Do you want to build a successful blog?
One of the best ways I know how is through consistency.
Aristotle said it best.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
No one knows this better than blogging superstar Diana Adams.
With over 4100 blog posts under her belt, Diana knows what consistency can do for a blogger.
With numbers like those, we had to invite her to #ViralChat to find out how she did it. And it seems you were dying to know too!
The chat numbers were huge:
- 385 contributors
- 2592 tweets
- 3.8 million reach
- 154 million impressions
That's a lot of people talking about blogging all in the span of one hour!
Wondering how Diana has built a career around blogging? Below is a summary of the chat and an Infographic for you to save, share and PIN!
How to Start a Successful Blog...Today!
Q1: Where do you get inspired? How do you come up with blog ideas?
A1) I love writing so I'm always ready to write. :) I'm constantly thinking about things to blog about. I keep an ongoing list. @adamsconsulting
When I come across an idea, quote or theory I try 2 apply it 2 something different love how ideas can be applied to anything @JoelRRenner
Blog post ideas are everywhere! When you're a blogger, you have to keep your eyes, mind, & heart open to the possibilities. @MrsMAFoodie
I use a swipe file to easily swipe ideas as I make my way across the web. Saves time when looking for inspiration later! @rebekahradice
Q2: Blogging takes time. A lot of time. How do you make time for blogging?
A2) I'm blessed with insomnia. I write between 3am - 7am. If I don't do it first in the day, I won't do it. Know yourself. LOL @adamsconsulting
You have no choice whether to blog or not... It's the life blood of your brand... #MAKETIME @JackKosakowski1
Schedule time on your calendar just like you do for appointments or working out. Make it an appointment! @johnlusher
Q3: So what do you do when you hit writer's block?
A3) I don't get writer's block anymore because I don't wait for inspiration to strike before I write. I just do it. It's a habit. @adamsconsulting
When you hit writers block, walk away. Do something to free your mind. Then, revisit the situation with a fresh mind. @Maegan_Holloway
When i have a writer’s block, I exercise! it relaxes me and gives me ideas. @askaaronlee
Q4: How do you find blog ideas or topics your audience loves?
A4) Don't be too broad. Focus your topics. I learned that from @PegFitzpatrick. For me: tech, #sm and geek stuff like #StarWars. @adamsconsulting
I write what I know or interests me, which should naturally translate to audience. @momfari
Learn your audience, understand what inspires them. Listen first then meet them at their place. @mirirod
Q5: Headlines are important, how do you write an attention grabbing headline?
A5) Attention grabbing headlines are not boring. If it looks like a title that will get lost in your #Twitter stream, rework it @adamsconsulting
I write at least 5 headlines for each blog post and pick the best for my blog @askaaronlee
As a former reporter, I really like headlines. Think billboard. Sell it in as few words as possible. @adambakertweets
Q6: What types of posts work best for you?
A6) Depends on my mood. I like short and sweet tech post (350 words). I love long list posts too. Infographic posts get high CTR. @adamsconsulting
Definitely lists of tools. @seosmarty
For instant boost, posts that feature ideas from high-profile people. For long term, ones with strong images for Pinterest. @carlayoung
Summing up.
Here are some excellent takeaways from the ViralChat this week:
- Be authentic, be unique, develop a voice and tell stories to stand out in your blog
- Do this: If you have a writer's block, run around the block
- Force yourself to write even if you're not inspired
- Remember: Consistency will make you a better blogger
- Look for topic ideas everywhere... and be sure to write them down
- Focus on a niche instead of writing too broadly
- Know your audience
- Write your passion
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