I have to admit when Kelly asked me to write this post I was a bit uneasy and nervous about discussing such a sensitive topic. I must have written the article a dozen times before getting to this draft.
I feel obligated to say that I was never the “popular” girl in school, my blog does not bring in thousands of visitors a day and my Twitter and Facebook numbers are not the highest around. However a couple of weeks ago my blog showed up on Nielson’s Power 50 Mom Influencer List and I was floored and excited until I started to hear the negative comments about the list.
Some people were saying they just picked the most popular moms, the moms with the highest twitter followers or the moms that post every day on their blogs.
I was shocked to read a post by one blogger, “It makes me crazy when I see mediocre writers who get more time in the spotlight then they deserve because they know a lot of SEO tricks or market themselves incessantly while fabulous writers are dismissed as lacking influence.”
She even went so far to say that race was a factor in the decision making.
So does popularity automatically make you a power influencer?
In the end I don’t think so. I would imagine that being a popular blogger is great, you get PR reps calling on you all day to promote their product, you get to attend amazing events and you get a ton of traffic coming to your blog which increases your monetization potential. You are basically treated like an “online” celebrity.
Jessica from JessicaKnows.com has been on the receiving end of a lot of negative buzz lately but she is one blogger that I find inspiring and a power influencer. She said, “In my opinion, popularity does not equal influence. You might get everyone reading your blog because you’re funny, but it doesn’t mean they’ll take what you say seriously when recommending anything.” While she might also be labeled as a “popular blogger” she helps out other bloggers when she can.
A popular blog is fun and entertaining to read and on occasion you may even pick up a few tricks of the blogging trade from them. But a blog of influence is a blog that inspires you to do something or take some kind of action. An influential blog is where we turn to when we need blogging advice or help with our business ideas. Or when we are looking for parenting and relationship advice.
When I first began blogging I immediately was sucked into the popularity and traffic game. I was disappointed when my traffic numbers were lower than then shopping and giveaway blogs. I asked myself, where are all the visitors everyone brags about on twitter? I mean how would I be able to influence anyone with such low traffic numbers?
Then I started to receive emails from people that were reading my blog telling me they were actually inspired by all that I’m doing. A blogging friend, Rosina from BabyFriendlyLA.com said she would complain to her husband when she felt overwhelmed but was motivated by all the things that I am trying to do. I have to say I was humbled and grateful for her comments. Because there are days that I’m ready to just throw in the towel. I really just didn’t think I was popular enough to make a difference, to be a real influence.
A new friend of mine Felicia from icompletemeblog.com said, “As a new blogger I initially thought popularity and influence meant the same thing. I mean you have influenced people to believe you are popular, right? And you want to be popular because you want all that traffic coming to your site. But as I grow my online business and look for tools that can really help me, I realized I don’t want just any traffic. I need targeted traffic that will purchase my product. This is where the influence comes in. I feel that in order to be a person of influence you must be able to make people take action (whether good or bad depends on how you want to be remembered). As I grow my business there are some things I just will not purchase regardless of how popular you may be.”
So which type of blog will win over the PR reps? I think when it comes to endorsements and promotion the “popular” blog will always win. After all isn’t that how all of society works, why would it be different online?
However, when looking for support, answers and advice it will be the power influencers that people will turn to. What kind of blogger do you want to be?
At the end of the day it does not matter how popular you are nor does it matter how far your reach is, what matters most is if you influenced someone in a positive way. If your blog post motivated someone else to make a change or take a stand then you truly are a Power Mom Influencer.
Stephanie Elie (@BizzieMommy) is a transitional entrepreneur and mother of two children under the age of four. The editor of BizzieMommy.com and was recently listed in the Power Moms 50 list by Neilson Online.
Get Your FREE 21-Page Internet Business Idea Guide
Enter your name and email below and we’ll send you our unique 21-page guide chock full of Internet business ideas – for free! Your information will be kept private, of course.
Sparkplugging Founder Wendy Piersall is dang passionate about helping people start & grow a business while maintaining life balance (somehow). 
Easton Ellsworth is owner of 
Such a wonderful blog post! Well written, to the point and I love it! Great job girl! I have to completely agree with you in this blog post – if you changed or influenced someone in a positive way – then you are a POWERFUL INFLUENCE regardless of your popularity!
Brandys last blog post..Etsy Giveaway: Coupon Organizer From Funnatics
Great post.
