How To Make Money Blogging

48 Blogging Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Earnings (and How to Fix Them)

So, it’s 3 AM, and I’m staring at my blog’s analytics showing zero organic traffic.

Despite publishing blog posts three times a week and following every “expert” tip I could find, success felt impossible.

That was me over a decade ago, making the same blogging mistakes that so many new bloggers face today… And the worst part?

I didn’t even know what I was doing wrong.

If you’re blogging today, creating content isn’t enough. Search engines are smarter, readers are pickier, and the bar for quality content keeps rising.

What worked in 2023 won’t cut it in 2024.

common blogging mistakes

Through my own blogging journey, I’ve watched countless bloggers struggle with these common blogging mistakes, pouring their hearts into content that never finds its audience.

You’re probably wondering… “What am I doing wrong?” Don’t worry… I’ve got your back.

After helping dozens of beginner bloggers transform their blogs from ghost towns to thriving online communities, I’ve identified the most common blogging mistakes that secretly kill success.

Better yet, I’ll share the exact solutions that worked for me and my community.

But before we get to it, I want to share the biggest blogging mistakes that keep most bloggers from even getting started.

Jeff Goins (From his book “Real Artists Don’t Starve“, 2017) says…
“The biggest mistake new bloggers make is waiting for perfection. Your blog will never be perfect, and that’s okay. The secret is to start before you’re ready.”

PLANNING MISTAKES

Contents

I remember my first blog post, I was so excited to write about everything that I didn’t even conduct keyword research.

The result was pretty ugly…Six months of crickets. No traffic, no readers, no success.

It wasn’t until I completely overhauled my blogging strategy that things started to change.

These planning pitfalls are the first mistakes I see beginner bloggers make, and here’s how to avoid them:

1. Keyword Stuffing Problems

Instead of writing naturally, many beginner bloggers cram keywords everywhere until their blog content reads like a robot wrote it.

Search engine optimization isn’t about keyword density anymore (this is not 2010 anymore)

It’s about solving problems for your target audience.

In Google’s own words, your content is seen by the algorithm as spammy when you stuff keywords into your blog post… It’s funny they refer to it, along with a bunch of other things, as ‘spammy behavior.

how can you avoid stuffing keywords in your blog post

One of my clients once stuffed the phrase “best chocolate cake recipe” 37 times into a single blog post.

Guess what? Google penalized the post, and it never ranked… Well, first of all, it ranked but Google quickly de-indexed the post.

Solution: Focus on writing for humans first by creating helpful content. Use Google Analytics and other keyword tools to understand what your readers actually want, then naturally weave relevant keywords into valuable content. Map out your main topics, create content clusters, and never use a keyword where it doesn’t feel natural.

2. Missing Topic Planning and Clusters

Random blog post topics won’t build a successful blog.

Without a proper content calendar and blogging strategy, you’re just throwing content at the wall hoping something sticks.

I learned this when my first fifty blog posts generated zero organic traffic…

Each post was disconnected from the next, creating no cohesive value for my readers… And no authority value for the search engines to consider ranking me.

You need to build what is called Topical authority in Google’s eyes.

Solution: Create a detailed blog editorial calendar. Start by identifying 3-5 main content pillars that align with your expertise and your audience’s needs. Then map out your blog post topics three months ahead, ensuring each piece builds upon the last. Use your editorial calendar to maintain consistency and build authority in your chosen niche.

3. Wrong Search Intent

Blog Profit Path by Ciaran Doyle

You might be writing amazing content, but if it doesn’t match search intent, you’re fighting an uphill battle.

I once wrote a comprehensive guide on “how to start blogging” but targeted keywords for “how to start a food blog”… talk about missing the mark!

Understanding search intent is crucial for creating content that actually ranks and helps your target audience.

Solution: Before writing any new blog posts, analyze the top search engine results pages for your target keywords. Study what type of content ranks… are they how-to guides, listicles, or in-depth tutorials? Match your content format to what’s already working, then make it even better. You can use keyword tools like SEMrush that show you the search intent of the keywords.

4. Poor Audience Fit

Your potential readers aren’t just numbers in Google Analytics… they’re real people looking for solutions.

