Trust me, I’ve tried.

I’ve been running local media for over a decade with The Mobile Rundown [both a blog and newsletter].

And here’s what I’ve learned:

Simple wins.

Every time.

So let me show you the exact tech stack I use to run a profitable local newsletter.

No fluff. No overcomplicated systems.

Just what actually works.

Quick note: I find a lot of value in communities, so I started an online community of local newsletter operators who share strategy and ideas. I’d love for you to look into joining us!

The Newsletter Foundation: Your Core 4 Tools

1. beehiiv (Your Email Platform)

This is where the magic happens.

I use beehiiv for our email newsletter.

[here’s a discount if you want to test it out].

Here’s a cool feature.

beehiiv has its own advertiser network.

You can start making money from their advertisers before you ever land your first local sponsor.

Pretty cool, right?

Plus, every newsletter you send becomes a live URL on their platform.

So beehiiv isn’t just an email tool.

It’s basically a full website.

Two tools in one.

If I had found beehiiv before launching our blog, I’m not sure I’d still have 2 different web properties.

2. WordPress (Your Content Hub)

I still use WordPress for my main blog site.

Even though beehiiv handles a lot of the web stuff.

WordPress gives me more control for longer content and SEO.

It’s where I house articles like this one.

You’ll need to get web hosting (I currently use WPX and am very happy with them).

WordPress is still a great option, but…

There are other great options out there as technology advances.

WordPress needs to continue to evolve to keep me on its platform.

Here’s my guide to starting a blog if you go this route…

3. Canva + AI Tools (Your Design Stack)

Canva for the basics – I use it daily.

But I’m using AI tools like Nano Banana more often now.

Why?

Because it can make adjustments to images just by typing out what you want.

And it will continue to evolve and get better.

As a note, Canva is continuing to evolve, also!

4. Google Analytics (Your Analytics… Sort Of)

Of course, I use Google Analytics.

But let’s be honest.

It’s pretty horrific for what I actually need to know.

That’s why I’m building my own tool to display the data more easily!

Sometimes you gotta solve your own problems.

But you 100% need some sort of analytics tool so that you are aware of traffic sources and trends.

The Social Media Revenue Machine

Here’s where it gets interesting.

I’m on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

My advice is to pick no more than 2 platforms and perfect those before expanding.

But Facebook is special.

Our Facebook page actually drives revenue directly from Facebook’s monetization program.

Yep, Facebook pays me to create content for our local community.

Most local media professionals are unaware of this.

But it’s real money.

And it compounds over time.

The Local Business Tools

CitySpark for Events

I use CitySpark for our events calendar now.

Used to use the calendar plugin from Modern Tribe.

But I’m actually looking to build my own AI-powered calendar.

Why?

Because local events are a huge traffic driver.

And most calendar tools aren’t built for local media.

There’s an opportunity here.

The Rest of the Stack

The beauty of starting simple?

You can add tools as you grow.

You don’t need everything on day one.

Start with the core 4.

Get your first 1,000 subscribers.

Then expand.

Beyond the Newsletter: The Full Local Media Play

Once your newsletter is humming, you can expand.

We expanded into print with a publication that highlights non-profits in our region.

We run events (like silent disco parties that book through our newsletter).

We even have video content that feeds back into the newsletter.

Everything builds upon itself.

The compound effect in action.

Start Simple, Then Stack

Look, you could research tools for months.

Or you could start with these 4 and launch next week.

I vote for launching.

Because everything in business builds upon itself over time.

But you gotta swing that bat!

Your first newsletter won’t be perfect.

Your design skills will improve.

Your local connections will grow.

But none of that happens until you start.

So pick your tools.

Set up your beehiiv account.

Write your first newsletter.

Send it to 10 friends.

And get the compound effect working for you.

The post Simple Tech Stack That Built My Local Newsletter appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

It’s been one of the best business decisions I’ve ever made.

Not just for the money (though that’s nice too).

But for everything else it’s brought into my life.

If you’re thinking about starting a local newsletter, here’s why you should consider it.

Quick note: I find a lot of value in communities, so I started an online community of local newsletter operators who share strategy and ideas. I’d love for you to look into joining us!

You’ll Become Known in Your City

This might sound weird at first.

But when you consistently show up in people’s inboxes with valuable local content, something magical happens.

People start recognizing you around town.

For example, just this week I had a lady walk up to me and say, “You’re the Mobile Rundown!”

You become THE person people think of when local news happens.

Business owners will reach out directly when they have announcements.

Event organizers will invite you to cover their events.

You’re not just another face in the crowd anymore.

You’re the local authority.

You’ll Build Real Business Relationships

Here’s where it gets really good.

Local business owners will start reaching out to YOU.

Not the other way around.

They want to be featured in your newsletter.

They want your audience’s attention.

This creates instant relationships with people you might never have met otherwise.

Restaurant owners.

Shop owners.

Service providers.

These relationships compound over time.

(Everything builds upon itself, remember?)

You’ll Score Amazing In-Kind Trades

This is one of my favorite parts.

When you’re featuring local businesses, you can negotiate trades instead of cash payments.

Free meals at restaurants.

Free services from local providers.

Products from local shops.

I’ve gotten thousands of dollars worth of value through trades.

Trades = Cash.

If you were going to spend money on the product or service anyway, it’s as good as the same.

You’re Filling a Massive Gap

Local newspapers are dying.

Print is disappearing.

People are hungry for hyperlocal content.

And nobody’s filling this gap.

Your neighbors want to know what’s happening in THEIR community.

Not just national news.

Not just the big city paper.

They want micro-local content.

Hyperlocal stories.

Community events.

Local business spotlights.

You can be the person who gives them exactly what they’re craving.

You Can Promote Your Own Ventures

This is where the compound effect really kicks in.

Your newsletter becomes a marketing channel for anything else you’re doing.

I run a silent disco headphone rental business.

Guess how I get my bookings?

Through the newsletter.

Just last month, I booked a $2,000 event because someone saw it promoted in our local newsletter.

I’m also a real estate agent.

When I have listings, I can showcase them to my local audience.

People who actually live in the area.

People who might know someone looking to buy.

Your newsletter can become your personal marketing machine.

The Money Will Follow

You can’t make money right away from your newsletter.

But it will come.

But first, you need to build a brand large enough to provide value.

Local businesses need to reach local customers.

Your newsletter gives them exactly that.

Sponsorships.

Advertising.

Paid features.

The revenue opportunities stack up over time.

But even if you never made a dime, the other benefits make it worth it.

Everything Builds Upon Itself

After 12 years, I can tell you this:

Everything compounds.

Your reputation in the community.

Your business relationships.

