Blogging Tips

Blogging is brand new to me, so I've been reading articles about how to create a successful blog. They all say pretty much the same things. If you're a frequent blogger or a new one just like me, I hope these tips are helpful to you.

1. Update Frequently
Don't forget to post on your blog. If you want people to notice you, you have to make sure you're giving your blog the time and attention that you want from your audience(s).

2. Comment on Successful Blogs
Be a follower of successful blogs in your niche and comment on their blogs. This is an easy way to get your name and voice out there. Your comment leads to potential clicks to your blog. Successful blogs have found their audiences and are reaching them well. It's ok to use them for your benefit. When you're commenting, make sure your comments are well written and a great representation of you. The better your comments are, the more likely you'll gain more readers off of the already successful blogs.

3. Do Your Research
Use blogging directories to find the most popular blogs in your niche. There are quite a few of different directories you can use, I have listed several below.
- Technorati www.technorati.com
- Blog Catalog www.blogcatalog.com
- Blogarama www.blogarama.com
- Bloghub www.bloghub.com
- Blogging Fushion www.bloggingfushion.com

4. Gain Credibility
The best way to gain credibility is by providing original content on your blog. People want to read something new, not something reguritated. Hopefully people will like your originality and keep coming back to read more and more,which will build your web traffic. Don't steal something off of someone else's blog. There's no need to upset people. Always think about copyright laws.


5. Whatch Your Web Stats
You want to know who is coming to your blog. Knowing your audience well will keep you ahead of the game. With this information you can configure your blogs around your readers and possibly fill their needs in new ways. You can add a blog log widget to keep an eye on the web traffic you are gaining.

6. Cut Down on the Clutter
Keep your blog clean. Don't fill it with useless things. If you want people to visit your blog more than once, don't use flashing text and animated images that move all around. Simple is always a good way to go. Keeping you blog free of clutter will allow your readers to navigate it well and this will lead to being indexed in the blog directories mentioned above.

7. Create Offline Publicity
Use the marketing materials you already have. A good place to start is to add your blog web address on to your business cards. People are always looking for information and the more places you have your address, the more likely people are to see it. Do this tastefully though. Don't over do it. Keep it simple is a good motto.