howisthebiz.com 11 January 2009 Articles > Blogging Basics 347 views No Comment Print This Post  Email This Post

Ah, the world of blogging! A scary, unpredictable yet oddly exciting world of the unknown! Every day thousands of people are starting blogs, some for fun, some to share their lives with family, some to make an impact and others - to make an income. There are many reasons to start a blog and many ways to get traffic to it.

Here are some basic tips to making people want to hear what you have to say!

1) Define a clear purpose of your blog. If it is about family, then stick to that and your family and friends will be glad to be a part of it! If it is to draw attention to a project or affiliation, then be sure to look at all possible inclusions for that topic-including press mentions, partnerships etc. If it is to earn money, then you truly need to define a scope or “keyword” specific topic that you will right about. OK, so why is this so important…this whole “define a purpose” concept. Well, I am going to tell you in the next step..so go ahead, read on!

2) Your purpose is going to define your readership and demographic and determine the extent of your “reach” to prospective readers. Think about it, if you start a blog about deer hunting, you can almost guarantee you will lose a large majority of women….just like if you start one about fine jewelry, I can almost guarantee men will not be there seeing your posts! When definiing a topic or blog concept, try to create an environment that is conducive to both men and women.

3) Make your blog user friendly and attractive to your primary demographic. Use the “less is more” concept - this will get you further than an over designed too busy blog. Many readers that may come across your blog may not be active blog readers and may find a site that is too busy a turn off.

4) Create posts that are both useful and entertaining! Be yourself and use a “tone” in your writing that reflects your personality. If you are satirical in life, it is OK to be satirical in blogging-it will help you find the right readers.

5) Make your readers want to come back for more by being consistent with your writing style, topics and entertainment value. If you write about cooking - then your posts should be about cooking only. If you start posting about your kids, a car that you like or any other totally irrelevant topic, this is a sure fire way to lost potential subscribers. Assure them that they will find interesting and relevant content ALL the time!

6) Be sure to promote your blog on sites like Twitter, Facebook and MySpace to create visibility. Be sure to include your blog address in your email signature.

7) Run contests that are relevant to your blog topic. Post your contests on free contest listing sites to generate additional interest and traffic.

Exchange links with like minded blogs. If you are a pet blog, be sure to try and get links on some pet related websites. Tell the store owner you will do a “feature” post for them and maybe run an ad in return for the link.

Well, what do you think? A few simple steps to get you started in the world of getting your blog seen. It is not easy, no matter what niche your blog is in, there is competition everywhere. You need to get out there and promote it, and make it interesting!