Your networking opportunities.

Your revenue streams.

It all builds upon itself.

Month after month.

Year after year.

You become more valuable to your community.

And your community becomes more valuable to you.

Start Now, Thank Yourself Later

Most people overthink this.

They worry about the tech.

They worry about content.

They worry about subscribers.

Don’t.

The best time to start was 12 years ago.

The second best time is now.

Your city needs someone to tell its stories.

Your community needs someone to connect the dots.

That someone could be you.

Trust me on this one.

Start your local newsletter.

Everything else will build upon itself from there.

The post Why You Should Start a Local Email Newsletter appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

And hear me out.

I don’t pay crazy high interest rates and I’m not drowning in debt. I’m the guy who pays off balances in full every month and treats credit card rewards like a strategic game.

Over the years, I’ve built up quite the collection of cards, each serving a specific purpose in my financial arsenal.

Here’s the inside scoop on my favorites and why they’ve earned permanent spots in my wallet.

Disclaimer: Credit card terms and offers change frequently. Always verify current offers and terms before applying. Remember to consider annual fees, spending requirements, and your own spending patterns when choosing cards. If I have a referral link, I will use it below. I’ll get a commission if you open a card, and you get a special offer.

The Business Beast: Chase Ink

My Chase Ink business card is hands down my MVP. This thing is a cash-generating machine!

With 5% cash back on office supplies and telecom services up to $25,000 per year (that’s a potential $1,250 in cash back annually), plus 2% back at gas stations and restaurants, it covers so many of my regular business expenses.

The best part? Chase tracks these rewards as Ultimate Rewards points, which means I can transfer them to travel partners or combine them with my other Chase cards for maximum value.

It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for business spending. The $350 welcome bonus after spending $3,000 in the first three months, plus an additional $400 after spending $6,000 in the first six months made it a no-brainer when I first applied.

The Amazon Ace: Chase Visa for Amazon Prime

One of my most recent credit cards is my Chase Amazon Prime Visa. The $150 Amazon gift card welcome bonus (sometimes it’s a $200 bonus) loads instantly upon approval – no spending required!

Since I’m already a Prime member, this was essentially free money.

The card earns 5% back on all Amazon purchases, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods, plus 2% back at gas stations and restaurants. Prime cardholders also get 10% back on rotating promotional items, which can be incredible if you time your purchases right.

The best part?

You can use your rewards the very next day at Amazon checkout – no waiting for statement credits or minimum redemption amounts.

The Simple All-Rounder: Capital One Quicksilver

Another card that deserves a spot in any rewards strategy is the Capital One Quicksilver. This might be the most straightforward card in existence – unlimited 1.5% cash back on every single purchase, no categories to track, no limits to worry about, and no annual fee.

The $200 welcome bonus after spending just $500 in the first three months is practically free money for most people. That’s less than $167 per month in regular spending – something most people hit with groceries and gas alone.

What I love about the Quicksilver is its simplicity and reliability. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” card, plus it earns 5% back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

No foreign transaction fees make it great for international travel, and the 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers gives you financial flexibility when you need it.

It’s also incredibly easy to get approved for if you have good credit, making it an excellent starter card for anyone new to the rewards game or a solid backup card for experienced churners.

The Category King: PNC Visa

My PNC Visa is what I call my “daily driver” for specific categories. This card delivers 4% back on gas, 3% on restaurants, and 2% on groceries for the first $8,000 in combined purchases annually. Since these are categories I spend in regularly, it’s basically guaranteed money.

The $200 sign-up bonus after spending just $1,000 in the first three months was easy money, and the card has no annual fee.

The only limitation is the $8,000 annual cap across all bonus categories, which resets on your cardmember anniversary – but for most people’s spending patterns, that’s plenty of runway.

The Cruise Specialist: Carnival Barclays Mastercard

This one’s all about the cruise life!

My wife and I (mainly my wife) love cruising, so the Carnival World Mastercard made perfect sense. The welcome bonus of 30,000 FunPoints after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days translates to $300 in onboard credit – essentially covering a cruise excursion or specialty dining.

The card earns 2X points on all Carnival purchases and 1X point on everything else, with no annual fee and 0% promotional APR for 6 months on cruise bookings.

Plus, you get a 10% statement credit on shore excursions booked before your cruise. It’s not the highest-earning card overall, but for cruise enthusiasts, it’s specialized value.

The Hotel Hero: Bonvoy Business Amex

My Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express card is a powerhouse for hotel stays. Yes, it has a $125 annual fee, but hear me out on the math.

You get a free night award every year after your card renewal (up to 35,000 points), plus another free night if you spend $60,000 in a calendar year.

That annual free night easily covers the fee and then some.

Plus, you get automatic Marriott Gold Elite status with perks like late checkout and bonus points on stays. The card earns 6X points on Marriott purchases and 4X points on restaurants, gas, wireless services, and shipping – all categories I use regularly.

The current welcome bonus of three free night awards (worth up to 50,000 points each) after spending $6,000 in six months is incredible value for frequent travelers.

The Set-It-and-Forget-It Champion: Fidelity Visa

My Fidelity Visa gets the “best all around” award. This piece of plastic gives me unlimited 2% cash back on everything – and I mean everything – with no caps, no categories, and no annual fee.

Here’s the genius part: the rewards automatically get deposited into my Fidelity investment account. It’s like forced savings that compounds over time.

Financial experts estimate that $500 in annual cash back deposits could grow to nearly $25,000 over 20 years based on an 8% annual stock market return. Talk about making your spending work for you!

The only “catch” is that you need to deposit rewards into an eligible Fidelity account to get the full 2% value, but honestly, that’s a feature, not a bug in my book.

The Flexible Friend: Capital One Business Card

My Capital One business card was all about that welcome bonus – $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days. But what I really love about Capital One cards is the virtual card number feature.

You can generate unique card numbers for online purchases, which adds an extra layer of security when shopping online. For business use, virtual cards let you control spending and prevent unauthorized charges with a simple click.

It’s like having unlimited burner cards for different vendors or subscriptions.

The Strategy Behind the Madness

Here’s my secret sauce: I never apply for cards I won’t use, and I always have a plan for meeting the spending requirements organically.

Each card serves a specific purpose in my spending ecosystem, and together they create a comprehensive rewards strategy that maximizes every dollar I spend.

The key is discipline.

I set up automatic payments for the full balance on every card, I track my spending religiously, and I never chase rewards at the expense of my budget. These cards have earned me thousands of dollars in cash back and free travel over the years, all while building my credit score and giving me better financial flexibility.

Remember, credit card rewards are only valuable if you’re paying your balances in full and not paying interest (one of my rules of personal finance).

