7 Tips to Grow Your Blog

Everyone has something they want to share with the world.  Blogging is a great way to share your ideas because you can reach hundreds, even thousands, of people with the click of a button.  Unfortunately, people need to be aware of your content before they can benefit from it.  Here are a few simple tips to market your blog and expand your influence:

1. Content is King
Make your blog worth reading.  Find something you're passionate about and talk about it. It may be sharing tutorials on how to do something, being clever or witty, or sharing thoughts and experiences that make people go, "Hey, me too!"  Really, the possibilities are limitless.

2. Distribution is Queen

It was once said, "Content is king, distribution is queen, and she wears the pants."  No matter how interesting, thought-provoking, or life-altering your content is, it doesn't matter if no one reads it.  Market yourself!  Take advantage of social media.  Your traffic will increase dramatically once you start sharing links to the posts you worked so hard on.

3. Connect with Other Bloggers

Something that goes hand in hand with distribution is connecting with other bloggers.  Search for blogs similar to yours.  Make thoughtful comments.  Don't just say, "Great blog post!  Follow me back?"  Nobody cares.  If you make a comment specific to their blog that shows you actually read their content, the other blogger will be more willing to show you the same courtesy.

4. Make it Pretty

First impressions are everything.  Think about it.  How much time are you willing to spend on unattractive websites?  Chances are, not that long.  Give your blog a nice design, whether you learn HTML and coding yourself or you pay someone else to do it.  Make posts attractive by adding pictures and breaking up the text into manageable paragraphs or lists.

5. Be Conversational

Write as if you were talking to your reader in person.  Be personable.  Ask your readers questions and invite comments.  Let your personality shine through your writing.

6. Be Consistent

Keep readers coming back by writing consistently.  Readers will stop checking your blog if there is rarely new content.  Update frequently.  Some bloggers find it helpful to create a personal schedule of when to post, especially if their blog features certain series.

7. Introduce Yourself

Create an "About" page.  Give readers a place to see what you and your blog are all about.  Make it interesting and unique.  What makes you different, better, or special?  This page allows readers to connect with you on a personal level.  Make sure to leave contact information so readers can contact you with any questions or comments.