Google Ads, Amazon Associates and Donations

[diamondlil]

When we decided to start this forum, the costs associated with it have been met by the admins. One of the things that we did talk about was not about making a profit because we get so much enjoyment from the forums ourselves, but by the same token we would like the site to pay for itself.


As a result, you may have noticed that Google ads have appeared on the website. Whilst it is probably not the favourite thing to see on the forum, every little bit will help. In due course, the ads will become more targetted to our interests.


Another thing that we are planning to do is to use the Amazon Associates referral program, particularly in relation to the book of the month etc. If you feel so inclined we would be grateful if you can feel free to support the site by purchasing via the referral links when they are up.


Finally, a number of people have mentioned that they would be willing to make a contribution towards the cost of the site. If you wish to do this, we will gladly accept contributions. Any contributions will be confidential. If you want to do so, please PM Boswellbaxter and she will make arrangements with you in relation to this matter.


We hope that these actions won't hinder your enjoyment of the forum, which is the first and foremost consideration of any decisions that we make.

[JaneConsumer]

Glad to see this. I'll be PM'ing BB.

[SonjaMarie]

I figured you joined Adsense but it's sure taking it's time to get you proper ads! I did click on it already, but I wasn't sure if anything was happening with just the PSA's, can you let me know if you earned anything yet?

SM

[boswellbaxter]

I have to get a new PIN number from Google (I had one months ago, but I didn't need it at the time) before the "real" ads will show up. That shouldn't take but a few days, hopefully.

[Divia]

I'm not a fan of the ads but I understand. Id rather have the forum. :)

I know a site that also uses the Amazon link. And from what I understand if you click on the link and buy anything from Amazon a portion of the sale goes to the website. But I could be wrong. Still, I think that one is a great idea.

Donation will be coming. Let me get my first teacher paycheck under me :)

[Margaret]

Does it help to click on the public service ads that are up now? I've made a point of clicking on them a few times. I don't mind the ads at all, provided they don't move, flash, or otherwise demand my attention when I'm trying to read a post.

[boswellbaxter]

Does it help to click on the public service ads that are up now? I've made a point of clicking on them a few times. I don't mind the ads at all, provided they don't move, flash, or otherwise demand my attention when I'm trying to read a post.

I don't think it helps, but at least it helps the public service! Still waiting for that PIN--after that we should be getting regular ads (which will be well behaved).

[Ash]

I also don't mind ads, as long as they do not disrupt my reading of the post (I remember one pop up on another forum that had bees going over the page and it took forever to find the 'close' button) I certainly prefer ads over dues so go for it. I also appreciate giving us a few other options to help out the site.

BTW have you looked at Cafe Press? Its an online conglomeration of many independent stores and non profit organizations that sell to raise money. Not sure exactly how it works, but I know another forum I'm on (readerville) has used it for years. Also have you considered seeing if you can get an Amazon or Booksense link that will help you raise money for every book sold from that link?

[Misfit]

I just saw this (http://dearauthor.com/wordpress/amazon-store/) over at Dear Author.

"Check out the new and upcoming releases from the Dear Author Amazon store. You don't have to buy anything from the store, but you can use it as a reference. If you do buy something, Dear Author gets a kick back of 6%."

[LCW]

I'm OK with non-intrusive ads or making a donation. Either way is cool with me!

Is there a way to get a chat room on this forum?

[Divia]

I just saw this (http://dearauthor.com/wordpress/amazon-store/) over at Dear Author.

"Check out the new and upcoming releases from the Dear Author Amazon store. You don't have to buy anything from the store, but you can use it as a reference. If you do buy something, Dear Author gets a kick back of 6%."


Wow thats pretty good!

[diamondlil]

Certainly something to think about for further down the track.

[Divia]

Yeah its a good idea. Hey, money is money and ever little bit helps.

[boswellbaxter]

There is an Amazon search function on the site now--an Amazon Associates setup.

[Misfit]

I saw that. So if we search a book through that and buy it you get a kick back?

[boswellbaxter]

I saw that. So if we search a book through that and buy it you get a kick back?

That's the idea!

[Misfit]

I promise to use it with future orders. :)

[Ash]

Oh, I hadn't noticed that before, its on the home page (I usually go right to 'new posts' so I didn't see it at first) Yep, I'll be going there as well