met through blogging. I look forward to talking with all of you out here, so much so that I have to try very hard to focus on my paying day job!
Thanks again, my friend – here’s a virtual flat white coming you way
-Brett
Wendi Kelly-Life's Little Inspirations | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Yea for Brett!!! He was the very first person who ever posted a comment on LLI and he found me on my very first post. I don’t know how he does it. He is like the welcome wagon of the blogging world making everyone feel welcome and like they have found a great friend on their first day at school.
But I also haven’t forgotten that he quickly introduced me to you and how much kindness you showed me as an early blogger. You both are awesome! It gets so hard to keep up with all of the wondrful blogs and all of the great people I have met, But I want you to know I am a subsciber and I read every word! Now that I have LLI moved over and vacations done I will be able to comment more often!
Cath Lawson | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – Thanks for mentioning me among those fine people. You deserve a place on that list too – some great discussions take place here.
The conversations on my blog didn’t come naturally to me. To begin with, my blog was like a very dull text book.
It was only by watching others that I grasped the conversation part. And I’ve made even more improvements since reading Liz Strauss’s book – How To Build A Successful and Outstanding blog.
I love Brett’s blog too. He always sparks an interesting discussion and I love the way he manages to get Vikings involved so much.
Davina | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika. Wow, there are so many places to play out there! Thanks for sharing yet another couple of great links.
The traffic to my blog continues to increase and that makes me happy. But I don’t want to let that become the reason why I’m blogging. I just love to create and to write and I get distracted if my numbers fall. It puts a small damper on me that I have to shake off and write through.
Virtual Impax | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
This blog posts reads like a Who’s Who of my iGoogle RSS subscriptions page. I find that utterly fascinating. Talk about COMMUNITY – it appears community building transcends more than just a single blog!
A new one to me is The Growing Life, which I’m about to check out for the first time today!
By the way, I’m HORRIBLY introverted. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come here and started to comment but was intimidated by the greats who commented before me. (Yes Brett – I’m talking about YOU!) It’s a character flaw that I MUST overcome!
Brett Legree | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@Cath,
Thank you for saying that – and likewise, I like your blog very much. It is always interesting, and very real – very human. Just like having a real conversation with you.
@Virtual Impax,
Together we are stronger, for sure. And definitely check out The Growing Life – Clay is an awesome guy and you’ll enjoy his works.
(Now blushing) I’ve never thought of myself as one of the greats, just an Everyman who loves to chat – but thank you! And, you can do it – your writing on your blog is very good!
-Brett
Dave Navarro | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
“I think it is safe to say that Brett is the undisputed hero of this art – beside Liz Strauss of course.”
Brett is one of the true comment kings – I’m always astounded at how by the time I get to one of his posts, there are 50 comments already …
Lodewijk | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
It sure has been a while. I’ve been too engaged in finishing projects to spend time among friends. Both online and offline. Now that I’m finally nearing the end of my renovation project, I have the time and energy (physically and mentally) to engage in conversation again.
And I really need to have the energy to engage in conversations. Some people get a lot of energy out of it. I don’t. Mostly it’s neutral, but at times it really costs me energy to do so.
And while we’re at it: why is there no subscribe to comments option? I rely on that to stay active in ongoing conversations…
Friar | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Would I sell?
Hmmm…why not?
I’d just start a new blog from scratch. My loyal friends would know where to find me, and they’d jump ship and follow me to my new location.
Within a few months, I’d be right back to where I was (but $12,000 richer!)
You could have a lot of fun with $12,000.
Steph | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Thanks, Monika, for mentioning me in your post!
It would be weird to take money for my blog; I don’t really feel it’s mine to sell! I’ve often thought and said the same thing as you: that my blog wouldn’t be what it is were it not for the people and comments. It’s why I added the tagline I did. It’s also a relatively small blog, and a personal one at that. I couldn’t see anyone really wanting it unless that were not the case. And it would be totally weird for my readers to have someone else they didn’t know take charge.
That’s not to say I wouldn’t be tempted. As Friar said, there’s a lot you can do with twelve grand. I’d pay off debt for sure.