Popularity has its place, as I’ve read interesting stats on people with tens of thousands of followers claiming that they can drive a guaranteed percentage of traffic (say, 4%) every time they post a link. So at 10k followers they get 400 hits on any one posted link…
However, influencers have the ability to convert that traffic into paying customers, subscribers, users, or whatever. Popularity, in this sense, can only lead a horse to water.
Influencers can make ‘em drink!
eric purshs last blog post..What Makes a Social Media Expert an Expert?
I’ll admit that I don’t get the list in entirety. There are some names that I don’t perceive to be wielding any noticeable influence – but perhaps influence means something different to me?
I measure influence in terms of action and dollars. Being a niche marketer, I’ve learned to respect end results more than buzz factor.
That’s some big balls for someone to suggest that race played a factor. Are they suggesting that someone employed some sort of affirmative action ideas to the list?
You know it’s amazing that someone has recognized that numbers isn’t always where it’s at – I know I have been sucked into the numbers game too. Looking at my stats and comparing with other blogs – blogs that over nothing but a list of where to find giveaways – come on!
So it’s not the numbers that count anymore to me – sure I look and I whence but when I get the phone calls and emails from people asking for help in finding cloth diapers or a baby carrier that’s perfect for them – that’s what I love!
Alaina Fredericks last blog post..Giggles Talk: Organic – With Fun On A Budget
The fact is, some women on the list are NOT influential and should not have made the list if that was the qualifier. That’s where the “negativity” is coming from.
I’m just sayin’!
Sarah Maes last blog post.."Why Must Our Ultimate Source Of Truth Come From Scripture?"
Great post Stephanie.
Right now I agree with the notion that the PR people and brands will want to work with the popular bloggers, because those are easier to identify. Especially if the PR rep is not completely entrenched in the niche they are marketing to.
However, my prediction is that we will start to see a shift to working with those bloggers that have influence. Those who have built trust and rapport with their readers, and who, when it happens, can say “You need to try this!” and people will do it because the blogger has a proven track record.
Maybe there’s another term we can call this person. A hybrid of the popular blogger and the influencer.
A taste maker perhaps?
Jessica – Jessica Knowss last blog post..Takeover Advertising: Would You Do It?
This is a great post. I too have small numbers when it comes to traffic and at times wonder if all this work is worth it. But when I get an email from someone telling me “wow you get what I’m going through” or “thank you for not letting me feel alone” I can’t help but think that popularity is not it. It is more of being able to help someone make a positive change in their life. Great post!
Felicia – I Complete Mes last blog post..He’s 10 Months Today!!!!!
Stephanie you said it! As a fellow transitional entrepreneur I have to congratulate you on finding something you enjoy doing that has had a positive influence on others.
I’m also going to congratulate you on making the list BECAUSE if this is an industry we take seriously, then we should have no problem with the actual LIST.
We may have issues with the process of who gets chosen, but that’s an issue that arises in any industry that seeks to recognize the brightest and the best.
As I learn everyday (and I mean everyday) your wisest moves occur when you focus on what you believe, what you gives you satisfaction and what you know (professionally and personally). Sure there will be women who do this and shine and are on this list. And then there will be those who don’t…and are on this list. That’s life
I’m glad I read this post as I believe I’ve just met a mom of influence
Sharon McMillans last blog post..Morning Walk to the Farmers’ Market
I think you hit it when you said:
“But a blog of influence is a blog that inspires you to do something or take some kind of action.”
That is the type of blog I want to read! Someone who is inspiring, thoughtful and helpful! That’s the type of blogger I try to be. When my readers tell me that I am that for them, I get inspired by them!!
And, I’m not big on lists…at all! Mostly because they can be somewhat subjective and can be manipulated (depending on the listmaker). But, I was so proud that my very good friends were on the Nielsen Power 50 – and you should be proud of the accomplishment too!
Andrea @ MommySnacks.nets last blog post..Pinecone Research OPEN
Hi Stephanie,
Congratulations on making the Power Moms 50 list. And I think your post is so insightful. It’s not about popularity and raw numbers — it’s about how deeply and authentically you make an impression on those who do read you. It’s about making a connection with your readers … touching them emotionally or intellectually in some way. You’ve obviously done a good job at that.
– Anita
Anita Campbells last blog post..How to Solicit Testimonials Without Being Annoying
Great post Stephanie!
I admit I am one of those people that had a bad taste left in their mouth after seeing Nielson’s list. Not because I don’t think that the list was completely wrong, just incomplete in that there were far more people I believe to be power influencers. Then there were people I see as being on the list simply because of their popularity (read stats/followers/traffic).
