I have published over three hundred articles on my WordPress website. From the moment I send my kids off to school to the moment they get back I am creating original content to share with you, my loyal readers. But, after a lot of work and not much success, I am starting to question, can you make money blogging on a WordPress site?
A WordPress blog is nothing more than a domain name pointed to some words you wrote. It doesn’t matter if your plan is affiliate marketing, selling digital products, earning ad revenue, or getting sponsors, if there isn’t enough traffic to your WordPress site than all the high quality content in the world won’t earn you a dime.
So, you probably came here trying to figure out the best ways to turn your good idea into good money. Let’s explore the world of blogging and unlock the secrets to getting the traffic you need to make money blogging on WordPress. You might be surprised to learn that it’s not hard to earn money, but it is very specific.
Skip to:
- WordPress and Bloggers
- Monetize WordPress Blog
- Utilizing Your Skills
- Income Streams
- Building/Growing Your Audience
Understanding the Basics
What is WordPress and Why It’s Ideal for Bloggers
WordPress is a great blogging platform and it’s pretty much the gold standard for content creators. Simple yet powerful, it’s the go-to for anyone asking the question, Can you make money blogging on WordPress? It’s a fantastic starting point, offering flexibility and a user-friendly interface. Plus, with a range of WordPress plugins, the customization possibilities are endless. WordPress is a great place to publish your blog content, promote your digital products, or set up an affiliate marketing system all aimed at generating income.
Profitable Shift in Blogging
Blogging has dramatically shifted. Gone are the days when it was just a hobby. Today, it’s a robust platform for creating passive income. Successful bloggers on WordPress are turning their expertise into profit. And the good news? You can too. All you have to do is create valuable content that resonates with your target audience. There are very nuanced strategies you will need to learn and deploy to get your wonderfully written blog read by the right people.
Looking for income-generating ideas beyond blogging? Check out this blog on 41 Residual Income Ideas for Nomads.
The Potential of Earning Through WordPress
Can you make money blogging on WordPress? Absolutely. But it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. It’s a journey that involves hard work, smart strategies, and understanding your audience. A WordPress blog opens doors to various income streams – amazon affiliate program, sponsored posts, selling exclusive content, and much more. The key is to consistently create high-quality content and use effective SEO techniques to drive organic traffic to your site. With dedication and the right approach, your WordPress blog can become a significant income source.
Diverse Ways to Monetize Your WordPress Blog
Stepping into the world of blogging, you might wonder and ask question Can you make money blogging on WordPress? The answer is a resounding yes, and the ways to do it are diverse. I am always on the hunt for different ways to monetize my own blog. I keep a running list of ideas that fit my vibe and refer back to it anytime I feel caught up on my existing work.
Each method requires a blend of strategy, research, creativity, and perseverance. Your approach should resonate with your readers and add value to their experience. For website owners, the potential for monetization on WordPress is limitless.
1. Monetizing with Affiliate Marketing
Can you make money blogging on WordPress through affiliate marketing? Absolutely. It’s a popular way to earn by promoting products or services. Join affiliate programs that align with your blog’s niche. Share unique affiliate links in your blog posts. When readers buy through your links, you earn commissions. It’s a great way to generate income while providing valuable content.
2. Implementing Display Ads
Display ads are a straightforward approach to monetize. Platforms like Raptive or Mediavine are top ad networks to choose from. They will place ads strategically on your WordPress site. Ensure they don’t disrupt the user experience. It’s a balance – effective ad placement can lead to significant earnings from page views.
I share products I love with you through affiliate links, which means if you buy something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.
3. Creating and Selling Digital Products
Digital products – think eBooks, downloads, or workbooks. Creating your own products are a great option to make money on your WordPress blog. Use partners like Teachable to host and sell your digital products. This method leverages your expertise, offering value to your readers and turning a profit.
4. Exclusive Content and Membership Sites
Creating a membership site on your WordPress blog can be a game changer. Offer premium content and access to a unique community for a fee. This could be in-depth guides, video tutorials, or a members-only forum. You are providing extra value to your audience and establishing a consistent income stream. This is one of the monetization options I have on my running list of future plans for the Nomad Veronica brand.
5. Offering Online Courses and Webinars
Online courses and webinars are fantastic for engaging with your audience. Share your knowledge on a specific topic. Use your WordPress site to host and sell these courses. This not only boosts your authority but also opens up another revenue channel.
Check Out My E-Courses: Messy to Minimalist and Homeowner Hustle
6. Licensing Your Content
If you create unique, high-quality content, consider licensing it. This could be articles, infographics, or videos. Other websites or media outlets may pay to use your content, offering you a new revenue stream.
