Helpful Blog Advice

I’m reposting some blogging advice I read on CarrotSpeak last September. It’s kinda stuck with me and I thought I would pass it on. If it will benefit you then copy and save it. If you repost it please give credit of where it came from.

This is the original post in its’ entirety:

Monday, September 14, 2009
Making a Difference Monday #5 -- (FAQ)
　
http://address-the-world.blogspot.com/2009/09/making-difference-monday-5-faq.html

How can I gain more followers?

There is no one answer to this question. The easiest way to gain followers is to establish a small base following and let your popularity grow from there. Find a few blogs you like, follow them, and comment. Most blog owners will respond to commenters. If they like what they see on your blog, they'll follow you. If they're really impressed, they'll add your blog to their "Blog-roll," leading their followers to your page. Eventually, you'll find some blogging "friends." Strange as it sounds, you really begin to develop bonds with some of these people, even though you may have never met. These bloggers are your "base," and are the platform from which you can begin to build a larger following. Do not be discouraged if it takes a while for your blog to take off. There are tons of blogs on the internet, and therefore tons of potential followers. There is a circle for everyone; it just may take a while for you to find yours. :) Also, participating in memes (like my Making a Difference Mondays) is a good way to increase the traffic on your blog and have some fun. :)And finally: To keep followers, always make your readers feel at home. Answer their comments and emails. Treat them as friends, and you'll find that is exactly what they'll become.

Do you have any advice for new bloggers?

1 -- Do not, under any circumstances, try to be someone you are not. The thing that makes blogging intriguing is that everyone can be rewarded for being their self. A blog is only interesting if it is unique somehow, and it can only be unique if you aren't trying to mimic someone. Don't be afraid to let your personality shine.

2 -- Do not blog only for publicity. You won't find it rewarding in the least. Blogging is a personal thing. It's a way to share your ideas and interests with others, meet new people, and voice your opinions into the world. In the blogging world, we are all equals in a way we cannot be elsewhere. We all have the same tools, and all have the same opportunity to be heard. We can form communities that couldn't exist outside of the internet because of distance and language barriers. Take advantage of that and enjoy yourself. Don't stress over numbers...just smile as they grow. =)

3 -- Use ads in moderation. They're bulky and distract readers from the rest of your blog. A few tasteful advertisements would be much more effective in giving your blog a polished and professional look while helping you earn a few extra bucks.