If you’re not creating relevant content that speaks directly to your target audience, you’re missing valuable opportunities to engage readers and build a loyal following.

Solution: Create detailed reader personas based on your analytics data and audience interactions. Study your successful blog posts to understand what resonates, and use this insight to guide your content creation process. Regularly survey your readers to stay aligned with their constantly changing needs.

5. Messy Content Groups

Think of your blog as a library.

If books are scattered randomly, how will readers find what they need? Poor organization confuses both search engine crawlers and human visitors.

I’ve seen blogs with fantastic content buried so deep that even the site owner couldn’t find specific posts.

Solution: Organize your blog content into clear categories and use internal links to connect related posts. Create a content hierarchy that makes sense for your readers. Regularly audit your categories and tags to ensure they serve a clear purpose in guiding readers to relevant content.

6. Broken Content Linking

Random internal links don’t help anyone.

what is bad links and does broken links affect seo

But, strategic linking between related blog posts isn’t just good for search engine ranking… it keeps readers engaged and exploring your valuable content longer.

One of my clients increased their average session duration by 127% just by fixing their internal linking strategy… “That’s just insane”.

Solution: Create topic clusters around your main subjects. Link-related content naturally, and regularly audit your blog for broken links. Think of your internal links as a roadmap guiding readers through your expertise.

7. Random Post Placement

Publishing new blog posts without considering their place in your overall content strategy is one of the biggest blogging mistakes to avoid.

Each piece should fit into your larger blogging journey like a puzzle piece, building authority and trust with every publication.

Solution: Use an editorial calendar to plan how each post connects to your overall blogging strategy. Think about your content calendar as a roadmap for your readers. Create content series that build upon each other, making your blog the go-to resource in your niche.

8. Menus That are Hard to Navigate

If your navigation makes visitors work too hard to find content, they’ll bounce faster than a rubber ball.

I’ve seen excellent blog posts buried under confusing menus and poor site structure, effectively hiding valuable content from both readers and search engine crawlers.

Solution: Implement clear, logical navigation. Test your site structure with real users, and make it easy for readers to find related content. Regular user testing can reveal navigation issues you might miss as the site owner.

WRITING MISTAKES

You know what’s worse than not writing blog posts?

Spending hours writing content that nobody reads. I learned this the hard way when I was publishing frequently but getting zero engagement.

Do you want to know the reason?

I was making every possible content quality mistake in the book.

9. Surface-level Research

Have you ever read a blog post that feels like it’s just repeating what everyone else says? And you’re like, ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah… I just read that.’

That’s surface-level research at work.

I used to write blog posts by just skimming other blog content and rewriting it in my own words. And guess what?

Readers can spot this from a mile away.

Solution: Go deep into your topic. Conduct keyword research properly, read scientific papers, interview experts if you have to, and most importantly, test things yourself. Your blog posts should share unique insights that readers can’t find anywhere else.

10. No Expert Input

One of the biggest blogging mistakes I see successful bloggers make is trying to be an expert in everything. You can’t be… and that’s okay!

Your blog content needs diverse perspectives to truly engage readers and provide value.

Solution: Start guest posting collaborations with industry experts. Join online business communities in your niche. Create a network of professionals you can reach out to for quotes and insights. This adds credibility and helps you create quality content that stands out.

11. Missing References

Do you want to know a common blogging mistake that screams “amateur”? Making claims without backing them up… Just like in journalism, you need to back up your claims.

When you’re writing content about important topics, external links to authoritative sources aren’t optional… they’re essential.

Solution: Add data from reputable sources. Use meta descriptions from original research. Link to relevant studies. This not only helps with search engine optimization but also builds trust with your target audience.

12. Copied Ideas

Here’s a harsh truth… if your blog posts read like everyone else’s, you’re just adding to the noise.

Many beginner bloggers fall into the trap of copying popular posts, hoping to generate traffic. But that’s not how you build a successful blog.

Solution: Take time to develop your unique angle. Use personal anecdotes and real experiences. Your blogging journey is unique… let that shine through in your content creation.

13. Boring Stock Photos

You know those generic stock photos of people in suits shaking hands? Yeah, your readers are tired of those too.

Bad visuals can kill even the best blog posts and make keeping readers engaged nearly impossible.

