Ah, July. That glorious month when everyone's out soaking up the sun, sipping on iced lattes, and not clicking on your blog posts. If you've been in the online biz for a hot minute - say, since 2008 like yours truly - you've probably noticed the pattern: traffic dips, ad revenue shrinks, and you're left wondering if your audience has collectively decided to take a digital detox...sigh!
But here's the thing: this slump isn't a surprise. It's a seasonal shift, and once you recognize it, you can plan for it. Better yet, you can use this quieter time to explore new income streams that might just become your next big thing. Let's turn this summer slowdown into a setup for success!
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1. Embrace the Slump - Then Strategize Around It
First things first: don't panic. Recognize that July is typically a slower month for online engagement. Instead of stressing over the dip, use this time to plan, pivot, and prepare. Reflect on what's working, what isn't, and where there's room for growth.
This proactive approach can set the stage for a strong Q3 and beyond!
2. Refresh and Repurpose Evergreen Content
Got blog posts collecting digital dust? Give them a summer facelift! Update outdated information, add fresh visuals, and optimize for SEO. Then, reshare them across your platforms.
It's a simple way to drive traffic without creating new content from scratch!
3. Launch a Low-Lift Digital Product
Think checklists, templates, or summer-themed printables. These quick-to-create products can provide value to your audience and generate passive income.
Platforms like Etsy or Gumroad make it easy to sell digital goods with minimal overhead!
4. Dive Into Affiliate Marketing with a Seasonal Spin
Summer is ripe for affiliate opportunities. Promote products that align with the season - think travel gear, outdoor essentials, or even summer reads.
Craft content that naturally incorporates these items, like "Top 10 Beach Must-Haves" or "Summer Reading List for Entrepreneurs!"
5. Pre-Sell a Course or Workshop for Fall
Use July to build anticipation for upcoming offerings. Create a waitlist or offer early-bird pricing for a course launching in September.
This not only generates immediate income but also gauges interest and helps you tailor content to your audience's needs!
6. Offer a Flash Sale to Your Email List
Your subscribers are your VIPs. Reward them with an exclusive, limited-time offer. Whether it's a discount on a product or a bonus resource, a flash sale can boost engagement and sales during slower periods.
I love all the features that come with my email provider, Kit, that make testing sales and products so easy!
7. Start a Niche Blog or Side Hustle Project
Always wanted to explore a new niche? Now's the time. Launching a side blog or project during a quiet month allows you to experiment without the pressure.
Who knows? It might evolve into a significant income stream!
8. Create a Bundle with Other Creators
Collaboration is key. Partner with fellow entrepreneurs to bundle products or services. It's a win-win: you expand your reach, provide added value to your audience, and share the promotional load.
And since everyone is in a slump you might have an easier time catching interest than you would at a busier time of the year, especially if you are willing to do all the work!
9. Monetize Your Expertise with Coaching or Consults
Offer one-on-one sessions or group coaching on topics you're passionate about. Even a few clients can make a significant difference in your monthly income, and personalized services often command higher rates.
Over the years I have made thousands of dollars off of doing one hour consults!
10. Test a New Platform or Monetization Channel
Ever considered platforms like Medium, Substack, or even TikTok? Use July to explore these avenues. Diversifying your presence can open doors to new audiences and revenue streams.
You can batch produce lots of content when times are slow and then have them ready to post when the busy 4th quarter comes!
11. Set Up Passive Income Streams for Q4
Think ahead. Use this time to create resources that will pay off during the bustling holiday season. Whether it's setting up an affiliate campaign, creating a holiday-themed product, or planning a content calendar, your future self will thank you.
I KNOW, it is hard to excited when it feels like everything is crumbling around you, but just keep your shoulder to the wheel and think how much you will love making the big bucks when you start seeing interest again!
Wrapping It Up
July might bring a lull in traffic and ad revenue, but it's also a golden opportunity to innovate and diversify. By embracing the seasonal slowdown and proactively exploring new avenues, you can not only sustain your income but also set the stage for future growth!
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