5 Surprising Secrets No One Told You Before Starting a Blog
Blogging - it's the perfect blend of creativity, self-expression, and an amazing opportunity to share your ideas, opinions, and musings with the world.
However, before you dive into the world of blogging, there are definitely a few things you should know. No matter how many articles about creating content and SEO tips you read beforehand, there are certain aspects of blogging that remain a mystery until you're in the thick of it.
So, sit back, grab a notebook, and let's uncover the 5 things nobody told you before starting a blog!
1. "Build it and They Will Come" Doesn't Apply Here.
Unfortunately, starting a blog is not like the Field of Dreams. Just because you create it, doesn’t mean that anyone will visit.
Marketing is a massive part of the blogging world and, to the disappointment of many, it requires a lot of hard work.
You have to promote your posts relentlessly, and this could mean anything from using social media platforms to palm-reading, astrology and possibly rain dances. Ok, maybe those last few are a stretch, but the point is this: don't expect an overnight flood of traffic.
Gaining blog traffic requires lots of time, effort, networking, and, of course, quality content. Blogs are most effective when promoted to your existing audience, whether that’s a mailing list or a social media audience.
2. A Picture is Worth...At Least a Few Clicks
An enjoyable blog isn't just about captivating words. Visuals are paramount if you're seeking to capture (and hold) your reader's attention.
Now, no one is asking you to be the next Ansel Adams, but having attractive and relevant visuals, infographics, or even quality stock photos really enhance your blog (and break up long strings of text).
Remember, in the digital world, your blog is not just competing against other blogs for a reader's attention - it's up against emojis, cat videos, and memes. So, making it stand out any way you can is going to really help you in the long run.
3. You may have Left School, but School Hasn't Left You
Remember when you used to complain about never having to use the stuff learned in school in real life? Well, blogging is here to prove you wrong!
Grammar, punctuation, and spelling matter.
Before you hit publish on that blog post filled with slang, remember your primary school teacher's stern face. Your reputation and credibility are essential in maintaining a blog, so remember to proofread… or even consider using grammar tools, or hiring an editor, before putting your posts out into the world.
4. Your Worst Critic is Your Best Friend
While it’s easy to see criticism as a form of attack, it really is a precious nugget of gold.
Criticism is essentially free advice on how to improve your blog, and who doesn’t like free stuff, right?
Yes, some comments may be equally enjoyable as a root canal, but most provide useful insights into what your readers want to see.
So, with that being said, embrace that constructive criticism with arms wide open. It’s often exactly what you need to usher you onto the path of becoming a successful blogger.
5. Say Goodbye to Your Secret Identity
If you thought you could delve into the blogging world anonymously like a keyboard-bound Batman, think again!
The harsh truth? Building a successful blog requires you to put yourself out there and create personal connections with readers.
This is especially true if you’re the face of a business, where your ability to be received well will often dictate whether potential and existing customers choose to spend their money with you or go elsewhere.
What does this mean? Well, a certain amount of vulnerability, that’s for sure. This can look like sharing parts of your life, your experiences, or at least your thoughts and opinions in a personable and relatable way.
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Building a blog requires passion, dedication, resilience, and a truckload of effort.
But remember: the rewarding aspects of sharing your voice with the world, interacting with a global community, and making a difference with your words are immeasurable.
So go ahead and unleash your inner blogger and let the world hear your voice!
And if you need a hand, well… our professional writing team is only a phone call, text, or e-mail away.