Blogging events definitely have their benefits – they offer people the chance to meet fellow bloggers in the flesh who we might already know from online, and give us a great opportunity to meet new people who share the same interests. They're also a good way to get noticed by brands you might be hoping to work with, and maybe even grab yourself a few freebies or at least a goody bag at the end of the night. Plus, they can be fun.
However, I've been to exactly ONE event in my time as a blogger. Whenever an invite lands in my inbox, I consider it for a few minutes, then ultimately decide against going. I can't even use the excuse that I don't live in London where most of these events are held...because I do, and I could probably get to anywhere in the city in about half an hour.
As a naturally shy person, I don't like situations where I'm forced to make small talk with new people (which is a bit ironic, as I have to do exactly that day in, day out for my job). Sure, I can fake it, pretend I'm having a good time, maybe even actually be having a good time, but most of the time I'd much rather be at home writing blog posts than socialising with people I don't know.
I also don't think that, if you're looking to build a following, these events are an effective way to gain more followers. Yes, you'll meet a few cool people who may or may not start reading your blog after they've met you, but it will literally just be a few people. Also, don't think that just because you get invited to events you're a more successful blogger by default, and if you don't get invited you're any less 'successful'.
What I'm trying to say is, while blogging events are definitely a useful tool for some bloggers, don't feel like you're not a 'proper' blogger if you don't get invited to any...or just don't want to go. It's completely up to you. Don't think that you have to attend every opening of an envelope to be considered a 'real' blogger (but if it's something you really, genuinely enjoy, that's cool too). A real blogger is someone who writes a blog.
What's your opinion on blogging events? Do you love them or loathe them? Let me know in the comments!
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