Solution: Create custom graphics that actually add value. Use screenshots, process photos, and real images from your experience. If you must use stock photos, customize them to match your brand.

14. Poor Main Images

Your featured image is like your blog post’s first impression to your first time website visitors.

Yet I see so many people using blurry, poorly sized, or irrelevant images. This is one of those blogging mistakes to avoid at all costs.

Solution: Create templates for your blog post images. Use consistent branding. Make sure your images look good not only on your blog but across all social media channels and add real value to the content.

15. Messy Layout (Wall of Text)

Have you ever tried reading a wall of text on your phone? Not fun, right?

A messy layout is more than just ugly… it actively drives potential readers away and hurts your search rankings.

Solution: Use proper spacing, clear headings, and strategic image placement. Break up long paragraphs. Make your content scannable for busy readers.

16. Missing Videos

In 2024, ignoring video content is like shooting yourself in the foot.

Videos can help engage readers in ways text simply can’t, especially for complex topics or step-by-step guides.

Neil Patel (From his blog neilpatel.com) says “One of the reasons why bloggers fail is that they’re not producing engaging, outstanding quality content.”

Solution: Start simple with screen recordings, tutorial videos, or quick tips. You don’t need Hollywood production value… just valuable content in video form.

17. Hard to Read on Phones

Here’s a shocking stat for you… over 70% of blog traffic comes from mobile devices.

Yeah, I know you know that already. It just makes me look cool. ‘LOL’

If your blog posts aren’t mobile-friendly, you’re probably losing most of your potential readers before they even start reading.

Solution: Use a staging site to test every post on multiple devices. Check font sizes, button spacing, and overall readability. Make your content easy to consume on any screen.

18. Slow Loading

You could write the most amazing blog post ever, but if it takes more than 3 seconds to load, most readers will bounce.

can a slow page speed affect your site seo

Slow loading times are especially problematic for organic traffic and mobile users.

Solution: Optimize your images, minimize plugins, use good hosting, and regularly check your site speed. Every second counts when it comes to keeping readers on your page.

19. Technical Issues

Pop-ups that won’t close on mobile, forms that don’t work, videos that won’t play… these technical issues frustrate readers and kill engagement faster than anything else.

Solution: Regular testing on multiple devices. Use your staging site to catch problems before they affect your readers. Make sure all interactive elements work smoothly on mobile.

20. Search Engine Problems

Mobile optimization isn’t just about user experience… it’s crucial for search engine ranking too.

Search engines prioritize mobile-friendly content, and ignoring SEO in this area can hurt your visibility.

Solution: Use mobile SEO strategies specifically. Check Google’s mobile-friendly test regularly. Make sure your content is accessible and readable on all devices.

AUDIENCE MISTAKES

You know what’s worse than making technical blogging mistakes? Writing blog posts that put your readers to sleep.

Trust me, I’ve been there.

Looking back at my first post, it was like reading a robot’s shopping list… technically correct but absolutely soul-crushing to read… I can’t even imagine how people read that in the first place.

21. Mixed Writing Tone

Have you ever read a blog post that starts super casual, then suddenly sounds like a doctoral thesis or research papers?

Boring…

That’s what happens when you don’t have a consistent voice.

This common blogging mistake makes readers feel like they’re talking to different people in the same article.

Solution: Develop your signature writing style. Think about how you’d explain your topic to a friend over coffee. Keep that same tone throughout your blog posts. Successful bloggers know their voice is their brand.

22. No Connection With Your Reader

One of the biggest blogging mistakes to avoid is writing like you’re sending content into a void.

Your blog posts need to spark a conversation with your target audience, not just broadcast information.

Solution: Share personal anecdotes, ask questions, and engage readers directly. “Been there, done that” stories help retain readers better than pure facts. Think about ways to keep readers engaged throughout your entire blog post.

23. Dull Stories

Even technical topics don’t have to be boring!

I once helped a client transform their “How to Use Excel” blog post from a snooze fest into one of their best blog posts by adding real-world examples and humor.

Solution: Use storytelling techniques in your writing blog posts. Share case studies, include relevant examples, and make complex topics relatable. Good blog posts aren’t just informative… they’re memorable.

