How To Make Money Blogging

How to Start A Blog in 2024 – A Simple Guide For Beginners

Hey I’m Ciaran Doyle.

Just a normal guy from a small town in Ireland who hated school and didn’t have a clear path forward… that is… until I stumbled into the online world. Without any fancy certifications, just a passion for travel and excitement for life, I set out on my path…

life now as a digital nomad

It’s been a crazy one, I’ve spoken on stages all over the world, created training courses like the Blog Profit Path, and today, I have over 36,000 students from all over the globe taking my courses.

I’ve been fortunate to work and consult with some of the world’s biggest brands like Porsche, One Championship, Pandora, and even a U.S. government agency. It’s crazy to think how far I’ve come. I don’t tell you this to impress you but to let you know that if I can do it… You can too!

brands having worked with

This guide contains the exact strategies that have helped thousands of my students start their own blogs and turn their passions into successful online ventures and make money online. Yep, a simple blog post can make all the difference. Some have gone on to earn 9-5 quitting incomes and build the life they’ve always dreamed of.

If you’re:

  • Feeling overwhelmed about how to begin your blogging journey and even write your first blog post,

  • Unsure about the technical aspects and fearing you lack the necessary skills,

  • Confused by the multitude of conflicting information online,

  • Eager to escape the monotony of a 9-5 job and pursue something you’re passionate about,

  • Just curious about how blogging can change your life.

In this guide, I’m going to show you the exact steps to start your blog in the next 20 or so minutes, including:

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let’s dive in!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I trust and personally use. Thank you for your support!

Ready to start? Click here to skip the intro and start building your blog now

For me, I started slowly… (maybe you too)

I was sitting in my dimly lit bedroom in my girlfriend’s house, my heart pounding. I was nervous. No, there was no excitement there at all… I was just plain nervous.

I had just hit “Publish” on my very first blog post, and as I watched the view count tick up from zero to one (thanks, Mom!) in my Analytics software, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of terror and excitement.

Little did I know, that single ‘publish’ would change the course of my life…

Fast forward to today, and I’m living my dream as a full-time online entrepreneur. I write blogs for money and share my passions (and the odd affiliate link) with thousands of readers daily.

Contents

how to start a blog

But let me tell you, the process of getting from that nerve-wracking first blog post to where I am now wasn’t always smooth sailing. There were times I wanted to throw in the towel, moments of self-doubt, and plenty of lessons learned the hard way.

But here’s the thing – starting a blog in 2024 doesn’t have to be as frightening as it was for me back then.

In fact, I’m going to let you in on a little secret (I wish it was like this back then): you can set up your very own blog in just 20 minutes. Yep, you read that right – 20 minutes!

If you get stuck or have questions at any point, simply send me a message and I will do my best to help you out.

Benefits of Starting a Blog

Starting a blog can have many benefits. It can help you to:

  • Share Your Thoughts and Ideas: Blogging gives you a platform to express yourself and share your unique perspective with the world.

  • Connect with Like-Minded Individuals: Blogging allows you to connect with people who share your interests. You can build a community of readers who engage with your content, leave comments, and share your posts.

  • Establish Yourself as an Expert: By consistently sharing valuable content, you can establish yourself as an authority in your niche. This can open doors to speaking engagements, book deals, and other opportunities.

  • Improve Your Writing and Communication Skills: Blogging regularly helps you hone your writing and communication skills. You’ll learn to articulate your thoughts clearly and engage your readers effectively.

  • Increase Your Online Presence and Visibility: A blog can help you build your personal brand and increase your online visibility. It’s a great way to showcase your expertise and attract opportunities.

I remember when I first started my blog, (there were no amazing AI tools like there are now) I was amazed at how quickly I connected with people who shared my interests… people want knowledge, and love people who speak the same language (language as in topic) as them.

It was like finding a whole new world of friends and collaborators… and the best part? I got to share my passion with others and learn from them in return.

How to Start a Blog in 6 Steps

Well, in its easiest outline, you do this… (I mentioned this above)

To start a blog, choose a blogging platform (like WordPress which is called a Content Management System), select a domain name, sign up for web hosting, install WordPress, pick a theme to customize your blog’s look, write your first blog post, and hit publish… BOOM, that’s it.

With platforms like Dreamhost, you can set up a blog in under 20 minutes (maybe less) and then start blogging and sharing your thoughts with the world.

Sounds simple, right? Don’t worry if it still feels a bit overwhelming – I’ll break down each of these steps in detail throughout this guide.

Before we look at the exact breakdown of how to start a blog, let’s break down the process into six manageable steps:

  • 1. Pick a name for your blog

  • 2. Get your blog online

  • 3. Customize your blog

  • 4. Write and publish your first blog post

  • 5. Promote your blog

  • 6. Make money from your blog

Infographic showing 6 steps to start a blog, including choosing a name for your blog, setting up hosting, and monetizing with affiliate marketing

This infographic outlines the beginners guide to blogging – 6 key steps to starting a blog, from choosing a niche to earning money.

Want to share this infographic? Embed it on your website:

“How to start a blog? Isn’t it complicated? Don’t I need to be a tech whiz?”

Here it is… starting a blog is easier than you think, and also… easier than ever before.

With the right guidance (which I’m about to give you), anyone – and I mean anyone – can create a blog and start sharing their voice with the world. But first… don’t start the same topic as every rich ass guru out there, pick your own, be as unique as you are.

Ready to start your blog today? Follow these steps and hit publish!

Should you start writing a blog?

