Starting a blog can be both exciting and overwhelming. With the right approach and knowledge, you can turn your blogging journey into a successful venture. Here are 30 essential blogging tips that will help you avoid common mistakes and set up your blog for success.
1. Choose the Right Platform
When you start blogging, selecting the right platform is crucial. Free platforms like Blogger, Medium, or WordPress.com might seem appealing, but they come with limitations. These platforms can restrict your features and control over your content. For serious bloggers, WordPress.org is the better choice. It provides full freedom to customize your blog and make money from it.
2. Find the Perfect Domain Name
Your domain name is your blog’s address on the internet. It should be easy to spell, pronounce, and remember. Stick with a .com extension if possible, and include relevant keywords if you can. Avoid using numbers or complex words that could confuse visitors.
3. Choose the Right Hosting
Reliable web hosting is essential for your blog’s performance. Free hosting services often lead to problems and can result in lost content if the service shuts down. Opt for reputable hosting providers like Bluehost or SiteGround. They offer reliable service and are recommended by WordPress.
4. Always Keep Regular Backups
Backing up your blog regularly is crucial. If something goes wrong, such as a hardware failure or a hacking attempt, you need a backup to restore your content. Use plugins like Duplicator to automate backups and store them safely.
5. Set Up Google Analytics from Day 1
Google Analytics helps you understand your audience better. It provides insights into how people find and interact with your blog. Setting it up early will help you make data-driven decisions to improve your content and reach.
6. Set Up a Professional Branded Email Address
Having a professional email address (e.g., yourname@yourblog.com) helps in building credibility and making business deals. It also improves the deliverability of your newsletters.
7. Start Building an Email List Right Away
Building an email list is vital for staying in touch with your audience. Unlike social media, you own your email list and can contact your subscribers directly. Start collecting emails from the beginning to maintain and grow your audience.
8. Set Up Unique Contact Forms for Each Use Case
Instead of listing your email address publicly, use contact forms to manage communications and reduce spam. Different forms can be set up for various purposes, such as feedback or business inquiries.
9. Pay Attention to Image Copyrights and Licenses
Using images without proper licensing can lead to legal issues. Use images from sources like Shutterstock or find royalty-free images from CC0 websites. Alternatively, create your own images using tools like Canva.
10. Onsite SEO Optimization is Important for Growth
Onsite SEO helps improve your blog’s visibility in search engines. Use plugins like All in One SEO to optimize your blog posts, create sitemaps, and manage internal linking to boost your search engine rankings.
11. Keyword Research is VERY Important
Effective keyword research helps you create content that your audience is searching for. Tools like Semrush or WPBeginner’s free Keyword Generator can help you find the best keywords to target.
12. Catchy Headlines Are Important for Social and SEO
A compelling headline grabs attention and encourages clicks. Use tools like WPBeginner’s headline analyzer to craft headlines that improve your click-through rate (CTR) and attract more readers.
13. Repurposing Content is a Secret Weapon for Expert Bloggers
Repurposing your content into different formats, such as videos or ebooks, can reach a wider audience. Tools like Beacon can help you convert blog posts into downloadable content easily.
14. Videos Are a Great Way to Boost Engagement and Stand Out
Videos are highly engaging and can keep visitors on your blog longer. Host your videos on platforms like YouTube and embed them in your posts to enhance user experience.
15. You Can Re-share Old Posts to Boost Traffic
Older posts can still drive traffic if you share them on social media. Use plugins like Revive Old Posts to automate the process of sharing your old content and attract new readers.
16. Diversify Your Income Streams
Relying solely on one income source can be risky. Diversify by exploring different monetization methods like affiliate marketing, selling online courses, or offering memberships.
17. Consistency is Key
Maintain a consistent publishing schedule. Whether you post daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, sticking to a routine helps keep your audience engaged and returning for more.
18. Streamline a Flow for Storing Your Blog Post Ideas
Use tools like Asana or Evernote to organize and manage your blog post ideas. This helps you keep track of content plans and avoid running out of ideas.
19. Set Up a Place to Manage All Your Passwords
Using strong, unique passwords for different accounts is crucial for security. Password managers like LastPass can help you keep track of and manage your passwords safely.
20. Connect Multiple Emails with Your Gravatar
Gravatar allows you to use the same profile image across different email addresses. This helps in building a consistent online presence and brand recognition.
21. Comment on Other Blogs and Networks to Grow Your Brand
Engage with other blogs and online communities related to your niche. Commenting and participating in discussions can help increase visibility and drive traffic to your blog.
22. About Page and Start Here Pages Are Very Important
Create an About Page to share your story and a Start Here Page to guide new visitors to your most important content. This helps in building a connection with your audience and improving user experience.
23. Social Media is Important But Always Remember It’s Rented Land
While social media is useful for driving traffic, remember that these platforms can change or disappear. Focus on building and maintaining control over your own blog and email list.
24. Start Building Brand Recognition
Maintain consistency in branding across your blog and social media profiles. A cohesive look and feel help build brand recognition and trust with your audience.
25. Leverage Social Proof When You Can
Social proof, such as showcasing testimonials or user counts, can help build trust and credibility. Display indicators of your blog’s success to reassure new visitors.
26. Website Speed is Very Important
A fast-loading blog improves user experience and SEO rankings. Use caching plugins like WP Super Cache and services like Cloudflare to enhance your website’s speed.
27. Content Upgrades and Exit Popups are Magic
Content upgrades and exit popups can significantly increase your subscriber rates. Implement these strategies to grow your email list and improve engagement.
28. Ignore Haters and Turn-off Distractions
As your blog grows, you may encounter criticism. Focus on positive feedback and avoid distractions that can hinder your progress. Moderating comments can help manage negativity.
29. Don’t Obsess Over Perfection
Perfection is not necessary for success. Focus on creating valuable content and improving over time. Use tools like Grammarly to help with grammar and spelling.
30. Always Use the Best Tools to Get Ahead
Equip yourself with the best tools to manage and grow your blog. Tools like Asana, Evernote, and Grammarly can enhance productivity and help you stay ahead in the blogging world.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the best blogging platform for beginners?
A1: For beginners, WordPress.org is recommended due to its flexibility and control. It offers more features and freedom compared to free platforms like Blogger or WordPress.com.
Q2: How do I choose a domain name for my blog?
A2: Choose a domain name that is short, easy to spell, and includes relevant keywords. Stick with a .com extension for better recognition.
Q3: Why is web hosting important for my blog?
A3: Web hosting affects your blog’s performance and reliability. Choose a reputable host to avoid issues like downtime or lost data.
Q4: How often should I back up my blog?
A4: Regular backups are essential. Set up automatic backups using plugins like Duplicator to ensure your content is safe from unexpected issues.
Q5: How can I increase traffic to my blog?
A5: Increase traffic by optimizing your blog for SEO, using social media, and building an email list. Content upgrades and exit popups can also boost your subscriber rates.
Q6: What tools can help with blog writing and management?
A6: Useful tools include Asana for task management, Evernote for notes, Grammarly for grammar checking, and Semrush for keyword research.
By following these tips and utilizing the recommended tools, you can set a strong foundation for your blog and increase your chances of success in the competitive blogging landscape.