Working For Money?

WARNING: The post below could put me, as a blogger/writer out of business.  Regardless, I am sure I am not the only person in the blogosphere who feels this way… ok, deep breath… off we go…

Everyone wants something for nothing… and don’t tell me you are the exception. Yes, of course, ideally it would be great to get everything you want for absolutely nothing. Unfortunately, life doesn’t always work that way and nobody is really “that” entitled. 

This topic is one I never really wanted to write about but the past two days, it is all that has loomed in my mind. Although I initially never wanted to be type-cast as a specific kind of blogger, I didn’t have much of a choice. The reality is that I love all things technology, philanthropy, parenting and shopping and I happen to write about all of them. Because of the topics I cover, I am clearly a tech/philanthropy/parenting blogger that likes to showcase all things I love, want, or have for my readers!
The past two weeks, my tech title has not just taken flight, it has overwhelmed me. Each day, my mailbox has been filled with requests to review apps. As wonderful as it is to be recognized as an app lover, it is hard to meet all requests for a few reasons… First, I don’t review ANYTHING I do not like. Second, I have a very demanding full-time job (Director of Sales Specialists in the lending industry) that is completely unrelated to my blog. Did I mention that my full-time job also pays the bills?
As amusing as it may sound, being asked to write a rave review and not get paid for it is tough to swallow. Hence, the reason I do not review ANYTHING I do not like. Although I may be coming off harsh, I must say that I find it offensive when I get a request to review something… I agree to it… then, I start receiving emails on a daily basis from the requestor asking how quickly they think I will be able to do the review and where I plan on posting it… Yikes! Don’t they want me to experience what I am being asked to review. Example: For a childrens app, I would want my children to use it. I love having the user experience because when I write, it is based on emotions and personal experiences.  Hmm… I know sales (clearly). I get sales (clearly). I also get trying to market a product for success (clearly). What I don’t get… being mean and pushy when I am offering my services for free.
End result is simple… It’s a turn off and makes me want to put your request on the back burner. This post is not meant as a dig at anyone or any product in particular. I just happened to need a therapeutic venting session and fortunately, my laptop was sitting next to me.
*Although I feel terrible writing the post above (I wish I had time to fullfill all requests), I would love to hear comments from any other bloggers with similar experiences or thoughts. Please take a moment and comment below (if you dare). It would surely make me feel better.