Hi pretties!
I hope you have enjoyed your week 🙂 I’ve been super sick the past few days (yuck!), but I’m finally starting to feel better. Today, I wanted to talk about something that I get a TON of questions about…..tips for beginning bloggers. I am not an expert by any means, but there are a few things that I have learned along the way. Check out my 11 Tips for Beginning Bloggers below!
Outfit Details
Dress c/o (on sale – also love this) | Coat: Chicwish (last season – similar here and here) | Boots c/o | Handbag (currently 40% off!!!) | Ring Set (under $40!)
Last week, I shared my blogging schedule with you and even though I am not quite full time yet (getting there), you can see by looking at it just how time consuming blogging is. It seems that now-a-days, everyone and their mother wants to be a blogger. Sometimes, I think that people see the success of bigger bloggers and think that if they start a blog, then they can have that success too….immediately. A lot of people think that blogging is all glitz and glamour and the money will start flowing in as soon as they hit publish but that couldn’t further from the truth. So, let’s begin:
11 Tips for Beginning Bloggers
Do it for the right reasons
Let me just preface that if you want to start a blog solely to make money, get free things and go on trips, then blogging may not be for you. It definitely requires a certain amount of passion to post day after day even if you aren’t making a cent. Start a blog because you love the subject that you are blogging about. Do it because you want to help and share your story, tips and insight with other people. Do it because you want to create a positive community of strong and uplifting women. Do it because you are chasing after your lifelong dream and finally making it a reality. But don’t do it to make a quick buck. In all reality, blogging is an investment and you will likely need to spend money before you ever see a dime. You can read all about why I started my blog in this post.
Define your niche
Before you even hit the publish button, you should know what you want to blog about. If you want to blog about 50 different things, it might be smart to narrow it before you get started. If you blog about too many things, you are not only creating more work for yourself but your readers won’t even know what to come to you for and this creates an audience that may not trust your opinion.
Photography is everything
I am not kidding when I say that everyone is a blogger now-a-days….and a lot of these new bloggers are killing it with their photography. To even stand out among the crowd, you will need to have great photos. This is not to say that you need to go out and buy the most expensive camera out there and or be a professional photographer as that will develop over time (I’m still learning), but the photos you post should at the very least have good lighting, be in focus and be relevant to the content you are creating.
Get acquainted with social media
When I started this blog, I had ZERO followers on Instagram. I literally had no idea how to use it and ironically, it has turned into my most followed and profitable platform. It has literally changed the course of my life. Some people will tell you that social media is not important, but in my experience is the MOST important thing you can have for your blog as far as marketing yourself and reaching a wider audience. On the flip side, I do know of a ton of bloggers that don’t have a huge social media following and are still very, very successful with their blogs so please don’t think that you have failed if you don’t have a “big enough” following (what is technically big enough anyway?). I think that you should experiment and do whatever works best for you, whether that means going full force into social media or forgoing it completely.
Be patient
This is why you should not go into blogging to make money….it will likely take YEARS. It’s human nature to be impatient and in today’s society, we all want things now now now but if you really want to reach your blogging goals, you will need to be patient. I think that a lot of us look at the bigger bloggers who have amassed millions of followers and think that if we don’t grow our following that large or that quickly, then we have failed. This is simply not true! Some of these bloggers have worked for 7-8 years to get to where they are and we don’t know what they went through to to get to that point.
Get Set Up Right
A very simple but important thing you need to do is to make sure you are set up right technically for blogging. It might be that you need to work from home and you are going to require a home office, as well as figuring out how to have two internet providers in one house so you can reliably work while your family uses the internet for other purposes. These are the kinds of things you need to sort out as soon as possible.
Be consistent
This goes along with being patient. Is it SO important to be consistent in your scheduling, branding, editing, posting times, etc. Be consistent even when you feel like giving up. Keep pumping out content day after day. Keep learning new skills, developing your brand and practicing the things that need a little bit of work. Your diligence and hard work WILL pay off!
Be prepared to work HARD
I will be the first to say that blogging is very hard work…probably one of the hardest jobs I’ve ever had (and that is saying a lot). A lot of people just don’t understand the amount of time that goes into to running it. Bloggers wear many different hats and have many responsibilities that need to be fulfilled daily. Be realistic about how much you can do and create a schedule that works for you, but be prepared to put in some work.
