Blame this one on me, not on Chris. Wikipedia describes selling out as “compromising of one’s integrity, morality and principles in exchange for money, success or other personal gain” – notice the Google Adsense “Selling Out” slot on the right side of the page.
First, I am naturally curious; I doubt that this is going to produce any money, but if it does, then I suppose I am selling out but not to the damn “spank the monkey” sites. Second, I do not find the ads intrusive; interesting, but not yet intrusive, so they should not negatively impact end user enjoyment of the Recycle Bin. Third, long term, the ads may go away, they may change positions, or they may evolve into something else entirely different. The honest answer is that today I am just experimenting.
I never thought I would put ads on the site; I need to find the original site mission/vision statement just for giggles. That would put the monkey quote in context. No, I am not lacking for money (of course there is never enough), and I have not had too much cheap beer to drink (unfortunately). The Recycle Bin is something I do for fun; to relieve stress, to become a better writer (go figure), and to give something back to other old fart gamers (back at you Chris). It is really not about the money; I am more interested in what will be displayed based on content.
I am rambling, almost as if I am justifying putting the ads on the site. This is something I have been kicking around since I put Google Analytics on the site several months ago. Must be time for some cheap beer.
Don’t feel like a “sell out” – sooner or later it becomes so time consuming you deserve to get a little back. If you want to learn how to maximize those kick-backs you might want to check out Postiecon (http://www.postiecon.com/) this year. Basically a bunch of blogging celebrities are going to teach the beginners how to get the most out of their blog.
Taylor, the only rock star around here is Chris, and he probably does not realize his star potential. LOL
Some friends and co-workers have told me that I am not getting the most of of the site. To be honest, that is not what I am trying to do (at least not right now). I am just sort of curious what will turn up in the ads.
Your comment begs the question – how did you come across the site? Money for nothing and chicks for free? Or do you just dig our content day in and day out? Please do not tell me spam – our filter does such a damn find job that my heart would break.
believe it or not I was searching blogs for “beer.” go figure.
funny … not that I have had any beer tonight or anything like that … not me.