Also, I agree wholeheartedly about Brett. I too have often been surprised when I randomly find a blog and there’s a comment from him! I take it as a sign I’m in the right place.
He’s become a true and treasured friend to me as well and I always look forward to his posts, comments, and emails.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Brett: You are so humble. You really do deserve the mention. I’d say most people here agree with that – undisputed.
I appreciate your nice words e.g. being friends. It is amazing to see how our friendship grows, despite being online. One soon day we will met in person, I know that.
You are truly a great human being and it makes me happy to be considered amongst your closest friends. Gosh, you make me all mushy now.
It’s true though what you say about the great community of people we associate ourselves with. I know for a fact that I left out many and this wasn’t intentional, merely an oversight on my behalf. I also understand your decision not to sell, I guess your blog is very personal and selling would take all that away.
How could anybody match your personality anyway. Nobody can. You are all special in your own kind and by selling something would change at the genetic level of the blog I guess.
As for pretty up your blog, it doesn’t seem to bother your readers since they keep coming back which is another testimonial to your amazing social personality.
Ah, let me take a sip of that flat white now. I need a coffee fix.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Wendi: How nice of you to say that. Thank you. I’m subscribed to you as well and I guess like you I do struggle to get around all the time. I truly wish to have more time to comment more, but I guess in that department I sometimes fail.
How you described Brett is awesome and spot on. Like a friend at school who makes everybody welcome. All we need know is boundless cups of coffee, beer for Friar, cookies for Cath and various other drinks for the rest of us and Brett has his first virtual coffee shop.
I’m honored to be counted amongst your pebble people. What a great way to form a community too. I love pebbles and as a matter of fact I’m using them in our new bathroom makeover.
Your new design looks AWESOME! But then what else do we expect but AWESOMENESS from the MwP.
Friar | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
…Okay…
GROUP HUG EVERYONE.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: But you are a fine people, so your place is deserved very much. I guess what you are saying makes sense to me since I had similar issues myself. In the early days I lectured, rather than try to involve my readers (would that make me a good teacher?).
It was actually through watching people like Brett and Friar – I wonder whether there is something magical in the water in Splat Creek – that I too started to grasp the concept. I’m still learning because conversations don’t come as natural to me as they might to them, (supose I’m an introvert in that regard).
Liz’s book has certainly helped me too. She truly understands what blogging is really about and thanks to her I’ve managed to understand certain aspects of blogging better too.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Davina: You made a good point. I think if we blog to increase numbers purposely it becomes stilted. For me it was a natural learning process by watching others and learning from what they do. I still learn every day. I do admit I am happy to see the conversations grow on this blog but I’m not obsessed about figures at all.
I think in time it will all be as it should. Heck, I even forget to check my stats most of the time so I don’t even know whether I increase or decrease my traffic. I use the comment sections as an indication as to whether my readers like what I write about. That to me is enough to keep me going.
Your blog is lovely and I’m happy to see you have already a great readership there. BTW, loved your meme.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Cathy: LOL, please don’t be intimidated. I love it when you guys participate on my blog. Having said this though I know how you feel, I really do. I feel the same on the Canadian blogs because by the time I wake up to read my feeds their comment section is like the latest communal BBQ get together. I often feel like I have nothing to add so I stay quiet.
I battle myself too for overcoming this mind set though. One comment at the time.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Dave: Welcome and thank you for saying that about Brett. It is amazing to see the comment numbers on his blog, but then I know it is because he really takes time to travel the blogosphere and contribute to every conversation, opposed to just leaving a quick “great post” comment.
It’s an accolade well deserved!
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: Interesting insight. I guess you do have a valid thought here. Your loyal readers would always follow you I guess.
I’m not sure though how the person after would go. Since your blog is very personal, it would most likely crash.
Would this concern you, or do you think it is the responsibility of the buyer to check his demographics before he buys?
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Steph: With personal blogs it does become harder to sell anyway. Buyers who do their research know that most likely their traffic will stall after buying a personal blog because everybody loyal to the blogger will most likely leave.
