Hi friends!
If you’re thinking about starting a blog, or just started one, this post is for you! I’ve recently been asked quite a few questions about blogging and thought I’d compile those questions and give you my insight. Also important to keep in mind, I consider myself a baby blogger. Almost two years at this and I’m still learning every single day. Algorithm changes. Collaborations with brands. Cohesive feed. Solid content. It’s a lot, but I’m happy to impart whatever wisdom I’ve acquired in this short time. Below are the questions y’all have asked; plus if you keep strolling, check out the planner I use to keep That Blonde Rebel rockin’ and rollin’!
Q: How do you get started/How long have you been blogging?
A: Well, first, that’s so exciting that you want to build a platform and share your voice with the world! I started That Blonde Rebel in January 2017 – I started because I felt like I wanted to share my outfit and Inspo with women and girls who looked like me (and who didn’t) to take risks, try the trends, and embrace COLOR! I had my Instagram for about 5 months and launched my blog that June. I would suggest testing with Instagram before investing in your own site.
Q: Any advice for a newbie trying to grow her page?
A: ENGAGE, ENGAGE, ENGAGE! Identify who the people are that you like to follow. Why do you like to follow them? Tell them! Comment and like and support those in your community. People want to see real life too, so be active with Stories! Use hashtags that are purposeful and tied to what you post!
Q: What sites do you recommend for hosting a blog?
A: Since launching That Blonde Rebel (the blog) back in June of 2017, I’ve rolled with WordPress. It’s user-friendly, I own the domain of my site, and there are tons of templates to make and customize to make your blog exactly what you want. I’m still figuring out the nuts and bolts of my site and have BIG IDEAS for TBR in 2019!
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A: Ahh, there’s too much great advice I’ve gotten, so that’s hard to narrow down. I think to be authentic to yourself, honest with your audience, and invest in what you truly believe in.
Q: Who are some of your favorite bloggers?
A: Too many to name! I’m inspired on the regular by amazing women! Here’s just a few: my own mom, @frickspicks, @carriec, @alexmichaelmay, @kerrently, @blaireadiebee, @rachmartino, @apinchoflovely, @kathleen_barnes, @sassyredlipstick, @wannabefashionblogger
Q: How does one get invited to blogger events?
A: This question is tough to answer and I think it goes back to engagement. The events that I’ve been invited to have been because someone knows me directly, or someone found me through That Blonde Rebel. I get invited to something every once in a while, and try to meet and talk to as many people as possible. Get to know the awesome blogging people in your community!
Q: How do I magically gain followers and start making income?
A: Short answer: There’s no magic potion. Longer answer: I mean, yea, there are companies that you can buy followers and likes from, which I think should be highly discouraged. When brands reach out and want to work with you, your engagement should be authentic; they want to see the numbers. If you want to do giveaways, do them! You’re giving treats to the people that support you and other bloggers regularly. Be purposeful with your hashtags. Reach out to brands with a pitch. How and why do you want to work with them – how can you benefit them. What’s the worst they can say? No? Okay. Move on, then! Also, know your worth. I have been verified through Fohr and they go through your analytics and give you a ballpark range of what you should be making in terms of sponsored content (whether that’s in product or money, decide what you are comfortable with). Don’t continue to do things for free. That hurts the blogging community as whole. Like I said before, know your worth, know what you are willing to flex with and what you are not.
Also know that there is room at this blogging table for everyone! If you have an interest, JUMP IN and give it a try!
And on another blogging note, I’m a person who utilizes her calendar like crazy! Not only that, I also use sticky notes, the notes app, etc. I have made a commitment through the rest of this year, to post two blog posts a week, and my Erin Condren planner is holding me accountable to this commitment!
Shop: Planner, Sweatshirt, Leggings, Hoops
Thanks for stopping by!
I hope this post was helpful/insightful, and please let me know if there were any questions I didn’t answer!
Xx
