So how do you get started with your blog? Here are some helpful tips with links to resources that will get you on your way.
1. Blogging Keyword Research
Before you get started, come up with some [intlink id="3055" type="post"]target keywords[/intlink] you want to target. These should be phrases that people are already searching for. If you target words that are too obscure, you won’t make a dent in search engine results.
You can use a tool called Market Samurai to do great keyword research. It is one of the only SEO tools I use. Or, you could useGoogle’s keyword research tool to help you figure out how many searches per month a phrase is getting.
2. Blog Domain Names
Once you have determined what your keywords are, you will want to come up with a blog domain name that works. The truth is that search engines, particularly Google, place some weight on domain names – but who knows if that will last forever since so many people are keen to that now.
If your blog is about dating tips, try something like DinasDatingTips.com. You can personalize it, but the point is to try and get your keyword phrase in there.
3. Hosting for Blogs
You should host your blog with a reputable [intlink id="3593" type="post"]blog hosting company[/intlink] like WestHost orHostgator. These companies are familiar with blogs and have developed the right packages to suit bloggers needs, and they have very good customer service.
4. Install WordPress
If you go with a host that I mentioned above, installing WordPress is easy using their wizards. Just follow the directions.
If your host doesn’t have a WordPress installation option, install WordPress using my quick How to Install WordPress guide here.
5. Blog Design
When considering your [intlink id="2744" type="post"]blog design[/intlink], find a theme that reflects the personality of your blog, is easy to navigate, and is easy to customize for SEO. Try Elegant Themes, as right now, you can get access to all of their themes for just $38/year, and these themes are beautiful.
Thesis theme is another excellent theme and it’s what I use on BizChickBlogs.com. It takes a bit of customization, but if you find the right Thesis theme designer, it could be the best investment you ever made.
6. Blogging Strategy
There’s a lot involved in this, obviously. But you should put together a blogging strategy that is rich in good, mixed content, valuable to readers even if you are a brand-spanking-new blogger, and one that includes heavy long-term [intlink id="2262" type="post"]blog promotion[/intlink].
A good book to start off with is the 31 Days to Building a Better Blog workbook. I used this workbook and it changed my blog and turned it around. If you’re just getting off the ground, this is a great option for you.
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