Do you have a fast internet connection, a computer and a great love of writing? Do you want to turn this passion into a career as a blogger or try to supplement your income? When it comes to the world of blogging, many people like Arianna Huffington immediately come to mind, but it is unlikely that this job will allow you to earn staggering figures. However, it is possible to take home a good nest egg every month. To be a paid blogger, you first need to start a blog, but also write free content for other blogs, websites, or publications. Once you get the hang of it, you can expand your network of acquaintances with other bloggers and writers or apply for a paid job.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting the Bones
Step 1. Create a blog
Having a personal blog will help you gain experience in this industry in two ways. Over time, you will have a portfolio full of articles written by you that you can show to potential customers; you will also increase your web presence, which is absolutely necessary if you are hoping to acquire leads to be hired as a blogger.
There are numerous hosting sites to choose from; Blogger and Wordpress are two of the most famous. You can start a blog in minutes on both platforms, buy domain names at a low cost, or even get a free address within these sites (example: "yourblogname.wordpress.com")
Step 2. Look for a niche
Pick an interesting topic for your blog so that you feel motivated to create content on a regular basis. If you are recognized as an expert in a subject you are passionate about, then you will find jobs related to this topic. Plus, this profession will enjoy you more in the long run.
Everyone thinks that being a versatile, handyman or "renaissance" blogger can help attract a wider audience. Yet, in many cases, those who go in search of blogs prefer someone who has very specific knowledge. Readers want someone who can make an informed comment on the latest board games, the most innovative propulsion engine or recent breakthroughs in the world of cosmetics. You have to sell yourself just like you are a product. Some of the main categories in the blogging world are games, politics, gastronomy, fashion, cinema, books, cars and business. Make sure your niche falls into a broader category. You don't want to choose a topic that is so limited that it doesn't interest anyone
Step 3. Blog in your spare time
The blog must offer quality content, but you also need quantity. It can take several weeks or months to build good connections, set up a routine, and impose your web presence, but you can do it.
There is no predetermined number of posts to publish in order to become a successful blogger. Some like to publish something every day to get used to being always present and productive. Others offer content once a week. Set up habits that suit you, but make sure your audience knows what to expect. Each post is like a door. How many doors do you want to offer to your potential readers?
Step 4. Write for your audience
Since blog readers have a different reading style than those who read newspapers or books, you need to make sure you do what you can to get their attention. First, the blog must be easily navigable. Can a reader roughly understand the content of a post by scrolling the page quickly? Are there any keywords? Did you underline or emphasize the most important parts of the text? Have you used illustrations that can make it easier to understand the material with a single glance? There are a number of techniques to try.
Part 2 of 3: Advertise the Blog
Step 1. Make yourself known
To attract readers and cultivate your following, you need to advertise the blog using different types of social networks.
- Submit your blog in directories or post links to articles on social networks. You can use Digg, Twitter and Facebook for this purpose.
- On the blog, post a gadget that allows users to subscribe to the newsletter. They will then be able to receive emails or notifications when you post new content. They can also help you attract other visitors and broaden your audience.
Step 2. Volunteer on blogs that are larger and have a good following
Writing for a website or other blog that gets a lot of traffic will help you make a name for yourself. If a reader likes your articles, they will look for other pieces you wrote.
- Make sure the blog you contribute to allows you to include your name and a link to your blog to reward yourself. If it's a popular blog that gets a lot of traffic or has a good following, this will help you advertise. If you're lucky and your content is good, working as a volunteer can help you land a well-paying job in the blogging world.
- There are online services like www.volunteerbloggers.com that help you find bloggers with similar interests.
Step 3. Network with other bloggers
Speaking in the community and participating in the discussions below the posts can help you develop a good relationship with other bloggers who will perhaps pave the way for you to get a paid job.
Follow important blogs and bloggers on Twitter, participate in forums, or comment on specific posts on relevant topics you know well
Part 3 of 3: Securing a Paying Blogging Job
Step 1. Find out if you can apply to contribute to larger blogs
Blogs that have a good following and post interesting content every day usually have a writing staff.
Ask your editor or hiring manager if there are opportunities for freelancers. Include links to your blog and other articles that you have posted on various websites
Step 2. Look for open positions on freelance and candidate websites
There are several sites dedicated solely to freelance writers, such as Ebuzzing and Scribox. They are both free. Create a profile and post samples of your work.
Make sure you emphasize your niche of interest. Explain that the topics normally covered on your blog reflect the website topics you want to write for. Most of these sites require samples. Adapt them to the jobs you are applying for
Step 3. Use your blogger network to look for a job
Bloggers you've built a good relationship with can guide you to getting paid employment. They may also recommend you to other bloggers they know personally and who are hiring writers. This is the purpose of having a network of acquaintances. You will gradually create an online community that will help you find paid positions.
Step 4. Use your blog to look for work
Most blogs have a dedicated link that potential customers can click to request the blogger's services. In many cases, this is quite effective. The customer will get a good idea of your skills and your niche just by visiting and browsing your blog. At that point, he can decide whether to offer you a job.
Don't be afraid to advertise on your blog and remember that you can write for other sites as well. Emphasize your writing style and the fields you are proficient in
Step 5. Write regularly for the same blog
If you can, try to write several articles for the same site. You will soon adapt to his style and content needs. You will spend less time thinking about the administrative part of the blogosphere and you will spend more time writing. This will also allow you to earn fixed income.
