Your Essential Top 10 Blog Checklist: Steps to Take Before You Blog

Running a stand-out blog looks easy, but ample pre-planning, time, and work goes into it. I've worked as a pro blogger and marketer for years and I'm proud to share what I've learned in this essential Top 10 Before You Blog Checklist. If you already blog, go through the list to refresh your mission. Save and bookmark the list, and check as you go!

1.)PICK PASSION: Choose a topic you'll NEVER get tired of.

2.)MAKE GOALS: What will your blog accomplish? Write goals and ACTION steps to accomplish them!

3.)ENVISION: Your blog is an experience. Write a list detailing the impression your blog should leave on your readers.

4.)CONSIDER READERS: Don't merely write for yourself. You'll gain hundreds of readers only when write posts that entertain and/or aid your audience.

5.)CHOOSE A DEMOGRAPHIC: Envision your ideal reader(s), knowing your audience helps you choose where to network and advertise.

6.)WRITE 31: Start with one month's worth of posts. You'll develop your voice and start ahead of the game.

7.)PLAN AHEAD: Schedule your first two months of posts. Struggling to come up with 60+ posts? You chose wrong! Back to step one with you!

8.)PICK YOUR POISON: Choose Typepad, Blogger, or Wordpress. Blogger is great for beginners, Wordpress is more advanced and powerful.

9.)NAME IT: Choose a name, choose it well! Reflect on the posts you've written if you need help.

10.)DESIGN IT: Make a unique banner. Experiment to develop an attractive layout that suits your style and how you post.

This is the check list I wish I had when I started my blogging adventure. Many early blog posts lack purpose, this checklist gives you a clear path and a head-start as a beginner. I'll be going through this list again to reboot and refocus for the new year, and you should too!

By the way, I offer graphic design and blog/online store marketing and start-up assistance services. If you need help, feel free to drop me a line! I'm passionate about helping others succeed with their small business dreams.

What do you feel makes the best blog? Any blogging tips of your own to share? I'd love to know what you think!

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Shocking Truth: The Top 5 Blogging Tips I NEVER Follow

Struggling with your blog? Is it not growing or producing fast enough for you? Maybe your problem is following the sea of "top tips" on the web; it's time for a fresh perspective! Let me help by debunking 5 blogging tips you've heard before.

Lots of notes, homemade vegan pie and ample tea help when blogging gets tough. 

1. Don't obsess over traffic; ignore your counters.

I used to check my Google analytics and hits daily, now I could go months without a peek. Monitoring traffic is important, but I prefer to fuss over quality. Craft superior content that readers are compelled to share and increased traffic happens organically.

2. Don't follow the crowd.

I see a lot of bloggers play follow the leader. Blogs tend to fit into a tribe with similar styles of posting, image editing, layouts, and color schemes. I draw my inspiration and style from inside. Let your interests and personal tastes define your blog. You'll stand out and posting will feel natural.

3. Don't Chase After Followers.

Quality over quantity! Again, focus on making your blog the best it can be and followers will grow organically.

4. Don't try too hard.

Yes, quality is important, but don't spend hours upon hours on your blog. If that's difficult, try setting a timer and writing quick first drafts from the heart. Come back to these drafts later and refine them, again setting a timer to keep from spinning your wheels working to hard on one post.

 5. Don't forget to think of your readers. 

Blogging can feel like a selfish act. I'm passionate about blogging! I feel myself growing with each post, but I never forget about my followers. I need my content to help, inspire, and entertain you, my reader!

It takes time to find your voice and style with blogging. Don't let slow traffic and "small" numbers bother you, focus instead on building authentic connections with your audience and peers. Create content that would make your heroes (like my hero Batman!) proud!

Be authentic, present your best, and have fun along the way!

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