The Basics: Family Review Network is run by a group of blogging moms who work directly with PR agencies and companies to line up product reviews. Then they pass those opportunities on to all members of the network. Some campaigns are open only to a limited number of bloggers, but that is always acknowledged up front.

Some of the review campaigns that have run through Family Review Network include:

• Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner
• Eye Buy Direct prescription glasses
• Skin MD lotion
• Zenses for Nintendo DS
• DaBib
• Nature’s Source cleaning products

The Logistics: Network reviewers are allowed to apply only for those campaigns that they are interested in. Once that happens, and if they are selected for that specific campaign, reviewers are given the opportunity to choose when they will post their review. Each campaign in assigned a specific timetable – usually running between 10 to 14 days. Many of the review campaigns often include a giveaway.

The Requirements: Currently, as of 4/20/09, Family Review Network is not accepting new reviewer applications. When they are, that information will become available on their site. We’ll also be sure to let you know when the application process is opened again.

What kind of products would I review?

Products for review are as varied as the types of blogs out there. When you partner with a review network, the items are geared towards kids, moms, or general household. You are always given the option to opt-out (or not opt-in) for each review campaign.

Do I get to keep the products?

Although I’m sure it can happen, I’ve never seen a review campaign where the reviewer did NOT get to keep the item.

Do the products cost me anything?

There is no out of pocket cost to review anything. If you are ever asked to pay something, run as fast as you can!

What is my compensation?

For the most part, you will not receive compensation for a review beyond the free product. However, there are certain ad networks that pay for reviews. There are also companies (such as Pay Per Post) that pay you to write reviews or to spread the word for their clients.

Do I get to give any away?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. That’s really up to the company seeking the review. If they are not offering an extra product to giveaway, it never hurts to ask if they’d be willing to.

Can I do this on my own blog or do I need another blog?

Certain ad networks, particularly BlogHer, do not allow reviews of products over a certain dollar amount to appear on pages with their ads.

Beyond that, it is really up to you if you want to start a separate blog just for reviews or not. Initially, I’d recommend reviewing on your existing blog and then adding a second if necessary.

What if I don’t like the product I’m reviewing?

A thoughtful review that’s not filled with negatives is an honest review. It’s okay to say that you dislike an aspect of something. If, however, you feel the need to write a scathing review, email the company first and let them know your thoughts. Give them the option to let you publish or not. Offer to return the product as well.

Did we miss any questions? If you have more, please let us know.

Review blogs are a nice little niche to explore if you like the idea of reviewing free products and sharing your opinions with your blog readers.

When it comes to reviewing products, you have a few options. You can create a blog just for reviews, start a second blog that focuses on reviews, or add reviews into your current blog content.

That last option is probably the best for newer blogs, although there are some ad networks that do not allow reviews of products over a specific dollar amount to be run alongside their ads. (BlogHer specifically has very set-in-stone regulations for reviews and giveaways.)

The perks of review blogging are many.

• You receive free products.
• Your name and your blog receive greater exposure, especially if you join a review network. (See the list at the end of this post.)
• You get to share your honest opinions with your readers.
• Companies that ask for a review often provide a product for you to offer as a giveaway on your blog.

If you are adding reviews to an existing blog, it is important to keep balance in mind. Out of respect for your readers, who have come to know and love you for your content, you should make sure you continue with that content. If you begin to write only reviews and leave behind your original posting habit, readers may stop visiting. That’s not good for you or for the companies whose products you are reviewing.

Here are some of the Review Networks you may want to sign up with:

• Family Review Network
• Team Mom
• Mom Select
• One 2 One Network
• Parent Reviewers
• Mom Central
• My Blog Spark
• Parent Bloggers Network

Stay tuned for more on Review Blogging information in the coming weeks!

Do you have experience with review blogging? What are your thoughts on it? Please share your thoughts!