Why do you want to blog?
That’s the first question you need to ask yourself. You’ve probably read quite a few, seen people become established experts and gather loads of loyal readers. In fact it’s probably the content of your favourite blogs that has inspired you to become a blogger.
So how can you replicate the success of your heroes?
First off, you can’t. If you’re going to blog you have to be yourself and offer people something new. What’s the point in producing a copy-cat blog? No one will read it.
So how can you become a better blogger? These 5 tips should help.
1. Don’t compare yourself to others
If you try to replicate your blogging hero’s style, you’ll produce something that’s sub standard because it doesn’t reflect you.
You are unique because there’s only one of you so use your posts to highlight your individuality, Use your own personal style and flare to carve out your own niche.
Will you please everyone? No – but you never will. Just be yourself and those who do enjoy your writing will become dedicated followers.
2. It’s not a closed club
The blogosphere appears to be controlled by a few big names. Forget about trying to be as good as them – just be you.
The internet and your potential audience is huge so there’s nothing stopping you from becoming a ‘name’ too.
3. Be unique
You have an advantage – no one else thinks like you, writes like you, or conveys a message like you.
Through your experiences, personality and ideas you’ll be able to write in a way no one else can emulate. By making your work your own you will attract readers.
4. Fresh ideas
Topics are constantly recycled in blogs. The secret to making yours stand out is to find a new angle to look at. It is this constant re-shaping of information that feeds the internet and helps generate new ideas and concepts.
5. Look at me!
Stand out from the crowd by incorporate your own personality. People love being entertained so if you write naturally in a humorous way use that to your advantage.
Above all be true to yourself and don’t try and force yourself to write like someone else. It is tough coming with with new material but it’s a great way to get your ideas and opinions ‘out there’.
Give it a try—you’ve got nothing to lose.
Sally Ormond – freelance copywriter and blogger