People often tell me, “I’ve always wanted to start a blog,” but sometimes I’m not sure if they’re asking for my help or simply sharing their thoughts. So, I thought it would be helfpul to tell my tory of what it was like when I started a blog years ago. When I first dipped my toes into blogging back in 2009, using the OG Blogspot platform, we didn’t have the abundance of resources available like we do today. I relied on learning from those who were already in the game, even though I’ll admit, I had no clue what I was doing. I just dove in and took it one step at a time, figuring things out as I went along. And you know what? It wasn’t perfect then, and it’s still not perfect now. I never really delved into the intricacies of SEO for blog posts, which means I probably missed out on some opportunities to make money. But hey, I did it. I learned what I could and put it into practice.

As the years rolled by, I became comfortable enough to buy my own domain, reach out to my host, NEPA Geeks to set up WordPress, and tinker with themes until they suited my style. I’ve built websites and blogs for various businesses and fundraisers—not always flawlessly, but they get the job done. And I’ve learned the importance of knowing where to turn for help. Connecting with people who are already experts in a particular field is invaluable when you’re diving into a new skill. Take a page from their book, see what’s working for them, and use that as your guide. I don’t have all the answers, but I will share some of my tips below. If you are looking to get started with blogging or someone to coach you along the way, I highly recommend Tracie Fobes. I have been on her email list for years and she has a very helpful facebook community helping eachother grow/learn in blogging.

So, if you’re thinking about starting your own blog, here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way:

• Define Your Purpose: Before diving headfirst into the world of blogging, take a moment to reflect on your purpose. What do you hope to achieve with your blog? Are you looking to educate, inspire, entertain, or perhaps a combination of all three? Clarifying your objectives will not only help you stay focused but also resonate with your audience.
• Choose Your Niche: Next, it’s time to narrow down your focus by selecting a niche. Consider your interests, expertise, and target audience. Are you passionate about food, fashion, travel, technology, or something entirely unique? Find a niche that aligns with your passions and expertise to carve out your space in the blogosphere.
• Select a Blogging Platform: With your purpose and niche in mind, it’s time to choose a blogging platform. Popular options include WordPress, Blogger, Squarespace, and Wix, each offering its own set of features and customization options. Research each platform to determine which best suits your needs, budget, and technical abilities.
• Set Up Your Blog: Once you’ve selected a platform, it’s time to set up your blog. Choose a domain name that reflects your brand and is easy to remember. Select a clean, visually appealing theme that complements your content. Customize your blog’s design, layout, and colors to create a cohesive and inviting aesthetic.
• Create Compelling Content: Now comes the fun part—creating content! Brainstorm topics that resonate with your audience and align with your niche. Craft engaging, informative, and authentic blog posts that provide value to your readers. Experiment with different formats, such as how-to guides, listicles, personal anecdotes, and interviews, to keep your content fresh and diverse.
• Promote Your Blog: Building an audience takes time and effort, so don’t be afraid to promote your blog across various channels. Utilize social media platforms, email newsletters, guest blogging, and SEO strategies to increase your blog’s visibility and attract new readers. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, fostering community, and collaborating with fellow bloggers.
• Stay Consistent and Persistent: Consistency is key to building a successful blog, so establish a regular posting schedule and stick to it. Whether it’s once a week, bi-weekly, or monthly, strive to deliver fresh, high-quality content on a consistent basis. Stay persistent, even when faced with challenges or setbacks, and continue to evolve and refine your blogging skills.

Embarking on your blogging journey may seem daunting at first, but with passion, dedication, and perseverance, you can turn your blogging dreams into reality. Remember to stay true to yourself, stay curious, and most importantly just start. Open up a blank document and start writing. Once you have all your ducks in a row, you can copy over the content. Now go get started!