Attracting (Paying) Expert Bloggers

[dylanz]

I'm building a system (that includes a blogging platform) that caters to writing up reviews for products in a specific niche. Now, I'm only a beginner in this field, (which is why I'm creating this site in the first place... to learn), so my content won't be as attractive or poignant as some of the industry leaders. It will get there though... I promise :)

Now, most of the people I want blogging on my site already have blogs, and probably earn some income on them. But, I want them to post these specific reviews on "my" site (hopefully that isn't wishful thinking). So, I'm assuming that I'd either need to pay them, or incentivise them.

1. Incentivisation

I was thinking... "Hey! I could pay them a portion of my commission when users buy the products from the bloggers review page!". But, that's kind of odd, as the bloggers would be geared to write biased reviews, in order to up their commission. Also, I'm pretty sure the bigger names wouldn't be attracted to this type of scheme, depending on their own blogs revenue streams.

2. Paying

I could just pay them flat out... and that's what I'm assuming I'll have to do. However... how much? Are there industry numbers I could look at someplace?

This is a pet project, and coming out of my semi-empty pockets, so I'm obviously wanting to keep these costs at a minimum (hosting is expensive). A part of me knows that "If I build it (and contribute to it), they will come"... but... I could use a small jump start with some big names in this niche :)

Any suggestions would be welcome... (before I start cold calling these people with ludicrous offers)... :)

[Musicarl]

Now, most of the people I want blogging on my site already have blogs

If they already have blogs, why would they write for you? You'll have a hard time getting blood from this turnip.

You need to find someone who can write, and will actually do it for you. Ideas:

1) Look on forums for people who seem capable, and contact them.

2) Hire a few people to write an article or two, if someone is good at it, see if they'll do the job.

3) Ask around in real life. It's like looking for a girlfriend: your best bet is online, but you might come across the right person in your physical travels if you're open to it.

[Rosalind]

I could pay them a portion of my commission when users buy the products from the bloggers review page!

Why would anyone accept a portion of your commission, when they could have all of the revenue from their own blog?

Actually that's not a rhetorical question, there are instances when it makes sense for a writer to take that offer: when your blog has huge traffic and good revenue, or when the writer is interested in making contacts and gaining publicity, perhaps to promote a book.

You're probably not at that point yet. Look up the NUJ freelance fees guide, which will give you a good idea of what you need to pay in order to attract professionals.

[Jack_Hughes]

if you are skint the only thing that's free is the sweat from your own brow and your own brain. Become an expert PDQ then you won't need to pay anybody! Instead of paying somebody else, spend the same money becoming an expert...

[eveready]

I don't know how relevant this idea of writing the content yourself is.
But, you must chart out what your budget is (weekly or for the entire project).
I can help you source good quality content for less. There are hundreds of freelancers out there.