I have heard about bloggers networking privately with one another for a while. I wished that I was in a private network like that, but I hated the thought of trying to ask people. Who would want to network with me? It would be embarrassing to ask someone and have them say no. So, I just kept wishing for it, but not having it.
Every so often, I would think, “You know, maybe I should just try to start something.” Then, I would again doubt myself and worry about putting myself out like that, only to be rejected.
Instead of risking my own pride, I sat around and waited for someone to ask me. You know what? That usually doesn’t work.
Then, between Blissdom and this great post about using networks to grow your blog (by Toni ~ The Happy Housewife, whom I absolutely love), I finally just said to myself, “If it’s going to happen, it’s because you’ll be the one to do it.”
I then promptly sent out emails to around 13 bloggers that I knew (some better than others) that I felt would get along well (and that I would enjoy hanging out with too!). I held my breath sending out that email. I thought that if I sent out to more than I thought I needed to have in a group, then it wouldn’t be a big deal when some said, “Are you kidding? What do you think you’re doing? You’re insane.”
Well, of course, wouldn’t you know — I heard from almost everyone, and each of them with something along these lines, “I’m so excited about your email! I would LOVE to do this!”
The network is wonderful, and it’s great to have friends that you can ask the questions that you just can’t ask other bloggers. I can’t recommend it enough!
So, I guess this Works for Me Wednesday is two-fold. #1 – A private network of blogging friends definitely works for me! #2 – It actually works to sometimes be the person to make the first move. The worst that you can hear is no, but sometimes, when you try something that makes you nervous, you might just get an “I’m so excited about your email! I would LOVE to do this!”
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Great tip. Excited for you that your requests were well received! Have a blessed week.
I am so excited that you were bold and reached out to other bloggers! Great job!
Toni
http://thehappyhousewife.com
what a great idea, and good for you for being the courageious one. tell us how does your network connect? via email?
What a great idea!! And good for you for having the courage to reach out! Look forward to meeting you at Relevant!
I am such an idiot, I just realized I never responded to your email! I saved it to go back and read later and never did. How rude of me, I need to go back and see what other emails I forgot to look at!
Way to step out!
Hey Angie,
I think I recognize you.
Did you used to hang out at Lifetime Moments?
Great blog!
Yes, I did used to be on Lifetime Moments.
I still miss it!
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