Why Couponaholic? [#WhyMe?]

Why Couponaholic?

There are so many coupon blogs out there.  Even before Extreme Couponing was a show, I think among others, the ease of getting online and the recession combined to see a proliferation of both cutesy blogs and those out there trying to scam readers make a buck.  Many blogs have similar deals.  Many blogs have a coupon database.  Many blogs look nice.  So, why should you read Confessions of a Couponaholic?  I think my appeal is threefold.  [1] I am consistent [2] I work with ALL of my readers, both critics and fans [3] most importantly, I am honest.  Oh, maybe it’s fourfold; saving money so we can focus on the more important aspects of life such as family and friends is my passion.  

[1] I am consistent:

Consistency is crucial in blogging.  Consistency takes many forms in the world of blogging.  Because Confessions of a Couponaholic is a one-person gig [except when I bag my husband for tech support], my terminology and general voice remains consistent.  Consistency also means the readers know what to expect [without being droned to sleep].  My regular features include FREEbies, specific store matchups [ie, Riteaid], and a plethora of daily deal sites [ie, Mamapedia].  

[2] I work with ALL of my readers:

It was shocking to see how many critics are out there waiting for a mistake, ready to jump on it like a lion crouching before its prey.  At first, I took it very personally.  Any negative comment was tough for me.  Then I learned from their comments.  I learned to filter those into three categories: plain mean people, constructive criticism, and those who are wrong.  I ignore the first group and work with the other two.  While I moderate comments, I try to only delete those from the first group, no matter how hard it is to publish even constructive criticism.  There are so many instances where I have commented on blogs in a very respectful, constructive manner, yet because it was criticism for suggestion, it never shows on the site.  

[3] I am honest:

While this concept, "Why choose Couponaholic over the umpteen other sites," is necessary to articulate, it stems from frustration I have had the last couple of weeks.  I figured other blogs were living in the same moral sphere as I do; they don’t.  It started when they expressed excitement about products merely because they earned big kickbacks as affiliate links.  Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate affiliate marketing just like the next blogger.  But I NEVER post an affiliate link that I don’t do myself.  In fact, recently I posted a “Gold Buyers Kit,” then quickly pulled it because it wasn’t something I planned on doing myself.  Looking back, readers told me they heard it was a scam and I am thankful I wasn’t supporting it.  I have seen so many links that I knew the blogger wouldn’t even consider.  Here’s a tip: hover your mouse over links you think might be shady.  If they look shady and don’t feel genuine in their description of that product, then don’t click it.  Don’t reward those who are out there trying to scam readers merely make a buck.  I will not lead you astray.  

I then stopped reading several blogs recently because of distrust.  If you post a deal about peelies that don't really exist, then don't post the deal.  Or, if you post a deal that is really great but there isn't enough to go around...purchase what you like but don't get us excited to get to the store only to find out that you are storing my share under your kids' bed.  Ok, that is extreme.  I am also one of those who believes that so long as you are abiding by store policy you have the right to purchase however much of a product as you want.  But in my opinion, posting that run might be a slap in the face to others.

[4] I am passionate about saving money so we can focus on bigger and better things, like friends and family.  Period.  Thanks so much for reading.  Following are ways you can support Confessions of a Couponaholic:

Visit my "Couponaholic’s Database"

“Like” the Couponaholic Facebook Page

“Follow” me on Twitter

Subscribe to my daily emails

Share my site with friends! [Actually tell them about it]

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