Are You Ready to Be Product Reviewer?

Here is something I have learned since taking my blogging seriously: it is easier to become a product tester than you think. With just a little work, and absolutely no fees, you too can become a product tester.

The best way, as with anything, is to start small. What do I mean? Well the first time I tried, I was so excited about all the bloggers I was meeting, who product tested regularly. They got so much good stuff from major companies, they held monthly giveaways. So I went for the big dogs, before even having my mission statement clear ("cart before the horse" syndrome). Of course I got denied, or no replies.

Then I took a step back to assess what would attract companies to me, and what types of businesses and products I wanted to support. After a certain point, things began to turn around for me. So it's best to figure out who you are as a blogger first.

Here are some things to ask yourself:

1. Who are you? What do you like? (Do you like gadgets, makeup, clothes, books?)

2. How is your online presence? Where is it that you have influence? (Is it on Twitter, Facebook, etc?)

3. Who do you know? Where can you start? (Do you personally know a business whose product or service you can review?)

4. How are your writing skills? Do you have basic photo skills? (Companies prefer to be represented by articulate individuals.)


5. Do you have a Youtube or blog? Do you have a reliable internet connection? (This relates to question #2)

6. Are you willing to put in time and effort? Do you have a follow up system? (Work to improve this as needed.)

7. How is your track record? Do you review your own products already? (No company is going to trust sending you things to review, unless they see you do that already, on your own.)


Once you have figured out where you stand, you are on your way. Remember, don't get discouraged. It is ok to ask for advice. I will be writing more on this topic as I learn. So check back, and share in your comments your experiences. I would love to hear about it.