I was so not the popular girl in High School but I lived through it and did my own thing and it’s worked out well.
I don’t see myself as popular now either. I’d rather see myself as an influencer. Someone who people come to because I’ve got some great advice to give or because they think I add value in some way. If that leaves me out of the popular group, then I’ll be OK with it. I’ve tried to conform and do what the popular blogs do but it’s not for me and I don’t know that it will ever be FOR ME. So in the meantime, I’m going to keep doing what I do as best as I know how.
And as a side note, those popular girls and blogs? They didn’t influence me then, and they don’t influence me now.
Nicholes last blog post..Is there a Wrong Age for Becoming a Mom?
Excellent post. I say well done on your placing
Thanks for such a thoughtful and well written post. You make a very good point. I’ve found that, as my traffic has increased my influence has decreased and currently struggle with what (if anything) to do about it. I think you hit the nail on the head- entertaining may be popular but it’s not influential.
bananass last blog post..Moral dilemma of the day
What a great article! I came here via Megan of Velveteen Mind’s shared Google Reader items, and this article was exactly what I needed to read today.
I’ve been struggling with this very issue lately. I’ve worked really hard to build a community of helpful encouragement and information on my personal blog, and my subscriber numbers are higher than they have ever been. At the same time, my comment numbers are almost exactly the same as they were this time last year when I had 50% less subscribers. I know if I could get out in the community and comment more, it would mean more comments, but at the same time, I have to balance my life, my job, and my blog.
Anyway, I’ve received several private emails lately from women telling me that something I have written has made a difference for them. In all honesty, hearing feedback like that is worlds more fulfilling than having tons of “great post!” comments on every post.
You’ve given me a lot to think about and reflect on with this article. Congrats on your Power 50 Listing!
Megan@SortaCrunchys last blog post..{what was supposed to be} Wordless Wednesday: Priorities
Wonderful post! Well communicated and deeply thought out! I think it’s awesome that everyone on the list is getting some recognition. I don’t mind independent organizations pointing out influential people, as much as bloggers themselves *continually* saying how “famous” they are! Now, THAT bugs me! A little shout out of “Hey, I’m proud of myself, I made this list” is great.
I agree with you that influence is different than popularity, or notoriety. Everyone knows Paris Hilton, but would we take her advice on anything?
I also compare it to High School where the ‘popular’ kids were not really influential, because they only had a couple of friends, and never strayed out of their group. They were popular, but influential? I think not.
Anyway, thanks for sharing your thoughts, and I hate it that someone decided to be so mean about it!
Real Life Sarahs last blog post..Beat Summer Boredom Without Breaking the Bank
This is a great post and so well-written Stephanie!
I completely agree with Sarah from “Real Life Sarah” when she says, “I also compare it to High School where the ‘popular’ kids were not really influential, because they only had a couple of friends, and never strayed out of their group. They were popular, but influential? I think not.”
I am on the list and while I can live with people disagreeing with the list the negative comments have GOT TO GO! You can demand to be popular and maybe that might work for awhile.. BUT you can’t demand respect and without that respect you really don’t have much influence.
Congrats Stephanie!
I’m torn a bit on this subject. I think each blog I read has a different purpose. I read some just because they are hilarious and make me laugh and I need that daily!
Some I read because I want information and to learn about a certain subject.
And some blogs I read just to see what others are buying at Target and what their daily lives are like.
I think all 3 fill a need for me. Does the blog that is funny inspire me to do good? I’m not sure, but it sure makes me feel good.
I think being “popular” in the blog world sometimes means a lot of people can relate to what you are writing about. Maybe out of that popularity, you can become an influencer.
I’m not sure that one is better than the other. With my blog, I’m not trying to be popular or an influencer. I’m just being me and writing about things I love and enjoy. If that makes me popular or an influencer some day, great, if not, so be it.
And not everyone is going to agree with those chosen as Power Moms, but then some of the choices, I’d never heard of until the list came out. I also don’t always agree with People’s choice of sexiest man alive every year, but that is what keeps life interesting. We all have different opinions.
Michele (ScrappinMichele) McGraws last blog post..Give Your Life a Whrrl
This was really well-put. I was never the popular girl in school either. My blog doesn’t bring in 1000s a day or even a 100 readers a day. I agree with you that numbers are just that: numbers. I know that my readers come back because I write quality content that strikes a chord with them. I love the giveaway blogs–I do giveaways too, but I love to read the personal stories most. Truth be told, people will be jealous of your achievements and will never give you the props you deserve. If Kelly likes your stuff—then you are certainly deserving of the listing on that top 50. Congrats! Cheryl
cheryl nelsons last blog post..Interested in Winning a Gift Basket Worth $800.00? It Could Be Yours!