Well… let me say.

If you’re passionate about a topic, have expertise to share, or simply love writing, then damn right you should!

Look, blogging can be an incredibly rewarding experience and even if its a personal blog it can also earn you some serious wedge. It’s a really cool way to share who you are, connect with others, and even potentially earn an income (which for me is HUUUGE on the list).

Plus, in 2024, the blogging world is craaaazy… especially now with AI.

I remember when I was on the fence about starting my own blog. I have experience in writing… a lot of it (I took a job as a writer to get better), but even then, I kept thinking… “Who would want to read what I have to say?”

But then I realized… “Hey Ciaran, your unique experiences and perspective are valuable. There’s no one else in the world quite like you, and that’s your superpower in the blogging world”.

And it’s yours too… no one is YOU… you are a unique gift to the world… even though sometimes you might not feel like it… hey, we all feel that sometimes.

Starting a blog has opened doors I never even knew existed…

I’ve made friends from across the globe, been invited to speak at conferences, and even wrote my own book – all because I took that first step and started my blog.

So if you’re wondering if you should start a blog, my answer is a Hell Yes!

Step 1: Pick a Name For Your Blog

It’s time for your first big decision… choosing your blog’s name. This might seem like a small step, but trust me, it’s a pretty important one. Your name or your blog is like your blog’s handshake; it’s the first impression you’ll make on potential readers. No pressure, right… joke.

But don’t worry! This process is pretty easy.

how blog profit path is a good domain name

I’m sharing how I do it, from my own experience and from helping over 36,000+ aspiring online entrepreneurs and bloggers find their perfect blog name…

How to Choose a Blog Topic & Name

Before we get more into the nitty-gritty of naming our blog titles, let’s take a step back and think about your blog’s topic.

What are you passionate about, is it a personal blog you want to create?

What could you talk about for hours without getting bored?

Your next few hundred blog topics, post ideas, title and topic should be something that excites you, because that enthusiasm will shine through in your writing.

For me, it was mindset. I could (and still do) spend hours thinking about how to improve my mindset and planning how to overcome issues.

how to find your niche for a side hustle

Use the simple 3 questions above if you are stuck.

You will hear people talking about a blog niche. This is what a blog topic is… they are both the same, so don’t be confused… a blog niche, is your blog topic.

My blog niche to start was ‘mindset’, it was a no-brainer for me. But maybe for you, it’s vegan cooking, vintage fashion, or even the intricate world of ant farms (hey, no judgment here!).

Once you’ve nailed down your topic, it’s time to brainstorm some name ideas.

Here are some tips to get those creative juices flowing:

  1. Keep it relevant: Your blog name should give readers a hint about what your blog is about. “Wanderlust Wendy” instantly tells you it’s a travel blog, while “Bytes and Bits” suggests a tech focus.

  2. Make it memorable: A catchy, unique name will stick in readers’ minds. Avoid anything too complicated or hard to spell.

  3. Think long-term: Choose a name that can grow with your blog. “Twenty-Something Traveler” might sound great now, but what about when you hit 30?

  4. Consider using your own name: If you’re building a personal brand, your own name can be a great choice. It worked for me!

  5. Use wordplay: Puns, alliteration, or clever word combinations can make for fun, memorable blog titles and names. Just don’t force it if it doesn’t come naturally.

See if your blog name is available:

Once you’ve got some ideas, it’s time to see if they’re available. Here’s how:

  • Domain availability: Check if your preferred blog name is available as a domain (preferably a .com). You can use my free domain name checker here for this. If it’s available, make a note, as I’ll show you how to get it for FREE in a few minutes.

Check Domain Availability

  • Social media handles: Check if the name is available on major social media platforms. You want consistency across all your online presence. Normally if your domain name is available, your social media handles will be there too.

  • Trademark check: Do a quick search to ensure your chosen name isn’t trademarked. You don’t want legal troubles down the road!

A few more tips as you’re deciding:

  1. Say it out loud: How does the name sound when you say it? Is it easy to pronounce?

  2. Get feedback: Run your top choices by friends and family. Sometimes an outside perspective can be invaluable…

  3. Avoid trends: What’s cool today might be cringe-worthy tomorrow. Aim for timeless over trendy.

  4. Keep it professional: Unless you’re intentionally going for shock value (which I don’t recommend), avoid anything too controversial or potentially offensive.

Remember, while your blogging name is important, it’s not set in stone…

But if you are stuck make sure to look at www.leandomainsearch.com which can give you domain name ideas.

lean domain name search

Just put in a word for your keyword research and click search. You know…

Many successful bloggers have rebranded at some point… me included… this blog, the Blog Profit Path is a complete rebrand for me.

So don’t let the fear of choosing the “perfect” name paralyze you. When learning how to start a blog, the most important thing is to… START!

Once you’ve settled on a name, take a moment to celebrate!

You’ve just taken the first concrete step to start a blog that you will love. Pat yourself on the back, do a little happy dance, or treat yourself to your favorite snack… mine is Pizza, but it’s terrible for the old belly, so I try to limit it… damn you

Now, are you ready to get onto the next section in this how to start a blog tutorial…

Oh wait, wanna share your blog name with me below? I’d love to hear.

Step 2: Get your blog online

So, you’ve got your name picked out, and now it’s time for the really exciting part…

Getting your blog up and running online.

I know this might sound a bit technical, but don’t worry. I’m going to walk you through this part of how to start a blog by step by step guide, just like I wish someone had done for beginner bloggers and me when I was starting out.