24. No Personality

Publishing frequently isn’t enough if your content sounds like everyone else’s. Your blogging journey is unique… let that shine through!

With AI becoming mainstream, it’s more important than ever to be unique.

Remember, you’re not writing a textbook; you’re having a conversation.

Solution: Inject your personality into your writing content. Use your natural humor, share your opinions, and don’t be afraid to show your authentic self.

25. Eye Strain Text

Have you ever tried reading grey text on a white background? Or tiny font on mobile?

These mistakes to avoid might seem minor, but they’re killing your chances of keeping readers engaged.

Solution: Use high-contrast colors, readable fonts (at least 16px), and ensure your blog posts look good on social media platforms. Test your content on multiple devices.

26. Bad Formatting

Random bold text, inconsistent heading sizes, and chaotic spacing…

These aren’t just design issues.

They’re organic traffic killers that make your content look unprofessional to your first time website visitors.

Solution: Create a consistent formatting guide. Use proper heading hierarchy (H2, H3, H4), maintain consistent spacing, and format lists properly.

SEARCH ENGINE MISTAKES

27. Bad Keyword Choice

Here’s a shocking truth… conducting keyword research isn’t enough.

You need to choose keywords that align with your blogging strategy and make sense for your online business goals.

Solution: Focus on relevant keywords with reasonable monthly search volume. Use SEO strategies that balance search potential with competition levels.

28. Missing Meta Descriptions and Alt Text

Ignoring SEO basics like meta descriptions and alt text is like building a house without windows. These technical elements help search engines understand your content.

Solution: Write compelling meta descriptions, optimize image alt text, and ensure every important page has proper metadata.

29. Lost Content

Have you ever wondered why some blog posts never show up in search engine results? Often, it’s because search engine crawlers can’t find or understand them.

Solution: Create and submit sitemaps, use proper URL structures, and ensure your robots.txt isn’t blocking important content.

30. Tracking Issues

If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it. Many bloggers fail because they’re flying blind without proper Google Analytics setup.

Solution: Install and configure analytics properly, set up goal tracking, and regularly monitor your key metrics.

31. No Goal Tracking

Publishing blog posts without clear goals is like throwing darts blindfolded. You need to know what success looks like for each piece of content.

Solution: Set up conversion tracking, create clear goals for different content types, and measure what matters for your blog’s growth.

32. Poor Checking

Regular content audits aren’t optional if you want to maintain a successful blog. Don’t let technical issues pile up until they become overwhelming.

Solution: Create a regular maintenance schedule, conduct periodic content audits, and stay on top of technical updates.

GROWTH MISTAKES

Do you want to know one of the biggest reasons why many bloggers fail?

They treat their old blog posts like ancient artifacts in a museum… look, but don’t touch. I made this mistake with my own blog for years, letting valuable content collect dust instead of updating it regularly.

And the result? I was missing out on massive traffic opportunities… I watched my traffic slowly fizzle out.

33. Old Content Waste

Here’s another mind-blowing fact… your other blog posts might be sitting on goldmines of potential traffic.

Those pieces you wrote when you were just a new blogger? They could be your ticket to more traffic… if you know how to refresh them.

Last month, I updated a two-year-old post on my own blog, and its traffic jumped by 300% in just two weeks…. That to show you how powerful it is.

Solution: Perform monthly content audits. Update old blog posts with fresh information, new insights, and better examples. Think of your blog content like a garden… it needs regular pruning to stay healthy. Pay special attention to posts that once performed well but have seen declining traffic.

34. No Content Updates

Like we said about updating old content…

Blogging consistently isn’t just about publishing new content… it’s about keeping your existing content fresh and relevant.

I’ve seen too many bloggers focus solely on creating new blog posts while their best performing content gets outdated and loses rankings.

One of my clients lost 60% of their traffic because they never updated their most popular posts.

Solution: Create a robust content calendar that balances new content creation with strategic updates. Schedule quarterly reviews of your top-performing posts. When you update, don’t just fix broken links – add new examples, update statistics, and enhance the content with current best practices.

35. Limited Topics

Getting stuck in a content rut is one of those common blogging mistakes that can seriously limit your growth.

When you publish content about the same topics repeatedly, you’re missing opportunities to expand your reach.