One typical example was One Mans Goal who sold for some $10,000 or close to it and then the poor schmuck who bought it lost not only most of the traffic, but also his PR. While some stuck around, the blog isn’t what it used to be a year ago. A typical example of buying the wrong blog.
But then, are we really responsible if we would sell for what happens next? I tend to think in some ways we would be and I guess I would feel like a cheat to sell a personal blog to a stranger, knowing too well the blog would die after.
I just couldn’t do that. Even with $12,000.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: Yeah! Let’s hug and light that bonfire of yours. *squeezes really tight. Where is the music, where are the Vikings?
Urbane Lion | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Ooooh Monika! You almost made me cry! This community is very enjoyable indeed and I wish I had more time to visit every single site on a daily basis. But I just don’t have the time.
Would I sell? Totally depends on the type of site. I probably would not sell a transactional site that had potential. I guess it would depend on the effort I had already put into the blog and it’s potential for growth. Give me $ 12 000 for my blog tomorrow and it’s gone! Of course, you would all be welcomed to visit the Urbane Lion’s Cave the following week!
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ UL: LOL, I love your humor. I just been to your haunt myself, looks like you had an interesting experience involving Prozac.
Your comment about the effort you pout in a blog is key to making a decision to sell too. Blogs are often a personal reflection on someones journey. hard to sell out your life when you think about it.
Hey, but if you ever do. I love the Urbane Lion’s Cave name too. Won’t be scared either.
Leanne Magraith | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Thanks for the mention Monika.
I love reading blogs – and like others have already mentioned I have difficulty finding time to comment. I am often playing “catch up” with the reading too as there are just so many interesting blogs out there worth reading.
I have checked out Brett’s blog a number of times, in fact I seem to recall the very early days too. I am sure it had a different name and a totally different look. My memory is shocking was there a picture of a bridge or somethng similar on the home page? or am I thinking of someone else?
Cath Lawson | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – Thank you. I guess teachers do teach like that – maybe that’s where we picked up those initial bad habits.
I guess another reason is – that in the beginning, we don’t feel as though anyone is reading. So we probably felt too self conscious to talk as though we were having a discussion.
Cath Lawson | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Thanks Brett – I hope I wouldn’t swear as much if I was having a real conversation with you though.
Cath Lawson | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – i remember that – it sucked. Some of the blogs I’ve seen for sale are just not worth it. Sellers seem to be able to fake everything from PR to subscribers.
Even if I was desperate – I don’t think my blog would be saleable, because I’ve used my own name.
Friar | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@Monika
Gee, I feel kind of left out here. Because I certainly don’t take my blog as seriously as some people take theirs.
To me, my blog is NOT a journey of self-discovery and awareness. I don’t set out to inspire anyone, I’m not trying to change the world. This is not part of my SOUL.
I just like to write funny stories and draw cartoons, that’s all. This provides me with the forum to do that. And if I’m lucky, I’ll make my new friends laugh. End of story.
I think there are times we (the collective “we”) are trying to read too much into things and we over- analyze everything.
No disrespect intended, but sometimes I feel like we need to GET OVER ourselves. I want to tell some people to just “Lighten up”.
Well, that’s my two cents.
(But I still want to take part in the Group Hug!)
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Lode: Uh dear, renovations. I remember back when you started, it has been a while hasn’t it? I guess it’s our turn now to renovate. We are doing the bathroom (mind you, it’s winter here now and I sooo would love a hot bath). Dang, never mind, passions is not my virtue but I shall practice it anyway.
I honestly thought I had a subscribe to comment button. Tsk. Serves me right for giving Friar the rollicking and not having it. I have to rectify this issue ASAP, bear with me while I do pls.
Thanks for telling me too, I had a plugin and maybe it isn’t working anymore.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: Could be. It also could be because we are not natural conversationalists. It is an art one needs to practice if it isn’t inborn. But, I think you are doing great anyway, just look at how your blog has taken off.
On ya girl … to infinity and beyond. (Sorry Brett and James, couldn’t resist).
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: Very true. I agree with you on the personal name. I see a lot going on in terms of faking PR and such.