Let’s break this down into manageable steps:

Found the perfect name? Get it now FREE with hosting! Grab your Dreamhost domain and be live in 20 minutes—deal ends on !

First things first – we need to choose a hosting provider. Think of a web host provider as the company that owns the plot of internet land where your blog will live.

And just like a plot of land… not all web hosting companies or plots are made the same.

After trying out multiple different web host options over the years, I’ve found that Dreamhost with it’s whole host of AI Tools is one of the best blog hosting providers, especially for beginners. They’re a very reliable website hosting company, affordable, and their customer service is top-notch (super important).

Get your blog online with dreamhost

Ready to get started? I gotta say… Dreamhost made my life easier—click here for a deal that’s beginner-proof! Sign up by to lock in hosting for just $2.95 per month.

They also use the WordPress Content Management System to create your blog… which in simple terms is the base structure of your website and allows you to easily create a fully working website in a matter of minutes…

wordpress blog website example

Yep, no lies, minutes.

This website here is a self-hosted WordPress blog, obviously running on WordPress, as do ALL of my blog and affiliate sites…

And guess what?

I made this within just a few clicks and minutes (maybe 3-4) using the AI that is included in the hosting company, I’ll show you it all soon…

Choosing a reliable web hosting plan is so important for your website’s performance, loading speed, and user experience… I’d go as far as saying… probably ‘the most important’.

Select your plan.

You will first see a list of 3 plans, Shared, DreamPress and VPS, I recommend using the ‘Shared’ to get started…(one more step in this process in the next image)

selecting your dreamhost shared hosting plan

Clock the dropdown button on the ‘Shared Starter’ Column, and choose the Unlimited 1 Year Plan. Click “Select” to choose your plan.

When you land on the Dreamhost page, you’ll see a few different web hosting plans. Now, it might be tempting to go for what looks the cheapest, but trust me – as a beginner, the Unlimited plan actually saves you money, as it has things like a domain name for free (normal cost about $12.99 a year), Free Email Addresses (which normally cost $1.99 a month for one).

dreamhost shared hosting unlimited plan

EG: ciaran@blogprofitpath.com is what I mean when I say email addresses… for your email subscribers and own website.

Once your Dreamhost Unlimited plan is selected click: ‘Sign Up Now’.

choosing your dreamhost plan

A lot of people ask me Why I recommend the ‘Unlimited’ plan, and it’s simple:

You get unlimited domains on your plan, which means that you can create multiple websites if you want (for no extra charge)… Now, wait Ciaran, I only want one… yep, I hear you. Here’s the thing, I’ve been in this game so long now, and I know with almost 100% certainty that you will buy another domain name, want to dabble with another site, even if it’s a test site, to test what you are doing on your main site… and if you go with the starter package, you are going to have to upgrade and have another bill on there.

You get unlimited email addresses at your domain name. So you can have: sales@yourdomainname.com, contact@yourdomainname.com, ciaran@ steve@ bill@ tracey@ etc etc… If you get the Shared Starter, each and every single domain name you make… you have to pay a monthly fee of about $1.99… again, increasing the bill….

Next, type in your domain name in the box and then click “Search for Domain” to start the registration process.

Remember that perfect blogging name you came up with in Step 1?

This is where it becomes your official web address. Type your chosen name into the box and click “Search for Domain.”

choosing a new domain in dreamhost

So for me, I’m going to choose register a new domain and put my own domain name name idea into the domain search bar.

searching for your free domain name in dreamhost

If your domain is available, great! You’re all set. Click “Add for $0.00”.

If it’s taken, don’t panic… Dreamhost will suggest some alternatives, or you can try a slight variation of your original idea.

Maybe add “blog” at the end or use a different domain extension like .net or .org. But, if you can choose .com… it’s the best.

What I love with Dreamhost web hosting is you also get Domain Privacy Protection for FREE (for most other hosts you have to pay for this). It keeps your personal information private.

Ready to get started? I gotta say… Dreamhost made my life easier—click here for a deal that’s beginner-proof! Sign up by to lock in hosting for just $2.95 per month.

Fill out your billing details and create your account password on the registration page.

This part is pretty straightforward – just fill in your billing info and create a strong password for your account. You can also use Paypal to pay for your hosting. Just be aware sometimes when adding your Zip/Postcode when you are from outside the USA can be an issue if using the Edge Browser. So I would recommended signing up via Google Chrome/Safari.

adding billing details to dreamhost or using paypal

Then you have account setup… You have the option to create an account from scratch, like email, name etc… but I use Google Mail (Gmail) to sign in and that makes everything a breeze.

adding your payment method to dreamhost

Next you will need to add your personal details, like name, email etc, or you can sign in with your Google account… But, even if you use your gmail you will still have to add your phone number. I’m going to use the Gmail sign up for this example.

adding personal details to dreamhost

NOTE: A piece of advice from someone who’s been hacked before: use a unique password for your web hosting company and account. Don’t use the same one you use for your email or social media. And please, don’t use “password123”!

Now you will also choose your hosting package options

Here’s where you’ll see a bunch of additional options for your hosting package. Things like “DreamShield Protection” and “Dreamhost SEO Toolkit” might sound important, but here’s my honest advice: for now, you can skip most of these extras.

optional extra in dreamhost hosting package

Without it, anyone can look up who owns your domain and see your name and address. I learned this the hard way and ended up with a hell of a lot of spam calls and emails.

submitting order for dreamhost blog hosting

Once your order has been successful you will come to a page like this…

dreamhost blog account setup complete

Don’t wait around—deals like this don’t stick forever! Get set up with Dreamhost now and start building your dream blog before the offer expires on .

