How to start a blog in 2024: Lessons from 6-figures blogger

I started my previous blog thrivemyway.com in October 2021, diving into the world of Blogging with ambition and a clear goal. Just six months later, in March 2022, my efforts paid off, as I witnessed my blog’s organic traffic from Google soar to 100,000 visitors per month.

This rapid growth wasn’t just about numbers. It translated into substantial earnings, with thousands of dollars in monthly income. In August 2023, the journey reached its peak. That’s when I sold the blog on Flippa for a six-figure amount. The site drew in an impressive 10,000 daily organic visitors, which is equivalent to 300,000 monthly.

How did I make my blog successful?

To make your blog successful, emphasize crafting engaging, high-quality content. It should resonate with your audience. Actively promote your blog on various social platforms. Encourage reader interaction through comments. Use targeted keywords and SEO strategies to enhance online visibility and search ranking.

I made my blog successful through SEO. I focused solely on this strategy. I did not rely on social media platforms like Pinterest or Facebook for traffic.

The key to launching a successful blog for me was compressing five years of work into just six months. This intensive approach included setting up efficient systems and processes. It also involved building a dedicated team and a significant financial commitment.

My strategy relied on a deep understanding of my audience. I crafted content that directly addressed their needs and queries. This user-focused approach significantly boosted my blog’s visibility in search engine results. It was paired with strategic keyword research and on-page SEO. I constantly adapted my tactics to align with the ever-evolving landscape of SEO.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Blog?

Starting a blog typically costs from $50 to $150, covering domain registration and hosting. Ongoing monthly costs can vary between $15 and $50, depending on the blogging platform, additional tools, and hosting plans chosen. The total cost largely depends on the blog’s complexity and desired features.

When I began in 2021, AI wasn’t as advanced as it is now. I had to hire writers, paying them $0.04 per word, which meant $40 for a 1,000-word article.

Picture this: a single 3,000-word article cost me $120, and I published 400 such articles in the first six months!

However, the landscape has changed significantly. With the advancements in AI, achieving the same quality of content can cost much less.

1. Pick Your Blog Niche

Choosing the right niche is crucial for your blog’s success. Here’s a comprehensive approach:

• Knowledge and Expertise: Select a topic you’re well-informed about to ensure content accuracy and depth​​​​.
• Market Viability and Profitability: Confirm if there’s a paying audience. Use tools like Google Trends to check market interest. Also, check if companies advertise in this space.
• Evergreen niche: Aim for a niche that will remain relevant and evergreen. Avoid short-lived trends.
• Competition and Collaboration: A moderate level of competition suggests a viable niche. It also offers opportunities for collaboration.
• Google Trends Analysis: Ensure the niche is trending upwards, indicating growing interest​​​.
• Personal Association: Choose a niche you’re comfortable being associated with. This affects your confidence in sharing and promoting your blog.
• Target Audience and Goals: Decide if your blog will target a general or specific audience. Align it with your blogging goals. Consider the opposite view: detachment and market.

Personal Interest and Passion Over Profitability: Several sources, including Ryrob.com, Hubspot, and Hostinger.com, emphasize the importance of choosing a blog niche based on personal interest and passion rather than solely on profitability. They suggest that writing about something you are genuinely interested in is crucial for long-term blogging success.

Why I don’t agree with them?

I’ve personally found that having a passion for a hobby doesn’t necessarily translate into success or enjoyment when creating a blog about it. For instance, I love hiking and being in nature, whether it’s just walking or listening to podcasts. However, when I tried to start a blog about hiking, I didn’t find the same level of pleasure in writing about it as I did in doing it.

Additionally, I didn’t have connections with other hiking bloggers, which made the process challenging.

Also, my experience in hiking was relatively basic. I was more of a beginner, unlike others who are more advanced, and equipped with camping gear and techniques. This disparity made me feel unequal and out of place in the hiking blogging community.

Now, comparing this with a blog about marketing and content marketing, SEO, where I have all the connections and partners needed for success, it’s clear that focusing on a niche where you have both professional and personal connections is key.

In areas like marketing, where I’m already well-connected and knowledgeable, the potential for success is much higher. It’s best to focus on a niche where you already have a strong network and expertise.

2. How to Choose a Suitable Blogging Platform

When choosing a suitable blogging platform, prioritize ease of use, especially for beginners, and no coding requirements. Key features should include robust customization, mobile responsiveness, and scalability to support your blog as it grows. Also, consider community support and SEO capabilities for long-term success.

According to OptinMonster, 70 million new posts are published on WordPress each month.

Selecting the right blogging platform is pivotal in your blogging journey. I recommend WordPress for several reasons:

• Flexibility and Customization: WordPress.org offers limitless possibilities for customization and design.
• Extensive Plugin Options: A wide range of plugins enhances functionality and user experience.
• SEO-Friendly: Optimized for search engines, aiding in better content visibility.
• Large Community Support: Access to a vast community for support and resources.
• Monetization Freedom: Full control over monetization strategies like ads and affiliate marketing.

