New England’s “Mommy” Bloggers Tell All

On Monday, January 25, the Publicity Club of New England continued its exploration of the ever-changing world of social media by bringing together some of the area’s most prominent “Mommy” bloggers. The sold out event, which took place at Boston’s Hotel 140, gave communications professionals a look into the minds of these increasingly influential online voices and tips on how to build long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with each one of them.

Susan GetGood, principal of GetGood Strategic Marketing and author of multiple professional and personal blogs, moderated the panel, which included: Lylah Alphonse from Boston.com and WorkItMom.com; Christy Matte from More Than Mommy, Quirky Fusion, and About.Com Family Computing Site; Audrey McClelland, from Mom Generations, Lifetime Moms Beauty and Style Editor, Walmart ElevenMoms; and Jodi Grundig from Moms Favorite Stuff, Multi Tasking Mommy, and Walt Disney World Moms Panel.

At the beginning of the discussion, it was immediately obvious how each woman is very different, from their backgrounds to their reasons for becoming bloggers to their writing styles and preferences for working with them. Some are even bound by the “journalism rules” associated with contributing to traditional media outlets. Other topics that created much discussion included how new FTC guidelines about compensation transparency has changed their world, how the growth of their children impact the focus of their blog, and how their lives intertwine with their blogging.

However, while each woman expressed some different views on blogging, a few common themes emerged:

Remember that blogging is about community: This includes building, maintaining and interacting with it.
Treat each blogger with respect: While they may be mothers, they are also professionals that value their time.
Do your homework: Be sure to research each blog to ensure it’s the right audience before making contact.
Build strong relationships: Understanding how each blogger prefers to work is critical in developing long-term partnerships with them.
Ask before you send: For companies looking to get bloggers to review their products, be sure to ask permission before shipping out.

Moderator Susan GetGood closed out the event by asking each woman about her favorite blogs: