People often ask what it’s like to be a full-time blogger. They see the pictures and read the posts and I guess it seems easy. Today I’m sharing 8 blogging tips and facts to help you decide whether you should start a blog; scroll down to read on!
When you read articles about the millions some bloggers earn, hear about passive income streams from affiliate links that generate income while you sleep, and huge brand contracts, it sounds amazing. Behind the scenes, however, blogging is a lot of hard work. Here are eight things (and one bonus) people don’t tell you about blogging.
8 Blogging Tips and Facts People Don’t Tell You:
It’s best to learn how to operate your blog yourself, rather than hiring someone else to do it for you. Sharing A Journey went “live” in June 2016, and it was still very much a “work in progress”. After working with a designer for two months in early 2016, I decided I needed to dig in and learn how to operate all aspects of my blog myself, including the dreaded “tech” stuff.
When I hired the designer, I had hoped I’d get a completed blog that I could just post on, but that’s not how it worked out. In retrospect, it was for the best that I learned the technical side of my blog by myself. Several people have contacted me for help after a designer “turned over the keys” and moved on, leaving them without any clue how to do anything except add a post and photo.
When I decided to stop working with the website designer, I had a long list of things that hadn’t been finished. For many months, I tackled my to-do list an item at a time, Googling or watching YouTube videos until I had things on the blog looking and operating the way I wanted them to.
Bottom Line: The tech stuff does get easier, for those of you who are not techies. It’s really important to know how your blog works and remember, there’s always YouTube and Google.
One major misconception about blogging is that you will automatically and magically attract readers. I started Sharing A Journey in 2008, writing “inspirational” posts very sporadically. I had only one follower that whole time. After all, who wants to continue to follow a blog when you can see that the blogger hardly ever posts. It’s like opening a present and finding an empty box. When people see the blog isn’t being updated regularly, they stop coming.
When I dusted off the blog in January 2016 and started posting three times a week, it took months to get regular readers. I found I had to get active on social media, email friends, and even passed out business cards to invite people to read my blog.
I also had to learn how to write posts that are interesting to readers, I learned to create titles and post descriptions that encouraged people to “click” without being “clickbait”.
It is said that 20 percent of your time should be spent creating content, and 80 percent promoting it.
The bottom line: You will need to create the best posts you possibly can, and promote, promote, promote. If you write it, they may come, BUT, you have to beat the drum hard.
In addition to beating the drum and promoting your work, you need to apply the concept of “continuous improvement” to your blog and blog posts. I learned about continuous improvement way back in business school, and while theories come and go, continuously upping your game, improving your posts, and photos, and trying new things is what keeps a blog fresh and alive. And hopefully keeps people coming back.
Here at Sharing A Journey, we are always working to up our game. Each month, we look at how our posts have done, and we review our marketing efforts and our social media results. We evaluate the photos, engagement, and analytics. We sort out what is working and what isn’t.
Bottom Line: Your blog is a living growing thing or it’s not.
Because we are always pushing for improvement and I’m looking to grow as a writer and creator, I am often uncomfortable. I have to reach out and call people I don’t know. I have to pitch ideas and concepts, I have to push hard to get things done sometimes, and negotiate brand collaborations—which I had never done before. There are even legalities to consider. I get out there and confront my fears…daily.
Creating posts and styling photo shoots is fun, but it doesn’t always come easily; sometimes I’m exhausted, and still, have to push through–our best pictures often come after I’ve given up, and try just that one more time.
Bottom Line: Being out of your comfort zone is the new normal.
People blog for many reasons. For some, it’s a form of personal expression, a way to help other people, or a hobby. Some are seeking validation or the limelight and want to be “influencers”. Some use their blogs as a stepping stone to other opportunities or because a brand required them to have a blog. For many of us, it is also a growing business.
It’s important to be very clear why you are blogging and for whom. If you are blogging to get brand deals and big contracts, or if you collaborate with other bloggers, it’s important to know the game and how you fit into it. It’s easy to get lost with all that blogging entails, to lose inspiration, heck I’ve even seen bloggers lose themselves.
Bottom Line: Be clear about why you are blogging, and for whom. Stay on track and don’t get “lost”.
When you are blessed with readers, even if it is only one from the other side of the world, be grateful for that person’s readership. When I was an occasional blogger way back in 2008, my one reader wrote every time I posted. She said I was helping her and always thanked me. I was grateful for her too. When I did get serious about blogging, I figured that if she somehow found me and liked my blog, other people might too. I’ve always felt the sharing between writer and reader is sacred, and am grateful for every one of Sharing A Journey’s readers. If you don’t care about your readers or it’s all about you, they will leave and find people who do care and are interested in them.