Other options include:

• WordPress.com: A hosted version of WordPress, offering ease of use with some limitations compared to the self-hosted version.
• Squarespace: Known for its sleek design templates and integrated functionalities suitable for bloggers who prioritize aesthetics and simplicity.
• Wix: Offers a user-friendly interface with a variety of design options, catering to bloggers who want creative control without extensive technical knowledge.
• Medium: A platform focused on writing and content, with a built-in audience but limited customization and monetization options.
• Weebly, Ghost, Duda: Other platforms that offer various features but may not match WordPress in terms of flexibility and scalability.

3. Create a Blog Name and Get the Domain

When it comes to naming a blog, my personal experience with my projects, ThriveMyWay.com and CreateAndGrow.com, taught me the importance of creativity and resourcefulness. Naming a blog is not just about a catchy phrase; it’s about embodying the essence of your brand.

Here are a few methods I used:

Exploring Aged Domains for Inspiration

For ThriveMyWay.com and Createandgrow.com, I delved into the world of aged domains. This method wasn’t just about finding a ready-made name; it was about uncovering a domain with history and potential SEO benefits. Aged domains can be a treasure trove of built-in authority, offering a head start in the competitive digital space.
I recommend https://seo.domains/ and https://www.afternic.com/

Dictionaries: A Window to Diverse Linguistics

I didn’t limit myself to English dictionaries. Diving into foreign dictionaries, especially Latin, I discovered that words from different languages often sound intriguing and brandable. Latin, with its historical richness, provided a unique perspective, offering names that were not only distinctive but also resonated with depth and meaning.

The Power of Name Generators

In the era of AI, name generators have become an invaluable tool. When brainstorming for CreateAndGrow.com, I turned to these generators for a burst of creativity. They offered a plethora of options, sparking ideas that I might not have considered otherwise. The key here is to use these AI-driven suggestions as a springboard for further creativity.

Brainstorming Sessions: Unleashing Creativity

Perhaps the most intensive method I used was dedicated brainstorming sessions. I would set aside 30 minutes, pushing myself to list as many names as possible. Most ideas didn’t make the cut, but this process wasn’t about finding the perfect name on the first try. It was about volume and variation, knowing that among the multitude of options, there could be a gem waiting to be polished.

Analyze Competitor Domain Names

• Study Naming Patterns: Observe how successful blogs in your niche name themselves. Look for common elements like prefixes, suffixes, or keyword combinations.
• Note Uniqueness Factors: Identify what makes these names stand out. Is it brevity, a play on words, or a certain rhythm?
• Analyze Market Trends: Understand current trends in domain naming within your niche. Trends might include using specific keywords, formats (like using verbs), or certain themes.
• Brand Positioning Reflection: See how competitors’ names reflect their brand positioning and try to differentiate your name while maintaining relevance to the niche.

Play with Words

• Alliteration and Rhyme: Names that use alliteration (e.g., PayPal) or rhyme (e.g., StubHub) are often catchy and memorable.
• Mashups: Combine two relevant words or parts of words to create a new, unique term (e.g., Netflix, a blend of ‘net’ from the internet and ‘flix’ from flicks).
• Use of Puns: A clever pun can make your domain name both memorable and engaging.

Additional Unique Methods

• Historical References: Look into history, myths, or legends for inspiration. Names with historical significance can be intriguing and add depth to your brand.
• Geographical Names: If your blog has a local or regional focus, consider incorporating the name of a city, landmark, or region.
• Incorporate Niche-Specific Jargon: Use terms specific to your niche that your audience will recognize and relate to. This can immediately connect your blog with its intended topic or audience.
• Use of Figurative Language: Metaphors or similes can lead to creative and thought-provoking names. For example, a travel blog might use names like ‘NomadicNavigator’.
• Abstract Concepts: Sometimes, abstract and seemingly unrelated words can make for a unique and brandable domain name. Think of words like ‘Oracle’ or ‘Amazon’ which, while not directly descriptive, have become powerful brand names.
• Personal Touch: Incorporating your name or a personal characteristic can add a personal touch, especially for personal blogs or portfolios.

When developing your domain name, consider these strategies to create something that not only stands out but also resonates with your audience and aligns with your brand’s identity and values.

Embracing the Process

Creating a blog name is a journey of exploration. It’s about experimenting with different methods, mixing creativity with strategy, and not being afraid to venture into unfamiliar linguistic territories.

Whether it’s an aged domain with a story, a foreign word with a unique sound, an AI-generated list full of potential, or a brainstorming session that tests your creativity limits, each approach offers a path to discovering a name that’s not just a label, but a reflection of your blog’s identity and mission.

4. How to legally Protect your blog?

You can protect your blog through Trademark Registration.

A trademark is a symbol, word, phrase, design, or combination of these, used to identify and distinguish the goods or services of one entity from those of others. Trademark registration is the process of officially securing this mark through a legal system, thereby obtaining exclusive rights to its use in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered.

Why Registering a Trademark is important?

Registering a trademark is vital for business identity and legal protection. It establishes exclusive rights, helps avoid infringement disputes, and builds brand recognition among consumers. Trademark registration also enhances legal defense against unauthorized use and supports brand loyalty and marketing strategies.

Legal Presumption: If you own a registered trademark, there is a legal presumption of your ownership and exclusive right to use the mark, simplifying legal proceedings in case of infringement.

To protect your blog through trademarking, you can follow these steps:

• Understanding What a Trademark Is: A trademark can be a name, logo, or other symbol used to advertise your business. It identifies your blog and distinguishes it from others​​​​.
• Searching for Similar Trademarks: Before filing, it’s crucial to search for existing trademarks that might be similar to your proposed blog name. This helps avoid conflicts and potential legal issues​​.

Preparing to File:

• Determine the application requirements, which include details about the goods and services you’re offering through your blog.
• Decide on the basis of your application filing. This could be based on the current use of the trademark or intent to use it in the future.
• Prepare any necessary drawings or specimens that represent your trademark.
• Be aware of common problems in applications to avoid delays or rejections​​.

Registration Process:

• You may or may not need an attorney, depending on your comfort level with the process.
• The process involves filing an application, which is then examined. If approved, it will be published for opposition.
• After overcoming any opposition, you will receive your registration.
• It’s important to maintain your registration appropriately, which includes renewals and keeping your information up to date​​.

For detailed guidance and to initiate the process, it’s advisable to visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website and consider consulting with a trademark attorney to ensure that all aspects of the process are handled correctly.

How did I register my trademark?

To register your trademark, begin with a comprehensive search to ensure its uniqueness. Next, file an application online via the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) on UPSTO, detailing the trademark and its intended use. Complete the process by paying the required fee using a secure payment method

I recommend hiring an attorney on a platform like Upwork. An attorney specializing in intellectual property can prepare and submit your application to the USPTO. Typically, they might charge between $150 and $300 for this service.

5. How to Choose a Hosting Provider for Your Blog

When choosing a web host, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Individual Approach: Select a host that offers tailored solutions to fit your specific needs, whether you’re running a personal blog or a business website.
2. 99% Uptime: Look for a host with high uptime guarantees, ensuring your website is always accessible to your audience.
3. Variety of Plans: Choose a host that provides a range of hosting plans, allowing you to scale up as your website grows.
4. 24/7 Customer Service: Ensure the host offers round-the-clock support to address any issues promptly.
5. Affordable Price: Find a balance between cost and features – the cheapest option isn’t always the best, but you also don’t want to overpay for unnecessary features.
6. Intuitive Account Interface: An easy-to-use control panel is essential for managing your website and hosting services efficiently.
7. Resources to Get You Started: Look for a host that offers educational resources, tutorials, or starter guides, especially if you’re new to managing a website.
   
8. Easy Migration: If you’re switching hosts, ensure they offer support for a hassle-free migration of your existing website.
9. Domain Name Management: A host that allows for easy management of domain names is a plus, especially if you plan to have multiple sites.
10. Security: Prioritize hosts that provide robust security measures, including SSL certificates, backups, and protection against cyber threats.

When selecting a hosting provider for your blog, it’s essential to consider performance and reliability. In our experiments, where we migrated a website from one hosting service to another, Hostinger demonstrated superior results. This was evident in terms of site speed, uptime, and overall user experience.

Why do I disagree that Bluehost is the best hosting?

Despite these points, it’s important to approach these recommendations with a critical eye. Many affiliate bloggers tend to recommend Bluehost primarily because it offers them the highest commission rates, not necessarily because it’s the best option available.

This commission-based motivation can sometimes overshadow an objective evaluation of the hosting service’s actual performance and suitability for your specific needs.

In conclusion, while Bluehost has attributes that appeal to new bloggers, it’s crucial to consider all aspects, including performance metrics and real user experiences, before making a decision.

Your choice should be based on what aligns best with your blog’s requirements and goals.

6. Choosing the Best Hosting Provider for Your Blog

Selecting the right hosting provider is a crucial decision for your blog. Different hosting services excel in various areas, catering to specific needs and preferences.

Hostinger: Best for Overall Performance and Value

Hostinger stands out as the best overall hosting provider. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability, performance, and reliability.

With Hostinger, you get a host that offers a comprehensive package — excellent uptime, fast loading speeds, and robust features, all at a competitive price point. This makes it an ideal choice for bloggers who want a top-performing website without breaking the bank.

WPX Hosting: Best for Superior Support

WPX Hosting is renowned for its exceptional customer support and reliability. If having access to quick, responsive, and knowledgeable support is a top priority, WPX Hosting is unmatched. They offer a level of customer service that goes above and beyond, ensuring that any issues are resolved promptly, which is invaluable for maintaining a smooth-running blog.

SiteGround: Best for WordPress Integration

SiteGround is the go-to choice for WordPress users. It provides specialized WordPress hosting with features like automatic updates, enhanced security, and optimized speed. This focus on WordPress makes SiteGround an excellent option for bloggers who are looking for a hosting provider that can offer tailored solutions for their WordPress site.

A2 Hosting: Best for Fast Performance

A2 Hosting excels in speed and performance. Known for its fast server speeds and optimized hosting environment, A2 Hosting is perfect for bloggers who prioritize quick loading times and a smooth user experience. This is particularly crucial for maintaining visitor engagement and SEO rankings.

Bluehost: Best for Budget-Conscious Beginners

Bluehost is often recommended for budget-conscious bloggers, especially beginners. It combines affordability with user-friendliness, making it an attractive choice for those just starting their blogging journey. With easy-to-use tools, simple WordPress installation, and reliable customer support, Bluehost helps ease new bloggers into the world of web hosting without a steep learning curve.

Each hosting provider offers distinct advantages, making them suitable for different types of bloggers and blogs. Your selection should align with your blog’s specific requirements and objectives.

7. How to Setup, Customize, and Design Your Blog?

1. Install WordPress
2. Add site title and tagline and adjust the general settings
3. Choose a preferred permalink structure
4. Choose a WordPress theme
5. Add your logo
6. Create your menu – pages, post categories
7. Adjust the design as per your needs and preferences – change colors, fonts, font sizes

1. Install WordPress

Begin your blogging journey by installing WordPress. This platform is user-friendly and offers extensive customization options. Choose a hosting provider that offers a one-click WordPress installation feature to simplify the process.

2. Add Site Title and Tagline, Adjust General Settings

Once WordPress is installed, personalize your site by adding a title and tagline that reflect your blog’s essence. Navigate to the general settings to fine-tune details like your site’s timezone, language, and visibility settings.

3. Choose a Preferred Permalink Structure

Permalinks are the URLs for your blog posts and pages. Choose a structure that is SEO-friendly and intuitive. WordPress offers several options; a common choice is the ‘Post name’ structure, as it is clean and easy to read.

4. Choose a WordPress Theme

The appearance of your blog is crucial. Select a WordPress theme that aligns with your blog’s style and purpose. There are thousands of free and premium themes available. Look for themes that are responsive, customizable, and regularly updated.

In this case, it’s Generate Press.

5. Add Your Logo

Your logo is a key part of your blog’s identity. Add it to your WordPress site to make your brand memorable. You can usually upload your logo in the theme’s customization settings, ensuring it appears in the header or as part of your site’s favicon.

6. Create Your Menu – Pages, Post Categories

Organize your blog by creating a menu that includes your main pages and post categories. This step is crucial for user navigation and overall site structure. In WordPress, you can easily add and arrange menu items under the ‘Appearance’ section, customizing it to match your blog’s layout and content strategy.

7. Adjust the Design as Per Your Needs and Preferences – Change Colors, Fonts, and Font Sizes

Personalize the look and feel of your blog by adjusting design elements like colors, fonts, and font sizes. WordPress themes often come with customization options allowing you to tweak these aspects to match your brand identity and aesthetic preferences. Experiment with different combinations in the theme customizer to find the perfect visual style for your blog.

8. Start writing your first blog post

Begin by writing posts that are SEO-optimized and resonate with your audience. Focus on delivering valuable, engaging, and relevant content. In WordPress, you can start by navigating to ‘Posts’ and then ‘Add New’. Utilize the WordPress editor to craft your posts, incorporating various media elements if needed. Consistency and quality are key, so set a realistic publishing schedule that you can adhere to.

8. Create a Content Strategy for Your Blog

1. Set your blogging goals
2. Identify Your Target Audience
3. Find their problems: Then create and offer the solution
4. Analyze Your Competitors
5. Leverage Competitor Analysis for Blog Content
6. Make a keyword research
7. Focus on Your Unique Strengths
8. Build an Editorial Calendar

I’ve been very strategic in my blogging journey. And you should be strategic as well. You should have a clear strategy for the next 12 months. Strategy is like a roadmap for success.

Most bloggers have a content strategy.

OptinMonster reports that 65% of content marketers say they have a documented content strategy.

Set your blogging goals

Setting clear goals is the foundation of any effective content strategy. Begin by defining what success looks like for your blog. Are you aiming to establish authority in your niche, generate a specific income, increase your subscriber base, or drive more traffic to your website?

Concrete goals like “achieve 10,000 monthly visitors within a year” or “earn $500 per month from affiliate marketing in six months” provide a target to aim for and make it easier to measure progress. Remember, these goals should align with the broader purpose of your blog and be realistically attainable based on your resources and timeline​​.

For example, my goal was to hit 100k organic traffic during the first year. I managed to do that in my 6th month.

Identify Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial for creating content that resonates. Identify the demographics, interests, and needs of your potential readers. Consider factors like age, gender, location, education, and political views, as these can influence the style and topics of your posts. Additionally, understand their online behavior – what platforms they use and the type of content they prefer

When identifying your target audience, specificity is key. For example, if your primary audience consists of white females in the US who are active on Pinterest, tailor your content to align with their interests and preferences. This demographic might be interested in topics like home decor, DIY projects, fashion, or wellness. Your content should not only cover these subjects but also be visually appealing, as Pinterest is a highly visual platform.

Find their problems: Then create and offer the solution

After pinpointing your audience, the next crucial step is to identify their specific goals and the challenges they face in achieving them. In my case, the audience’s primary goal is to create and grow their online, often blogging, business.

They want to start a blog, drive traffic, monetize it, and ultimately live a life of freedom. However, the key challenge they encounter is the difficulty in attracting traffic to a new website with no established authority. To address this, I am providing the solution through comprehensive guides, step-by-step articles, and courses that help people overcome these hurdles and achieve their goal of a successful online business.

It’s simple: goal – obstacle – solution.

Follow this formula, and you’ll succeed.

