It’s been a little over two years since I began blogging. I well
remember the fear of starting out – wondering what I would write about and
whether anyone would ever read it! I’ve learned a few things along the way and
wanted to share them with you today. Here are five of my most basic tips for
those considering starting a blog.
1.
Write
posts that are true to who you are. Before writing that first post,
consider what you like to write about and read. There are a million and one
writing blogs out there, many done very well. But if you’re a writer, think
about who you want your readers to be. Chances are, you’re wanting to reach people
who share similar values and interests as you. So write posts that get to heart
of who you are. Sure, you’re a writer, but you’re more than that.
I started out trying to write
posts about writing…and I felt clueless. I mean, what could I really teach
others? Instead, I thought about what I loved, what moved me: my faith, music,
reading, etc. Now I write posts about what I’m learning in my faith walk and
how certain songs and books I’ve read move me. I find they’re more fun to write
– and I’m being true to who I am.
2.
Write
something worthwhile. We’ve all seen them – those blog posts where people
simply give a play-by-play of what they’ve done recently. I think these are
okay occasionally, especially once you’ve established rapport and a
relationship with your readers. But most of the time, you want to offer readers
something they can’t get anywhere else. Oftentimes, that’s just your
perspective or advice on something. For example, if your blog is about living
life as a homeschool mom, you could post tips for managing your day, healthy
but easy family recipes, or lessons you’ve learned from your kids (instead of
the other way around!).
3.
Use
intriguing titles. Be really forthright about what your blog post is about.
See how this blog is titled “Five Tips When You’re Starting a Blog”? People can
see that and know whether they want to read it. You can also use something
creative to pull people in. But don’t get so “creative” that you confuse your
readers either.
Author
and social media guru Edie Melson has a great post on that.
4.
Include
an image. The Internet has ruined us forever – we crave images! Keep your
blog posts fresh and engaging by including at least one image or video. One of
my favorite places to locate free photos is
www.freedigitalphotos.net.
5.
Ask a
question. You want your blog to be a space for building relationships, and
the way to get readers involved is to ask them a question at the end of your
post. By asking for their opinions, you’re inviting engagement and are more
likely to get people to come back. Be sure to respond to each comment if you
can.
I hope these tips are helpful to you as you venture forth into the
world of blog creation. Good luck!
Your Turn: Do you have a blog?
Are you thinking about starting one? Any questions about starting one? If you
have a blog, share the link in the comments and tell us what it’s about!
Lindsay
Harrel has a bachelor’s in journalism and a master’s in English. She was a 2013
ACFW Genesis Finalist (Contemporary Category) and is published in the Falling
in Love with You anthology from OakTara. She works in marketing as a copywriter and has
worked in the past as a business writer and curriculum editor. Lindsay lives in
Arizona with her husband and two golden retriever puppies in serious need of
training. Connect with her on her blog or via Facebook or Twitter (@LindsayHarre