7. Hosting Sponsored Contests and Giveaways
Collaborate with brands to host contests or giveaways on your blog. This not only engages your audience but also attracts sponsorship funds. Ensure the contests align with your blog’s theme and audience interests.
8. Creating and Selling Software or WordPress Plugins
If you have a knack for software development, create your own WordPress plugins or tools. Sell them directly from your blog. This not only solves problems for your readers but also adds to your revenue.
9. Offering VIP Content through a Patreon Model
Set up a Patreon or similar platform to offer exclusive content for a subscription fee. This could include behind-the-scenes posts, early access to content, or VIP Q&A sessions. It’s a great way to build a community of your most loyal followers.
10. Content Syndication
Syndicate your blog content to larger platforms or media outlets. This can bring in revenue directly from syndication deals and also drive traffic back to your WordPress site, increasing ad revenue and affiliate marketing opportunities. I personally syndicate my content MSN and many people also use Medium for this purpose. I’d love for you to follow me on those two platforms, that’s an easy way to support my work.
11. Ad Space Rentals
Directly rent out ad space on your WordPress site to businesses or individuals. This approach gives you full control over the ads displayed and can be more lucrative than using networks like Google AdSense.
12. Network Marketing
Find appropriate brand partners which operate using a network marketing option. My business dabbles in the travel niche so naturally I became a Travel Agent and other travel agents can join under my agency.
13. Start a YouTube Channel
YouTube is the second biggest search engine on the planet behind Google. The easiest way to launch a channel is simply to re-configure blog content into YouTube videos and cross-link between the two. Traffic that comes to your WordPress blog can be directed over to your YouTube channel and people who stumble on your video can be prompted to go see more details on your website.
14. Brand Partnerships
Develop long-term partnerships with brands that align with your blog’s values and audience. These can go beyond simple sponsored posts to include joint ventures, co-branded content, or long-term ambassador roles.
15. Starting a Podcast
Multimedia is a game-changer. Start a podcast to complement your WordPress blog. This approach not only reaches a wider audience but also opens up additional revenue streams like sponsorships and ad revenue. Embed episodes on your blog and use it to drive traffic back to your multimedia content.
16. Sponsored Blog Posts
Forge partnerships with brands that resonate with your audience. Craft content that naturally integrates their message into your blog’s theme. It’s key to choose sponsors that align with your values and interests, ensuring authenticity. Sponsored post is a win-win, offering valuable content to your readers while you earn.
17. Paid Reviews
Turn your expertise into profit with paid product reviews. Choose products or services that are relevant and beneficial to your readers. Transparency is crucial and so always disclose the nature of these reviews. This approach builds trust while providing a direct income stream.
18. Email Marketing
Your email list is a direct connection to your target audience. Use it wisely to promote carefully selected affiliate products or exclusive deals on your own offerings. Craft engaging, personalized emails that speak directly to your subscribers’ needs and interests. This method helps deepen the relationship with your audience while boosting your earnings.
19. Flipping Websites
Tap into the business of building and optimizing WordPress sites, then selling them. This requires a knack for creating engaging, SEO-friendly content and understanding the market’s needs. It’s a unique blend of creativity, technical skill, and business acumen.
20. Freelance Writing
Your blog is your portfolio. Showcase your writing skills and offer your services to a broader market. Whether it’s for other blogs, digital magazines, or content platforms, your expertise can command a premium price.
Gain Experience: Write for Nomad Veronica
21. Photography and Image Sales
Blend your passion for photography with blogging. Offer high-quality images for sale, or subscriptions for exclusive access to your photo collections. This can be particularly lucrative if your blog is focused on travel, food, lifestyle, or any visually-rich niche.
22. Public Speaking
Use your online presence as a way to promote yourself as an authority in your specific niche. Find conferences or companies that have conventions where your message would resonate. You can not only charge for your time but also travel expenses which can catapult your travel hacking points accumulation.
23. E-commerce and Dropshipping
Your blog is a perfect platform to launch an e-commerce venture. With dropshipping, you can sell products without managing inventory. Select products that align with your blog’s theme to maintain consistency and authenticity with your audience. Read My Guide: What to Dropship on Etsy
24. Guest Posting Services
If your blog has established authority and traffic, offer guest posting opportunities for a fee. This not only generates income but also brings fresh perspectives and content to your blog, keeping your audience engaged.