Analyze Your Competitors

In the context of my own experience, analyzing the competition is a critical step. In my industry, the competition is formidable, with leading sites like Forbes and Guardian dominating the first page of search results.

Acknowledging this, I view my journey as a long-term game. I’m prepared to dedicate years to publishing content, building my brand, creating videos, and developing courses.

It’s important to align your goals with the level of competition you face. If the competition is intense, like in my case, immediate success and significant traffic in the first six months might not be realistic goals.

Instead, I focus on gradual growth and long-term success.

Leverage Competitor Analysis for Blog Content

Examining what your competitors rank for is not just about understanding their strengths, but also about uncovering opportunities for your blog. By analyzing their content, you can identify gaps and underexplored topics that you can capitalize on. This approach allows you to find unique angles and subjects they might have missed or not covered in depth. Use these insights to enhance your content strategy, ensuring your blog offers fresh perspectives and fills in the blanks left by your competitors. This strategic approach to competitor analysis can be a valuable tool in distinguishing your blog in a crowded market.

Make a keyword research

Keyword research is essential as it guides you in creating content that your target audience is actively searching for. It helps in understanding the specific terms and phrases people use, revealing their interests and needs.

Utilizing tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or the more budget-friendly Ubersuggest, you can delve deeper into the topics and keywords your competitors are ranking for. This approach aligns seamlessly with the competitor analysis, allowing you to gather a rich pool of ideas for your blog.

Remember, it’s not necessary to maintain long-term subscriptions to these tools. A one-month intensive research period can yield enough insights to shape your content strategy for the next 12 months without incurring ongoing costs.

Focus on Your Unique Strengths

Capitalizing on your unique strengths is key to standing out in a competitive space. For instance, my expertise in SEO enables me to craft high-quality content that ranks well, even in competitive search engine results pages (SERPs). I excel in creating content that naturally attracts backlinks from authoritative websites and in forging partnerships with other bloggers and websites.

Focusing on these strengths, like SEO expertise in my case, is a strategic approach. It leverages personal skills and knowledge to gain an edge in the blogging world, highlighting the importance of playing to your strengths for success.

Build an Editorial Calendar

Posting consistently is crucial for blogging success. Reflecting on my experience with thrivemyway.com, I initially published 300 articles at once, which led to a significant surge in traffic.

However, following this initial burst, I didn’t publish new content for several months. This lack of activity likely signaled to search engines that the blog was no longer active or regularly updated, which can be perceived as a negative indicator. On the next Google update, my site’s rankings went down.

This experience underscores the importance of consistent content publication for maintaining and improving search engine visibility.

Having a content calendar allows you to strategically cover timely events and posts. For instance, around Black Friday, I compile hot deals into a post, which is specifically relevant just before the event. Similarly, if you’re in the ecology niche, you might want to focus on Earth Day in April.

While most of your posts should be evergreen, and not tied to specific events, incorporating an events calendar is beneficial. Plan your evergreen articles months ahead, schedule them as drafts in WordPress, and ensure they’re published regularly.

This consistency not only helps in maintaining reader interest but also aids in SEO, as regular updates signal to search engines that your site is active and relevant.

9. Write Your First Blog Post – My Updated Strategy for 2024

Reflecting on my blogging journey, there’s a stark contrast between my strategies in 2021 and what I recommend now in 2024.

Back in 2021, my go-to advice was to conduct extensive keyword research, create detailed outlines, and hire native English-speaking writers from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand through platforms like Upwork. (that’s how I did the content for thrivemyway.com)

This approach was cost-effective and ensured high-quality SEO optimized and engaging content.

However, in 2024, the blogging environment has undergone significant changes. If you follow my old advice now, you’re likely to overpay. Most of the writers (if not all of them) are using AI tools to produce content. This shift in content creation means that the strategies need to be adapted.

So, here’s my current advice: Invest in an AI writing assistant like ChatGPT Turbo, the premium version. This tool has been a game-changer in my content creation process.

It’s crucial to understand that you shouldn’t rely solely on single-click AI solutions, such as auto-blogging or simply asking the AI to write on a topic and then using the produced article as is. That approach guarantees you’ll create low-quality shallow content.

Instead, I use ChatGPT as your writing assistant. I direct the AI to produce content paragraph by paragraph, section by section. This way, I maintain control over the content’s direction, ensuring it aligns with my blog’s vision and voice.

Once I have the draft, the next step is humanizing the content. This involves adding personal insights, adjusting the tone, and ensuring it reflects my style. Formatting is also key to making the content reader-friendly and engaging. Sometimes, I even hire an editor for that final polish, tweaking the content slightly to improve flow and give it a more natural feel.

According to a survey by OrbitMedia – 65% of bloggers use AI to varying degrees. The most common use case is generating ideas (43%).

In summary, my approach in 2024 is a blend of AI efficiency and human creativity. It’s about being the master of the tool, not its servant, ensuring that each blog post retains my unique voice and delivers value to my readers.

10. How to promote your blog?

1. Promote in social media platform
2. Engaging in Niche-Specific Groups for Collaboration and Partnership
3. Enhancing Your Blog’s Reach Through Guest Blogging
4. Using YouTube is a must in 2024
5. Forums are back in the game
6. Email newsletter – own your audience

H3 Promote in social media platforms

According to OptinMonster, 95.9% of bloggers promote their blog posts via social media. Do you want to be a part of those 4% who don’t make the effort?

