Yes, I activated Infolinks last night to see what it was like. No, I'm not thrilled about it myself, is my initial reaction to seeing them. I was thinking I might make my story links more clear, but it's only the first day. The first thing this morning some self-professed loyal readers who say they love the blog and read it every day are threatening to leave. I can appreciate that.
Unfortunately, I must also note that back on July 8th I noted that it was my birthday and, if anyone wanted, they could always hit the tip jar. The sum total of that haul was $0.
For small and medium size blogs, I doubt Infolinks will generate significant money. The various ad programs don't, though I certainly can't complain, either. But then, it isn't as though I'm trying to make a living off of just this blog out here.
But hey, some relatively few more bucks to cover hosting costs, long distance calls I make to try to verify information and such, might be nice. Were not talking big dollars here, in any case.
I don't think I've done a bleg a year in about six years out here. Whatever the reason, they never generate anything. Perhaps the blogging just isn't worth enough, or I don't do them well, or do them often enough to encourage tips, or I've never gotten the feel for it, to make it an effective activity. Whatever. I don't even like discussing this in a post.
But I am disappointed to see some would be fans so quick to cut and run. I've never pretended to be anything other than a capitalist. I'll evaluate the program and make up my own mind going forward, perhaps considering what, if any, revenue they generate and how they impact readership when I can. It's too soon to tell.
Oooooooooohhh.......totally understandable. It's a minor inconvenience. I'll continue checking here several times a day.... even if you add zebra stripes in neon!
Posted by: Ad rem | Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 03:45 PM
Keep the ads. They don't really detract. If people come here for content, then they will keep coming back.
Posted by: Scott | Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 04:27 PM
I call bullshit on the long-distance phone calls; there is no evidence you've ever checked a single fact in your entire life.
Posted by: Nut | Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 07:16 PM
Whoever came up with the word 'bleg' wasn't thinking. It's a horrible word that implies begging. In the years I've come to your blog, the first thing I notice is the powerfully laidback look. It's the best on the web. Then it's content and great commentary with very little interference from you. Few blogs match this laissez faire attitude you have about the blog itself. Your seriousness about content is what draws people. Why anyone would complain about anything here is beyond me. Check out NRO. It's like taking LSD. I refuse to go there again, and I refuse to visit blogs where the 'tip jar' is constantly mentioned. A good blog IS a service, and as we are all used to tipping/rewarding for good service, so what. I find it admirable that you've only mentioned it a few times considering the fine service you offer your readers.
So, thank you, Dan.
Posted by: Meta | Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 09:46 PM
It must be hard for you, Dan. I imagine you'll die alone, probably of aids for all I know and probably in a San Francisco flop house living on the government's dime.
Posted by: Brother | Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 11:14 PM
I'd donate...but you know, I don't want to support complete fabrications and the duping of other people.
Posted by: Acer | Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 12:50 PM
Your blog is a piece of shit with Infolinks, and it was a piece of shit without Infolinks. Six of one, etc.
Posted by: Porelli Pizzicata | Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 01:12 PM
How much of your time do you spend off that big cross of yours?
Posted by: Rj | Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 01:44 PM
Happy belated birthday.
I guess the market has spoken...
Posted by: Jim | Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 07:33 PM
Dear Mr Riehl,
One hundred dollars has been donated in your name to Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
GMHC is a volunteer-supported and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS.
Lots of love and a belated happy birthday!
Posted by: Laura Doner | Friday, July 24, 2009 at 01:06 AM
"Unfortunately, I must also note that back on July 8th I noted that it was my birthday and, if anyone wanted, they could always hit the tip jar. The sum total of that haul was $0."
Funniest thing I've seen today. Can't stop laughing. Thanks!
Posted by: Jon | Sunday, July 26, 2009 at 02:11 AM
You earn what you're worth.
Capitalism at it's finest.
Posted by: smgumby | Friday, July 31, 2009 at 07:32 AM