That was a line I used in my recent presentation at Search Engine Strategies in New York
and was one of the more tweeted excerpts. I really didn’t plan to say it, but the idea was definitely one I firmly believe in. Blogging has single handedly opened up so many doors for me, that I don’t know I’d ever be where I am today without having made the commitment to doing it somewhat regularly over the past few years.
The fact is, most people are very knowledgeable about something. Whether it’s our profession, or a personal hobby, everyone has something valuable to share. And for those that have an entrepreneurial spirit, there is no better way to build the foundation for an endeavor, then jumping in and building your credibility and influence through a blog. The barrier to entry has become so small that anyone can have a decent looking blog up in minutes.
Of course this has its drawbacks as well as their are plenty of blogs out there that either are a borefest, don’t provide any real value, or simply wither and die before they even start. If you’re serious about wanting to build a successful blog, just consider these initial simple steps and you’ll find yourself well on your way.
- Keep it simple. Don’t overwhelm yourself with all the options out there. Get a free WordPress.com account and start there. If you find yourself building momentum and sticking with it, graduate to a self-hosted blog for more bells and whistles.
- Topic Lists. Coming up with blog entries can be a challenge, but they are all around you. Create a list that is easily accessible that you add your ideas as they come to you. Then use that list as sort of an editorial calendar so that you have plenty of ideas to choose from. Also check out this great list from Chris Brogan to inspire some ideas.
- Engage & Promote. It goes without saying that you should leverage social media channels to promote your blog posts, and make sure you absolutely engage with anyone that takes the time to comment on them. Take it one step further and visit other blogs and engage.
While there’s much more to the formula to successful blogging, I believe these are 3 key areas to focus on out of the gate. Just get out there and start writing and you’ll find your way. And if you do, leave a comment and let me know so I can check it out!
Hi Jason,
Well, the title was catchy (and true). These are great ideas and strategies for those that are new to blogging. Nice presentation, easy to read. Thanks for sharing,
Bryan
No problem. It’s funny how a blog post idea hits. Just thought about saying this, and figured I could come up with something useful based on that.
I advise people against using wordpress.com
I know its a personal choice and each has pros and cons, Its just that Ive used all (or close to all) platforms and self hosted is def the way to go.
Totally agree, but I know that most people just don’t have the resources or knowledge to deal with self hosted blogs. If they do, I totally recommend it. Hosted options like WordPress.com or Blogger at least give those without those resources an option.
I’ve got such a soft spot for beginner bloggers, Jason, because I was one just last summer and I know how overwhelming it is. The thought of coming up with content, will anyone really want to listen to what I have to say, can I handle the technical stuff? They are all very valid fears.
Honestly, I see your point about starting with a free blog, but for me, it never felt like it was really mine. There was something so proud in me to know that I had my own blog on my own domain and that pride of ownership helped me to stay focused. I’ve got strong tendencies toward ADHD so maybe it was the fact that it was mine that helped me to stay focused, but I was not able to do that with wordpress.com or blogger.
Either way, I think it’s important to remember that we’ve all got something to share and we don’t have to be experts to get started. People who know more than us will likely lend a hand and help to guild us in the right direction and people who know less, will be grateful for our guiding and helping them.
I don’t feel like I’m living when I’ve been away from my blog for too long. It’s become such a huge part of me, and an extension of my mind and heart.
Great, great post. You got me on a roll! 🙂
Heather
I can relate! I’m starting to feel like if I don’t post at least 2-3 times per week I’m failing! Thanks for your thoughtful comment!
Hi Jason,
Interesting Post man and great title too. These are simple tips and very useful for beginners. I like the point #3 Engage & Promote – It is one of the most important thing every blogger should do and social blogging communities are best way to share your blog posts and connect with other bloggers.
Some of the awesome blogging communities are Blokube (my own site) & BlogInteract (recently started by my friend Bryan)
Thanks for sharing.
I started using Blokube and Bloginteract and love the concepts. I hope those communities continue to grow as I plan on making it a regular part of my promotion routine.
Hi Jason,
I always appreciate stuff and information for newbies. After all we all were once newbies and we shouldn’t forget that. You have given some three concrete points here. But I don’t agree with #1. I read Dino’s comment and your reply.
Nowadays I don’t think it is overwhelming to start a self-hosted blog as it used to be a few years ago. I was totally ignorant when I wanted to go for a self-hosted blog. I bought the hosting, installed wordpress and just started posting.