Bottom Line: Keep in mind who you are writing for and be grateful for their readership. Each reader is a person who has taken the time to read what you have to say. Their time is a sacred gift that should not be taken for granted.
If I had a dollar for every time someone says that blogging looks easy, I might be able to buy the diamond-encrusted Rolex I have on my vision board. Blogging is a lot of work, ladies. Up until very recently, I’ve worked seven days a week, writing, planning photo shoots, choosing what and where to shoot, learning and implementing new things, AND that eighty percent on social media promoting my work.
Bottom Line: Blogging looks a lot easier than it really is, and takes more time than you think. Writing, editing, getting photos, working with brands, and collaborating with other bloggers all take a huge amount of time, and that doesn’t include that 80% for marketing.
Oh, and about those big brand contacts…When you start out, you will find yourself doing a lot for free or in exchange for merchandise. There are lots and lots of hobby bloggers who are willing to work for free and if your readership and engagement numbers are low, brand relationships start with “gifting”.
Unfortunately, clothes don’t pay the bills…so that’s a thing. Most of the bloggers who are making the big bucks now have been blogging for a minimum of 4 or 5 years, and their content is amazing, they are masters at marketing and they are engaged with their readers.
If you are thinking of blogging, or have one up but aren’t sure whether to keep going and any of the foregoing has put you off, maybe blogging isn’t for you.
I always suggest you write down why you want to blog, who and what you are blogging for, and make a list of 100 post topics you would like to write about—then do a little research to see if anyone is actually interested in those topics. Doing this upfront work will help you see whether blogging is for you or if your ideas are viable. If any of this trips you up, blogging isn’t for you.
Bottom Line: You will know blogging is for you if you go to sleep thinking of new ideas and wake up excited about getting them going whether you are a professional or a hobbyist.
This past year has seen ups and downs both on my blog and in my life, and sometimes it’s been very hard to keep all the plates spinning. But I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
If you’d like to start a blog, I’ve compiled my favorite resources here to help you get started.
- It’s tempting to sign up for a hosted website, such as Squarespace, Wix, or Blogspot they are super convenient, and it may seem like less hassle. However, if the host goes out of business, at worst, your website goes with it at best you have to change hosts and set things up all over again. I went the “self-hosted” route, choosing WordPress.org and a separate hosting company. WordPress is completely free and has its own community to help with training and troubleshooting.
- I recommend Blue Host for hosting. They are inexpensive, yet really deliver on customer service. Having a great hosting company really helps; there are things that go wrong every so often, and it’s great to know you have good support. Blue Host will walk you through the setup and you will quickly be on your way,
- The first thing people see when they visit your blog is the theme. Having a beautiful theme sets your blog apart from the millions of other blogs out there. It sets the tone for your blog.
- Having a scheduler for social media saves so much time. I use Tailwind to schedule my Pinterest Pins and Instagram posts each week. It’s a huge time saver, and it is super easy to set up and use. I totally love Tailwind.
- Get my Free Blogging Guide! I created this guide to answer all the questions I get about getting started blogging, from figuring out what to blog about to making money blogging.
Mature Style: Summer Shapewear for Women Over 50
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Excellent insight It is an extra job for sure.
I enjoyed reading this post as it has true content and real experience from someone who went through many steps. Frankly this is how I start to respect people and I don’t like those who think “I start to blog and soon I’ll be the queen of the World” … I started a blog when the name did not exist yet 😉 And I know how to create a website from a text editor … understanding how things work helps tremendously! Now your advises are really good for someone looking to become a “professional” but I hope not every one wants this as being an amateur is also very cool 😉
Happy Monday xx
4highheelsfans.wordpress.com/2018/07/20/back-in-time/
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I just got more clarity from your post today then I have in the past few months reading about how to start blogging! I’m so happy you are leading the way, your blog is one of the best I have found and I really enjoy following you!
THank you Patricia, I’m thrilled you are enjoying the blog and today’s post. I hope you’ll enjoy your bog as much as I enjoy mine. I’ve met so many wonderful friends, it’s been amazing. All the best, Nina
Good morning Nina,
Today’s post is so true and insightful if you are planning on making a career as an online influencer.
It makes me smile because I am thinking of my experience as a broker in the real estate world. I always want to explain in depth to new realtors all the steps that they need to take to be at top production levels. And then there is always the surprise one who has lots of friends, a great personality and the ability to get help when they need it. The Rookie of the Year!
Your post today is a fantastic reminder to us all of those steps we may be skipping or where we need to educate ourselves more if we want to take our blogs to the next level.