Install WordPress blogging platform.

Now, here’s where the magic happens. Dreamhost makes this super easy, with their one-click WordPress installation. WordPress is like the engine for your blog. It’s what you’ll use to write blog posts, customize your design, and manage everything on your site.

To install WordPress, look for the “WordPress” section in your Dreamhost account sidebar, like shown.

install wordpress with 1 click dreamhost blog

Next, just make sure your domain name is chosen and click ‘Install WordPress’.

using the blog 1 click install on dreamhost

Then choose how you want to create it… using the Liftoff AI Builder is so easy, but if you want to custom install you can too. I am showing you the easy AI website Builder in this setup tutorial.

using dreamhost ai blog builder

After you click install, let the Dreamhost AI go to work….

I still remember the first time I used this… it’s crazy good. I saw my very own WordPress website in a matter of minutes.

wordpress blog installed easily using ai

But before we get inside WordPress, let’s answer some questions about what your site is:

choosing blog description in dreamhost ai

Next it will ask you:

  • What’s the name of your new site? (Enter your site name – normally your domain name)

  • What are your goals for your website? (Publish a blog)

  • Pick Your Site Structure (multi-page site)

  • Pick a design for your website (let’s look at this…)

Pick a design for your website blog

Once you choose your design, click Next… Just note, you can go back in and change your design at any time… no problem. We will talk about that in a little bit.

Next, choose the pages you want and see what your design looks like.I like mine, what do you think?

automatically add pages on your blog with dreamhost ai

Click Next… and give your AI instructions about what your specific blog posts will be about, I’ll leave a fill in the banks below.

giving your blog ai content instructions

Fill in the blanks for AI description:

We are a blog about **[your niche]**, covering everything that is going on now in **[current trends or developments related to your niche]**, and how fast **[specific aspect related to the niche]** is developing, along with content about **[your niche]**.

Once you have filled in your description, click Next and Dreamhost AI will start creating your new blog… again it takes a few minutes and then you will be redirected to your new site… WOW!

getting familiar with wordpress blog dashboard

It’s like being handed the keys to your own little corner of the internet. And trust me, you’re going to love exploring all the possibilities WordPress opens up for you.

Get really familiar with this dashboard, it is actaully really easy to use, but there is lots there so it might start off being a little overwhelming. My advice… just take your time.

Now, let me share a little story from my early blogging days. When I was setting up my first blog, I got stuck at the WordPress installation step. I kept getting an error message and couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong. After hours of frustration (and maybe a few tears), I finally reached out to Dreamhost’s customer support.

contacting customer support in dreamhost

To my surprise, they were incredibly helpful and patient. The support rep walked me through the process step by step, and it turned out I had just missed a small checkbox during setup.

getting in contact with dreamhost support

The moral of the story? Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck.

Dreamhost’s support team is there 24/7, and they’ve probably seen every possible problem a newbie blogger could encounter. Use them – that’s what they’re there for!

human support request dreamhost

Let’s make sure your blog gets the best startgrab this hosting package for just $2.95/month before and get started in no time.

Setting Your WordPress Password

Before you do anything inside your new blog, let’s first set up your password.

Go to Users >> all users

Then make a note of your username and also create a new strong password like shown in the image here.

setting up wordpress blog password

A few extra blogging tips, as you’re getting your blog up and running:

  1. Keep your login details safe: Store your Dreamost and WordPress login information somewhere secure. You don’t want to lose access to your own blog!

  2. Set up your email: Dreamhost usually offers free email addresses with your domain. Set one up like info@yourblogname.com. It looks more professional than using a generic Gmail address.

  3. Explore your cPanel: This is your hosting control panel. While you won’t need to use it often, it’s good to familiarize yourself with it. Just don’t change any settings unless you’re sure about what you’re doing.

  4. Start thinking about design: While we’ll look into into customizing your blog in the next step, it’s never too early to start gathering inspiration. What colors do you want to use? What kind of vibe do you want your blog to have?

  5. Take a moment to celebrate: You’ve just taken a huge step. Your blog is now live on the internet! Even if it’s just the default WordPress theme with a “Hello World” blog post for now, it’s a start. And that’s something to be proud of.

Here’s the thing… to be a successful blogger you have to start a blog… and you did.

Everyone (well most) before you learned how to start a blog the same way… They all had that moment of setting up their hosting, installing WordPress for the first time, and staring at a blank blog post canvas full of possibilities.

You’re not just setting up a blog – you’re laying the foundation for your future empire (well, if that’s what you want).

So… if you dream of being a full-time blogger, building a side hustle, or just sharing your passion with the world, it all starts here.

So, take a deep breath… (I’m excited writing this, I just got the shivers), give yourself a pat on the back, and get ready for the next exciting step.

In the next section on how to start a blog, we’ll start making your blog look and feel like you’ve always imagined.

Step 3: Customize your blog

So, your blog is online, and now it’s time for the fun part – adding and blog template and making it look exactly how you want. This is where your blog starts to feel like your own little slice of coolness. It’s like decorating your first apartment, but without the heavy lifting or the arguments about where to put the couch.

How to Start a Blog in 2024 - Pinterest Pin

Logging in

First things first – let’s log into your WordPress dashboard. This is like your blog’s control center, where all the magic happens. To get there, type in yourblogname.com/wp-admin (replace “yourblogname” with your actual domain name).