Make friends
My favorite thing about blogging is the relationships I have created with other like-minded women. We are all from different walks of life…complete strangers, yet when we talk, it’s like talking to a friend I’ve known my whole life. The blogging community is so incredibly helpful, kind and encouraging. They have been there to cheer me on when something amazing happens, have sent words of wisdom in times of confusion and have picked me up when I was broken. I am SO grateful for all my blogging friends (and I know many of you are reading this <3 ).
Have the right mindset
If you go into it thinking you are going to fail, then you will. It’s so important to stay positive and have the right mindset even when you feel like everything is going wrong. There will be good months and bad months. Remember why you are doing this and push through the bad times knowing that amazing things are in store right around the corner!
Don’t compare yourself to others
I have talked about this quite a few times on the blog (read here and here) and that’s because it is just THAT important. The way that we compare ourselves to those around us in real life is magnified tenfold when you put yourself out on the internet. We start wondering why we don’t have better clothing or photos, aren’t growing fast enough or getting certain opportunities (and guess what, other people are comparing themselves to YOU too). This kind of thinking is toxic because, honestly, these things are out of our control. We have to come to terms that there will always be someone in a “better” position than us. If you want to reach your goals, then you should not be wasting time playing the comparison game. The time you spend criticizing yourself by comparing yourself to others and being envious of what they have could be better spent on things that really matter….like YOU. Instead of comparing yourself to others, compare yourself to …yourself. Take a look into the past to see how far you’ve come and what you can do to get to where you want to be…then DO IT. Personally, I keep a running list of my “wins” along with a timeline and when I’m feeling frustrated or upset, I take a look at it and remember that I am doing great things too. We all have our own blogging journeys and you are who you are for a reason. You have something no one else has and that’s what makes your voice unique. YOU are someone’s favorite blogger and they take the time out of their day, every day, to visit your site because your words have meaning to them. That is what blogging is about.
With that being said, can we talk about this adorable outfit? 😉 #allpinkeverything haha! This Chicwish dress has been on my wishlist for a while now and it is every bit as dreamy as it looks! It has a lovely mix of tulle and crochet with the cutest bow tie. It’s been pretty chilly (surprisingly!) so I styled it with a pretty pink trench coat. I added this gorgeous embellished bag and the most stunning statement rings for a hint of sparkle. I first saw these rings when I visited the BaubleBar showroom at NYFW. You better believe that I stalked the website for weeks until they were released …and it was worth it haha! 😉
I hope you loved my 11 Tips for Beginning Bloggers! Do you have any tips for beginning bloggers to add?
Let me know in a comment!
If you are blogger, feel free to share your own advice below <3
Happy weekend!
xo
Shop the Post:
P.S. I will be joining Style Collective next Monday, November 6th at 5pm PST to be a part of the mentorship panel. We will be chatting about how to monetize your blog and how to stand out from the crowd. You check it out here!
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Welcome back!
Today’s favorite is…
I love how she styled this outfit! It’s equal parts girly and edgy <3
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Link up time – yay! <3
These are all so true! When I started blogging 4 years ago I don’t even realize that you get so much free stuff I just liked fashion and photography. When I started it was more of a fun hobby and my niche and photography skills developed over time. You definitely have to love it because I posted 5 days a week for years before I started to make money. If I just wanted free stuff I would have given up years ago because you have to be so patient!
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
Same! It was definitely just an outlet for me to share my outfits. I never thought it could turn into anything else. It’s so fun to see how things change and develop over time with knowledge and skill. Photography has been difficult for me but I am enjoying learning more about it and practicing when I can. It’s definitely a labor of love! “Free” stuff only goes so far!
Some good blogging tips here Lizzie. It’s so good that you share those xx
Thanks so much!
Another great post, my friend! I love your willingness to share what you have learned. Bloggers like you are what make this community so special! And this outfit… so gorgeous! Every detail. Absolute perfection!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Thanks so much Shelbee! I am always so happy to share! These are the things that I wondered when I started and I couldn’t find the answers anywhere!
These are wonderful tips! I adore your bag and booties which look amazing with this elegant look!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks so much Kathrine!
This is your perfect outfit, Liz. And you speak truth about all of these points. It’s much harder than you realize, and even though that’s true, it’s still fun and exciting!!!