When I saw other blogs that I regularly read, I grasped the features they are using and tweaked my blog as I go. I started with a free theme and then switched to Thesis. I did major and minor design tweaks, I knew 0 about codes and plugins. But trust me it is a great experience.
But even if you just want to blog, and not worry about anything else, self- hosted blog is a must if you want to build a serious blog for long term business. If you think it is overwhelming to start with, then it will be even more overwhelming to move from Blogger or WordPress.com to self hosted (that is really PITA). 🙂
Cheers,
Jane.
Yea, I’m starting to think whether recommending the hosted blogs was the right call, but I do think there are lots of folks who just won’t pull the trigger if it isn’t dead easy to launch one. I believe you can “import” you’re WordPress.com content into a self-hosted one, so that’s why I recommended that platform so you don’t lose your content if you evolve into a self-hosted one.
Jason, aloha. Love, love, love your title and so agree with you. Blogging has opened up new worlds for me–both with all my new friends and within myself.
Since you have been blogging far longer than I, no doubt the personal growth you have achieved and the opportunities presented to you as a result have enriched your life tremendously.
Whenever a new idea comes to me, I write it down. If I am away from my computer, I jot it on a pad I keep in my purse. Oftentimes, I find a single word will trigger an idea for an entire post.
Don’t you find, Jason, that the more you engage with others, the better you becomes at both writing and commenting? Each time I read a great post or comment, I get more excited about blogging. It just keeps getting better and better.
Well done, my friend. Best wishes for a terrific weekend. Aloha. Janet
Thanks Janet. I try to always be thinking about things to write about throughout all my daily interactions and it definitely helps keep my idea list populated.
Simple and powerful formula Jason. I’m a fan of short and punchy posts myself; I see we have a similar style. Make your point and exit stage left so you can reach out to other bloggers, promote their stuff, engage. This is the quickest way to grow your business. Thanks!
RB
Definitely. I like keeping my blog posts short and sweet as I feel it’s more likely people will read them. Love that concept with books too regarding chapters.
Hi Jason, based on your line, I am glad I started blogging two months ago! I guess I am living now 🙂 I was very reluctant but finally decided to jump in. My take on blogging: it’s a lot of hard work but the connections you make are all worth it. A huge bonus is that you really learn and get support from many bloggers who are happy to share. I think that what has helped me the most is engaging with other blogger. It’s the main factor that has helped me stay motivated and in turn allowed me to see maxing results. I now know first hand the benefits of blogging and hope to encourage others to jump in and start living!
Very true Diana. It is hard work. I’ve tried to get into the habit of writing at least 2-3 times per week and it’s tough! Got to stay on top of those idea lists.
Hi Jason,
Blogging has certainly connected me to some awesome people I probably would never have met otherwise. Even though I initially started blogging for business reasons, it has evolved for me into something more.
The business aspect is still there, however. For example, how better to know, like, and trust somebody than by reading their blog, other than meeting them face-to-face? And even with such a meeting, you still may be getting a superficial glimpse of who they are.
By reading their blog daily, you get more of a feel for the person, I believe.
Awesome post, Jason. Thanks for sharing!
Gregory
Thanks Gregory. I’ve met lots of great people through my blog as well and forgot to add that as another benefit!
Hi Jason,
I usually only post once a week, but my posts need to be a little longer because I write short stories and each episode requires a little more time to develop. I do appreciate the activity of blogging…it certainly deals with the isolation of normal 21st century life.
Hi Jason,
I have connected with some great people through my blog and I know I would not have even met these people without having a blog.
I believe that blogging is one of first things that any new online marketer should do. There are so many things you can do with a blog, Offer value to people, gain subscribers for your list and promote products, just to name a few.
Thanks for sharing Jason and have a great day!
Blogging is great, I love reading other people’s ideas! Great post.
Amber
amberlittle.wordpress.com
Jason,
Great to know that blogging has opened doors for you and congrats on being able to present at SES. While I’m not a huge fan of the free platforms they come in handy for “test driving.” If someone is on the fence about writing, then a free blog may be a way for them to get the hang of it.
I follow CB as well but haven’t seen that post. Thanks so much for that list. What’s funny is the headlines he offered there are better than the ones he traditionally uses 🙂
Jon
I am also agreed, because if you’re a man/gal with information and you are keen to share it then blogging is your choice.
I don’t care what type of business you are in if you are online you need to have a blog. Every business that provides a service or product can use a blog in some way to leverage their visibility in the online space.