Last month, I shared a post on How To Start a Blog – Tips for a Beginner. It focused on getting your blog up and running, covering things like choosing a domain, hosting, and setting up WordPress. But what should you do after your blog is set up? What tips should new bloggers know?
I’ve been blogging for almost two years now, and while that might not be a long time, I’ve learned a lot from my mistakes. I might even write a post about all the blogging mistakes I’ve made!
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I’ve been getting a lot of emails asking for blogging tips. Many people think they’ll get rich from blogging, but that’s a topic for another post. I’m not an expert and still have much to learn, but I blog for myself and don’t mind making mistakes. Today, I’ll share some tips, hoping you’ll find them useful.
This is part one of a series, so look out for part two soon. Today’s post covers the basics of blogging and some common mistakes. In part two, I’ll discuss choosing your blog’s direction and the potential conflict of making money from your blog.
If you’re interested in starting a blog, I created an easy tutorial to help you get started for as low as $3.49 per month for hosting. Plus, you’ll get a free blog domain (a $15 value) if you purchase at least 12 months of hosting through my Bluehost link. If you want to make money or use your blog for freelancing, you need to be self-hosted.
**Be Yourself**
When starting your blog, be yourself! Don’t pretend to be someone else. People love reading authentic blogs where the writer’s personality shines through. Have fun with it and figure out why you really want to blog.
**Have an About Page**
I’m currently working on improving my About page. I enjoy reading blogs with a fun or interesting personal touch. Corporate blogs are fine, but I prefer learning about the author. An About page lets readers know more about you in one place. Include a picture, a bio, and links to other posts that describe you and your life.
**Reply to Comments**
Always make an effort to reply to comments. Even a simple “thanks” shows that you read and appreciate the feedback. I love when bloggers answer questions in the comments. It makes me want to return and see their responses. Interacting with readers is crucial.
**Get Rid of the Captcha**
Captcha can be frustrating. Simplify it with easy tests like “1+1” instead of blurry, unreadable text. It can be a real turn-off for people trying to leave comments.
**Make it Easy to Subscribe**
Make it easy for readers to subscribe. Ensure your links for email, Twitter, Facebook, and other platforms work properly. Readers should be able to find and follow you without any hassle.
**Make Friends**
One of the best things about blogging is the community. I’ve made many friends through my blog, and I talk to some of them almost every day. Reach out by commenting on blogs, interacting on social media, and being genuine. Don’t force relationships; let them happen naturally.
**Link Your Twitter to Your Posts**
Make sure your Twitter handle shows up when people tweet your posts. It makes it easier for readers to give you recognition. I didn’t do this for a long time until other bloggers pointed it out.
**Have Fun!**
People start blogs for different reasons, but if you decide to start one, have fun with it! The best blogs are by writers who enjoy what they’re doing. Blogging has become a great hobby and a side hustle for me.
What blogging tips do you have for beginners? What do you wish you knew?