Like the title?
Yea, I’m sucking up a little to you all.
That’s because I need your help.
When you have a question and need to do a bit of research, why not turn to your community, right?
So, let’s jump right into it. I hope you’ll be willing to help a mami out.
Here are my questions.
- What are some standard Virtual Assistant (VA) rates? Even if just the base starting price for standard services.
- Do you charge to review products? If so, what’s your standard asking price?
- Do you charge to host a contest? Again, what’s your standard asking price?
- If you don’t charge for #2 and/or #3 above, then why not? Do you find you get lots of exposure? Is that enough?
- If you do charge for #2 and/or #3 above, has it worked? That is, have you actually been paid by PR companies or even the product’s company?
I realize some of these questions may be sensitive in nature to some. But, the thing is that no one talks about it (that I’ve seen) and it’s hard to know what you’re getting into if you don’t have “real” experiences to relate to.
I’m hoping that by being frank and putting these out there, I’ll get some great answers, ideas, links, etc in the comments…from the perfect source. You!
If you would prefer not to answer these in the comments, feel free to email me with your answer.
melanie (at) modernmami (dot) com
Looking forward to getting your responses.
Oh, and thanks! 🙂
Did you read the eBook I sent you? I have never charged less than $250 per contest. I only review products for free when a friend of mine who owns a business sends me something (mom to mom favor). I view the blogs I own as real estate…the same way NBC or CBS values their time and don’t let companies profit commercially for free. Too many mom bloggers do and then complain about lacking funds.
#1 – no answer
#2 & #3 – My blog is pretty new, so I don’t charge any fees if someone comes to me asking me to do a review or a giveaway on my blog. For reviews, they do need to send me the item though (which does not get returned). For giveaways they have to supply the prize and ship directly to the winner. If they want a combo – the same still applies, one sample to me for review and when giveaway is over they ship to winner(s). For now, this is what works for me and I am hoping it will continue to help my blog as it helps the company/sponsor also.
#4 – n/a
I’ve asked myself this question too as a new blogger. I have so far not been taking any money for hosting giveaways or doing product reviews on my blog. I figure it’s new and I still have to get the traffic up then I will start thinking about implementing that.
As far as answering question number 1, I think it depends on the services you are providing and wha your specialties are. I have picked a number that I feel comfortable giving to prospective clients without batting an eyelash. I think it all depends on your area and your specialty. Feel free to email me if you have specific questions!
It looks like we’re in the same boat! 🙂
@Bunmi: I’ve read your eBook and what you have to say makes sense.
@Robyn: Would you do the same if it was a bigger name company/sponsor? Such as Burger King or another big name brand? I’m not sure if you’ve already done that type of review/giveaway.
@Jai: Thanks for your input. I might take you up on that as I continue my research. 🙂
For right now, regardless of the size of the company, my answers would be the same. It doesn’t matter if it’s a major company or a mom & pop shop.
Thanks Robyn!