Here’s How I Started My Blog – And You Can Too! #INsider

I feel like everyone I meet, I suggest starting a blog to. We all have opinions and passions in life, so why not share those with the world.

So, you have an idea of what you want to talk about, but how do you go about executing that idea? When I first started blogging, almost 8 years ago, there wasn’t a ton of information on the web. Now there’s endless outlets teaching you how to create that perfect blog, but it can be a tad overwhelming. I’m here to simplify and get your new blog up and running within 30 minutes.

Blog Platform

First, you must choose your preferred blog platform. Although Blogger is an excellent free option, you never actually own your site, meaning if the company chooses to shutdown, you’re left without a platform. For this reason, I highly suggest WordPress. It offers a free, super easy set-up with a ton of free themes and layouts to choose from.

Hosting Site

Next up, choosing the right hosting site. Do you want a free one or invest in a paid one? Luckily WordPress offers free blogs for anyone, but you won’t be able to get your own domain name. It will look something like canadianfashionista.wordpress.com. This also comes with limitations and you won’t be able to fully monetize your site. Most importantly, you won’t own your own blog and there’s a chance it could get deleted. If you go with a self-hosted blog with your own domain name, and the option I recommend, you’re the owner of the site. I highly suggest Blue Host for when you first get started. I used them for years, and as your site grows, you can think about alternatives later. For as little as $10 a month you can have comfort in knowing you own your blog.

Domain

So, let’s pretend you go with WordPress, the site where you’ll create your content, and Blue Host as your hosting server, the company that puts your website up on the internet for the world to see, you now need to pick a domain. It’s the URL for your website, usually the name of your blog. Blue Host can help you register your domain for under $15 a year.

Design

Now comes the fun part, designing your own blog. Although this sounds a little scary and intimidating, you don’t need to know HTML to get started. WordPress offers thousands of themes to install for free. Browse their huge collection and pick one that suites your styles, wants and needs.

Find Your Voice

Now that your site is up and running, ask yourself, how is my blog going to be different than everyone else’s? You need to find your own voice, and it helps if you reach a smaller niche in the beginning. It’s so important to stand out and be different, rather than following what everybody else is doing. An important thing to consider when creating your blog posts is that visual content is key. No one likes to read long, boring essays, so don’t be afraid to include photos.

Audience

Next, know exactly who your audience is going to be. Interact with them daily and engage with others in your field. No matter how big you become, always remember your followers and provide them with content they enjoy. The most successful bloggers are those with true personality and interact with their readers.

Social Media

Social media is your friend. You can have a ton of helpful and useful content, but if people don’t know how to find your blog, it will go unread. Instagram is probably your best tool for promoting your new blog. It is the fastest way to build your brand and your blog. It’s also a great way to discover new blogs and interact with new bloggers. Community is key.

Do you have a blog? Post yours below, we’d love to hear from you!