Social Media | All About Linkups, Blog Hops & Social Sharing

I haven't really touched on the topic of linkups, blog hops and social sharing as a way to expand your social reach. So I thought, why not! When I first started blogging I was an avid user of hops and linkys; but honestly I just haven't had the time lately.

Still, without the parties and the blog hops, my personal blog would likely not still be thriving. And without the personal blog, I never would have started blogging for business.

So are you ready to learn the difference and why they can benefit you and your blog? Read on lovelies!

Linkups:

What is a link up? Linkups can best be defined as a place where someone hosts a place to link up a specific URL. Some linkups are all about social media, others are for posts of a specific theme.When I first got going I would link up in as many places possible, and to this day I still use the SoMe2 linkup when I have time (I was even their featured Tweeter one week!). A linkup will usually have a specific set of rules as decided by the creator and they all pretty much follow the same etiquette. Like, share and always follow back.

Why should you join a linkup? To gain followers on social media or to get eyes on specific posts.

What other info do you need to know? Well, truth be told, linkups are really great for the initial start up of your blogging career. A warning would be that a lot of people don't follow the rules but still expect you to. So you are like;y to get "false followers" (people who come by and say things like "I'm from #SoMe2! Follow Back!" and then you never hear from them again and they stop following along after a week or so). Be careful which linkups you join and try to only choose ones you have time to follow the rules on and that best benefit your blog.

Blog Hops:

What is a blog hop? A blog hops is a lot like linkup but you link your main blog url, not a specific post. One of my favorites is BrePea's The Collective where you can linkup your blog and your social media each month.

Why should you join a blog hop? For the same reasons as joining a linkup but with the added benefit of really making some deeper connections as a blogger.

What other info do you need to know? Pretty much the same as with a linkup, not everyone follows the rule. Beware of "fair weather followers" and always follow only those who interest you or are in your niche.

Social Sharing:

What is social sharing? Social sharing is when you and a specific people or a group agree to share each others content via your own accounts.

Why should you try social sharing? Because you will meet some of the most amazing people in your niche and gain some serious exposure.

What other info do you need to know? Usually social sharing happens in a group on Facebook or in a "tribe" via an online community. You should not join a social sharing group or network if you cannot commit to the degree of sharing you will be required to do.

A last note about linkups, blog hops and social sharing -

It's ok to join in one week or month but not go back. Sometimes a specific type or host just isn't a good match. Don't feel bad if this happens. Move on and find what works for you!