Blogging Tips
Tips for Blogging
About 2 days ago, I posted some tips for blogging in a more ergonomic fashion, namely by making your gadgetry work more for you. This included a few ways to up your game with an iPad, a new blogging favorite and rising trend for many computer users worldwide. As I thought about those practical tips, I couldn’t help but think about some nitty gritty type tips to keep you blogging and keep your readers paying attention. I’ll be the first to admit that no one has a formula for the million-dollar blog- even if they did, they still can’t write it for you. Your main attraction is what you blog about, motherhood, marketing ideas, or ergonomic products. However, even the best writers fall into some traps when managing their blogs. That’s where these tips come in- here are some easy reminders of what your basic goals are no matter your subject matter.
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Blog consistently. It’s not that there’s a magic number, but there is a magic pattern and it’s called “consistent.” It may be every other day or even twice a week, but whatever it is, try to be consistent with it. You want your readers to keep coming back and not wonder where you are or why you crammed 6 posts into last week and none this week0 are you alive??
Here's an example of a right-aligned image that doesn't compete with my list.
- Blog creatively. It’s good to write from different angles. You can rant, share an opinion, work for a cause, upload awesome photos, etc. If you’re running dry on ideas, try reading other blogs for inspiration {not plagiarizing, though!}.
- Use an image. Pictures are great for drawing in your readers- a good image can evoke a humorous or emotional response that just might keep someone’s attention. Plus, having a picture makes a Facebook post more impressive. ;) In all seriousness, though, certain personalities need that splash of color or that image to keep them interested- don’t overlook this. Do make sure your image physically fits your post and does not mess up your bullet points or numbering- I find it’s best to right-align images when you’re in a list format.
- Plan ahead. This is a big one for me. Trying to blog in half an hour for tomorrow’s, or even worse for today’s post, is stressful. Instead, try to set aside time at the beginning of the week to bang out a couple posts. This can best be accomplished if you keep a running list of ideas or topics you think of and work off it in advance of deadlines, self-prescribed or otherwise. I try to stay a week ahead so I have some flex if something comes up.
- Work in a friendly environment. You may thrive at your desk, while others need the distraction of a noisy coffee shop. Know yourself and what works for you. If you’re not sure, try out a couple different places and see if one helps you stay focused more than another. It may be that you’re too distracted- in that case, try this free online white noise generator and see if the nature sounds help you relax. Granted, different days or moods may call for different measures.
Blogging regularly can be challenging, but by planning ahead knowing yourself, and using white noise to block unwanted distractions, you might be able to kick writer’s block while also staying ahead of schedule!