Enter the username and password you created in the last step.

logging into your wordpress blogging platform

You’re in… Take a moment to look around and familiarize yourself with the layout. You’ll be spending a lot of time here, so it’s good to get comfortable.

inside your blogs wordpress dashboard

Changing your blog design

Now, let’s make your blog look slick!

Inside the WordPress dashboard, the overall design of your various blog pages is controlled by your WordPress theme. Think of it as your blog’s outfit – you want something that looks good and fits your style.

My advice, when you start a blog… keep the blog page simple and minimalistic, allowing readers to focus on the content without distractions.

If you want to go crazy after… fill your boots.

wordpress themes for your blog

To choose a theme:

  1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Appearance > Themes.

  2. Click on “Add New” at the top of the page.

  3. Browse through the options or use the ‘Search Themes’ to narrow down your choices. You can even use keywords related to your niche, like I have done here with ‘Golf’.

  4. When you find one you like, click “Install” and then “Activate”.

searching for niche specifc blog themes

Pro tip: don’t get too hung up on finding the “perfect” blog theme, right away. You can always change it later.

What’s more important is getting your blog up and running with content. Remember, a beautiful WordPress theme with no blog posts is like a gorgeous restaurant with no food – not very satisfying for visitors!

When I started my mindset blog, I spent weeks agonizing over themes. I must have previewed a hundred different options. In the end, I chose a simple, clean theme that put the focus on my writing.

And you know what? It worked perfectly. Sometimes, less really is more.

Customizing your theme

Once you’ve chosen a theme, it’s time to make it your own.

Go to Appearance > Customize in your dashboard.

Here, you can change colors, fonts, header images, and more, depending on your theme’s options.

Customizing your wordpress themes colors

This is where you can really let your personality shine through. Love bold colors? Go for it! Prefer a minimalist look? You can do that too. Just remember to keep your blog’s purpose and target audience in mind.

Stuck and unsure what colors will work, don’t worry, Canva have a cool color wheel that can help you find the perfect color matches…

canva color wheel to help pick blog colors

If you were to start a blog in the professional finance niche, for example, hot pink and glitter might not be the best choice. (Unless you’re going for a “Barbie does Wall Street” vibe, in which case, I fully support you!)

Again… don’t worry too much about this, just get a WordPress theme up that ticks most of the boxes and then update at a later stage.

Essential pages to create

Once you have your first blog theme chosen you need to add a few key pages to help readers understand what you’re all about. Your AI should have done these for you already, but its a good idea to go in and edit them.

Here are the must-haves:

  1. About page: This is where you tell your story. Why did you start this blog? What can readers expect? Let your personality shine!

Essential pages to create your about page
  1. Contact page: Make it easy for readers (and potential collaborators) to get in touch with you.

  2. Privacy Policy: This is a legal requirement if you’re collecting any data from your visitors (which most blogs do, even if it’s just through comments).

To create these pages, go to Pages > Add New in your dashboard. Write your content, then publish! Here is a prompt you can use in your generative AI for your About Us page. I made this for Google Gemini, but should work in the others too.

Generate an "About Us" page for [your company/website/brand]:Focus on:* **Mission:** Briefly describe your company's core purpose and values. * **Story:** Share the story of how your company came to be, highlighting key milestones or interesting facts. * **Team/People:** Introduce key team members or individuals behind the brand (optional). * **Unique Selling Proposition:** Explain what sets you apart from competitors.  * **Call to Action:** Encourage visitors to take the next step (e.g., explore products, contact you, learn more).Consider:* **Target Audience:** Who are you trying to reach with this page? * **Desired Tone/Style:** What kind of impression do you want to make (e.g., professional, friendly, quirky)? * **Key Information:** Include any essential details like location, contact information, or awards.Deliverables:* A concise and engaging "About Us" page that captures the essence of your brand and connects with your target audience.

I remember struggling with my About page for days. I kept thinking, “Who would want to read about me?” But then I realized – if someone’s on my About page, they want to know about me!

So, I shared my story, my love for freedom, and even threw in a crazy anecdote’s life in Phnom Penh. It ended up being one of the most visited pages on my blog.

Adding plugins

Plugins are like apps for your blog, and most other blogging platforms don’t have these awesome little addons.

adding plugins to your wordpress blog

They add extra features and functionality. Some essential plugins I recommend for every new blogger:

  1. RankMath SEO: Helps optimize each blog post for ‘On Page SEO’ so they can appear better in the search engine results pages.

  2. Antispam Bee: Protects your blog from comment spam.

  3. WordFence: Protects your site security from bad people wanting to hack your site.

  4. Happy Forms: Makes it easy to create contact forms.

  5. Jetpack: Offers a whole suite of useful features, including site stats.

  6. SiteKit: This adds Google Search console & Google Analytics.

To install plugins, go to Plugins > Add New in your dashboard. Search for the plugin you want, then click “Install” and “Activate”.

adding plugins to your blog site

Go through each name above – Google Analytics, RankMath, Antispam Bee, WordFence, Happy Forms, and Jetpack and add them to your site (Jetpack might already be installed).

A word of caution from someone who learned the hard way: don’t go overboard with plugins.

It’s tempting to install every cool feature you see, but too many plugins can slow down your site. Stick to the essentials I outlined here, especially when you’re just starting out. I always like to have Google Analytics installed a s a base.

Making your blog mobile-friendly

Here’s something super important that many new bloggers overlook: making sure your blog content and outlay looks good on mobile devices. More than half of web traffic comes from mobile these days, so this is super important.