Used responsibly, though, they’re like getting a discount on everything you buy.

The post 8 of My Favorite Credit Cards for Rewards appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

We used to spend about $800/mo.

When recently running our numbers, we were going way above that.

Yikes!

Some of this is due to higher prices and us needing to be made aware of our purchases (my bad).

But most of it is purely on us and just not realizing how much of our $$ was going to stuff.

So, in true Brooks Conkle fashion, I broke out the 80/20 and wanted to see what we could quickly make wins on.

I’m not a ‘couponer,’ and I don’t think it’s efficient.

If you are forced to spend time on coupons, I think a better focus is building income streams, but I’ll save that for another day.

What I chose to do was look at what few items I could adjust but have a large impact (the 80/20).

So here’s the list I came up with and what we’ve done about them.

Cold Starbucks Coffee

Ok, so we’re not hitting up the coffee shop daily, but we were still going through a few jugs per week.

$6 each – not the end of the world.

But that’s $600+ per year!

(personal finance hack — annualize everything — it gives you a solid picture on if you want an item or not).

So we bought this thing.

You simply add whatever coffee you want in the strainer + water + 48 hours in the fridge.

Bam – coffee.

We pour it into a jug for use and then start a new batch.

Should save $400-500 this year.

La Croix

Or, as my wife likes to say, La Croix for Joy.

We figured she was drinking 2-3 per day.

About $400/yr.

Snagged a soda stream kit.

The break-even for us should be in about 6 months.

$200+ annual savings

Wine

We enjoy wine in the evenings.

But…

We’re attempting to limit it to weekend evenings only.

(ok, and Thursdays!)

Easy $1,000/yr. savings

Alkaline Water

There’s not much science behind it, but my wife Mandee is pretty sure it’s cured her heartburn (she was able to stop meds that cost hundreds per month).

Well, we’re now exploring making our own alkaline water.

We won’t change our home plumbing system, but we are testing alkaline drops.

I also just purchased this kit that will test the pH of water.

Hoping for another $500ish saving per year here.

We’re Testing A New Grocery Store

On a small shopping trip, pricing seems relative.

A few dollars here and there.

We pay for Walmart delivery and love it.

We started a few years ago and was life-changing (I’m for real).

We just assumed this was the best pricing.

Recently, we’ve been shopping at an Aldi that is close to our home (it’s become a date night).

On a recent test on some items, there was a 30% difference!

So for a fun date night, we should save $2-3k this year alone!

Dog Food – Subscribe and Save

Dog food was another simple 80/20 item.

I found out we were buying this same bag of dog food consistently every 4 weeks.

So if I could find a better price, the savings would compound over the year.

I did even better.

Found better price on Amazon and saved and additional 5% for setting up on “auto-ship.”subscribe and save.”

So, not only do I no longer need to think about it, I can also save 5%.

This is THE SAME as putting your cash into an online savings account (we like Wealthfront) and MAKING 5%

This is huge!

Ok, a Bonus One

Mint Mobile.

I’ve had it for years.

Finally got my family on board.

I pay 12 months in advance for about $180 with taxes.

So $15/mo.

Plus, Ryan Reynolds seems like a cool dude.

Easy $1,000+ savings per year.

Ok, so all in all, it might be more like $3-5k in savings in a year.

That’s nuts!

Either way good luck to you — see you out there!

The post I’m About To Save You $3,000 appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

Okay, hate is a strong word. 

But I stopped using QuickBooks because I couldn’t deal with it anymore. 

So, here’s my little venting session. 

If you’re using it and getting more than a little frustrated, you’re not alone. 

Here’s a rundown of the top complaints about QuickBooks and why you should consider making a switch. 

And a spoiler alert – I switched to Wave and we’ve loved it so far.

QuickBooks Cons 

The Steepest Learning Curve

Navigating QuickBooks can feel like exploring a labyrinth without a guide. 

Click here, click there, choose this, choose that… 

It’s so counterintuitive. 

They claim that it’s easy to use, but it tends to overcomplicate even the simplest tasks. 

You go through a whirlwind just to input a transaction. 

Plus, the keyboard shortcuts are pretty scarce, especially in the online version. 

Small Costs Add Up 

I was going to have to pay a monthly fee for each company I have (even if I do very little revenue in each).

Having different pricing levels and extra services may feel like you’re constantly facing small charges. 

Those add up, you know! 

Honestly, each plan does offer a substantial range of features. 

And the monthly costs are much lower than what you’d pay a bookkeeper for manual work. 

But is it worth the stress? 

Anyway, QuickBooks seems stagnant in addressing known issues. 

So, it’s really hard to believe that its customers are getting good value for their money. 

A Barrage of Glitches 

Speaking of known issues, QuickBooks is full of bugs. 

One moment you’re diligently inputting your data, and suddenly, the entire program goes haywire. 

And those dreaded “Error 404” messages? 

Those can really test your patience. 

Plus, data is not always backed up, so you risk losing time and info. 

So, Why Does QuickBooks Keep Crashing? 

You’re going to see a lot of frustrated folks posting this question online. 

QuickBooks may unexpectedly shut down for a couple of reasons. 

These include: 

• Not having the latest QB updates 
• Having a computer system with low specs 
• Incomplete QB installation 
• Issues with Windows component necessary for QB 
• Corruption in vital QB program files 

And with the occasional patch that comes through, many folks have to come up with complex workarounds. 

Remember, QB is a 31-year-old program, so it’s bloated and prone to weird errors. 

Too Easy to Manipulate 

QuickBooks, unlike more complex solutions, allows for simple manipulation of entered data. 

This has its pros and cons. 

On the positive side, if there’s an error in your accounting entries, it’s easy to make corrections. 

However, this ease also means QuickBooks users are vulnerable to unintentional alterations or, worse, potential misuse by someone with malicious intent. 

I’m sure the last thing you want is someone tampering with your company’s financial records! 

Underwhelming Invoicing 

Planning to use QuickBooks for emailing customized invoices to clients and partners? 

Welp, pump the brakes. 

Be aware the QB provides fewer invoicing features than other ERP systems. 

Also, brace yourself for a potentially time-consuming setup, which means you may not activate this feature right away. 

Poor Integration 

If you want to connect QuickBooks with other tools as your business grows, you’re going to run into some problems. 

Many users find QB integration options frustrating. 

One of the main concerns is the limited range of integration options available. 

If the one you want is available, setting it up and configuring it can be complex and time-consuming, especially for those with limited technical expertise. 

Limited Business-Specific Features 

QuickBooks gets a lot of flack because it doesn’t have certain features that some businesses really need. 

For example, in industries like manufacturing and distribution, QB doesn’t do a great job with lot tracking. 

