Starting a blog can seem like a daunting task, especially when faced with the thousands of blogs on any given topic that already exist. Not knowing where to start is one of the main reasons so many people find the process intimidating, but it is not as difficult as they expect, and once begun, it can be maintained with just a bit of effort, and a lot of passion. And for the lucky ones, it can earn a bit of money, too.
Name the Blog
When choosing a blog name, the most important thing to do is create one that relates not only to what the blog is about, but suits the person behind it. Using keywords people will actually use when doing a search helps them find the blog, so be sure to keep it simple, yet memorable. For instance, if the blog is about a mom who bakes, perhaps the name “Baker Mom”, or “Mom’s Kitchen”, would be suitable. Once named, do a quick search to be sure the name isn’t already taken, so the blog won’t be confused with another one.
Connect With a Web Hosting Provider
After registering the blog name, the next step is to purchase a web hosting provider. There are many different options for this. Some can cost hundreds of dollars a month, but there are cheaper web hosting packages available from providers, such as eHost.com or iPage. Be sure the host chosen offers the basic specifications, such as scalable bandwidth, 24 hour customer support, and security support.
Choose a WordPress Theme
Now it’s time to choose a theme. This refers to the background images, and the layout of the site. Be sure to choose one that relates to the blog’s content. It must be easy for users to navigate, or they will get frustrated when using it and move on to something else. The cost of a WordPress theme can range from free to $500. Of course, what type of features the blog requires will determine how much a person will pay.
Start Writing Quality Blog Content
When writing content for the blog, remember that if it is not a topic of interest to the blogger, they will probably not write with the passion required to draw the reader in. So be sure to write with enthusiasm in every post, to keep people interested and coming back for more. Also, do the necessary research to ensure the posts are well-informed. Adding an About Me page to the site is also a good idea, so readers know who they are getting their information from. A bit of info about the blogger is important for readers to trust what is being discussed. Of course, not every detail of the blogger’s life needs to be added. Protecting online privacy should always be a concern, to keep those with harmful intentions from gaining information they can then use to their advantage.
Start Marketing
There are a few different ways to promote a new blog and increase traffic. Commenting on related blogs in an informed and constructive manner can show readers that a new blogger has a relevant opinion. Guest blogging on other reputable blogs is also an effective strategy, as it not only shows that the blogger knows what they are talking about, but will bring the traffic back to their sites. Social media can also be used to promote a blog, but again, be careful what is posted, so there are no issues with online privacy.
Enjoy the Fruit of Your Passion
Now the blog can start earning money. One of the best ways is Google AdSense, which allows bloggers to place ads on their site, and earn money from those companies. Of course, Google has numerous penalties that can actually deflect traffic from an offending site, such as Panda, which affects low-quality websites, Penguin, which detects unnatural backlinks, and Pirate, which looks for stolen copyrighted content, just to name a few. A blogger can also earn affiliate sales for promoting another site’s products, or can do a sponsored review to earn a bit of money.