Making your blog mobile-friendly with wordpress responsive design

Luckily, most modern WordPress themes are already mobile-responsive, meaning they automatically adjust to look good on smaller screens. But it’s always a good idea to check. Preview your blog on your smartphone and tablet to make sure everything looks right.

how to see if your blog theme is responsive

I once chose a blog template that looked amazing on desktop but was a mess on mobile. I didn’t realize until a friend tried to read my blog on her phone and told me she couldn’t read it at all. Lesson learned! She could have said it in a nicer way though…

Final touches

You’ve chosen your outfit, you went through the slew of WordPress themes, now… keep these tips in mind:

  1. Keep it clean: A cluttered blog can be overwhelming. Stick to a simple layout that has an easy navigation.

  2. Make it easy to read: Choose fonts and colors that are easy on the eyes. Dark text on a light background is usually best.

  3. Use high-quality images: They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and that’s especially true in blogging. Use clear, attractive images in each blog post to break up your text and illustrate your points.

  4. Be consistent: Try to maintain a consistent style across your WordPress blog. This helps create a cohesive brand identity.

consistent blog style

Remember, how your blog looks, and blog content is a reflection of you. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your design choices… like mine… What do you think of it? A bit mad?

blog profit path homepage screenshot

Look, here’s the truth… don’t stress if everything isn’t perfect right away. Your blog will evolve as you do.

So, how’s your blog looking? Are you excited to start filling it with awesome blog content? In the next section, we’ll talk about writing and publishing your first blog post.

But before we move on, let me know…

What theme did you choose? Did you run into any issues? Let me know below… even if you are stuck.

Step 4: How to write a new blog post & publish it

Your blog is set up, it’s looking awesome, and now comes the moment of truth – it’s time to write your very first blog post. I can almost feel the excitement and nervousness radiating off you through the screen… it is for me even writing this for you… there’s a buzz you are going to feel… I love it.

You know… I’ve been exactly where you are, and I’m here to guide you through this crazy exhilarating first blog post writing process. This in itself is where you learn about what some people term… content marketing. Here’s what mine looks like:

  1. See an idea that keeps popping up around the news/social media/favorite website,

  2. Make a note about it, and then keep adding to it for the next few days with new ideas,

  3. Have a check to see what keywords I can target, and what slant I want to put on the article,

  4. Use chatgpt to flesh out my notes, and create a draft outline,

  5. Start draft 1, then draft 2,3,4,5…

  6. Images,

  7. Post Live.

The secret… establishing an effective process for writing blog posts and writing blog posts for promotion. It helps make both the quality and quantity of your content better, leading to greater success in blogging.

If you find yourself staring at a blank page, wondering how the hell you are going to fill it with words…

Here’s the thing… that first blog post doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be a start.

getting your first blog post up on your website

Just a note on this blog post here… this is the 3rd full edit… and I will likely do more over the course of the nest year.

Content That Should be on Your Blog

Before we jump into the actual hands on of writing a blog post topic or topics, let’s talk about what kind of blog content you should be creating. Before you start creating any posts, you need to know what the search intent for that post is. This basically means… why is that person actually searching for that blog post topic you are creating….

Is the search intent: 1. Informational? (looking for information), 2. Navigational (Looking for your website), 3. Commercial (looking for informational before purchase), or 4. Transactional (looking to buy).

Your blog posts should generally fall into one of these categories:

  1. Informative blog posts: These educate your readers about your niche. For example, if you’re running a cooking blog, you might write a blog post about “10 Essential Spices Every Kitchen Needs.” The search intent for this blog post is iinformation.

  2. How-to guides: Step-by-step instructions for completing a task. Think “How to Make the Perfect Sourdough Bread” or “How to Train for Your First 5K.” Again, the search intent is information.

  3. List blog posts: People love lists! “5 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Paris” or “7 Ways to Boost Your Productivity” are examples. What do you think the search intent is? Yep… information.

  4. Personal stories: Share your experiences. These help your readers connect with you on a personal level.

  5. Reviews: If you’re using products or services related to your niche, your readers will value your honest opinions. (These can have a commercial search intent).

  6. News and updates: Keep your audience informed about the latest happenings in your field.

But don’t get bogged too much down on search intent just yet…

Keyword Research

Before you get too much into your blogging journey you should learn about keyword research tools. These are basically tools that help you find out how people search online… what words and phrases do they use to search for what they are after, they also help you see what type of search intent your keywords have.

You then create your blog posts and relevant pages around these keywords. The keyword research tool I recommend when starting out is Google. Google has so many keyword research tool options to choose from…

From Google Instant (this is my favorite)

using google instant for blog keywrod research

To Google People Also Ask (Another great tool on how people are asking questions that you can answer)

using people also ask by google for keyword resaerch

To Google related searches (Other keywords people search for related to the keyword being searched).

searched for key word research

When learning how to start a blog, planning and optimizing content marketing your new blog posts for Search Engine Optimization will help your success in attracting traffic (visitors) to your blog.

When I started my mindset blog, I was so focused on sharing my personal stories that I neglected other types of blog content.

It wasn’t until I started mixing in how-to guides and informative blog posts that I saw my readership really start to grow and more posts appear in the search engines. People loved my stories, but they also wanted practical advice they could use in their own brains.

So, let’s get that first blog post up and don’t overthink it, and improve your writing skills as you go forward.

Step 5: Promote your blog

We are motoring… learning how to start a blog can be fun, right? Feeling good?