If you’re in the online retail business, QB might not work seamlessly with your eCommerce operations. 

And if you have a big inventory or manage a warehouse, it might not have the best barcode scanning abilities. 

No Key Reports Outside of Accounting 

While QuickBooks can do okay in managing financial transactions, it falls short when it comes to providing comprehensive reports. 

Let’s say a business needs in-depth reports on sales trends, customer purchasing behaviors, inventory levels, or employee performance. 

You can’t count on QB for those. 

Even its general ledger is unreliable. 

I still can’t believe that after all this time, QB is still unable to track revenue recognition. 

That’s a pretty big deal because it’s a crucial accounting rule. 

If you can’t do it right, your company’s income statements might end up all wonky. 

That’s bad news for investors and creditors who rely on accurate financial info. 

And don’t even get me started on financial forecasting. 

Automation is Limited 

QuickBooks leans heavily on old-school manual work, which can be a real buzzkill for businesses trying to go fully digital. 

Sure, it has a few automation tricks up its sleeve, but they’re not the most reliable. 

Take double-entry bookkeeping. 

QB skips this feature, which means you can’t neatly juggle your expenses and income in separate accounts. 

Doesn’t Track Multiple Entities 

Using QuickBooks, you’ll need a separate instance for each company entity. 

And if you’re not careful, this can lead to issues like duplicate invoices and payments. 

It can’t generate consolidated financial statements, making it challenging to have a clear picture of your overall financial performance. 

Not Ideal For Remote Work 

QuickBooks Desktop isn’t really cut out for remote work. 

It looks like it was designed for folks who sit in the office where the company’s file lives. 

Now, there are a couple of workarounds, but they’re a hassle. 

You could set up a VPN or go for a third-party service to host your books online. 

Or you could try QuickBooks Online, but you’d be sacrificing a lot of the desktop version’s functionality. 

Poor Customer Service 

If you think you can call up customer support to vent your frustrations, think again. 

They’re pretty much MIA unless you’re either 

1. Willing to shell out some cash, or 
2. Signed up for a paid support plan.

You’re going to have to rely on support forums and folks who have a better grasp of the program. 

QuickBooks is really meant more for accountants, so they’re the only ones who get solid training and support. 

But if you’re going solo after getting a subscription, you’re really on your own. 

Why Do People Still Use QuickBooks? 

It’s Still the Top Recommendation 

QuickBooks is still a big player, holding about 80% of the market share for as long as personal computers became a thing. 

So, if you’re talking to someone about accounting software, there’s a pretty good chance they’ll be like, 

“Yeah, I use QuickBooks.” 

Maybe with an eye roll. 

It’s Still Feature-Packed 

QuickBooks’ landslide market share isn’t just about being popular — it does have the goods to back it up. 

It offers a boatload of features and can plug into other services. 

Besides, the other 20% of the market is so scattered that it hardly seems worth the trouble to deal with them. 

It’s Easy to Share With Your Accountant 

The big reason everyone’s into QuickBooks is because it really rolls out the red carpet for accountants. 

Accountants can easily dive into your live books, and they have all the tools they need to sort out your taxes. 

And QuickBooks isn’t shy about wanting your accountant to steer you their way. 

Why I Switched to WaveApps

Despite these advantages (if you could call them that), I still made the switch to Wave.  

They offer a free basic product, and they also provide extra services you can pay for if you need them. 

I had no trouble adding my accountant, and the setup was a breeze. 

For one thing, Wave is better suited to micro-businesses with fewer than ten employees working on a tight budget. 

This user-friendly financial management software covers all the essentials for me. 

You can track your income and expenses, connect to your bank, handle invoicing, and generate reports. 

It’s pretty neat for a free service. 

It also follows accounting standards, practices double-entry accounting, and streamlines the reconciliation process. 

These contribute to accuracy and time savings. 

FAQs

Do you really need QuickBooks? 

Well, accounting is a must-have for any business, but remember that QuickBooks isn’t your only option. 

That said, QB is still one of the top dogs when it comes to accounting software. 

It really all boils down to your specific needs and preferences. 

Consider the size and complexity of your business, your accounting expertise, and your budget when deciding if QB or an alternative solution is the right fit for you. 

Is QuickBooks better than an accountant? 

QuickBooks and accountants serve different roles. 

QB is supposed to streamline financial tasks, while accountants offer expert advice, tax planning, and compliance services. 

They complement each other. 

Many businesses use both for comprehensive financial management. 

Is QuickBooks harder than Excel? 

Quite the opposite. 

Setting up QuickBooks is a simpler task compared to using Excel for bookkeeping. 

Excel demands expertise in both bookkeeping and Excel formulas to create essential elements like journals, ledgers, trial balances, and financial statements. 

Final Thoughts 

My beef with QuickBooks isn’t personal, but it’s a tale of frustrations and missed opportunities. 

QB may have its perks, but those perks just don’t apply to my business. 

From its clunky UI and lack of features in some critical areas, it’s like a familiar face but not quite right for the long haul. 

So, until then, QuickBooks, I’m passing for now.

The post Why I Hate QuickBooks appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

Are you after the ultimate email marketing platform? Well, look no further because today we’re diving headfirst into the ultimate showdown: CovertKit (recently rebranded as Kit) vs. Beehiiv. 

Quick Disclosure: I Love Beehiiv – there, I said it.

We’ll do a breakdown of their strengths, weaknesses, and unique features. So, get ready to discover which one will fit your needs like a glove. 

Rest assured that by the end of this post, you’ll have a clear winner in mind. Let’s get to it! 

A Brief History of ConvertKit 

In 2013, blogger and creator Nathan Barry set out to find the optimal way to connect with his audience and sell his books and courses. 

Frustrated with generic tools, he teamed up, took the plunge, and created ConvertKit. 

Although their initial goal of reaching $5,000 in monthly recurring revenue fell short, they didn’t give up. 

With the encouragement of Hiten Shah, co-founder of CrazyEgg and KISSmetrics, ConvertKit doubled down on its mission in 2014. 

They invested $50,000 focused on marketing to professional bloggers and adopted a direct sales approach. 

And it paid off. 

In 2017, they redesigned their platform, introducing visual automation and user-friendly features. 

Today, ConvertKit runs as an independent company, with its focus still set on empowering creators. 

A Brief History of Beehiiv 

Co-founders Tyler Denk and Benjamin Hargett, alongside the engineering whiz Jake Hurd, got their hands dirty at Morning Brew. They honed their skills in growing newsletters. 

They went all out, implementing stuff like referral programs, SEO optimization, and easy social sharing. Bam! Subscriber counts went from a humble 100k to a jaw-dropping million. 

