10 Ideas to Get Your Blog Read

In the last decade, nothing has taken the online world by storm like blogging has. Overnight, people could share opinions, news, information, you name it on a webpage hosted by a blogging site – and it was mostly free. And since we live in a (mostly) democratic world, free speech became the trendiest right of a free people.

In the last couple of years, the phenomenon of blogging has grown by leaps and bounds, and is now considered a worthy equivalent to even journalism, albeit with its own branding – cyber journalism. Blogging has given rise to a new voice, that of the common citizen (or in this case, netizen), and is not only a forum to discuss and connect with people all across the globe, but also as a means to give back to the society we live in. Blogs have been used as places to establish identities, help victims of natural disasters, as a common platform for millions to connect and work towards a single cause and also as a means to make money with online advertisers buying space to showcase their products and concepts on topical blogs. With blogging being seen as an extremely lucrative avenue with great moneymaking potential, how does a blogging novice ensure their blog is read? Here are ten easy steps to get that online readership you want:

1. Showcase your unique voice – Every person is unique, and his voice is his own. Whilst what you may read/discover on the net can add different flavors to your opinions, ensure you don’t plagiarize/life material off of/pass someone else’s material as your own. Be it quirky, opinionated, highly vociferous or plain ‘taking a stand without hurting anyone’s feelings’ approach, remember – exercise your uniqueness. Establish your own unique net identity.
2. Let your sense of humor shine through – An old adage says ‘Man grows up the day he has his first laugh at himself.’ Truer words were never spoken. When you’re making your voice public, remember that for everyone who agrees with you, there’ll be ten who don’t. Take every comment/suggestion in your stride. It’s been known to convert die-hard enemies into grudgingly appreciative supporters.
3. Play with words – Originality is the key. As you write more, you’ll find that you have more to say. And more to share.
   Establish your identity – Add an ‘About Me’ page to your blog, to let the reader know a little something about you. Share only those details that you feel comfortable sharing, but do establish your identity. Also, take a stand. Be counted. Don’t be a mere statistic. Straddling the fence will only get you disregarded. Stand up for what you believe in, while respecting the opposition. Nothing invites readership like a bit of controversy, so be Priscilla of the Desert if you have to.
4. Stay current – While a bit of nostalgia is good, make an effort to write about and discuss current topics.
   Endorse a cause – Whether it is going green, supporting an NGO that works for children of a lesser God, or even the health benefits of wheatgrass, share what you know and what you wholeheartedly endorse, and why. Add widgets/buttons of your favorite causes to a side panel on your blog.
5. Be courteous at all times – Welcome every visitor to your blog; attempt to get to know them better. And let them know you appreciate their visits. Offer professional tips to those who ask for it, guide people to the right channels if you can. They’ll appreciate it and spread the word.
6. Understand your audience – If you’re selling a product, or a concept, make an effort to understand the potential needs of your customer. Offer a value-add to the time and money they spend on your blog – a freebie is always welcome, be it kudos, a thank you note or a small token of appreciation.
7. Blogroll your favorites – Let the world know who you read, and why you read them. Link them either on your blog or blogroll them in a separate link. You’re helping other bloggers get readership, thereby encouraging your own.
8. Be a good neighbor – Last but not the least, repay the favor of every visitor with footprints of your own on their blogs. No community is built sitting at home – you need to show people you care about their opinions, too. Go over and say hi as regularly as you can, and yes, read them, too.

These are tried and tested methods to ensure a growing readership of your blog, recommended by successful bloggers themselves. Add a stats counter to your blog, follow these steps and keep a track of the traffic. Within a couple of months, you’ll see a noticeable difference, of the good kind. Happy blogging!