Improving Brands and Blogger Relationships BBSummit11 Panel

In almost every presentation, I show a chart with survey results that prove blogger relations is the most effective social media marketing tactic.

Then I ask this question: Who here is using blogger relations as a social media marketing tactic?

Every time, almost no hands go up. That’s why when MJ Tam asked me to moderate the Midwest Moms Moms BBSummit11 blogger and brands panel, I was honored and intrigued.

As a blogger and a consultant for brands, I wanted to know why and how we could improve our relationships. Are you a blogger or a brand? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

Six successful and talented bloggers shared their insights, including: Beth Rosen of 4Keys Media, Duong Sheahan of Digital Girlfriends, Dwana De LaCerna of Houseonahill.org / Chicagonista, Meagan Francis of MeaganFrancis.com, Stephanie Precourt of Adventures of Babywearing, Wendy Piersall of WooJr.com

Three social media savvy panelists represented the brand perspective: Connie Burke for GMC, Nicole Simonds for FlatOut Flatbread, and Sheila Bernus Dowd for Clever Girls Collective and Ubisoft

Thanks to all the panelists for sharing so openly over the course of two hours. Given the amount of interest in the room, I think we could have easily continued the conversation for several more hours. Today I’m sharing a few main points with you. What’s your biggest question about how to improve the brand and blogger relationship?

Making the first move – Who pitches who?

The short answer is: it goes both ways. When asked for a show of hands, almost every blogger in the room had pitched a brand.

Brands like being pitched with creative ideas. For example, a family vacation is okay. How can you package it into coverage that gets more traffic and attention? Pitching videos in addition to blog posts adds value.

Does network size and reader response matter?

Brands do look at stats, although they also evaluate each opportunity individually. So, bloggers think about posting a media kit online. Include your reach beyond the blog into social networks and even in real life. For example, if you’re going to speak at a conference, tell them who will be in the audience.

If you want to be successful, find your niche.

If brands aren’t finding you, you’re not standing out as a desirable connection. Decide who you are and who you want to be. If you don’t have brands pitching you, you’re in trouble.

But, stay true to who you are and make sure that there is a good brand/blog fit. Google the brand name + controversy to see what comes up. If you don’t like what you see, don’t take the offer.

“It’s really important to know your niche and own it.” Wendy Piersall

For detailed answers, grab a copy of Wendy Piersall’s new book, Mom Blogging for Dummies.

I will share the pitch that landed me a spot on Sears Blue Blogger Crew and a trip to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.