I have heard that some readers will click on an ad as a way of leaving a “tip” for the blogger. I do not do this as I am browsing. If I run across a post I really like I will either
- Leave a comment
- Subscribe by e-mail or google reader to the blog
I believe over time it is much more valuable to have a comment left on a blog or a new subscriber to a blog. If someone clicks on an ad chances are they are taken away from your site and may well never return. I’m in this thing for long term and the money generated from a click is very little compared to a comment or a new subscriber. What do you think? Leave me a comment.
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I really like what you said here. I feel it is more important to forge relationships online and use that to generate income rather than just blast ads. While it is good to have some ads and immediate income, the relationship and possible income generated from that far outwieghs any one drive by ad click.
ethan – mycollegedebt.orgs last blog post..The DormRoom Entrepreneur
Interesting you mention this Justin, I would have to agree with you there. I think the communication and discussion that I get with readers on my blog is worth far more than a random click here or there on an advertisement.
I guess that is because I really aim to engage my readers.
Stuart
Stuarts last blog post..Time to loose weight! – Fat Buster Fridays!
You are right. That’s the difference between long-term and short-term thinking. Sure, a click on an advertisement is nice, but in the end it puts a few pennies in your pocket. Much more importantly is the returning visitors and engaging dialog that you can have on your site – that will bring lasting rewards.
Well, that’s nice and dandy for bright and intelligent gentlemen such as y’all, but what if you don’t have anything significant to add? Yet, you really enjoy the blog entry and/or truly appreciate the information?
Of course, I’m not saying go ahead and click away, but occasionally, especially if the author encourages me to do so, I will click on something in exchange for great insights.
“Chuck me in the shallow water, before I get too deep.”
WebGyvers last blog post..Streaming Museum
@WebGyvers if I don’t have something to add I just move along. No sense in clicking on an ad, and I would never encourage you to do so (probably against TOS) but I’d rather you subscribe to this post or to my blog. I appreciate that alot more.
I do both. Commenting let’s the author know I enjoyed their post, and I click on one of their ads, if it’s a blog I enjoy there’s no sense in the author not getting compensated
I enjoy the comments the most I think. It lets new people know that others do come to my blog and take the time to comment. But hey a few cents here and there never hurt!