Great post and thanks for writing it!
I agree with comment #5, the negativity about the list is that I think many of us are left wondering “what the hell?” because there are bloggers on that list that are actually an embarassment to bloggers in the same category. I had to shake my head reading the list when I saw one blog that I regard as a bit of a ‘laugh’ for taking themselves oh so seriously, and here they are queens of the cafeteria. C’est la vie! What can you do, right?
First off, congratulations!
I am new to blogging, but I have to admit…it reminds me of High School. I left High School 6 years ago and I have no intention of going back!
I believe that negativity stems from insecurity. A list or traffic numbers shouldn’t define substance. Which is (in my opinion) what blogging is all about.
Cales Cantralls last blog post..Random Day
What I learned in my college courses were that there is the “actual power” and “perceived power/influence.” I think your posts makes a very good point.
One only need to look back through history – after anyone has risen to the top and become ‘Powerful’ someone else will come along and there is nowhere else to go but down.
I would rather be considered an ‘Influencer’ be it as a mom, friend, aunt, or through my blog and writings.
Personally, I write because I like to share information with people. If I can inspire and influence one person to take action where they never would have before, that makes me happy.
Cindi @ Moomette’s Magnificentss last blog post..WAHM Tips Echoed Around The Blogosphere You’ll Want To Know About
This is a MAGNIFICENT post Stephanie! What you’ve said here is SO true, SO wise! Popularity does not equal influence, it’s about being being genuine and trust between the audience and the blogger. Without those 2 latter things, there can be no influence, popular or no.
As for those that keep scratching their heads about the Nielson lists we were named to, I have to wonder why? Why does it bother people so much? Why does it matter to them why someone was put on the list that you don’t feel belongs there? Is it taking money out of your pockets? Is it taking food out of your child’s mouth, or harming you in any way? It wasn’t your choice to make, it was Nielsons. If it doesn’t affect them personally, by hurting them or their business, their blog, their families, etc why on earth care so much to cause such a ruckus over it? I can’t quite grasp it – is it jealousy? Is it high school revisited?
All I do know is that a friend who made the Nielson list was asked in many of the hate mails she received who she had to sleep with to get on the list. That makes me downright FURIOUS.
Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parentings last blog post..Summer and Bugs
I’m grappling with this myself. I’d like my blog to be self- supporting because I spend a lot of time on it…and also commenting on other blogs.
But people tend not to take ‘funny’ seriously. That goes back to high school for me when I was passed over for several class honors despite having higher grade point averages than the more studious winners.
As to jealousy. You know I think when someone ‘wins’ something many people revert back to middle school and this area of the brain kicks in (I call it the elementary educata). Theres lots of talking behind peoples backs about who does she think she is… and I’m better… and whatever.
The truth is writing is kind of nebulous. And ‘a voice’ in writing is even more nebulous. Having one is the most important thing. It can’t be duplicated.
Anyway, congrats. Rock on with your top 50 self
tracy
tracys last blog post..Who want’s a Chicken Ice Cream Sundae for dessert?
Great post.
As far as the Nielsen list. Yay to those who were on it! I like it when any mom gets recognition.
To those of us who weren’t, so what? At the end of day you know who you influence. You know the sponsors that want to work with you. You know how you impact your readers. I don’t really think that changes based on a list.
(Personally, I think that the whole problem with the list is that unlike with other Nielsen lists, there were no objective criteria – the ones that were listed weren’t specific and were debatable based on actual numbers.)
At the end of the day, I’d like to see more support of one another and less tearing down in the blogging community – especially between moms who blogs.
Kimberly/Mom in the Citys last blog post..Do You Like Worms?
Stephanie, this is a great article. You are very brave to attack something this sensitive. LOL
I agree influential bloggers are not always popular bloggers. I also have to say that some of the negativity that I read about the less had less to do with the quality of writers on the list and more with the jealousy and hurt feelings. Unfortunately, the blogging world is filled with cliques and some people hate when their clique is left out.
Kristina Brookes last blog post..Tackle it Tuesday: Her Bedroom
This is a great post. I do not think that it is all about the numbers, and I wonder if a lot of popularity comes from doing giveaways and things of that sort. When you stop Giveaways where would your readers go. I just wrote a similar post on bloggers concerned with the number of comments they get.
Thereses last blog post..Why Are Only 5% of my Visitors Leaving Comments?