Here's an idea that news web sites could copy: The state tourism office in Pennsylvania has launched six blogs that feature the reviews of regular folks traveling around the state. And guess what -- they're being compensated!
Or I should say that this Reuters story on News.com says they're having their expenses covered.
The visitPA.com site doesn't make it clear that these bloggers -- described as a Thrill-Seeking Family, History Buff, Culture Vultures, Open Roader, Hipster Roadsters and Outdoor Adventurer -- are being paid in any way. The blogs do, however, carry a long disclaimer that notes, among other things:
Certain activities mentioned by the Roadtrippers require skill, training, and/or physical ability, and should not be attempted unless an individual has reasonably determined that he/she is qualified and otherwise able to do so safely.
They must've been worried about the History Buff's trip to Gettysburg.
Trade journalism blogger Paul Conley suggests:
There's potential here for a similar offering from a B2B publisher with the courage to let readers be reporters. Why not ask a few readers to blog about a trade show? How about a blog that follows a reader through the search for a new job in the industry you cover? Or even better -- a blog by a reader about his first year in the industry.
Couldn't a news web site apply the visitPA.com idea to a regional travel section? I'd be interested in hearing whether any news sites are trying this concept already.
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