While others struggled to replicate that magic, fumbling with clunky systems and having zero insights about their audience, the trio had a lightbulb moment. That’s when Beehiiv was born. 

Enter Andrew Platkin, the tech guru who joined the gang as a technical advisor. Armed with his guidance, Beehiiv levels up even more. 

Investors were skeptical, but they managed to secure a whopping $2.6 million in seed funding. 

ConverKit vs. Beehiiv: Going Head-to-Head 

What better way to test how ConvertKit and Beehiiv stack up against each other than by listing their strengths and weaknesses? 

Here we go!

ConvertKit Strengths

Let’s start with ConvertKit, one of the bigger names in this industry. 

Simple to Use 

If you’re a newbie dipping your toes into the world of newsletters and feeling a bit overwhelmed, don’t worry. ConvertKit has your back, making the whole process seamless. 

Here’s a small breakdown: 

• Easy-peasy account creation: No fuss, no headaches. 
• User-friendly interface: Everything is right where you need it. 
• Hassle-free features: You’re up and running in just a few clicks. 

Now, I can sense what you’re thinking — “Okay, it’s a decent email marketing tool. It all sounds a bit too generic.” 

But let me tell you, ConverKit is a real OG in the newsletter game. Others probably took cues from them, not the other way around. 

Let’s talk about the good stuff that creators care about: 

• Segmentation: Target your audience like a pro. 
• Tagging system: Organize your subscribers with a breeze. 
• Automation: Set it and forget it; let ConvertKit do the heavy lifting. 

And that’s just scratching the surface. ConvertKit keeps things sleek and straightforward, especially in its text editor. 

They call it a ‘broadcast,’ and boy, does it make life easier. The clean layout lets you focus on your content while customizing it effortlessly.

Plus, ConvertKit gives you options. From simple welcome emails to mind-boggling marketing funnels that could launch a rocket, they’ve got it all to help you make that money. 

Ok, if you’re sold on testing out ConvertKit here’s my link to get you started (I’m not sure if you get special pricing or not??)

Free Plan

On a tight budget? That’s alright. 

One of the reasons why I think ConvertKit is a great choice for new creators is its free plan. 

Currently, there are three CK plans, and the free one can accommodate up to 1,000 subscribers. 

So, what can you do with this free plan? It includes all the fantastic features that make CK shine, like broadcasts, unlimited landing pages, forms, and even a creator library. 

You even have the opportunity to sell digital products, like eBooks! Not many competitors offer that kind of flexibility. 

As long as your subscriber count stays below the limit, you can enjoy the free plan as long as you like. 

Once you exceed it, the starting price for paid plans is reasonable, considering your growing audience and the money you should be making at that stage. 

Flexible Monetization 

ConvertKit has awesome monetization features built right into the platform that let you rake in those dollars from your subscribers. 

You can sell various digital goodies using CK’s Earn tab. Think newsletters, digital courses, digital assets like eBooks or images, and even consultations and coaching. 

It’s super simple to set up. 

Just choose the product type, set the price and billing frequency, upload your assets, pick the URL that showcases your offerings, and you’re good to go. 

You can jazz up the landing page to match your personal brand. 

And ConverKit has this cool feature called the “tip jar.” It works like a real one where your fans can show their support and appreciation for your efforts. 

The best part? CK only takes a teeny 0.6% cut from your sales (plus the standard credit card fees). 

Ad Network 

Finding sponsorships and brand deals can open up exciting opportunities for creators with a large audience. 

But let’s face it; the aftermath can be a real drag. 

I’m talking about endless inquiries, price negotiations, payment follow-ups, and result reporting. It can use up a substantial chunk of your time.

Enter ConvertKit Sponsor Network (CKSN), your secret weapon for staying focused on what you do best: creating awesome content. 

CKSN acts as a matchmaker, connecting advertisers with creators like you. They’ll handle all the nitty-gritty tasks that make your head spin. 

To join CKSN, you’ll need a subscriber count of at least 10,000. ConvertKit will charge a 20% commission on the total sponsorship revenue, which is a small price to pay for the convenience and extra cash flow they bring your way. 

Decent Customization 

The look of your content matters. We know it, and so does ConvertKit. 

That’s why they have stunning templates for newsletters, landing pages, and forms. 

With CK, you can make a visual impact without starting from scratch. You can easily customize elements like font colors, sizes, background colors, and button styles. 

ConvertKit even allows you to unleash your creativity with custom CSS. 

One feature that creators love is content snippets. These reusable blocks of content are perfect for those repetitive tasks. Create them once and use them forever, streamlining your workflow. 

Beehiiv Strengths 

Now let’s put Beehiiv under the microscope, a newcomer that aims to dethrone the OGs. 

Monetization with 0% Cut 

Beehiiv offers a unique advantage when it comes to monetizing your own newsletter. Unlike any other newsletter platform, they don’t take a cut of your revenue from memberships. 

So, as your earnings grow, you won’t have to give a bigger potion. The only deductions you’ll see are the standard Stripe fees, typically ranging from 2%-3.5%. 

Setting up memberships is a breeze on Beehiiv. Just connect your Stripe account, and you’re ready to roll. No need to fuss with plugins or complicated installations. 

Stellar SEO 

Creators understand the vital role of SEO in drawing in more visitors and turning them into paying subscribers. 

The exciting news is that Beehiiv has a strong focus on SEO, offering features like: 

• Custom domain 
• XML Sitemap 
• Schema markup 
• Robots.txt 
• Noundex URL 

In the early stages of its development, Beehiiv’s SEO features had some drawbacks. However, the team has diligently addressed most of these issues, resulting in a solid SEO foundation available with their higher tiers. 

There is room for further improvement, sure, but overall, Beehiiv’s SEO toolkit is commendable. 

Ok, if you’re sold on trying out Beehiiv, my link will get you a 20% discount for 3 months.

No Software to Install 

When it comes to Behiiv, there’s one thing they absolutely nail: simplicity. 

I mean, who wants to struggle through a complicated user experience? Not us, right? 

In less than two minutes, you’ll be all set to dive into the world of content creation with Beehiiv. No hassle at all. 

You can even import your existing content if you want, or you start creating your very first newsletter. 

You don’t have to worry about pesky software updates, either. Beehiiv takes care of all that technical stuff for you. 

Hybrid Tool 

Beehiv breaks free from the mold of typical newsletter tools, offering you a refreshing hybrid platform. 

It’s your website, and newsletter hub rolled into one! 

And, of course, you’re in complete control. When it’s time to share your content, Beehiiv gives you the freedom to choose your approach. 

You can opt to display it on your website or go the intimate route by sending it straight to the inbox of your dedicated subscribers (or both). 

