Blogs. They’re everywhere. In online publications, websites, forums, DIY sites and more. Some may accuse these blips of information as simple fodder for the masses. Others see them as a way to vent or publish their social commentary from within the confines of a bohemian high-rise studio. Whatever the reason. One thing's for certain: there is value in these 500-word verbal vignettes. I mean, you’re reading one now aren’t you?
So for those interested in partaking in the glorious wonderment of online content production, herein lies several pieces of advice to get started.
Here’s the biggest mistake most beginning bloggers commit. There’s certainly a level of excitement involved in producing and publishing your own content for the world to appreciate. However, find a theme, a topic, or a niche discussion that you will cover on a regular basis. Trust us, in trying to cover everything, you’ll end up talking about nothing at all.
Once you discover your voice and writing passion, now it’s time to solicit ideas from an audience. Research common concerns or questions from within this topic and become an authority source. Provide solutions to their needs and research additional questions that haven’t yet been answered.
A good writer expresses empathy, not sympathy. In blogging, put yourself in the shoes of your audience. What do they think about? How do they problem solve? Where do they get their information? In becoming your audience, you’ll be able to write to them in a way that will truly resonate. You can start this process by determing your target personas.
What’s the point of understanding an audience if you don’t have one? In order to develop and grow a group of followers, end your blog with some kind of call to action. A sign up for an email list or request to follow you on twitter or various other forms of social media gives your visitor an option to continue reading your work if it interests them. Which it should if you follow the above three suggestions…
So you’ve discovered a topic, gotten ideas from an audience, worked to further understand your audience, and successfully grew your follower base? Good. Now stay consistent. Continue to publish content (more than once a week) on your topic. Deviating just a tad. It’s much easier to lose traffic than to build it up. Be open to innovation but stay within your followers’ expectations.
Take these and others to heart when beginning your blogging career. Best of luck out there. Be patient. Be consistent. And be loyal to your audience. Eventually, you'll be showered in digital love.
Did you find this helpful? Have any questions or comments? Let us a know by commenting below. And if you need help determining your target audience, start by develoing your personas by downloaing your free Persona Workbook.