What Is The Purpose Of Blogging?
Blogging has been around for decades and is a great way to build your business and/or brand. I was hesitant to start a blog initially because I wasn’t aware of how important and helpful a blog can be. I started on social media but struggled with Instagram’s algorithm and changes it made to the platform. Realizing that I don’t own my followers on these platforms pushed me into starting a blog. It’s also one of the most important reasons you should have your own blog. In this post, you will find seven reasons blogging is important and why you should create one today to grow your brand. I also share my blogging journey so you can learn from my mistakes.
My Blogging Journey: Why I started Blogging
I started blogging because I wanted more space than just social media to tell my story and to share my life with Teddy. A blog was the perfect outlet that allowed me to be creative however and whenever I chose to be. I bought my first domain to start blogging in 2019 from Wix.com. It was a true passion project and creative outlet. When I say I didn’t know what I was doing, I really mean it. I was not consistent (a blog post per month is not exactly consistent.) I did not maximize for SEO, create a newsletter or properly use Pinterest. But I enjoyed sharing recipes and my adventures with my dog. To this day that domain, teddytakesthecity.com still exists. Check it out!
In 2020, I purchased my second domain www.simplysharonandteddy.com but this time I was determined to do it the right way so it would ultimately generate money. We all know what happened in 2020, which set me back. I also struggled significantly with the technological part of building a website which lead me to hire a website builder. It was a waste of money. I hated how the website looked and it was not user-friendly. If you’re a novice blogger who is getting their feet wet, don’t waste your money on hiring a website builder. Ultimately, in 2021 I purchased an easy theme and was able to customize my website. It’s not perfect but it does look amazing and is functional. Currently, I consistently write at least one blog post per week, optimize for SEO and have over two dozen active subscribers that get my newsletters. My goal is 1000 people by the end of the year so if you aren’t receiving my newsletter, sign up below! I also have already made money through my blog via affiliate links! My blogging journey wasn’t easy at all but I sure am proud of where I am today!
7 Reasons Blogging Is Important & Why You Should Start Blogging Today To Grow Your Brand
Become A Better Communicator + Writer
Writing blog posts forces you to practice your craft and become a better communicator. You probably will not believe me when I say I used to HATE writing. That was because I was forced to write about subjects I didn’t care about. Now, I get to write about things I am passionate about and it’s much easier for me. Don’t get me wrong, I am no journalist. But I strive to learn from the best to advance my craft. And the thesaurus is my best friend now.
Share Your Knowledge + Establish Authority
Creating a blog allows you to share your knowledge on a subject. You may be thinking, “who the heck wants to read about what I know?” You’ll be surprised by just how many seek advice on a given subject. Initially, I didn’t think anyone would want to know about my experience of getting a first dog and it’s challenges. But then my friends and friends of friends started asking me questions when they got their first dog. So I wrote blog posts using all their questions and help even more people now. By doing this, I have established my authority as a first time dog mom. I have become the go-to person or expert in my niche when my audience has a question.
Build Relationships + Connect To Your Tribe
You may be on social media to build relationships and find your tribe. Having a blog is similar but on a deeper level. I find most (not all) social media relationships to be superficial. But when a person comes to your blog looking to have a specific question answered and you help them out. You get an opportunity to build a connection like no other!
Make Money
Ultimately, making money is probably your number one reason to start blogging. Everyone wants a return on their investment. There are many ways you can make money from a blog such as writing sponsored posts for a company, affiliate links and passive income from ads shown on your website. I warn you that money shouldn’t be your only reason to start a blog because you will not make much initially. If your business sells a product or service, you can build brand awareness by creating useful content in your blog. This leads to stronger relationships with existing and new clients and ultimately more sales!
Blogging Isn’t Going Anywhere
Some people say blogging is dead. Those people simply don’t read or don’t realize they are reading a blog when they google a common question. Yes I said it. I know many successful bloggers that started within the last year or two, such as Lindsey from lindseyandcoco.com.
You Don’t Own Instagram or Tik Tok (or Any Other Social Platform)
Not owning your social platform is the most important reason to start your own blog. If Instagram or Tik Tok left tomorrow, what would you do? How would you connect with your friends and audience? Not to mention, the constant changes the platforms go through is frustrating! On your website, you can do anything you desire at anytime you choose. Talk about freedom! Not to mention, as long as you continue to pay for your domain and host your website will continue to exist.
Searchable On Google & Other Search Engines
Assuming you have optimized for SEO on your blog, your brand can be found on Google and other search engines such as Pinterest. This allows new potential clients to find you. No social platform as the ability to be searchable as Google (yet.)
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