Best of all, it’s a user-friendly experience tailored to direct your focus on what genuinely matters: creating content that resonates with your audience. 

Integrations 

By seamlessly connecting different tools, you can streamline communication, save time, and enjoy increased flexibility. 

With Beehiiv, you can integrate with popular tools like WordPress, Wix, Shopify, and Zapier, expanding your capabilities. 

And don’t worry; Beehiiv ensures your data’s security by providing unique API keys for each integration. If you ever decide to end one, simply delete the corresponding key to halt data sharing. 

Highly Customizable Emails

When it comes to email aesthetics, Beehiiv knows how to level up your game. It may seem like a minute detail, but trust me; it adds some serious value to your work. 

With Beehiiv, you make your emails look exactly how you want, from the font style, color, and size, to the spacing between the elements. 

The best part? You don’t need to be a code ninja to do it. Just use the intuitive buttons and sliders, and voila, you can instantly see how your email will look. 

Last year, Beehiiv took things up a notch, adding even more creative freedom. They introduced email bylines and custom footers, giving your emails that extra touch of professionalism. 

Strong Analytics 

You know what could quickly get on your nerves as a creator? Using newsletter tools that lack solid analytics. 

Fortunately, Beehiiv is here to save the day with its impressive analytics capabilities. 

You can forget about searching for external analytics tools or struggling to gather insights from scattered sources. 

With Beehiiv, everything you need is right there on the platform. 

As soon as you jump into your dashboard, you’re greeted with a detailed overview of the past 30 days, complete with percentage variations compared to the previous period. 

So, what kind of insights can you expect? Well, Beehiiv covers all the essentials. You get a clear view of your active subscriber numbers, average open rate, and average click rate. 

Plus, they go the extra mile by providing pertinent subscriber info, recent signups, and a breakdown of your free and paid subscription bases.

But here’s the real game-changer — the click rate. 

This mighty metric tells you the percentage of engaged subscribers who click on the links in your newsletters. This will help you measure the effectiveness of your content! 

Multiple Newsletters Under a Single Account 

Beehiiv understands the diverse needs of creators, which is why they offer the remarkable ability to manage multiple newsletters under one roof! It’s one of the first platforms in the industry to do so. 

No more grappling with separate accounts and logins for each newsletter. With Beehiiv, you can streamline your workflow and expand your offerings without the unnecessary “jumping through hoops.” 

You can create and oversee newsletters for different categories. Whether you’re curating sports updates, political insights, or health tips, Beehiiv empowers you to handle it all. 

But please be advised that this feature is limited to advanced users on a paid plan. It’s a worthwhile investment that will help your business(es) grow, though!

Automation and Segmentation 

You can supercharge your email marketing with Beehiiv’s segmentation features, which you can do in two ways: 

Static: Manually divide your subscribers into segments during creation, providing a one-time snapshot without updates. 

Dynamic: Automatically update your segments daily as new subscribers join or existing members no longer meet the criteria that you’ve set. 

And Beehiiv goes beyond segmentation with its email automation capabilities. You can create automated email sequences triggered by subscriber actions, like signing up or upgrading to a premium offering. 

ConvertKit Weaknesses 

Not Good Enough for Blogging 

I know ConvertKit is not a blogging platform, so I can’t judge it as such. However, they have been making strides to incorporate blogging capabilities into their offerings. 

But compared to Beehiiv, it’s really obvious that their efforts are in the early stages. 

Currently, ConvertKit allows creators to display a feed of their recent newsletters on their creator page. 

While it’s not a full-fledged blogging experience, it does provide a way to showcase content and gain online visibility for emails. It’s a step towards bridging the gap between newsletters and blogging.

Limited Testing 

ConvertKit’s testing features are pretty basic, as they only offer A/B testing for subject lines. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to test email content, images, or send times. 

Beehiiv Weaknesses 

Limited Free Plan 

Beehiiv’s generous free option allows you to grow your subscriber list up to 2,500, which is higher than most of its competitors. 

However, if you’re looking for sophisticated functionalities like SEO, custom domain, paid newsletters, integrations, and more, you’ll need to upgrade to one of their paid plans. 

The free plan also doesn’t allow team member access, so if collaboration is important to you, upgrading is a must… and it’s not going to be cheap. 

Limited Range of Customization for Websites 

Behiiv falls short in terms of site customization, especially when you compare it to its robust newsletter features. 

While you can make minor adjustments, such as changing button colors, selecting fonts, and toggling between light or dark modes, the customization options are severely limited beyond these basic changes.

No Code Injection 

The absence of code injection means relying on Google Analytics alone. If you’re used to third-party analytics tools, this is a major drawback. 

And with the rise of cookie-less analytics platforms like Fathom or Plausible, Beehiiv’s lack of code injection will keep you from getting more detailed user insights. 

Plus, the platform restricts the embedding of CSS or JavaScript. This can be frustrating for advanced users looking for more customization options. This also means that there isn’t a native comment system for posts. 

Pricing 

Pricing is often a crucial metric for creators, especially when they’re first starting out. So, I’ll leave ConverKit’s and Beehiiv’s pricing structures here: 

ConvertKit Pricing 

• Free (up to 1,000 subscribers) 
• Creator ($25/month for 1,000 subscribers) 
• Creator Pro ($50/month for 1,000 subscribers) 

*Rates are dependent on your number of subscribers. Please use the slider on their pricing page. 

Beehiiv Pricing 

• Launch (free up to 2,500 subscribers) 
• Grow ($42/month up to 10,000 subscribers) 
• Scale ($84/month up to 100,000 subscribers) 
• Enterprise (contact Beehiiv for rates) 

Related Reading: Why I Love Beehiiv – Click Here To Learn More!

Final Thoughts 

Ok, it’s time for me to Bee real with you for a second.

I – Love – Beehiiv.

I have respect for Convertkit, but…

I actually moved my email newsletter from their platform to Beehiiv a few years back when I was frustrated with how Convertkit handled their annual billing plans.

I won’t go into details, but I made an entire video about it if you’d like to watch.

The post ConvertKit vs. Beehiiv: Battle of the Newsletter Platforms appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

It’s time.

You’re finally ready to start that podcast.

Sweet!

You can make it complicated, but we can simplify it into a few steps.

I run a few podcasts and use the 80/20 rule to make them easy…

So, I’ll give you a quick overview, and then we’ll get straight to my cheat sheet.

A Podcast, what the heck now?

Okay, a quick overview (60-second version).

You’re making a recording that you can share with friends (and new friends).

You’re taking a file (like an MP3 recording) and uploading it to a store service.

