5 Reasons You Should Give Away Content for Free

Many blogging newbies assume that everyone in this business makes a huge sum of money each and every year. Don’t get me wrong. There are bloggers out there who easily pull 6 figures (some even pull 7 figures) from their efforts. But they all started somewhere. It is always amazing to me to see people who have just gotten started in the blogging world but are constantly complaining about how they should not be giving their content for free. Some offer their content for free for a while and then start focusing on paid content exclusively. This approach may work for some but it’s not the right way to build a business.

People do not want to pay for anything these days. But they will if your content is good enough. The trouble is, you can’t get the word out about your content without giving your content for free, especially when you are just getting started. Your free content can go viral and get you a lot of publicity and attention. Greedy publishers usually shoot themselves in the foot by closing their doors, losing a significant portion of their audience in the process.

Complaining about not making enough money from blogging is not going to solve anything. Charging for all your content is definitely not the answer. Here are just 5 reasons why you should give your content for free:

• Gauge the level of interest in your product: giving away your content for free is the best way to find out whether there is demand for your product. This does not just apply to bloggers. Video and radio programs can use this approach as well. Many podcasters that I know started by giving away their product for free. They continue doing so. That way, their doors are always open to new listeners. If people are not willing to read or consume your free content, how can you expect them to pay for your future works?
• Gauge your influence: let’s say you have a free podcast program with thousands of listeners. Are those folks ready to take the actions that you need them to? By keeping your doors open to as many people as possible, you can do all kinds of tests and see whether you are building any level of loyalty and influence with your audience.
• Promote yourself and your business: you may lose your business or your job, but no one can take away the content that you have created and gotten in front of as many people as possible. Your free content can be a great promotional tool for you and your business. Who knows. Your work may open unexpected doors of opportunity for you.
• Build a Community: there is no “me” in the community. We all want to make as much money as possible from our efforts. But if you are just in it for the money, you are in the wrong business. For me, blogging is all about my passions and having a chance to share my experiences with others and learn from them. Giving away your work for free can help you build a larger community and show your visitors you are serious about your niche and value their loyalty.
• Free content does not mean free business model: let’s say you have a free blog. That does not mean that should be your only business. Freemium business models can work for most blogs. You can also use your free blog to promote your paid (but separate) business. Nothing is stopping you.

It is always disappointing to see people complain and moan about the time they spend creating free articles and podcasts for their audience. Nobody likes to hear excuses. If you are not willing to offer your content for free, there is someone else who will. Will people stick around when someone is just obsessed about him/herself and money?