First off, anyone can blog.
But you do need certain qualities to succeed at it. Although an ability to write is a bonus, it’s not the only thing you need. If you want to be a blogger with longevity you also need the following.
1. Determination
Without doubt this is a top priority. If your posting schedule slips so will your readership.
Assuming your blog is interesting and attracts a lot of readers they will very quickly get to know when you post. If you suddenly stop posting or reduce the number of times you post, there is a good chance they’ll wander off and find another blog to read.
So you will need determination in bucket loads.
2. Patience
Starting a blog won’t make you an over night blogging sensation. You have to earn the trust of your readers and your reputation as an expert in your field.
3. Be real
Don’t be afraid to be yourself in your writing. The best blogs are those that exude personality as it helps the reader to get to know the writer. It sounds odd, but your readers really do want to build a relationship with you. By writing as yourself, they will get to know you, hopefully like you and continue to read your posts. And besides, blog posts without personality are really boring.
4. Consistency
This is a double barrelled one – the quality of your writing has to be consistent as do the subjects you write about and the frequency at which you post.
If you let your standards slip, you’ll lose readers. If you suddenly write about random topics that have nothing to do with your area of expertise, you’ll lose readers. And if you blog three times a week and then suddenly only once a month, guess what? Yup, you’ll lose readers.
Consistency is the name of the game.
5. Purpose
Every post you write must have a purpose. Think about what you’re writing and how it will benefit your reader.
People read blogs to learn things, so if your post doesn’t give them something new to take away with them, what’s the point?
6. Communication
Communication is a two way street – if it wasn’t, well it wouldn’t be communication.
You offer great information to your readers and they will comment back, so make sure you don’t ignore those comments. Chat with them and start to build relationships because you never know what doors it could open for you.
When you start blogging it is vital you go into it with your eyes open. It is a long-term commitment that has to be worked at if it is to be successful. Yes, it’s hard work, but it can also be very rewarding.
Give it a try and let us know how you get on.