That service also communicates with all platforms like Apple and Spotify (so you don’t have to).

That’s it.

You make content and upload it, and they do the rest.

Great, you’re ready to go.

So here’s my cheat sheet.

My Podcast Cheat Sheet:

Sign up with a Podcast host.

You must have a podcast host to store your files online.

Use Buzzsprout (my referral link that gives you $20)

Buy a (decent) podcast microphone.

If your budget is under $100, get the Samson Q2U USB microphone (I have one and love it).

For under $300, get the Shure MV7 USB microphone (you see this in lots of YouTube podcast videos).

Set up your podcast studio.

You need a quiet room that won’t create an echo.

Rooms with hard floors and walls = bad.

Rooms with carpet and drapes = good.

If you’re doing audio, do you know the best podcast studio?

A closet.

Yep, a closet.

Carpet and tons of clothes to absorb sound.

And it’s free.

Record, Edit, and Upload your Podcast

Easy, free options for you to edit your podcast MP3 files.

Audacity (Windows) and GarageBand (Apple)
*Audacity is a bit clunky, but hey, it’s free.

There are plenty of paid options. Descript is a good one (I use this).

Play around with these.

There’s a learning curve, but you’ll be a pro soon.

If you want to keep it simple, you can create a standard intro and outro for every episode you produce.

[And if that’s holding you up, launch your podcast simply with your main show content and expand into intro and outros after you get a feel for it. Don’t let the friction stop you. Take Action.]

There’s plenty of stock music that you can purchase out there.

Your editor (like Descript) will have free options for you within the software.

The YouTube audio library is a free option if you’re creating a video podcast.

Record 12 Episodes and then Launch.

Why make 12 episodes first?

Well, for starters, nobody likes showing up to a party and being the only one.

If you have a single episode, it doesn’t look good.

Also, what if you record a few and decide it’s not for you?

In that case, it’s best not to shout to all your friends that you’ll launch soon.

Once you have 12, you’ll know if you’re in it to win it or not

That’s it!

If you have any questions, please get in touch with me on YouTube.

Or if you need to hire me for help, hire me here.

Want to read more and get lost in more podcasting information?

Here you go, but don’t read until after you’ve launched your podcast.

• Read podcast hosts for beginners.
• See why I switched from Libsyn to Buzzsprout.
• Compare Buzzsprout to Podbean

• Set up a podcast studio.
• Excellent cameras (if you go the video route) for podcasting
• Tips for YouTube Podcasts

• Detailed info on setting up a podcast studio

The post How to Start a Podcast in 1 Day (my cheat sheet) appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

There, I said it.

I was previously a Convertkit user (they’re also a great company, and the owner is a good dude).

But…

They made me mad at how they handled their annual billing.

I won’t go into it in detail here, but I share my story in this video.

At the time, I was sampling Beehiiv to test it out.

Right after my nightmare Convertkit story, I moved my entire business over to Beehiiv.

And I haven’t looked back since.

Here are the reasons I love Beehiiv (my referral link – you get a discount) and why I fully switched from Convertkit.

Note: I’ll add to this list over time as Beehiiv keeps shipping updates.

They Ship Updates.

And I mean, they shipppp updates.

I feel like I’m getting a weekly email from Tyler Denk and the team showcasing the newest updates. 

For example, just this month, I recall these updates:

• An overhaul of the navigation
• Lifetime premium memberships
• Affiliate program for all users
• Ability to embed audio

There was probably more, but that’s what hit my mind while typing.

They’re Super Helpful.

Not only are their tutorials and education solid, but I’ve also been surprised at how much they bend over backwards to solve any of my issues via ticketing. 

I’ve been impressed.

They Have Ways to Make $$$ Built-in the Platform.

They’re everywhere, and they’re constantly improving.

Premium Subscription Options

We’ve made over $600 from this, and we’re only scratching the surface. 

We’re planning to dig in more here soon for further growth.

Ad Network

As of writing, we’ve made $258 (this is from sponsors I didn’t have to go out and sell).

Boosts

You can get paid to promote other newsletters on the Beehiiv network. 

As of writing, we’ve made $23.

What’s cool is that you can also pay others to promote your newsletter.

So you can take cash and reinvest it quickly.

Ok, already sold? Start your free trial (my referral link).

It’s Fast

I know, this may not seem like a huge deal, but it’s noticeable.

It’s really fast.

If I attempted to create another newsletter using a tool like Mailchimp, I think I would throw my laptop out the window.

They Allowed Their Customers To Invest

Beehiiv set aside $1M of their latest investment round for users.

They maxed this out in a few hours.

If that doesn’t speak volumes about the product, I don’t know what does.

Heck, I want to put in $100 just to say I own a piece of the service I use (Tyler, get me in dude – if nothing else, so I can talk about it over time in my content!)

It Can Serve as Your Website

I already have websites I create posts on, but I dig that my newsletter archives can serve as great secondary hubs and gain SEO traffic on their own.

My examples are here and here. 

Pricing is Competitive.

I’ve noticed that some competitors have adjusted their pricing due to how competitive Beehiiv is.

And since I have more than one publication, it’s been a no-brainer.

Ready to give it a shot? Start your free trial (my referral link).

They Sent Me Swag

Yep, this holds merit with me.

A company that’s willing to spend some real cash and send you something in the mail makes you feel special.

Thanks for the gift!

I’m sure there will be more reasons as the months go on.  

I’ll continue sharing them in this post…

Good luck.

See you in the Hiiv!

The post Here’s Why I Love Beehiiv appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

That’s why you need a personal user manual.

This manual will tell your remote comrades about you and how you operate.

• Do you love working late at night?
• Do you not take meetings before noon because that’s when you get your best work done?

That’s what a personal user manual is all about.

My personal user manual is below…

My Personal Mission

I believe life is an adventure.

My goal is to live a flexible lifestyle and enjoy the journey.

That’s why I’m always going on about destroying the box and not just thinking outside of it).

A Bit About My Working Style

Below are a few of my working strategies and philosophies in my personal and business life.

In my world, work and personal life go hand and hand.

I don’t really have a work-life balance.

I seem to live more with more of a work life rhythm.

New Things

I love starting new things and making multiple streams of income.

I often have to balance completing a project and scratching the itch of a new, exciting idea.

There’s a delicate balance, so feel free to keep me accountable when it looks like I might be pivoting too early.

Work Ethic

I work 24/7, but I also break 24/7.

This means you might find me unavailable while I’m keeping score at my son’s afternoon soccer game.

But it also means you might ping me at 9 pm, and I’m in the middle of a project and will answer back.

Phone Rules

I’m not too fond of phone calls.

I am always doing something.