You are spanking this blogging journey of yours… well done.

You’ve set up your WordPress blog, customized it with a blog template (Theme), and published some amazing blog post content. Now comes the part that makes many new bloggers break out in a cold sweat…

Promoting your blog. A good way to start this is by having what is called an editorial or content calendar, it helps you know when to publish content, build up a steady stream of posts and when you have a day off.

Look… I’m here to be your step-by-step guide through this… sharing all the tricks I’ve learned along the way.

When I first started my mindset blog, I thought great content would be enough to attract readers. I’d write a blog post, hit publish, and then… crickets.

It was pi$$ed off, to say the least. But then I realized something important: even the best content in the world won’t matter if nobody knows it exists. That’s where finding those new readers through promotion comes in, oh, and if you can publish frequently, this helps too.

Let’s break down some effective strategies to get your blog noticed:

1. Tell your friends and family

Your friends and family are your first and most loyal supporters…

Seriously, don’t be shy about sharing your blog with them.! When I started out, I was super unsure if I should tell people about my blog. I worried they’d think it was silly or I was crazy…

sharing your blog with friends and family

But when I finally worked up the courage to publish content and share it, I was overwhelmed by their support. Many of them became my first regular readers and helped build my online community.

Here’s a few ways to leverage your inner circle:

  • Send a personal email with relevant links telling them about your blog (maybe even specific articles you think they will like),

  • Share your new WordPress blog and posts on your personal social media accounts,

  • Ask them to subscribe to your blog and share it with their networks.

Remember, your loved ones want to see you succeed (hopefully, if NOT – I Do…), so share all your latest blog posts with them… and give them the chance to support you!

Social media is a super cool tool for bloggers. It’s a free way to reach a potentially huge audience. But here’s the catch – you need to use it smartly. Here are some tips:

  • Choose the right platforms: You don’t need to be on every social media platform, but I would recommend claiming them. But then, focus on the ones where your target audience hangs out. For my mindset blog, Pinterest was a gold mine.

use social media to get your message out and share your blog posts
  • Consistency is key: Post regularly and engage with your followers. Get your blog domain name out there… Social media is about building relationships, not just broadcasting your content. Honestly… how much traffic you will get at the start will depend largely on this.

  • Use hashtags wisely: Research popular hashtags in your niche and use them in your posts. This helps people find your content. Also, check if the platform you are using even uses hashtags anymore.

  • Share more than just your blog posts: Mix it up with behind-the-scenes content, questions for your followers, and shares from other articles in your niche.

  • Engage, engage, engage: Like and comment on other pages and posts, especially those in your niche. This helps you build connections and get noticed.

Engaging with other bloggers in your niche is a great way to get noticed and build relationships. Leave thoughtful comments on their posts. Don’t just say “Great blog post!” – add value to the conversation. Share your perspective or ask a question… and use AI to help with this.

adding blog comments to other blogs

When I first started commenting on other mindset blogs, I was nervous. What if I said something stupid? But I pushed through the fear, and it paid off. Not only do I now get return visits to my own blogs, but I also make some great blogging friends who became invaluable sources of support and advice.

4. Engage with Your Visitors

When someone takes the time to comment on informative post on your blog, always respond! This encourages them to come back and helps build a community around your blog.

I once had a reader leave a comment asking for advice on overcoming confidence issues after bullying. I gave a detailed response, and we ended up having a great conversation in the comments.

Not only did she become a loyal reader, but other readers chimed in with their own tips, creating a lively discussion that attracted even more comments.

5. Collaborate with other bloggers

Collaborations can be a win-win. Here are some ways to collaborate:

– Guest posting: Brainstorm blog topics and write a blog post for another blog or invite someone to write a blog post ideas or guest posts for yours.

– Interviews: Interview an expert in your field or participate in interviews yourself.

– Joint projects: Team up with another blogger for a special series or challenge. I joined and train at the Insiders Club with Simon Leung, a great way to reach more people and build products together.

insiders club group coaching

6. Post Regularly

Consistency is key in blogging. Regular posting keeps your current readers engaged and helps attract new ones. But don’t sacrifice quality for quantity – it’s better to post great content less frequently than mediocre content often.

set up a blog schedule to post twice per day

When I first start a new blog, I try to post every day. It can be exhausting, and the quality of your blog posts can suffer. So, find your happy place… maybe it’s twice or three times a week. But find it and stick to it and start writing today.

7. Create an Email List

An email list is one of the most valuable assets for a blogger. Unlike social media followers, you own your email list. It’s a direct line to your most engaged readers. If you have a new blog post… share it, they want to read it. Here’s how to start:

– In your blog pages offer an incentive for signing up (like a free ebook or exclusive content)

setting up your first squeeze page

– Make it easy to subscribe (put sign-up forms in prominent places on your blogging platform)

– Send regular newsletters with valuable content (not just links to your own blog posts)

sending emails to your email list

I dragged my feet on starting an email list (ye, stupidly), thinking no one would want to subscribe. When I finally started one, offering a free “Ultimate Mindset Hack Checklist” as an incentive, I was amazed at how quickly it grew.

My email subscribers became my most engaged readers and were often the first to comment on new posts…

It’s why I was able to sell this blog a few years later.