I had an offer not so long ago, but I turned the buyer down right away, then when I asked how much he was prepared to pay (just out of curiosity) he never replied. Duh, should have played him for a while. But then that isn’t me.
Still though, would be nice what others think of the worth they are prepared to pay. If for nothing else, it does help with perception.
Kelly@SHE-POWER | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
Community is what blogging is all about, I think. The only reason I keep blogging is my community. Blogging certainly isn’t helping me earn money or finish my novel or raise my kid, but every time I think about quitting it’s my friends who make me come back, pour out some thoughts and press PUBLISH.
I’ve never checked out Brett’s blog. I’ll have to go have a squizz.
Kelly
PS. Monika – we do live on the same coastline of the same country so we could actually meet up
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: Spoken like a true Viking. I understand your views. I’m also not blogging for self discovery and awareness but to help others who walk the business in my footsteps (not meaning they follow me).
I feel it it my calling to give that to the community. What they do with it is up to themselves. I’m also not afraid to say that I HOPE to inspire others.
While you do it with your own sense of humor and I do it with my writing and my experiences, we still inspire – even if it isn’t your intention. It is mine though. Gosh, I hope that doesn’t sound too pompous.
I guess when the day arrives and nobody is commenting here anymore I know that I am writing shit. Until then, I just do my thing just like you do yours. And that is fine by me because I do respect you very much and I appreciate your views on this.
It might also help to see the distinction between your blog and mine (if I might make that comparison). You blog for fun, I blog for business, with hopefully a little fun thrown in. There is a difference. I suppose that is why I take my blog serious.
Also, if it wasn’t for this blog, my freelance writing business wouldn’t be able to support me as it does now and has been since January this year when I went full time.
Does this make sense to you? Or do you feel I have to get over myself?
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Kelly: That sounds like a great plan actually. I would love to meet up with you. I might even grab a great bargain flight and head down to you one day.
It will also help me to have a mini break.
My blog is also not paying my bills, but it does help me attract new clients, so to me it is a necessity and part of my business if that makes sense. But without the great community it would only be a hollow shell and a lot less fun.
Monika | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@ Leanne: Hey, most of us seem to be in the same boat regarding time issues.
He did have a different platform before he went self hosted I think. I can’t remember the pic though. I’m sure Brett might answer this question for you.
Friar | Aug 21, 2008 | Reply
@Monika
Oh, please don’t think I was referring to only YOUR blog…I was talking about the Blogosphere in general.
But yes, I can see where you’re coming from. Lots of people’s blogs are related to their livelihood. Mine is just a hobby for fun. Different set of priorities.
I guess the point I was trying to make, is that there are also a lot of other people who’s blog is for “fun”, yet they take so seriously, it’s almost like it’s causing angst and stress.
But I like that I can come here and have an honest discussion, without being judged or scolded. Your blog is great for that.
And don’t worry about writing “shit” and having no one show up. Ain’t gonna happen. You’re just too good at this, girl!
Writer Dad | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
You’re absolutely right. The conversation has been the biggest surprise, and also the my biggest reward. I love the community.
Off topic: Five languages? That’s amazing, Monika. Really. Daisy and I were talking about how awesome that was last night. What is your first language?
Lance | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
These are great points you make Monika. When I began blogging, I didn’t know really what I was expecting, but I know I hadn’t really thought that much about the community that might develop. And that has been the most satisfying piece of blogging for me – hearing from and conversing with other people. I really feel I get to know some of these folks, and that’s been awesome.
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@Monika,
Well, thank you my friend (now I’m feeling all mushy…)
I think we tend to associate with folks most like ourselves – so that’s why we’re all here. We’re all great people.
Good point – I suppose if folks didn’t like my half-finished sidebar, they wouldn’t be visiting me! It just hasn’t been the priority for me – I’m having too much fun.
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
Wendi,
Thank you for saying that, very much – it means a great deal to me.
If I have helped one person meet another, and become friends, then I have done something truly worth doing, I think.
And you know, you do the same thing at your blog, and around the blogosphere
So keep up the good work!
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
Cath,
I could make up for it I’m sure
since I don’t always censor myself in “real life”, if it’s the time and the place to cut loose and laugh – so I don’t think you’d scare me away!
