When I first started blogging I was clueless. I had no idea what to do or how to do it. Despite my background in social media and marketing, I thought: write, post. Little did I know there was a heck of a lot more to it than that! I've found through the years, that every successful blog needs a few things to ensure people keep coming back. And it's easier than you think.
Here are 10 things every successful blog needs:
1. A clean design
What I mean by “clean” is that I can access it and find what I need easily. I can read it, I can share it, and I can easily navigate on your blog. Whether you're on Blogger, WordPress, Squarespace, whatever, I need to clearly understand where I can go to find more about you, read your posts, and follow you.
2. Easy follow links
Chances are, if I don't see the ways to follow you, I'm not going to do it. Think about how you want people to follow you: what's the most important ways for people to follow you? That should be SUPER easy to see. I want people to follow me on Bloglovin, immediately. That's why it's sitting pretty at the top right of my sidebar.
3. Interesting content
You might say, DUH, but really stop posting crap! It's better for you to post less and post awesome content, then to post more that's just well, not going anywhere. Before you hit publish ask yourself: would I want to read this? Take it a step further…: Would I want to share this? If the answer is no, rework your content.
4. Write posts that your audience is interested in
Your readers are your biggest fans! So listen and read what they would like to hear from you. Still don't know? ASK THEM!
5. Contact Page
How can I (or for that matter a company) reach out to you? If I can't see it or I'm pressed for time I'm moving on to the next one. This needs to have your email and/or social follow links. P.S. Check out: What Companies Are Looking For In A Blogger
6. Search
If I'm new to your blog (or I'm just looking for an excellent post you wrote) I might want to search for something specific on your blog. Make it super easy for me to search and find what I mean. Which means, people will stick around!
7. A Headline (title) that grabs attention
If your headline or post title sucks, people won't click on your post, no matter how great the post is.
8. About Me Page
I know these can be awkward to write but, you need one. Preferably, it has a picture or two and gives a little bit more in-depth on what your blog and life are like. People are nosy, tell us more!!
9. An image
You need an image in your post that's clear and pretty and also fits the width of your blog. You should also properly name your image using SEO. Need further instruction on that? Check out my post on SEO.
10. Tell me what to do next!
Okay, so I just read this great post, what should I do next? You can encourage your readers to follow you, share this, or direct them to another post. I HIGHLY recommend linking to another post. (Also this increases your page views immensely!)
Bottom line, a successful blog is one that's easy to read and gives value. Now, I'm going to put this notion into practice. If you liked this post you'll love my new FREE eCourse: Build A Successful Blog!
It's an interactive eCourse totally free. Just sign up here.