Then for those who just want to share. It’s a hobby or a part-time endeavor, a great learning tool. I say go for it! Have fun!
Remember ” You don’t know what you don’t know until you know it”.
Have a great day and keep up the good work, Nina!
I found this so interesting Nina, thank you for writing in a detailed way. I sometimes wonder if other bloggers are going through the same – so it’s reassuring to read your story xx
You have shared very valuable insight here. I started my blog a little over a year ago, and I am constantly thinking of it as a work in progress. I cannot say that I’m an expert in all of the tech stuff, as a matter fact, I need a lot of help figuring things out! There is definitely a feeling of excitement and accomplishment along the way!
Thank you for sharing!
Blogging take so much time and energy. I really feel like if you don’t love it than it’s going to show real quick. It’s fast paced but i absolutely love everything about it!
http://www.mylittlenest.org
oh it’s so easy! 😉
I started a blog years ago, but just for me and it was easy. My blog I started a year ago, has been a different story. It takes a lot (did I say a LOT) of promoting.
Great post Nina. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for stopping by Loretta. It does take a lot of promoting, though it does get easier the more you do it. Best wishes, nina
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What great points, Nina. I had a home-style blog between about 2010-2014 so learned some lessons early. My fashion blog is in its infancy, so I’m glad you made a big point about promoting being 80% as that’s something I’m working to gain momentum with. I’m not a natural writer, but teaching comes easily to me–as of the moment, my blog aims to teach, but I do want to push myself to branch out. And, yes, I go to sleep thinking about things to blog about. Blessings, Kim
Isn’t it the greatest when you are doing something that fills you with excitement and ideas? I’m trilled for you and have enjoyed your blog http://www.fiercefashionblog.com! Many blessings as you continue your blogging journey.
Blogging involves so many different aspects, and I have to admit that the tech side of it really shackled me for the first few years, as did lack of confidence and being apprehensive about promoting myself. It’s also difficult sometimes to balance blogging with work and family life but after almost seven years I definitely couldn’t give it up now! Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Emma, I never would’ve guessed you struggled with lack of confidence. You are one of the first bloggers I found that was close to my age and I appreciate all you’ve done to pave the way!
Nina, thank you for sharing this! As a newbie I still have so much to learn. You are so inspiring!
I always love to hear about others’ blogging journeys and experiences. I think so many people who just read blogs (or know nothing much about them at all) think it’s kind of a joke. I have a blog post coming soon on that topic! But it really is hard work and takes a lot of commitment and dedication and being serious even when you are presenting a light hearted mood to the world. It is a job and we treat it that way for a reason. These blogs are our babies, our creations, and we protect them and cherish them! Great post. I just shared it as my #BlogCrush this week!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
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Love your story about your blog journey. I thought I was the only one that thought that way. It has been lots of work. Happy Summer, KIppi
Hi Kippi, Blogging is a lot of work! I’ll be sure to stop by and check out your blog! Warmly, Nina
Great post and interesting insights! Love that you broke it down and got to the nitty gritty of things. Before I started blogging, yes I did think it was fairly easy. I did have that misconception. Now that I am head deep in it, I take those things back and never again will I judge at how easy it looks! It is very time consuming and unless you know what you are after, it is easy to get drowned out. I agree that the key is to always stay focus on why we started our blog and if we love it enough that we wake up in the morning excited about it.
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
It was so helpful to read your post. I’ve just been blogging for about 4 months now and am trying to do most of the things you talk about. It’s really nice to hear that my journey is pretty on par with what others are experiencing. I’m really enjoying blogging, but you’r totally right… It’s a ton of work and writing the post is only a small part of the task. It’s been so terrific meeting other bloggers though and that has also been a huge help.
Thanks Nina.
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Hi Nina….I myself just started a blog in May. I’ve wanted to blog for years. I had seen a free course by another blogger on facebook and began my journey. Yet I’ve found that for myself my blog wasn’t coming together as fast as those other bloggers or so it had seemed that way. Frustrating at the least!….lol. I’ve been kicking myself because I haven’t really gotten it up and running yet. I’m still working out various aspects that I keep reading you should have. Starting with the need of having a clear understanding of wordpress. It wasn’t as easy as the course made it seem. At least for me. I’ve spent many of days wondering “who are all these people who are getting their blogs up and running so quickly?” “They must be home all day with nothing else to do!”