Therefore, most calls are a distraction from whatever it is that I’m currently focused on.  

This is my phone philosophy. Don’t take it personally if I don’t answer your call.

It lives on silent.

If necessary, just shoot me an email or leave a voicemail.

If it’s an emergency, call my wife or dial 911.

Availability

If I ping you or email you outside of our working hours, I do not expect an instant reply.

I’ve probably pinged you because I have a thought I need to share, and if I don’t, it will be gone forever.

Therefore, I ping.

My Meeting Philosophy

I believe in minimal meetings.

If we’re meeting, it’s because it’s the only way to accomplish what we need to do.

Let’s have a pre-planned agenda prior to the meeting so that we can be ready.

Remembering We Are People

Because so much communication is digital, it can be easy to forget that there’s a human being on the other end.

This is actually the first step in my manual on hiring VAs.

Maybe you don’t have this problem, but I do.

I think it’s the digital medium.

I’m typing into a machine, or talking to a camera. Not a person.

It can be easy to forget that it’s going to end up with you, a person!

I’m fun-spirited, but if I’m in a rush, maybe my responses can seem short or rude.

If that happens, don’t take it personally.

I was probably replying right before a meeting or in between working on projects.

That was my fault for responding then.

If there is a big issue, we will discuss it in person—email is typically not the best communication method for big-ticket problems.

Don’t hesitate to let me know if you feel I’m not communicating with kindness!

My Strengths:

Starting New Things*

Developing Ideas

Big Picture Strategy

Being Willing To Take Shots and Adjust as I go

My Weaknesses: 

Starting New Things*

Taking a Project “to the next level”

Organizational Structure (my wife says I’m organized because I use spreadsheets, but I don’t think this counts)

Flying by the Seat of my Pants (I’m a napkin business plan guy)

Things I’m OK At But Want To Improve:

Public Speaking

Tracking KPIs

Building Teams

Staying Calm Under Pressure

Knowing When To Stay The Course vs. Pivot

Tools That I Like To Use:

Whatsapp (for quick communication)

Slack (we moved mostly to Slack)

Google Docs

Trello

Loom (for quick video feedback)

Should You Build a Personal User Manual?

Yep, I think it would definitely be useful if you’re a freelancer or you work on a remote team. 

Heck, even if your company doesn’t do it, you could create one anyway and give it to your co-workers. 

Maybe management will take notice and use it and make it a new part of their company strategy. 

Or if you’re working as a freelance employee, it could help people just understand you better.  

Good luck!

The post My Personal User Manual appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.

Upwork, the global freelancing platform, gets mixed reactions.

But I’ve hired dozens of freelancers via Upwork – here are the guidelines I use to hire VAs.

In this post, I will tackle why I still use Upwork to find most of my freelance jobs.

So, is Upwork Legit?

Yes, Upwork is one of the top job outsourcing platforms on the planet that has been growing for more than two decades.

Let’s get going.

What is Upwork anyway? 

Upwork is an online freelancing marketplace where clients can connect with freelancers.

Clients post listings for jobs and estimate their budgets.

Freelancers can then send proposals and make bids on the job. 

[I also hire freelancers via Fiverr].

It’s entirely up to the client who they want to work with. This platform is super helpful for those working at home because you can look for jobs, get hired, chat with clients, share files, and get paid all in one place. 

After you verify your email, you will have to create your profile.

Filling out your profile will make it easier for you to find relevant jobs in your field.

It used to be that clients would get swamped with freelancers. But now, you have to spend credits to apply to positions.

Related Reading: How to make an Extra 1000 a month – Check Them out Here

Is Upwork Legit? 

Yep, Upwork is completely legit.

I have used Upwork to hire close to a dozen contractors for all types of work — websites, graphic design, customer service, bookkeeping, and more.

It’s definitely legit in that regard.

But below I’m going to mainly discuss the platform from a contractor’s point of view.

So why do some contractors like freelance writers warn others to stay away from Upwork as much as possible?

Why do they bash Upwork?

I’ll be candid and say that there is some level of truth to people’s complaints about Upwork.

Below, I’ve listed down these common complaints and my corresponding responses. 

5 Reasons Why Some People Don’t Like Upwork 

1. Upwork charges hefty fees. 

I’m sad to say that this is true, and maybe the thing I don’t like the most about Upwork.

When you make your first $500 from a client, Upwork charges you a 10% fee. When you make the next $500, the fee drops to 10%.

Read more about Upwork’s fees here.

Freelancers complain about these fees, but I think it’s completely fair.

I mean, Upwork is the reason you got the business in the first place.

If you hate the fees, what would it cost you to create your own platform to create the business that Upwork can give you?

2. You can get kicked out of Upwork any time. 

Yup, this is 100% true.

According to Upwork’s Terms of Service, your account can be suspended or terminated any time if you don’t comply with their rules.

This happens on other platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn too. 

I wouldn’t use this reason to stay away from Upwork, though.

Read and follow Upwork’s guidelines.

Add your clients on LinkedIn, so you have all their contact information.

If your account gets suspended for something unreasonable, you can still get a hold of them. 

3. Jobs at Upwork don’t pay well. 

Well, that’s true of some jobs.

For example, I had a contractor friend get tell me about a job on Upwork and said he needed five 1000-word blog posts done in 48 hours.

I thought, okay, this should cost a lot because this is a lot of writing in a limited time frame. 

It turns out that his entire budget for the project was $50. I knew that wouldn’t do, so I declined the offer and moved on. 

If you wait for projects that you think are worth your time and skill, it will do you a world of good.

Why? One, you get paid more. Two, your track record will attract more high-paying clients. 

Should You Join Upwork? 

Maybe.

I didn’t write this post to convince people to get on the platform.

The point is to shed light on Upwork’s advantages.

The point I’m trying to make is that it’s possible to gain financial success on Upwork.

Yes, it’s going to take time and effort, but it’s doable.

So is Upwork Legit? For sure.

If you decide to give Upwork a try, here are my tips that can help you get to your goal faster: 

1. Get your client’s contact information as a back-up 

Since Upwork can suspend or terminate your account without warning you, it’s always best to have your client’s contact information on hand.

2. Don’t make Upwork your only source of income. 

I understand that to set up multiple streams of income you have to focus on them one at a time.

When you start working on Upwork, it will require focus, so don’t worry about doing anything else. 

3. Ignore the negativity surrounding Upwork. 

Many freelancers are trying to convince everybody that Upwork isn’t worth your time.

The funny thing is that most of these people didn’t give Upwork a fair shot.

Maybe Upwork isn’t going to work out for you, but you’ll never know unless you provide it your best. 

The post What Is Upwork & Is Upwork Legit? appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.