To kickstart your blog promotion, the first step is to identify the most effective social media platforms based on your audience’s interests and demographics.

Instagram: For instance, if your blog focuses on fashion and lifestyle, Instagram is an ideal platform due to its visual nature and large fashion-conscious user base.

Pinterest: In contrast, if your target audience consists of high-income women interested in home decor, Pinterest, which functions as both a social media platform and a search engine, would be more suitable.

LinkedIn: If your business is centered around offering products or services in the B2B (Business-to-Business) sector, LinkedIn is an unparalleled platform for your promotional activities. Unlike other social networks, LinkedIn is tailored specifically for professional networking and business conversations, making it an ideal environment for connecting with industry professionals, decision-makers, and potential B2B clients.

Reddit: If your blog focuses on gaming or technology and primarily appeals to white males in their 20s and 30s from the United States, Reddit should be a key platform in your promotional strategy. This social media site is popular among this demographic and offers a conducive environment for engaging with audiences interested in these topics.

It’s crucial to determine where your audience spends their time and concentrate your promotional efforts on two to three of these platforms for maximum impact.

Expert opinion

I’ve found that the success of a blog hinges not just on the quality of the content but significantly on how it’s promoted. My rule of thumb is to allocate about 80% of my effort to promotion and 20% to creation. This strategy stems from a realization: many sites fail not because they lack good content, but because they don’t promote their content effectively.

Brian Dean

Backlinko

Engaging in Niche-Specific Groups for Collaboration and Partnership

Different niches offer varying opportunities for collaboration and partnership, and understanding your specific niche is crucial in leveraging these opportunities.

For instance, in niches like travel, marketing, and SaaS (Software as a Service), it’s relatively straightforward to connect with fellow marketers, bloggers, and industry professionals.

In these fields, mutual support through content sharing, exchanging mentions and backlinks, and making guest appearances on each other’s podcasts or blogs can significantly amplify your reach and success.

However, it’s important to note that not all niches are conducive to such open collaboration. Areas like casino gambling or adult content may present challenges in finding cooperative partnerships due to their unique nature and regulations.

For those in collaborative niches, it’s beneficial to engage in interest groups and communities where like-minded individuals gather. This could be Facebook groups for travel bloggers, Slack communities for content marketing, or LinkedIn groups for SaaS professionals. These platforms provide valuable opportunities for networking, sharing insights, and forming partnerships that can enhance your blog’s visibility and growth.

In summary, understanding the dynamics of your niche is key. If your field supports collaboration, actively seek out and participate in relevant online communities to foster relationships that can lead to mutual growth and success.

Enhancing Your Blog’s Reach Through Guest Blogging

Growing your blog’s domain authority is a vital aspect of its success, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is through guest blogging on established websites. These websites, which have been around for longer and have built their own authority, can lend credibility to your blog when you publish your content on their platforms.

By featuring your posts on these sites and linking back to your own blog, you significantly enhance your blog’s visibility and authority.

Using YouTube is a must in 2024

In 2024, it’s crucial to leverage YouTube for content creation, not just as a social media platform but also as a powerful search engine, second only to Google. The competition on YouTube is comparatively less intense, and a presence on this platform is vital for reaching wider audiences. Almost every niche can benefit from YouTube content.

The key is not to aim for perfection in video production but to focus on authenticity and relevance. Prioritize a good microphone for clear audio, as viewers are more likely to overlook video quality than poor sound. Generation Z, in particular, values authenticity over high production quality. They seek content that feels sincere and offers reliable information.

Forums are back in the game

Forums are an excellent platform for promoting your blog, especially since recent Google updates have boosted the visibility of forums and Q&A websites like Quora and Reddit.

To effectively use forums for promotion:

• 1) Identify the top forums in your industry and establish a presence there.
• 2) Build a reputation by actively participating in discussions and contributing valuable insights.
• 3) Promote your blog and successes subtly, focusing more on being helpful rather than overtly promotional.
• 4) Share your experiences and guide others on how you’ve achieved success with your blog or website, offering practical advice and support.

This approach not only helps in promoting your blog but also establishes you as a knowledgeable and helpful member of the forum community.

Email newsletter – own your audience

An email newsletter is a highly effective tool for promoting your blog and maintaining audience engagement.

To maximize its potential:

• 1) Focus on collecting subscribers genuinely interested in your content.
• 2) Aim to send one or two emails weekly to keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them.
• 3) Utilize free tools for email marketing; for instance, ConvertKit offers a free plan for the first 1000 subscribers. Gathering a substantial email list can be challenging, so this free option is beneficial for starters.
• In today’s digital landscape, where reliance on the Google algorithm and AI is increasing, owning your audience is crucial. An email newsletter is one of the best ways to achieve this, providing a direct line of communication with your readers independent of external platform changes or updates.