Bottom line….thank you for your honesty here. I thought it was me! I haven’t given up. I really do want to see where I can take my blog, and have been truly enjoying learning the in’s and out’s of different aspects of blogging, and even wordpress. Besides the fact that around each corner I learn something thing more that I need to make sure I am doing….lol. In fact I came across your blog when I had read that as a new blogger you should search out other bloggers and taking a look at what they are doing. I enjoyed your blog feeling it was classy. But most importantly I could really feel your presence and realness. I plan on continuing reading your blog.
Now that I’ve read your blog regarding blogging, I realize that it’s simple ok that I’m taking a bit longer and trying to really set things up more. That I have a better understanding of how the various aspects connect will only make my life easier. I also realize I have a lot to learn and will be learning as I go. Good thing I set up for a 3 year blog with Bluehost right?….lol I accidentally made my blog public so it can be seen. I’m trying now to put together a few blog posts before I really get it going. Hopefully by the end of August. It is fantasticatfifty.com Thanks again….
Regards,
Monica
All the best Monica, looking forward to your blog in August—I will be posting about blogging here and there since some of my Readers are also blogging too, and I am glad to give out the 411! Blessings to you as you begin this journey!
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Hi Nina….I myself just started a blog in May. I’ve wanted to blog for years. I had seen a free course by another blogger on facebook and began my journey. Yet I’ve found that for myself my blog wasn’t coming together as fast as those other bloggers or so it had seemed that way. Frustrating at the least!….lol. I’ve been kicking myself because I haven’t really gotten it up and running yet. I’m still working out various aspects that I keep reading you should have. Starting with the need of having a clear understanding of wordpress. It wasn’t as easy as the course made it seem. At least for me. I’ve spent many of days wondering “who are all these people who are getting their blogs up and running so quickly?” “They must be home all day with nothing else to do!” Bottom line….thank you for your honesty here. I thought it was me! I haven’t given up. I really do want to see where I can take my blog, and have been truly enjoying learning the in’s and out’s of different aspects of blogging, and even wordpress. Besides the fact that around each corner I learn something thing more that I need to make sure I am doing….lol. In fact I came across your blog when I had read that as a new blogger you should search out other bloggers and taking a look at what they are doing. I enjoyed your blog feeling it was classy. But most importantly I could really feel your presence and realness. I plan on continuing reading your blog. Now that I’ve read your blog regarding blogging, I realize that it’s simple ok that I’m taking a bit longer and trying to really set things up more. That I have a better understanding of how the various aspects connect will only make my life easier. I also realize I have a lot to learn and will be learning as I go. Good thing I set up for a 3 year blog with Bluehost right?….lol I accidentally made my blog public so it can be seen. I’m trying now to put together a few blog posts before I really get it going. Hopefully by the end of August. It is fantasticatfifty.com Thanks again….
Hi Monica, Getting started blogging can be quite daunting. When it came to wordpress, I was lucky because I’d had a little bit of experience from my consulting business. I purchased a WordPress for Dummies book back then. I just followed the directions step by step. The more you do things, the easier it gets—you start to get the hang of it and before you know it, you’ll be clipping right along. WordPress itself has tutorials, lots of people do wordpress videos on YouTube so you can watch it again and agian, and there are local groups who meet and share information, often for free.
Thank you for your thoughtful words about my blog—and hang in there! Looking forward to seeing your blog at the end of the month!
Interesting read Nina! I enjoy blogging, the marketing side may not be my favorite, but is necessary! I agree! i can relate to the things you have said about blogs evolving. I have worked on improving the photography, locations and I too, enjoy writing. When I used to blog about fashion 3-4 days a week, now has turned into fashion and midlife ( inspirational, life topics) once a week. I enjoy this as it is wonderful interaction with other women and I can write about other areas of interest.
I know what you mean about work- it does take a lot of time. It has to be something you enjoy. I have loved making the connections as well, with other women .
Have a great weekend!
thanks for linking!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
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Great tips and information here. Thanks for sharing this. I am only really starting out so it is great to read posts like this. #Blogcrush
I’m glad it might help you in getting started, and congratulations on your family!
AMEN!!! Yes to all of the above! No one prepared me for blogging when I started 8 years ago! Thanks for sharing!
I’d love for you to join our link up today!
-Adriele
StyleAssisted.com
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Sone great tips and advice in this post. Especially about not just expecting to attract followers.
Congratulations !Someone loved this post so much they added it to the #blogcrush linky
Thank you so much! So many people think they will just get “followers”. We prefer Readers because to me, followers seems sort of passive. Readers have a choice and because of that we have to stay right on top of our game. Thank you for adding my post to bloggy crush!
Such an interesting post! Yes, we definitely need to know the purpose why we are doing this. Just wanted to say that I really appreciate the quality of your work- it shows you really care about what you do, and your readers as well. I think that’s super important. xx