25. WordPress Consultation and Training
Capitalize on your WordPress expertise. Offer consultation services for WordPress setup, optimization, and content strategy. Conduct workshops or one-on-one training sessions. This is a great way to establish yourself as a WordPress expert and create an additional income stream.
26. Virtual Events
Host virtual events or workshops on topics relevant to your blog’s niche. Charge a registration fee or secure sponsorships. This is an effective way to leverage your expertise and engage with your audience more interactively. Hosting these events with other strategic partners is one of the top ways to grow your audience.
27. Private Coaching or Mentoring Sessions
Offer personalized coaching or mentoring sessions related to your blog’s content. This can include anything from personal development to specific skills training. Use your blog to advertise these services and connect with potential clients.
28. Selling Custom Merchandise
Design and sell custom merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags. Use print-on-demand services to minimize upfront costs. This is a fun way to promote your blog’s brand while earning extra income. A side brand that I started with a friend has it’s own branded merchandise: Moms Who Expat
29. Utilizing Crowdfunding for Projects
If you have a big project or idea, consider crowdfunding. Use platforms like Kickstarter to finance it, promoting the campaign on your WordPress blog. This can support projects like books, documentaries, or new product lines.
30. Real Estate Listings and Promotions
If your blog is in the real estate niche, use it to promote listings or offer advertising space to real estate agents. This can be a lucrative option, especially in high-demand markets. As a remote income coach I use real estate investing and Airbnb hosting as part of my collective knowledge base. You can stay at my Airbnb near Portland Oregon or learn how to launch your own Airbnb through the Homeowner Hustle E-Course.
31. Subscription Boxes
Create and sell subscription boxes related to your blog’s theme. Curate items that your audience will love and offer these boxes on a recurring basis. It’s a unique way to create a consistent revenue stream. When I was still living in the United States I used to curate a subscription box called After Dark Box for my Pure Romance clients. You can still shop my Pure Romance shop even though I don’t offer the subscription boxes anymore.
32. Online Marketplaces and Auctions
Host an online marketplace or auction on your blog. This could be for niche-specific products or services. It’s an engaging way to draw traffic and transactions directly through your WordPress site.
33. Writing and Selling a Book
Leverage your expertise and audience by writing and selling a book or comprehensive guide. Use your blog as a platform to promote and sell either your eBook or a physical book. I’m currently editing a book I’ve written called ‘Stop Lying to Yourself‘ which I intend to pitch to agents later this year. Writing a book is an amazing way to build authority for your brand.
34. Offering Translation Services
If you are proficient in multiple languages, offer translation services. Your blog can serve as a platform to showcase your skills and connect with clients needing translation work.
35. Career and Job Board Listings
If your blog is in a specific industry or niche, adding a job board can be beneficial. Charge companies to list job openings. This not only provides a service to your readers but also generates additional income.
36. Accept Donations
If your blog offers valuable content or supports a cause, consider adding a donation button. Platforms like PayPal or Buy Me a Coffee make it easy to accept donations from readers who want to support your work. This can be particularly effective for blogs with a dedicated following or those in non-profit niches.
37. Custom Plugin or Theme Development
If you have the technical skills, offer custom plugin or theme development services. Many WordPress users seek unique features or designs for their sites and are willing to pay for custom solutions.
38. Personalized Meal Plans or Workout Programs
For health, fitness, or nutrition bloggers, creating personalized meal plans or workout programs can be a lucrative avenue. Use your blog to promote these customized services to your audience.
39. Business Directory Listings
Create a directory listing for businesses related to your blog’s niche. Charge businesses a fee to be listed in your directory. This can be a valuable resource for your readers and a source of income for your blog.
Answering the question, Can you make money blogging on WordPress? leads us to an array of dynamic and feasible monetization strategies. Each method opens up new possibilities for income. What’s crucial is choosing the avenues that best align with your blog’s theme, your skills, and your audience’s interests.
You can’t go after all the monetization strategies on this list thinking more is better. The type of content you produce will dictate which of these options are best suited. My advice is to pick one and give it everything you’ve got for a month. That means researching effective ways to implement the strategy, finding a specific product that works for your niche, and taking decisive action to execute the plan. All the research in the world won’t allow your WordPress blog to earn any money, it’s only action that can create income.
Leveraging Your Skills and Services
I know any of the list items above can seem like get-rich-quick schemes, but I assure you it’s very unlikely that you’ll find success right away. Instead, you should focus on your willingness to keep doing the next right thing over and over until you finally get results.
