I recently was asked if I had a “tip me” jar/ button on my site. The question seemed like it was hanging, so I wasn’t certain if it was a question about if I had one, or if the person meant about my thoughts on having one.
Donation buttons/ tip jar buttons/ buy me a beer button: Oh, that brings back memories. For myself, I use to have one for many years. I still contemplate bringing one back if I could find a better way to entice people to chip in a few dollars if I’ve helped them.
I took it down because it was a waste of space. If people want to contribute or send money because you’ve helped them, they’ll reach out to you. I’m not in the habit of asking people for money. In fact, that’s actually a really hard thing for me to ask, because it’s a tough topic for many people. I won’t refuse it if you want to send me money. (LOL!) I don’t think anyone would. I usually run into people who buy me a meal or a drink, just to thank me. Frankly, having that drink or meal with that person is more meaningful than sending me $5-$50.
However, to circle back, it just doesn’t work for me to put a donation button or tip button on my website, unless I can throw some type of project that will benefit people, and be something that won’t need additional funding in the future.
This is just my opinion, for my own website.
So…
Is it Okay to Have a Tip Jar or Donation Button on my Blog?
I wasn’t certain what the original question was leading to, so I’ll insert an answer in the case that it really meant to ask for you, my readers. If you were asking if you should have one, then I don’t think it would hurt to have it, but it’s not necessary. It’s okay to have one on your website.
Like I said, I’ve had one before. Other people out there have their own tip jar or donate type button. Some people, rather than having a tip jar, they offer something in exchange for donating. That actually may be a better way of asking for a donation.
However, just because you place a button or a link to ask people to donate or send you money, doesn’t mean they will do it. You may never see a dime, or you could see a little money, but when it’s sent, it will be a “once in a blue moon” kind of deal.
Now, if you’ve been wondering if having a tip jar or donate button on your blog is called begging, that depends on how you word asking for money. If you’re constantly trying to put attention to the tip jar on your website, then you may seem desperate. However, if you’re not, and someone is accusing you of begging, just ignore them. They aren’t worth your time, and like to cause drama.
What are your thoughts about having a tip jar or donation button on your blog? Do you have a tip jar on your website?
Got a question? Ask Nile. Feel free to take a look at all the questions that I’ve answered in the Ask Nile Series.
Good idea Nile,interesting post & inspiring me this lot for me.Thanks for giving knowledge about this post.
Helpful post for every one to need this info and everyone to maintain this donation button.Keep updating us.
I’ve used it once on a site, and it wasn’t even clearly posted, at the bottom of the sidebar. The reason I had it was because it was a site that I wasn’t planning on making mone with, related to a medical issue. I think I made enough each year to cover the the hosting and domain costs, but even if I didn’t, it wouldn’t have mattered to me.
I have never used a Tip Jar on my blogs, but I have seen others that do. I think you would need a lot of traffic and really involved readers to make it work. I’d prefer to provide something of value like a book or course, and use the blog to give away free material while also supporting the paid content.
Hi Nile,
You have suggest nice idea to put a button of donation on blogs so this could be positive thinking. Thanks a lots for sharing with us.
Regards
Rama Krishna
I have considered adding a “buy me a cup of coffee” button on and off over the years. Honestly, I can’t imagine anyone bothering to use it though. This post just validates my feelings on the subject. Thanks so much!
I tend to agree with your sentiments Nile!
Since a webmaster is looking to earn a profit, why not
rely on the quality products & services you provide, in
order to consistently generate an income!
But asking for donations, is one of the surest ways to
starvation and loss of some credibility, if you ask me!
As far as my experience is concerned, having a donation button on your blog is fine untill you provide solutions to most toughest problems which only very few can. I have some descent success with donation button on one of my blog.