I made a commitment to blog as part of my 2012 New Year's Resolution. January has just ended and I realize that it is only by trial and error that we truly learn. Here are 5 Lessons from ONE Month of Blogging:
(1) Choose the right Blogging Platform
I selected Typepad because a number of blogs I admire use this platform. I have Typepad Micro which is personal, simple and free. However, I am unable to change the template style, add widgets, categories, links etc. To do so via Typepad requires a pro account and a monthly fee.
In evaluating the needs of my blog and how I would like it to progress in the future, I will be switching to either Blogger, Blog.com or Wordpress. These platforms will enable me to add the features I am seeking for free.
(2) Blogging requires Commitment
Like a good relationship or marriage, blogging requires commitment. At the beginning of January, I made a commitment to blog 5 days a week, Monday to Friday. Towards the end of the month, I did not post for a couple of days.
I realize that the frequency and regularity of my posts should be based on when I really have something to say or share. I do not want to fall into the trap of posting just for the sake of posting. I will continue to blog as often as I can but not to compromise quality for quantity.
(3) Blogging requires Focus
When I created this typepad account I used my real name as the URL and called the blog "Thereze Speaks". In the middle of January, I decided to change the blog URL and name to "Craft Brainiac".
In evaluating my blog, it dawned on me that my blog focus is still "Thereze Speaks". I am a "Craft Brainiac" but does the current focus of my blog adequately reflect this? Is it clearly communicated? Is this still a personal blog or a craft blog?
Nevertheless, I took the risk to start this blog and I am open to change as part of the learning process. As I grow, so too will my blog and how far it can take me.
(4) Just because you build it, does not mean they will come
When you start a new blog, you can expect to be blogging to yourself or a very small audience mainly close family and friends. In one month, I gained more followers on my Tumblr Christian Blog (I found my focus there) than I did here.
I have learnt that just because my blog is linked to my Facebook and Twitter account does not mean that followers will come by the masses. Again, it is all about blog focus and content. Most importantly it is about your target audience or market. Who out there will be interested in what I have to say and how do I find them or bring them to my blog?
(5) Everyone is not your Target Market
With so many blogs out there, a blog cannot be all things to everyone. I am not yet a mother therefore blogs focusing on parenting or motherhood will not appeal to me right now. I am not particularly fond of cooking, so sophisticated blogs for an experienced or seasoned cook, will also not appeal to me either.
Point is, the same way I am not attracted to all types of blogs, I can't expect everyone out there to be attracted to mine. It's a mistake that beginner bloggers make including myself. You just want people to view your blog. However, viewers does not mean followers or loyal readers. This is built over time. A lot of successful blogs took years to get to where they are now.
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In conclusion, there is so much more to learn as I continue to blog. Over the next couple of weeks, I will continue to evaluate why I want to blog and what am I seeking out of this and make the necessary adjustments along the way.
For those of you who took the time to read this post or the rest of my blog, I thank you for your support. Happy Reading! Stay tuned for future updates......
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