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@Dave & Monika,
Thanks very much for saying that – very nice
and I plan to do my best to keep it up, no matter what.
Melissa Donovan | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
I recently heard a story about a blogger who started his blog two years ago. Today it’s worth $5 million. That’s insane (and yes, I would sell my blog for that much). Then I could retire and commune with all you fine people full time
Brett is definitely inspiring and has a talent for building a community in the blogosphere. I think he’s a glue guy – people sort of stick to him. He’s definitely one to watch and learn from.
Thanks so much Monika. I’ve discovered many wonderful benefits from blogging, but none I treasure more than the people that I’ve met.
Tom Volkar / Delightful Work | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
It’s fascinating to observe guys like Clay and Brett.
There’s no doubt that commenting reciprocity is part of it as well as entertaining posts. But an even greater factor in their success may be their pure likability. These are the kind of guys you’d want to hang with at the local pub or coffee shop. They are fine examples for all of us.
Would I sell my blog? For 12K no. For $5 million no doubt. Who knows what the real number is between those to. It would be nice to find out though.
Rita | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
Ok, The bidding starts at $50K! Do I have a bidder? Great! $60! – Oh wait – I see $75 -$90!
Oh, sorry, fell asleep there – dreamt I was selling my blog. SELLING MY BLOG? AGGGHHH!
As the saying goes…”we all have our price.” But honestly, the idea of selling something I love so much is kinda foreign to me. Wait, did I hear $125K?
Oops, that was for Brett’s blog.
Thanks for the thoughts!
Rita
P.S. MESSAGE ON BRUCE!
Wendi Kelly-Life's Little Inspirations | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
Melissa
Glue Guy
hahahahaa
I don’t think I’m going to get that image out of my head.
I think you just invented our next Super Hero.
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@Melissa & Tom,
Thank you, both of you – very kind of you to say that. I suppose I just want to approach this the same way as every other aspect of my life, and respect the “golden rule”. One other thing I believe, communities could not exist without every single one of the great people in them, so we have to thank everyone here, including you!
@Rita,
Hmm… well, $125k is a tidy sum… but I’m still having fun!
Short story – very short. I know a fellow who can sell his property for upwards of $40M (I’m serious, I know this fellow and he has a very big piece of land near a large city – think, housing development). But he won’t sell. He grew up there, his parents lived and died there, and his kids grew up there also. True story. He says he doesn’t need the money. It is a beautiful piece of property, and would be ruined if covered in houses.
@Wendi (& Melissa by relation),
Glue Guy – that would make a cool Halloween costume – candy couldn’t escape!
Friar | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
I dunno….$125K.
That’s TEMPTING.
That’s the equivalent of being able to quit the Widget Factory RIGHT NOW…and live off that for several year, giving me time to figure out what I really want to do.
That is a LOT of potential happiness. In exchange for what…? The mild inconvenience of changing your blog around?
I still don’t see what the big deal of selling is. It’s not like you suddenly are no longer able to write and communicate your thoughts. You just write under a different name.
If I ever sold the Deep Friar, I’d just change the name to something similar. Crispy Fried. I dunno.
Then I’d hire the Pen Men to design another awesome Blog lay-out (even better than the last one).
Then I’d email my friends, let them know where to find me, and within a few months, I bet I’d be back where I was.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: I’m relieved, you did have me worried there for a while. But since you mentioned this, I guess we all need a reality check every once in a while, me included.
I thank you for making me think of the other side of blogging too (you really did). Even though mine is a business I too get too tense at times which doesn’t help me in the least. I realize this now thanks to you.
As for scolding or judge you, I tend not to, I always believe there are two sides to a story or situation and by discussing them in a normal mannered way we can all but learn from each other.
To be honest, I do love conversations that challenge my thinking and my beliefs. I believe it is those that help me to grow as a person.
Thank you for the pat on the shoulder too, I can’t say I didn’t grin and enjoy it.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ WD: I guess I’m lucky because I grew up in Europe. It’s easy to learn them over there because you are so close to other countries and visiting them is like a weekend getaway.
