So, you like to write. Well, the good news is that this is the first fundamental of blogging. Basically, you have to enjoy writing, and you have to enjoy writing a lot.
Blogging actually requires a lot of work and a lot of patience. In fact, you might want to prepare yourself for the humbling fact that nobody will probably read your blog for the first year or two unless you learn some insider tips, of course.
In the world of blogging, it’s more than just words and imagery that will get you noticed. People need problems solved, and they also need a reason to listen to you on a particular subject. If you’re able to solve a problem or offer some type of value, then you’ll acquire a readership relatively quickly.
In this post, we’ll outline how to get started blogging and what you need to know to make this lifestyle worth your time.
Learning How to Write
Blogging isn’t just a verb, it also refers to a style of writing that many aren’t accustomed to at first. It’s actually something you can get your start practicing with at home.
When you tell a story in a novel format, you’re using a specific point of view to convey your ideas and imagery. Well, in the blogging world you’re telling a story, but you’re also speaking directly to an audience.
This makes blog writing much more personable and conversational, engaging your audience by speaking to them directly. Much of this is accomplished by using the word “you.”
When you refer to a person by name, this personalizes the conversation and keeps one engaged. And while you can’t know the names of all of your readers, talking to them like you would a normal person will more than likely keep their interest and attention.
Before crafting your first post, read a few of your favorite blogs and see how each writer keeps their engagement flowing through context and word usage.
Blogging for Business
Whether you want to get started blogging as a side-hustle, or if you’re hoping to hire out for blogger outreach services, blogging can be a huge asset to any business model.
Blogging is a way to allow engagement with your audience, and keep a conversation going about relevant topics in a specific niche.
For example, let’s say you’re an artist and you want to tell the world about your process and inspiration. On your artist website, you can add a blog page and begin these conversations, and allow interaction with customers and readers in the form of comments and shares.
Blogging shows the world who you are through your words, and this can be a great way to spark engagement with any business or startup.
Consistency is Key
You can ask any blogger or online content creator and they’ll tell you that it takes a lot of time and work to build up readership and engagement. This is because blogging is a super competitive space, with millions of blogs being written each and every day.
Above all, you have to be consistent when you post, otherwise, you won’t keep any readers who might happen upon your blog. The main thing to remember here is that when blogging, you want to increase your subscriber network.
Posting a few times a week is the normal rate for a good blog with an average readership. Though there are some who post every single day, or even multiple times a day, the key is to pick a few times a week and make your posts consistent so that your readers will know when and where to see your new content.
Blogging can be a great way to make a decent side income over time or to simply have a creative outlet. No matter your reason for blogging, learn the fundamentals first before you go out and design an elaborate website.
At the end of the day, you’re going to be telling a story, so make sure that you have the tools and expertise to tell the best story you can.