11. How to Monetize Your Blog

1. Monetizing with Display Ads: A Strategic Guide
2. Leveraging Sponsored Posts for Income: Effective Strategies
3. Selling a Digital Product
4. Offering Freelance or Consulting Services through your blog

Monetizing with Display Ads: A Strategic Guide

Display ads represent the most straightforward method of passive income for your blog. This approach primarily requires two things:

• Generating Traffic and Content: Focus on creating a wealth of content to attract traffic, especially from countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia, where ad revenues are typically higher.
• Geographic Influence on Ad Revenue: Be mindful that earnings from display ads vary by region. Traffic from countries such as India and Pakistan may generate less revenue per view.

Ad Network Selection:

• Start with Ezoic: For new blogs with lower traffic volumes, even as little as 2,000 views, Ezoic is a suitable starting point as it has no minimum traffic requirement.
• Progress to Mediavine and Raptor: As your blog grows and reaches milestones like 50,000 to 100,000 page views, consider moving to more lucrative networks like Mediavine and Raptor.

Leveraging Sponsored Posts for Income: Effective Strategies

Selling sponsored posts can be a lucrative monetization method for your blog, but there are key factors to consider:

• Build Blog Authority and Traffic: High domain authority and substantial organic traffic are prerequisites for attracting lucrative sponsored post deals. For instance, a blog with a domain rating of 70 and over 50,000 monthly organic visitors can command several hundred to a thousand dollars per sponsored post.
• Create a ‘Write for Us’ Page: Facilitate potential sponsors finding your blog by having a dedicated page for guest post inquiries. This can significantly increase the number of requests you receive.
• Manage Requests with Assistance: Consider hiring a virtual assistant to handle the influx of emails, including negotiations. Many initial offers might be low, but with effective negotiation, you can reach an agreeable price.
• Set Clear Guidelines: Establish rules for your virtual assistant regarding which requests to entertain. Be cautious of industries like gambling, adult content, or health if they don’t align with your niche or expertise. Maintaining topical authority and avoiding controversial niches is crucial for your blog’s credibility and long-term success.

Selling a Digital Product

Creating and selling digital products is an excellent strategy for generating passive income through your blog.

You can create eBooks and sell them directly on your website. Even paper books are easy to sell nowadays. Just self-publish on Amazon.

Digital courses are the real deal though. They can make you much more money. These courses should aim to solve the main problems faced by people in your industry. To make your course more appealing, offer free consultations to purchasers.

When creating a course, remember that you don’t need to be a far-reaching expert. Being slightly ahead of your audience in knowledge is sufficient. For recording, a good-quality microphone and a smartphone or computer camera are all you need. Screen recording tools like Loom or ScreenPal can be used for effective demonstrations.

My personal advice: Don’t host your course on your own platform rather than on third-party sites like Udemy. This way, you maintain full control over your content, avoid platform fees, and keep all the profits for yourself.

Offering Freelance or Consulting Services through your blog

Offering freelance or consulting services is a quick way to start earning income from your blog.

Initially, this approach involves trading your time for money, which might limit your ability to create passive income streams.

However, it’s an ideal method for beginners to gain experience and build a client base. As you grow more experienced, you can transition from freelancing, where you do the work, to consulting, where you guide others on how to do it. This can involve advising companies or individual clients.

Eventually, after about two years or so, you might choose to phase out these services to focus solely on building passive income streams.

11. How to sell your blog?

1. Consider the possibility of selling it from Day 1

2. Why sell your blog?

3. When NOT to sell your blog?

4. Blog Selling Platforms

5. Negotiations with buyers

6. Pay your taxes after selling your blog

You might initially think that starting a blog means committing to it for the next 20 years, and indeed, adopting a long-term perspective is often the best approach. However, it’s important to realize that you’re not bound to this online venture forever.

Once your blog begins generating substantial income, you have the option to cash out almost anytime. This could mean receiving an advance on your income for the next few years, giving you the freedom to pursue new projects or interests.

Consider the possibility of selling it from Day 1

Even if selling your blog seems like a distant possibility now, it’s wise to consider this option from the start. Many bloggers initially plan to maintain their site indefinitely, but various reasons – such as the desire to start a new project, fund other businesses, or simply move on – can change this perspective.

Keeping meticulous records of all financial transactions and maintaining organized books can be immensely beneficial if you eventually decide to sell. This foresight ensures that everything is in order, making the selling process smoother and potentially more profitable.

Why sell your blog?

There are various personal and market-driven reasons for selling a blog. You might lose passion for the topic, find new inspiration for a different project, or want to reallocate your time, energy, and funds to other ventures like property investment or a new business.

Personal life changes or the desire for financial freedom can also influence this decision.

Market conditions play a significant role as well; for instance, online business valuations peaked during COVID-19 but have since shifted, creating a more buyer-friendly market. While personal reasons are often the primary motivator, it’s important to consider the market’s state when deciding to sell.

When NOT to sell your blog?

When considering the right time to sell your blog, focus on what buyers typically seek: a profitable business. The primary concern for most buyers is the blog’s ability to generate income.

While having a well-designed website and high-quality content is beneficial, these factors are secondary to the blog’s net profit. A blog that isn’t making money isn’t usually the right candidate for sale, as it would likely fetch a lower price. Additionally, having a consistent income over the last 12 months is crucial, as the asking price is often based on the average net profit from this period.

Blog Selling Platforms

The biggest marketplace platforms in our space our Flippa and EmpireFlippers with a few smaller players in the industry. In this section, I’ll describe my experience with all.