My first language is Swiss German. I also speak German, English (I hope), French and Italian. The last two are intermediate I guess, far from perfect but enough to get me by on holidays.
I also find that once I’m in Italy or France all of my knowledge comes back by being in the right surroundings and my ability to speak the native tongue gets even better after a few days. Right now, I’m kinda rusty.
As for the blog conversations, you have managed to capture this early on and I think it is because you are a general social person. I bet you’re the guy that speaks to all others in the pub, making everyone feel welcome.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Lance: I think it is safe to say that most of us have no clue what blogging really involves. Especially not in regards to building a great and fab community like you lot.
I think we all hope to, but deep down we question our abilities to do so and when it happens it is just the best feeling and makes all the long hours spent blogging worthwhile.
I’m like you, I get quite close to some of the people in the community and it’s a good feeling. To be honest, I would have never thought that a) I would open myself up to strangers so much and b) I would make many great friends online.
Guess I was wrong.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Melissa: Wow, for $5 mil I would even consider selling too. Not bad for two years worth of work. You wouldn’t remember that blogs URL would you? I’d like to take a peek and see what this blogger did that was so much worth in another person’s eye.
LOL, glue Brett, now that is a new definition.
Meeting people in person certainly helps to foster a relationship. It helps that bond and establishes even more trust. I’m totally with you on that one. My best friends are still those I know in person and have known for some time. It’s probably the same for most of us anyway.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Tom: That is very true. An interesting observation you made there Tom. I can definitely picture Clay in a pub, but Brett, mmhhh, let me think…..bonfire, beer, Friar, jokes, good food and good wine…. and those of us who are keen to join them …(me, me) yes, that picture seems to hold it for me.
Interesting what you said about the $5 million too. You are the third person now and it just shows that we value our work (or time input) a lot higher than others generally do. There is nothing wrong by doing this it is interesting to observe though, don’t you think?
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Rita: LOL, you are too funny. I reckon if we stuck you in a locked room with Friar there would be havoc to pay. Mischievous in a lovable way, yep, that is you. Hehehehe…..
I’ll check Bruce later, he wasn’t ready for me yesterday but then I heard your connection was down, so there you go.
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Brett and @ Wendi: Hehehe….I imagine Brett with sticky green glue all over, much like in those alien movies. Plus the green glow will make him visible at night, so no sneaking up on kids.
Naturally, the glue is magnetic too and attracts all sorts of things like people, candy, NZ, Mac’s, sandals, etc. (Hey, that might be a job for Friar, sketching you as a magnetic glue guy).
Monika | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: I think you have a point. I also think that all of this really depends on the ONE thing only. If the price is right, most people would probably sell. Me included. I wouldn’t turn down $125K for just over a year’s worth but would turn down $12K for same.
So, does this make us susceptible to money then?
Friar | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@Monika
Like Rita says, everyone has their price.
You’ve said yours is between $12K and $125K.
I’m still trying to figure out my lower limit.
Above $5000, I’d definitely start paying attention, though.
Brett Legree | Aug 22, 2008 | Reply
@Monika,
The green glow, I already have – a byproduct of being a nuclear engineer, you see…
And I like your line of thought – I’ll be thinking magnetic thoughts…
Bruno Auger | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
I always try to communicated with other bloggers that are willing to do so.
I like the sense of community that we get from blogging which help us all be better bloggers. I always strive to make myself a better blogger
Rita | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
One more thought…$12,000 as an annual salary? Forgive me for a minute.LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
That wouldn’t cover my PIZZA budget!
Rita
Rita | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@AND TO BRETT:
My husband and I were told that we could easily get over $200K for our property – without doing a thing. The only reason nobody would buy it: there’s a HOUSE on the property.
Go figure. We couldn’t get 1/3 of that for the HOUSE!
Rita
Melissa Donovan | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@Monika, No, I don’t remember the URL but it had something to do with two things: cars and Australia. I found it from entrepreneurs-journey.com, I think from one of the audio interviews.
I think that for me, the ideal would be to have two blogs, one for fun and personal enjoyment and one for business. With a business blog you can employ lots of strategies but with Writing Forward, I just like to enjoy and it write from the heart.
