More than two years after starting this blog, it's time for the classic 'Ten Things I Wish I knew Before Starting a Blog' post. Hopefully this will provide some advice for new bloggers who are just getting started!
Be Prepared to Put in Hard Work
I had no idea just how much time went into blogging. For example, to be a book blogger you would firstly read the book (which can take a few days, depending on your schedule), review it, take pictures, publish on your blog, share on social media... as well as keeping on top of SEO, DA, keyword research and blog design. Whoop! It definitely requires a lot of time and effort, but if you are organised and schedule correctly then the hard work will pay off.
Be Consistent
If you post regularly, people will be able to find your blog more easily and know that you are serious about blogging. Write and schedule your posts in advance so you can focus on sharing them when the time is ready.
Don't Compare!
It's an easy trap to fall into when you begin comparing your blog to others. Focus on your own blog and try to beat your previous monthly stats, every blogger has been where you are - everyone starts somewhere.
Join Blogging Communities
There's so many different blogging communities out there, whether it's through Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest, make sure you're engaging with other bloggers and guest post if possible. Commenting, liking and sharing each other's posts can help out your fellow bloggers and hopefully they'll do the same for you in return!
Be Social!
Engage with others on social media, research and understand the Instagram and Pinterest algorithm (if you can, I'm still struggling!) and get yourself out there. Link your socials back to your blog so potential readers can find and engage with your content.
Be Passionate about your Niche
When choosing your niche, make sure it's one that makes you happy and that you love writing about. If you're losing interest in your niche then it may be time to change it - just make sure that you're having fun writing your content and that it's not becoming a chore.
Research SEO and DA
When I first started blogging, I had a very rough idea of SEO and didn't have a clue what DA is! Since then, I've had to go back over all of my previous posts to optimise SEO for my site and link in keywords. If you're using the correct keywords from the start, it can help your blog go a long way.
The Legal Stuff
If you're serious about blogging, there's certain pages that are required on your blog - such as a Terms and Conditions page and a Privacy Policy. If you're wanting to request ARCs then it's advisable to have a Reviews Policy and Media Kit also.
Understand Your Audience
Know who your readers are and write content that answers their questions and are topics that they're interested about - analytics can really help with this.
Have fun!
Blogging is a journey, and success doesn't happen overnight. Keep at it and keep experimenting - but most of all, enjoy it!
What advice would you give to new bloggers? Let me know in the comments below!
Take care,
Sophie x
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