I have been getting emails from many of you asking my advice on how to gain readership and grow your blog. While I am no expert, I will share what I have found to be most effective (or at least what
seems to have been working for me!).
My Top Five Tips For Growing Your Blog (or, at least what I've learned so far!)
ContentIf you've ever Googled how to grow your blog (increase traffic, readership, etc.), you will almost always find an article that says, "Content is King." There are already top-notch articles out there on writing good content (see bottom of post), so I will just add my two cents.
Be passionate about what you write about, keep your articles around 500 words (unless exploring a topic that needs more depth),
bold things that you really want to stand out (many people just skim an article, plus it makes it interesting), and either
make people laugh, think, or "do".
DesignIf you are serious about growing your blog, you might want to consider
getting a designer so you stand out from other blogs (or whip up some design magic of your own!). I would also add that a nice, clean-looking blog is usually best. Stay away from too much clutter on the sidebars.
If you would like to talk with a designer, I recommend
Simply Vintage Girl Designs (my darling designer),
Extravagant Grace Designs, and
APH Boutique. (Don't have the $ to use a designer, check out the offer at the bottom of today's post!)
Guest PostingIf you have great content but no one around to read it, the "king" is dead. One of the best ways to
get your content out there is to guest post for other bloggers and have them guest post for you. Check out my article "
Want More Traffic & Subscribers? Guest Post!" for more details about guest posting and how to go about it.
PromptsPeople may love your blog, but many times once they leave it, they will forget about it, especially if they have kids {
ahem}.
Prompt them to subscribe to your blog (or follow you on Twitter, etc.) so they can be "reminded" to visit you.
Give It To GodIf you are a Christian, I cannot stress this one enough.
Unless God blesses it, forget it, you'll just be working in vain. Give your blog to the Lord and let Him be in control of what happens with it.
"Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it." Psalm 127:1
Well, there you have it. Simple and straightforward.
You can also read
this post for blogging tips from successful bloggers, blogging time managment, getting free stuff, and making money.
Anything you'd like to add?
Keep up with me by clicking here and following me on Twitter @sarahmaeblogs ! :)
I now defer to the "pro's:"
How NOT To Get a Guest Post Published
10 Effective Ways to Get More Blog SubscribersHow To Write Great Blog ContentAre You Throwing Away Your Best Content Ideas?How To Get Traffic To Your Blog21 Surefire Tips for a Successful Blog Launch
Effective Blog Design Tips for Successful Blogging
Ten Simple Tips For Successful Blogging*eLisa from Extravagant Grace Designs has offered to give $15 off a full blogger design, if you are a follower of my blog and become a follower of her blog. Make sure to let her know when you email her about a new design! 
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