Whassupjack.com

Entrecard

I have been a member of Entrecard for a week.  It is a blog introduction/advertising platform. It is free to join. The basic premise is to explore the blog community and advertise you blog to other targeted blogs. It is a great place to meet other blogs and find potential readers. Who reads blogs more than blog authors.

The Basics

It is easy to enroll and takes about five minutes to fill out the online forms.
After joining, you must design a 125X125 pixel calling card. It is like an online business card. It is very important to put some effort into the design. As you explore other blogs, you drop your card into their mailbox. This serves two functions. You are introducing yourself to a potential reader and gaining points. The points are redeemable to advertise on other blogs. If people drop cards in your mailbox then you earn points as well. Each blog is rated by the point system. The more popular blogs will have a higher advertising point score. This is the cost to advertise on their 125X125 pixel ad site. The most expensive blog right now is John Chow at 280 points. When you want to advertise you apply at their blog and await approval. Most blogs will approve your ad especially if your are in the same category. If you are venturing well outside your category, your ad approval rate will decline. 

Tips for Entrecard Users

Most Recent Members

I like to scan the Recently joined list and drop my card as an introduction and try to place an ad. It serves two purposes. It’s nice to be one of the first to appear in their inbox. They will at least visit your site. That is a potential reader for your blog. When you first join the points to advertise are very low. Usually it’s 2 points. It’s a great chance to get the cheapest exposure.

Surf your category
I have added at least 10 blogs to my reader list. It’s great to find a new unexplored blog. Drop your card and try and buy some advertising space. When you first find a blog, give them the courtesy of a few minutes of your time to explore. If you like it drop your card and hit the ad for the next blog. It will be well appreciated.

Surf for points

After you have explored for awhile, I surf my favorite blogs quickly when they post something. I exit by clicking on their ads after I drop my card. A quick round of surfing can earn points to use for purchasing ads later.