Have a fabulous weekend…
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Thanks so much Jodie! Yes, it is so fun and exciting, even with the work. It’s a great outlet to have whether it’s a hobby or a business
I agree with all your tips! Great post!
XOXOX,
Jordan
Thanks so much Jordan!
These are the best tips! Blogging is definitely a passion & so much work! Also, your booties are SUPER cute! Xx
Thanks so much Torey!
I wish I could “retweet” each point on this list individually. Very on point.
Tori | http://www.pursuingposh.com
Aw thank you Tori!
In love with your dress!!
Thanks so much Maggie!
love your outfit! So pretty as always! And also such great tips! so many people want to start a blog on the thoughts that they will start to make tons of money and become a millionare over night. That just wont happen. you have to build your readership and really hustle to even sometimes make a few pennies for ppc. It is hard work, but that hard work can pay off.
YES! I cannot tell you how many times I see new bloggers (like one month in) asking when they can start charging for posts. Totally the wrong way to go about it. I think that the experience in blogging crucial to growth and eventually monetizing.
You have shared some really great tips here! I 100% agree with everything you said, especially the part about being patient. It has taken me 8 years to get where I am now and it also took me switching my niche in the process. I had to take a break to become reinspired. The whole process is tough, but it’s worth it because it’s what I love!
Candace, you are such an inspiration and it has been incredible to watch you flourish this past year! I think that sometimes it takes us longer to get to where we want to be because we have to go through certain things first. Thank you for sharing that the process is not perfect or painless <3
Great tips! Working hard is SO RIGHT. I love your pretty pink outfit!
–Roxanne
http://glassofglam.com
Thanks so much Roxanne!
Great post! I love your outfit as always and you have provided some great tips. Have a lovely weekend
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Thanks so much Gemma!
Thank you for writing this all down and clear! I think every time one of my friends don’t understand what blogging really means, I will send them the link to this article. 😉
Sending love from Napa Valley!
Paulina | SHENSKA
You are so welcome, girl!
Yes to all of these tips! I absolutely love these booties too. SO cute on you.
Thanks so much Jenny!
This dress is so pretty – I love the tulle!
xx,
Amanda || http://www.fortheloveofglitter.com
Thanks so much Amanda!
Hi Lizzie! I love your words! You are right about how hard blogging is. I had an understand of some sort that it would be a lot of work but I had no idea how much work until I actually was doing it. It is exhausting and sometimes I find myself doubting the whole process, but meeting wonderful women like you and knowing that if I didn’t listen to my creative voice and passion for what I love – I would die inside. Thank you for being my friend and supporter from day one! I am so proud of you!!!
Awww I’m so happy to be your friend too! I’m proud of how far you have come. You are doing amazing things! The whole process is worth it!
These are great tips, and I love your outfit! Obsessed with your embellished accessories!
Thanks so much Krystin!
These are all great tips and your outfit is stunning! XO, Ellese
Rock.Paper.Glam.
Thanks so much Ellese!
These are all such good tips. I wish I knew all this when I started blogging!
April | http://www.thebluehydrangeas.com
Me too 🙂
For one thing I love all the pink and mauve here. Also thank you for sharing your wisdom! These are great tips.
Megan | http://www.pipmegan.com
Of course!
Always so pretty in pink babe!
Lauren
https://www.basicbabelauren.com
Thanks so much Lauren!
These tips are so on point. I find that a lot of people think it’s so easy to start a blog, but there’s so much work involved. Your outfit is super pretty– I am drooling over that handbag!
Definitely! It’s much more time consuming than people think!
Thanks so much for sharing these reals tips! It’s so hard to be a blogger sometimes but if we are true to our reasons then it’s worth our wild!
I agree 100%!
Great tips! Yes, this is such hard work!
I agree!
Very true and thanks for sharing this. Such toxic feeling should always be kept at bay.
Nistha
https://www.fashionistha.com/accessorizing-with-a-scarf/
Definitely!
These are all great tips!! There is so much that goes into blogging and while sometimes it can get stressful, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Great post!
xo, Kristina
I agree with everything!
I agree with all these tips!! Blogging is hard work! Photography is something I hope I can get better at, definitely need to sit down and do some research. Loving this monochromatic look, so romantic and prefect for fall 🙂 Thanks for hosting
xo
Mel
I am definitely working on my photography too! it’s so hard!