I discovered this when analyzing other sites in my niche… they were covering valuable topics I’d completely overlooked.

Solution: Branch out strategically. Study what other successful bloggers are doing, but don’t just copy them. Analyze your target audience’s questions on forums, social media platforms, and comments. Create content clusters around related topics to build comprehensive coverage of your niche.

36. Same Old Formats

Are you still stuck in the “500-word blog post” format?

It’s time to mix things up. Your readers consume content differently now, and your blog needs to adapt.

One of my posts transformed from a basic how-to guide into a multimedia experience saw engagement rates triple.

Solution: Experiment with different content formats. Transform written blog posts into videos, infographics, or podcasts. Create interactive elements like calculators or assessment tools. Mix long-form guides with quick reference materials.

37. Poor Email List

I will be direct for this one… if you’re not building an email list, you’re making one of the biggest blogging mistakes you need to avoid.

Social media platforms come and go, but your email list? That’s yours forever.

I learned this lesson the hard way when a social media algorithm change cut my traffic in half overnight…

Or was it the last few years when I lost my Facebook account with all my pages and groups?

Solution: Start with a compelling lead magnet that solves an immediate problem. Create segmented free offers for different reader groups. Test different opt-in placements and messaging. Most importantly, focus on quality over quantity… 100 engaged subscribers beat 1,000 inactive ones.

38. Bad Free Offers

Having a free offer isn’t enough… it needs to be something your readers actually want.

I’ve seen countless bloggers create generic PDF downloads that collect dust… Or just download one out of those ‘PLR sites,’ thinking their audience won’t notice.

One of my clients replaced their generic “10 Tips” PDF with a specialized tool, and their conversion rate jumped from 2% to 15%.

Solution: Research what your audience needs through surveys, comments, and direct outreach. Create targeted resources that address specific pain points. Test different offers to see what resonates. Update your free offers regularly based on feedback and results.

39. One-size-fits-all Content

If you’re trying to write for everyone, it means you’re writing for no one.

Many beginner bloggers make this mistake, creating generic content that fails to connect deeply with anyone.

Your content needs to speak directly to specific segments of your audience.

Solution: Create detailed reader personas. Segment your content based on experience levels, goals, and needs. Use your email list to deliver targeted content to different groups. Track engagement metrics to refine your targeting.

40. Weak Follow-up Emails

Getting subscribers is just the first step.

The real blogging mistake happens when you don’t have a solid plan to keep readers engaged after they join your list.

Without proper nurturing, even the best leads go cold.

Solution: Develop a comprehensive welcome sequence that builds trust and delivers immediate value. Plan regular, valuable updates that align with your readers’ interests. Create engagement loops that encourage two-way communication.

TRUST MISTAKES

41. No Success Proof

Why should readers trust your advice? If you’re not showing proof that your strategies work, you’re just wasting your time.

Humans are just wired to naturally look for these things. This is especially crucial for your online business content.

Last year, I worked with a client who was struggling to make sales until we added detailed case studies… their conversion rate doubled within a month.

Solution: Document everything. Share real numbers and results from your own blogging journey. Create detailed case studies showing how your strategies helped others succeed. Include screenshots, analytics data, and concrete metrics. When you make claims, back them up with verifiable results.

42. Missing Examples

Abstract advice only gets you so far. Without concrete examples, your post content remains theoretical and hard to implement.

I used to write vague “how-to” posts that got minimal engagement.

Once I started including step-by-step examples with screenshots and real scenarios, reader engagement skyrocketed.

Solution: Include at least three detailed, real-world examples in every post. Share personal experiences about what worked and what didn’t. Create visual guides and tutorials that walk readers through exact processes. Don’t just tell them what to do… show them how you did it yourself.

43. Social Proof

Social proof isn’t optional anymore.

When visitors see no testimonials or reader feedback on your blog, they question your authority.

Think about it… when was the last time you bought something online without reading reviews first? Your blog works the same way.

Solution: Actively collect and showcase reader success stories. Create a systematic way to gather testimonials. Feature reader case studies prominently. Share screenshots of positive feedback and results. Most importantly, maintain relationships with your successful readers and document their progress.