Empire Flippers:

I initially met with Empire Flipper’s sales representative at a conference in Barcelona. Over the following months, we discussed the possibility of selling my blog on their platform. This interaction was so promising that I didn’t even think of other marketplaces until I received the evaluation from Empire Flippers.

When I approached Empire Flippers to sell my blog, they valued it at $73,000 – surprisingly low…

However, this figure was just a starting point. In the realm of blog sales, it’s common to receive offers lower than the initial valuation, which was a key consideration for me.

Moreover, Empire Flippers charges a 15% commission on the sale price. This significant fee, combined with the likelihood of having to accept a lower offer, made the overall proposition less attractive. The prospect of potentially ending up with a much lower net amount led me to conclude that this route might not be the most beneficial for my needs.

I believe Empire Flippers is a good platform with unique features like facilitating transactions in Bitcoin, which can be convenient for those looking to invest in cryptocurrency in digital businesses.

However, based on my experience, I feel the platform tends to favor buyers, often leading to undervalued website prices for sellers. This bias towards buyers might not make it the ideal choice for sellers. Additionally, I found their valuation approach not good enough. For instance, they initially valued my website at only $73,000, whereas I successfully sold it for over $100,000 elsewhere (Flippa). This discrepancy suggests that selling on Empire Flippers might have resulted in a significantly lower sale price, possibly around $50,000, which would have been far from ideal.

Flippa:

My best experience was with Flippa, where I received a valuation of $162,000. I opted for a premium package, which included an agent who assisted me thoroughly. The platform’s requirement for buyers to prove funds before viewing listings and its large pool of potential buyers, with 200 people unlocking my listing, made it my preferred choice.

I opted for the premium package at a cost of $600. This package included the benefit of a dedicated agent who provided guidance throughout the selling process. A crucial aspect of this premium option was the added security; potential buyers were required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) or provide proof of funds before accessing my listing. This effectively deterred scammers and unqualified buyers, a common concern with standard listings on Flippa.

While there are perceptions of negative experiences on Flippa, particularly when using basic listing options which can expose sellers to less serious buyers or even fraudulent activities, the premium service changes this dynamic entirely.

The platform’s extensive reach, being the largest in the industry, significantly increases the likelihood of a successful sale. For websites valued at $30,000 or more, the investment in Flippa’s premium service is well worth the cost, ensuring a smoother, more secure selling experience and access to a vast pool of potential buyers.

Two other platforms that I tried:

Micro Acquire: My experience here was not very favorable for selling a blog. This platform seems more suited for SaaS and startup businesses. Despite there being no fee to publish a listing, the lack of engagement and support in evaluating my site for a fair price left me disappointed.

Motion Invest: Their approach was less appealing due to a time-sensitive evaluation offer. It felt like a tactic to rush a decision, which is something I’d advise being cautious about.

Negotiations

When negotiating the sale of your blog, there are several important considerations. If you have multiple potential buyers showing interest, you hold a stronger position, as this gives you leverage.

However, with only one potential buyer, your bargaining power diminishes, placing you in a less advantageous situation. It’s beneficial to reach out to as many buyers as possible to increase your chances of a successful sale.

Be aware that selling your blog is a process that takes time. The timing of your sale can impact its success; for instance, listing your blog in the middle of summer might not be ideal as many people are on vacation.

Patience is key during the sale process, which could last from one to several months. It’s crucial to maintain your blog actively during this period. Neglecting your blog could lead to a decline in traffic, adversely affecting its appeal to buyers. Instead, continue to manage it as if you were not selling, to keep its value high.

Pay your taxes after selling your blog

After selling your blog, it’s important to remember to pay your taxes. Before finalizing the sale, it’s advisable to research whether it’s more beneficial to receive the payment as an individual or as a business, as this varies based on local laws and tax regulations in your country. In some places, it might be more advantageous to operate as an individual, while in others, being registered as a company could be preferable. Regardless of the method, ensure that you declare this income and fulfil your tax obligations.

How to create a successful blog – Long story short

Creating a successful blog involves a strategic, long-term approach, much like solving a complex puzzle. It’s essential to develop a range of skills, from competitive analysis and keyword research to crafting engaging blog posts, building a strong brand, mastering SEO, and effectively monetizing your blog.

However, the most crucial elements are two: consistency and adaptability.

Consistency: You must be consistent because bundling a successful blog takes time. Success in blogging, like in many endeavors, comes from persistently delivering high-quality content. For instance, a thriving blog typically requires publishing several hundred top-notch posts. This consistent effort is key to achieving and maintaining success. You will have to grind day after day promoting it.

According to averages from the 1051 bloggers who responded to this year’s survey, the average blog post takes 3 hours and 51 minutes to write. Source: OrbitMedia

Now multiply this 4 hours by 200 articles, which equals 4800 hours.

Do you understand why you need consistency?

Adaptability: Being adaptable is crucial due to the frequent updates and changes in Google’s algorithms and the emerging role of artificial intelligence. The online world is not just changing; it’s becoming more complex and unpredictable. Therefore, it’s essential to stay flexible and adjust to these evolving conditions to thrive in this dynamic and sometimes chaotic digital environment.