Thank you SO much for sharing your blogging tips! It’s reassuring to know that it can take years to monetize your blog. I just need to remind myself and be patient!
Christine
http://www.bonchicstyle.com
Yes, girl! Just be patient and consistent and you will get there too!
Lovely tips dear. Especially the last one. Too many times we compare ourselves to others, and often times we miss out on the things we have already accomplished. We focus on what we want to have, instead of appreciating what we already have. Lovely dress by the way dear.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
You are so right. We often see the what we don’t have and translate that into failure but really, we should be so proud of our accomplishments and celebrate the things that we do have.
I agree 100%! Everything you said is everything we all feel at some point. It is hard and it definitely more than taking pretty photos. 😉 Oh my goodness! They are going to look so amazing on you! I can’t wait to see 😀
I agree! But it’s worth it!
It’s definitely hard, but it’s so true!
Thanks so much Sara!
You are so welcome!! I’m always glad to help. I wish I would have it when I started too lol!
Thanks so much Olivia!
Definitely!
Thanks so much Nora!
I agree! Photography is something I have struggled with but I’m always trying to learn new things. Not comparing yourself is huge too!
Thanks so much Amy Ann! Yes, it is so easy to get burnt out but remembering why you are doing it helps a ton!
It’s so hard not to, but it’s crucial in moving forward in a healthy, positive way. I try to concentrate on the good things and everything I have accomplished. Keeping a list helps!
Thanks so much Nicole!
Thanks so much Holly!
Yes, it is so important to try not to compare yourself!
I am so happy to help 🙂 If you need more encouragement, feel free to read other two articles directly on comparison <3 It's helpful when you know that others are going through it too
You are doing so amazing and I love the direction you have taken with the blog recently! I think that it takes a while to really narrow down what we want to write about. It’s a lot of trial and error. I always knew I wanted to share my fashion, but I felt like I had a style identity crisis when I first started and it’s evolved since then lol!
Ahh you made my day! Yes, photography is so important. A fancy camera isn’t essential but with the drastic increase in blogs, great photos are a MUST. Networking is huge too! I’m super shy, but I’m starting to come out of my shell a bit 😉
It is SO cute! and it’s on super sale right now *heart eyes*
Thanks so much Mica! Whether it’s a business or hobby, blogging is definitely time consuming and hard work! I love that this community of bloggers is so encouraging!!
Love your outfit! I like how everything is in shades of pink.
As for the rest of the post, I totally agree. Blogging is hard work and you have to love it! I’ve been blogging for 10 years and so many successful bloggers have been doing it for WAY less, but everyone is on their own journey.
-Lauren
http://www.shootingstarsmag.net
These are great points Lizzy! When I began posting, it was 4 days a week, my content was more ootd and now i feel I have developed my content more and post 3 days a week, it is a lot of work! i enjjoy meeting people and have developed friendships from blogging. i agree, i am a hobby blogger and sometimes I need to remind myself of this. i enjoy writing as well, and that is one of the reasons i continue to blog. I love your outfit, beautiful in pink and all of the fab details look great on you. those boots!
thanks for linking!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Great advice! Blogging is non stop work, but they say if you can make a living doing something you love you’ll never have to work again. There are so many things I want to do with my blog but when I get frustrated/impatient I look back to where I was a year ago and realise that I haven’t done too badly.I love your beautiful pink outfit! Thank you linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Hi! Yes, I just figured that out:)
I am going to launch my fashion blog soon, and lately I was working on my third photo shoot. I was on a polo holiday in Malta, and it seemed like a good opportunity to catch some exotic-looking photos. But it was so rainy and cloudy most of the time! I was just waiting for the sun every day. And finally there was this perfect morning light, sweet and golden, you know… but I had beforehand agreed on a riding lesson with my polo instructor!
In the end, my shootings went well, but it was so complicated.
Maybe a month ago I got an idea: ”If I open my Pinterest account first I can build up some audience before the actual launch! I have always been such a smartie!” I enthusiastically started the account… But I had no idea followers would come so slowly! I only have 6, but my account is just…so good. Feminine and dreamy.
I bet you would like it:).
https://www.pinterest.com/The_Garden_of_Time/boards/