Paid highlighted posts is a great idea. I don’t know if it will ultimately work, but it’s a smart thing to try.

Some will complain that it will lead to spammy-like behavior, but it works because the rules are the same: only follow people on Tumblr you actually want to follow and seeing reading their content.

I do wonder what would happen if Twitter did this? Yes, they have Promoted Tweets, but it’s a brand thing right now. What if regular people you followed promoted Tweets? There would undoubtedly be an initial shitstorm, but it would be an interesting idea as well…

I also love that Tumblr easily allows you to donate $1 to the Red Cross with each Highlight sold. Well played.

And you’ll notice the font and container box of all Highlighted posts is slightly larger as well…

Update: I Paid, Now What?