Can you tell I’m plotting a new business website and blog
Cath Lawson | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
I found the URL – it’s here: http://www.entrepreneurs-journey.com/952/alborz-interview/ I haven’t checked out his blog yet. But it says he was working full time when he first started the blog. It’s a really amazing story.
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Friar: Hell, like Rita for $12,000 /year I wouldn’t even get out of bed, let alone run a blog and invest hours every week and then sell it so cheap. No way Jose.
It’ll have to be more than that to make me ticklish for a sale. I guess though a $5,000 payment for a bit of online stand up comedy and fun isn’t bad.
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Bruno: We all do. I really appreciate your input here and welcome to my place I guess.
Striving to increase our abilities isn’t a bad thing at all. But sometimes, it isn’t necessary either as I’m learning right now with a book I’m reading. There is always outsourcing.
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Rita: Hehehe… my words too. I wouldn’t bother, not that I eat a lot of pizza but I do like them occasionally. Hey, your comment broke a new record.
The longest slide to read it and by far the longest laugh. Hold it lady, otherwise you might do damage to your middle section. 
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Brett: I knew you would. Magnets work you know. They work very well actually. Love your nuclear engineer relation to the green glow. Next up you’ll tell me you have been manufactured by an alien.
ebele | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
Listen, you – we are definitely gonna meet in person one day – I haven’t forgotten those bbq chicken wings and mangoes we’re gonna be pigging out on on the porch. For sure.
Hugs…
ebele.
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Melissa: Thanks for giving us the hint and let Cath help find the link. I’m over there checking it out now. Yeah, I’m with you on the two blogs, but I also think it can become overwhelming trying to run too many blogs. Believe me, I should know about this.
Your knew project sounds interesting. Although I thought your existing blog looked business enough for me. It is very professional and I have always been impressed by it. Know you made me all excited in anticipation.
I looooove blog launches and new sites.
@ Cath: Thank you. You rock woman! I just read the whole transcription of that call. Great information.
Monika | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
@ Ebele: Mmmhhhh, that combination sounds rather scrumptious too. Now we just have to decide who visits whom.
pearl | Aug 24, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika… wonderful post as always! I hadn’t heard of Brett’s blog before (missed out on a lot of stuff in the recent months I guess) but on reading so many good comments above, Im sure I’ll be reading for sometime too…
When I started my blog, I had no idea I’d be blogging this long but soon after, started loving the conversations that took place there and for just that reason, wouldn’t want to sell it… now if a blog is built as a business, and you are getting fair price ($125k?), I wouldn’t think twice
Stumbled
Cath Lawson | Aug 25, 2008 | Reply
Monika – It’s amazing isn’t it? I’m still studying his blog to work out how he’s making his money. I know bugger all about cars but it’s a cool blog.
Monika | Aug 25, 2008 | Reply
@ Pearl: It’s great to see you around. Your blog was actually one of the first ones I discovered that had a massive conversation going on. back then I couldn’t comprehend what your secret was. LOL.
Now, many months later I finally know.
How are you anyway? I noticed your started your own conversations again too. Great to see this. I also appreciate your feedback on my question.
It is certainly interesting to see what you guys are thinking on this subject.
And thank you for the stumble too. Muchly appreciated.
Monika | Aug 25, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: He makes money his advertising companies that pay him for each visitor, note, not click but visitor. Plus Google Adsense gives him a great check too each month.
And you know what got him there? Something I have been advocating for a long time – passion.
Cath Lawson | Aug 25, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – that is brilliant. I would prefer to be paid per click than per visitor. But I’d need quite a bit more traffic first I think.
I read the interview before I went to look at his website. Then I tried to go back to Yaro’s site to watch the video and his site is down. I hope it’s up and running again soon.
Monika | Aug 26, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: Isn’t it just. Obviously this guy has tons of traffic and once your blog grows like that, corporate sponsors come knocking. So much easier to monetize in those leagues. Let us dream some more shall we?
But I’m confident. Just keep up the great work you already do and it will happen.