How To Make Money Blogging
There are many potential ways to make money blogging. Becoming financially successful is no easy feat, however with research, effort and dedication, blogging can become a lucrative and enjoyable venture. Whether you’re looking to write full-time or merely supplement your income, the possibilities are there for those who take the time to explore and follow through.
Create A Profitable Niche
Before you start your blog, it’s important to have an idea of what your goal is. Choose a topic and focus on honing in on that specific niche. Look for a break in the market. For example if you’re a travel writer, identify a segment of the travel market that’s not getting as much attention. While there is always value in writing about the tried and true, look to see how you can provide something new and inject another perspective that your readers will appreciate. This can help make your blog stand out from the rest and yield more value to your readers.
Choose the Right Platform
When you’re ready to start putting your blog together, choose a platform that works best for you. Popular options include WordPress, Blogger, Wix and Squarespace. Each one comes with different advantages and disadvantages. Factor in your web design experience, the scalability of the platform, cost considerations and technical support when deciding what platform is best for you.
Cultivate an Audience
Start building your audience from day one. This is one of the most important steps in making money with your blog. Establish yourself on the major social media platforms and use them as a means to reach out and connect with people who have like-minded interests. As your blog gains traction, reach out to other bloggers and content creators in your niche and see how you can collaborate together.
Monetize Your Content
Once you have an engaged audience, you can start to explore the different money-making opportunities available to you as a blogger.
Freelance Writing
Freelance blogging is a popular option. You can offer your services to other websites and clients whose audience is a good fit for your content. When negotiating rates, use the size of your audience and your keywords rankings as part of making your pitch.
Display Ads
Enrolling in display advertising programs like Google Adsense, are easy ways to start bringing in cash on your blog. As your traffic begins to grow, you have the ability to negotiate and enter into larger advertising deals.
Affiliate Marketing
If you’re writing about a product or service, look for affiliate programs that you can join. When people click on your links and result in a purchase, you’ll receive a commission proportionate to the sale.
Product Promotion
Selling your own products and services is another way to monetize your blog. As the face and trust of your blog, you have the ability to put yourself out there and promote something you’re truly passionate about.
Start a Membership Site
Starting a membership site gives you a reliable and loyal stream of revenue while allowing your readers to join your community. It’s a great way to offer exclusive content and services to a paying audience.
Get Creative
The possibilities of what you can accomplish with a blog continue to grow. For those that are ambitious, one of the best pieces of advice is to think outside the box. Consider long-term opportunities like public speaking, writing a book, or even developing your own iPhone app.
Start Next Level Networking
Being an active member of an entrepreneurial blog network can help open doors for opportunities you would’ve never had access to before. When networking in person or online, try to focus less on yourself and more on finding ways to give back.
Making money blogging isn’t something that happens overnight, but with the right attitude and dedication, you can create a truly fulfilling and profitable experience. Take the time to hone your craft and develop relationships within your niche. This will help open up unique opportunities and make the most of your hard work along the way.