One great way to ensure you persevere is to utilize your existing skills instead of doing things entirely outside your nature. Almost always, the path to success is filled with simple steps, they just have to be done in a very specific order or very specific way.
Some skillsets lend themselves to being a solopreneur and navigating their way through all the steps themselves. Other skills are better utilized as part of a collaborative effort like building an agency to manage the income generation of your WordPress blog.
1. Writing
If you are an effective writer than you’ve got a leg up on all of us that need the assistance of A.I., blog editors, and husbands who read millions of words all for the purpose of putting out quality content. One thing I will note is that being good at writing does not always translate into being good at marketing copy, email blasts, or articles intended for search engine optimization. Be sure to learn about all kinds of writing as you grow your money making WordPress blog.
2. Speaking
Being good with words is a skill that can generate a lot of income. Creating social media videos, e-course content, and becoming a public speaker all rely on being able to speak in a way that resonates with others. Great speakers know how to weave a story, use emotion, and make their words memorable. The best part is that great speakers attract income opportunities much more easily than people who are not highly visible.
3. Organization
Content creation and building a profitable WordPress site depend on your ability to follow through. Making a to-do-list with no execution will certainly not produce the results you are hoping for. If organization comes as second nature than you have a distinct edge. People who can stay organized in the pursuit of their income plans are likely to earn more money faster than someone who is scatter brained and un-organized.
4. Ideas
You might just be a big ideas kind of person. Coming up with a great idea isn’t worth very much unless you can convince someone it’s a good thing and get them to help you execute. Some of the most successful people in society are big idea people. The risk with this skillset is that you may be unwilling to do the part where you get people on your team for the ‘doing‘ part of the plan. You have to overcome that hesitation if you want to make money.
5. Leadership
The ability to delegate is far more rare than you might realize. Use your ability to put teams together to combine idea people with organized people and you can create a lot of income.
Expanding Your Income Streams
After you feel like you’ve tapped all the popular options for monetizing your blog I encourage you to zoom out to analyze your business from a macro level. You can only earn so much money from a blog with it’s own online store and amazon associates affiliate links.
My plan is to create two or three brands and use my blog as a means of marketing. Once your audience is large enough that you have membership tiers, loyal email subscribers, and active engagement on social media then laughing companies is an ideal next move.
It’s a great thing if the brands you launch are intended for the same target audience as your popular blog. Your spin off companies can be either physical products or virtual offerings. Large companies take a long time to build so if you envision this to be your future than start brainstorming now while you’re still just a blogger.
Building and Growing Your Audience
1. Creating High-Quality Blog Posts
The foundation of a successful WordPress blog? Stellar content. Can you make money blogging on WordPress? Yes, if your content rocks. Focus on high-quality, original blog posts. They should provide value, be engaging, and cater to your target audience’s interests. Use SEO best practices to ensure your posts rank well in search engines, driving organic traffic to your site.
2. SEO is Your Best Friend in Blogging
SEO is non-negotiable. Use keywords naturally, optimize your images, provide alt tags, and create compelling meta descriptions. Remember that good SEO practices are essential for visibility. Without visibility the blog you’re spending endless hours on is pointless.
3. Amplifying Your Reach Through Social Media
Use social media platforms to promote your content and engage with your audience. Share snippets, behind-the-scenes looks, and quick tips. It’s promoting your posts and building a community around your WordPress blog. Engage with followers, join conversations, and drive traffic back to your blog.
4. Email Marketing
An email list is a goldmine. It’s a direct line to your readers. Use it to share exclusive content, updates, and promotions. Regular newsletters keep your audience engaged and direct them back to your WordPress site. This consistent engagement is key in turning casual readers into loyal followers.
5. Collaboration and Networking
Collaborate with fellow bloggers or influencers. Guest post on other blogs. Invite others to contribute to your site. These collaborations expand your reach, introducing your WordPress blog to a new audience. Networking is a powerful tool in growing your blog’s presence.
Your Next Steps…
Taking the Leap
So, can you make money blogging on WordPress? Absolutely! You’ve seen the diverse ways to turn your blog into a revenue stream. It will be hard work, but anything worth having is hard. Your WordPress journey doesn’t end here. It’s just beginning.
Keep Learning and Growing
The world of WordPress blogging is always evolving. Stay curious. Keep learning about SEO, content creation, and audience engagement. These are your tools for success. Always remember that every successful blogger started where you are now. They kept going. You can too.
Ready to start? Take that first step. Choose one monetization method to focus on. Experiment and see what works best for you and your audience. Start small, think big, and watch your WordPress blog grow.
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