44. Weak Authority

Building authority isn’t about claiming expertise… it’s about demonstrating it consistently.

Even grammatical errors can harm your credibility and make readers question your expertise. I once lost a major client opportunity because of typos in my blog posts.

Now, I have a rigorous editing process.

Solution: Establish your credentials naturally through your content. Share your professional background when relevant. Create in-depth, well-researched content that demonstrates your expertise. Maintain high editorial standards… invest in good editing tools and perhaps a proofreader. Network with other successful bloggers in your niche and collaborate on content.

Remember, trust is like a bank account… you need to make regular deposits through quality content before you can make withdrawals.

Every piece of content you publish either builds or erodes trust with your readers.

MONEY MISTAKES

Do you want to hear about my first attempt at monetizing my blog with a digital product?

I launched a $500 course to my 50 subscribers. Total sales? Zero.

Let me share what I learned about turning a good blog post into a profitable business without making the same mistakes I did.

45. Selling Too Early

One of the most common blogging mistakes I see is trying to sell before building trust.

New bloggers often rush to monetize before they’ve proven their value through quality content. I get it…

We all want to make money. But pushing sales too early can permanently damage your relationship with readers.

Solution: Focus on creating valuable, helpful blog posts first. Build an engaged audience through consistent guest posting and community engagement. Only introduce products when you have proven results and loyal readers.

46. Wrong Products

Do you want to know why many bloggers fail at monetization? They create products nobody wants.

Remember the course I tried selling for $500… I spent three months developing that course but my audience never asked for.

Learn from my mistake… don’t guess what your readers might buy.

Solution: Survey your audience. Test ideas with small offerings first. Create products that solve specific problems you know your readers have. Use your blog content to validate product ideas before investing time in creation.

47. One Income Source

Relying on a single income stream is like building a house on one pillar. I learned this when affiliate commissions dropped 80% overnight…

Most bloggers learned the hard way when Amazon dropped their commissions to pennies during COVID.

Smart bloggers diversify their income through multiple channels.

Solution: Mix different monetization methods: digital products, services, affiliate marketing, sponsorships. Think of ways to help your target audience at different price points.

48. Poor Sales Process

Having a great product isn’t enough… you need a clear path from reader to customer.

Many blogging mistakes you need to avoid center around broken sales funnels and confusing customer journeys.

Solution: Create a clear customer journey. Use your blog content strategically to guide readers toward your offers. Build email sequences that nurture relationships before selling.

FAQs About Common Blogging Mistakes

What is the most common mistake for first-time bloggers?

The biggest trap new bloggers fall into is trying to be everywhere at once. Instead of focusing on writing blog posts that truly help their audience, they spread themselves thin across every social media platform and marketing tactic. Success comes from mastering one channel before expanding.

Why do many bloggers fail?

Most bloggers fail because they treat blogging like a hobby instead of a business. They don’t invest in learning, don’t track metrics, and don’t create systems for consistent content creation. Success requires treating your blog as a serious online business from day one.

What are the do’s and don’ts of blogging?

Do focus on solving real problems for your readers. Do create a consistent publishing schedule. Do build relationships with other bloggers through authentic guest posting. Don’t copy others’ content. Don’t ignore SEO basics. Don’t neglect your email list. Most importantly, don’t give up when growth seems slow.

What are the six rules of blogging?

First, know your audience deeply. Second, create exceptional content consistently. Third, master SEO fundamentals. Fourth, build your email list from day one. Fifth, network with other bloggers in your niche. Sixth, track and analyze your results to improve continuously.

My Final Thoughts

Starting a blog is easy… building a successful one takes work.

But the truth is, every blogging mistake I’ve shared is fixable. I’ve seen blogs go from ghost towns to thriving communities by implementing these solutions systematically.

The key is starting with fundamentals. Focus on creating good blog posts that genuinely help your readers.

Build relationships through thoughtful guest posting. Develop systems for consistent content creation. Track what works and do more of it.

Looking ahead, blogging will continue to change, but these core principles won’t change. People will always want valuable, trustworthy content from authentic voices.

That’s your opportunity.

Take these lessons and adapt them to your situation. Start with fixing one mistake at a time. Test, learn, and adjust as you go.

If you have any problems, let me know in the comments below.

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