Blogging can be a good way to make a side-hustle income, promote your business or simply connect with other people who share your interests. However, most blogs fail to achieve significant revenue or a large readership, mainly because the writer has not created a solid foundation on which to build their blog. If you are thinking of starting a new blog or want to increase the potential of an existing one, you need to follow the five principles of successful blogging.
Value
Each blog post must contain something of value to the reader. Whether you are offering information, entertainment, advice, statistics, discounts or insight into something your readers are passionate about, you must look at your blog posts through the eyes of your intended audience. Think about the kind of information or content that will offer value to your readers. Make sure the information you provide is relevant to your specific audience.
Niche Subject
Every blog needs to have a main subject that ties together all of its posts and other content. Blogs that focus on broad subjects, such as general health, beauty or cooking, often fail because they are competing with millions of other blogs. Choosing a niche subject significantly reduces the competition and gives you a much better chance of gaining a loyal following. If you intend to compete in a popular subject area, try to find a different angle or fresh approach that will set you apart from your competitors.
Consistency
Posting regular content ensures that your blog stays fresh in the minds of your readership. Posting sporadic entries on your blog and leaving several weeks, or even months, between posts often results in your audience losing interest. If you need to take a break from blogging or are struggling to write fresh content on a regular basis, store up a few evergreen blog posts that you can use as filler content for emergencies.
Voice
The most successful blogs usually have a strong voice, tone and style that helps to draw the audience in and keep them entertained. Some bloggers like to use their own voice, while others like to create a persona that enables them to say things they would not normally say. Whichever method you choose, it’s essential to spend time developing your writing voice.
Interaction
One of the most important factors in maintaining a successful blog is the interaction with your followers. Readers like to post comments and ask questions about your blog posts, giving you an opportunity to connect with them on a more personal level. Try to respond to as many comments as possible, as interacting with readers is one of the most effective ways to create a loyal following.
Blogging can be a simple way to make money and connect with other people. However, many blogs fail to reach their full potential, particularly if they are competing in a popular subject area. Following these five simple principles for blogging will give you an edge over your competitors and make all the difference in determining how successful your blog will be.
