10 Not So Common Tips for Starting a Blog

Starting a Blog Right

There are many methods for starting a blog, or re-starting a blog for that matter.  Getting going is important.  Getting going on the right foot, even more so.  On Monday we went over a few of the more commonly discussed subjects.  Today, we would like to touch on a few topics you are a little less likely to hear about.  Let’s get started.

1:  A Blog is an office, not a lounge. At least if you want to make money.  One of the biggest misconceptions many new bloggers have is that successful bloggers are just lounging around their home office, publishing content whenever they please.  As if once they hit a level of traffic, it’s a rocket race downhill.  The opposite is often the case.  Most successful bloggers are self disciplined, diligent individuals who crank out a copious amount of quality content as quickly as possible.  The more you keep your mindset in this office mentality, the quicker your blog will blossom.

2:  Get into the habit of being a week ahead on content. Starting a blog with a content buffer isn’t always possible, but it’s a great tactic to use once you get going.  If you’re always worried about creating your next post, you’ll never be able to find your rhythm.  Think of your blog like a magazine.  Working on a post for next week, while knowing the current week is already scheduled, is a far more fair to the muse.  When we are gasping for our air, our breath is more shallow.

3:  Seek out guest post opportunities – ASAP. Yes, you must thicken your archives when first starting a blog, but getting your name out there on blogs that are bigger than yours is equally important.

4:  Share other blogger’s content whenever appropriate. Helping other bloggers gain recognition is a perfect way to gather your own.  Your reputation as a respectful blogger will carry you far in this tightly knit community.

5:  Remain encouraging of other bloggers. When first starting a blog, we tend to be hungry for pats on the back, and digital high-fives seem to carry an incongruent amount of weight.   Go in the opposite direction.  Stop seeking encouragement.  Start looking for other bloggers to encourage.  Same is true as number 4 – you will gain greater respect and grow a more solid scaffolding.

6:  Join the community, not the herd. Joining the community is essential when starting a blog, but be careful not to fall into the most common trap of all…joining and then subsequently following the herd.  The herd is that mass amount of bloggers who do the same thing as everyone else, blending in and never rising above mediocrity.  We’re not saying they don’t have solid content, but it is difficult to leave average behind if you are not unique or innovative.  Be careful.  It is far too easy to be just another blogger.

7:  Always maintain high expectations for yourself as well as your blog. When first starting a blog, it is easy to have high expectations.  These are quickly crushed by the reality that blogging is a difficult business.  Don’t let the fact keep you from shooting for the stars, but be sure to constantly correct your course until your horizon is gilded with promise.

8:  Use your unique voice to make your content shine. Always remain true to your unique voice.  Only then can your online fingerprint reveal itself as interesting and useful.  Try to say what you believe others want to hear and you will only blend into the vacuum.

9:  Connect with higher-ups whenever possible. This is critical!  Making connections with big bloggers, even when first starting a blog, is one of the best ways to fast track your ascension.  Be careful of your methods.  Many attempt, few succeed.   The best advice is to be genuine and not overly excited.  Don’t be a fan, but an up-and-comer with respect for the big blogger’s success.

10:  Don’t be shy. Successful blogging isn’t for the faint of heart.  Those who hide in the shadows will never see sun.  Never be pushy, but do what you can to be noticed.  It is a skill to be learned, but one that any dedicated blogger should be able to master.

Starting a blog is fun.  Starting a blog off right is a blast.

The BB Team

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