8. Optimize your blog for search engines

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can seem a bit crazy to start, but it’s ‘critical’… damn I sound like an AI… when learning how to start a blog and grow it for the long term. Remember there are other search engine optimization engines out there apart from Google. Here are some basic SEO blog post tips:

  • Use relevant keywords in your posts (but don’t overdo it)

  • Write a unique descriptive, keyword-rich blog title for each of your posts

  • Use header tags (H1, H2, H3) to structure your blog posts

how to optimize a blog post for search engines
  • Optimize your images with descriptive file names and alt text

  • Build internal links between your posts throughout your entire blog

I initially ignored SEO, thinking it was too technical… to be honest, I despised keywords in general.

But after learning the basics (through my mentor Gareth) and applying them to what I was doing, things changed so-so-so quickly for me…

Learning keywords when starting a blog is what will set you up for freedom in your blogging life.

9. Leverage Pinterest

Pinterest is often overlooked, but it can be a powerful search traffic and driver, especially for certain niches like food, travel, fashion, and DIY. Create eye-catching pins for your blog posts and pin them to relevant boards.

how to create pinterest pins in canva

When I started using Pinterest strategically, it quickly became my top source of traffic. I created a pin for my “10 Must-Try Mindset Hacks” blog post that went viral, bringing thousands of new visitors to my blog.

10. Participate in Online Communities

Join online communities related to your niche. This could be Facebook groups, Reddit communities, or niche-specific forums. Share your expertise and help others. Most of these communities have rules about self-promotion, so focus on being helpful rather than pushing your blog.

start adding comments to online communities

11. Use Video Content

Video is super popular and can be a great way to promote your new blog post. You could start a YouTube channel, create short videos for Instagram or TikTok, or even go live on Facebook or Instagram to interact with your audience in real-time.

ciaran doyle youtube channel

I was terrified of being on camera at first, but I pushed myself to create some simple travel tip videos for Instagram. They weren’t perfect, but my audience loved seeing my face and hearing my voice. It helped them feel more connected to me and my blog. Some people use Youtube as their only blogging platform… I DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS!

12. Attend Events and Networking

If possible, attend events related to your niche. This could be conferences, meetups, or workshops. It’s a great way to meet other bloggers and potential collaborators face-to-face.

getting out to conferences

My first blogging conference was a game-changer. I was nervous and felt like an imposter, but I met so many amazing bloggers and internet marketers who became friends and mentors.

As you go on,. you might even be asked to speak at the next conference… 😉

asked to speak at conferences

Remember, promoting your new blog is an ongoing process. It takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see loads of new readers immediately. Keep creating great content, engaging with your audience, and putting your new blog out there.

And here’s a final piece of advice… please, please, please…

Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Every successful blogger started where you are now. Focus on your own process, learn how to start a blog correctly, and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it might seem.

Step 6: How To Start A Blog And Make Money

So now, you’ve set up your blog, created amazing content, and started building an audience.

Now comes the part that many bloggers dream about – turning your passion into profit. But let me tell you a secret: making money from your blog isn’t just about slapping some ads on your site and watching the dollars roll in.

It’s about creating value for your readers and finding ways to monetize that value. This is where real money blogging comes into play, focusing on strategies like affiliate marketing, selling products, and offering exclusive membership content.

how does affiliate marketing work

When I first started my mindset blog, I had no idea how to make money from it…

I was just happy people were reading my posts! But as my audience grew, I realized there were opportunities to turn my blog into a source of income.

It wasn’t always easy, and there were definitely some bumps along the way, but with persistence and creativity, I was able to turn my blog into a full-time gig.

It’s make or break to have a proper content strategy, that reflects the main theme of the entire blog, ensuring that all content aligns with your overall goals.

Let’s break down some effective strategies to monetize your blog:

Sell advertising space

This is often the first monetization strategy new bloggers try. Here’s how it works:

  • Display ads: You can use networks like Google AdSense or Adsterra to place ads on your site. You earn money when visitors click on these ads.

  • Sponsored posts: Companies pay you to write a blog post about their products or services.

  • Direct advertising: Once your blog grows, companies might approach you to place their ads directly on your site.

Sell advertising space

I remember the first time I saw money in my AdSense account. It was only a few cents, but it felt amazing… actually thinking back now, I’m laughing at it…fond memories. So long ago now.

I quickly learned that relying solely on ads wasn’t the best strategy. They can slow down your site and, if not done tastefully, can turn off readers.

You won’t see very many ads on this WordPress blog to start with… maybe in the future, who knows.

Pro tip: Always disclose sponsored content to your readers. Transparency builds trust!

Sell affiliate products

When learning how to start a blog, always, and I mean always… look into affiliate marketing.

I love it!

What you do it… promote other people’s products and earning a commission when your readers make a purchase through your unique affiliate link here.

affiliate marketing with clickbank

Here’s how to do it well:

  • Choose products you genuinely use and love

  • Make sure you write honest reviews and recommendations

  • Disclose your affiliate relationships to your readers

  • Use affiliate links in your blog post and product reviews, resource pages.

One of my most successful affiliate partnerships was with a company that makes ecommerce software. I’d been using their platform for years and genuinely loved them. Also, The Blog Profit Path, which is my flagship training has an affiliate program

blog profit path affiliate program

When I wrote a detailed blog post review and included affiliate links, my readers appreciated the honest recommendation, and I earned a nice commission on sales.

You can even do posts like this… on how to start a blog. You see, I have affiliate links in very informative post here, and if you like what I teach you, I’d be so happy if you purchased your website hosting through my affiliate link. You see how it works?

Sell Products and Services

This is where you can really leverage your expertise. Consider:

  • Digital products: Ebooks, courses, templates, or printables

  • Physical products: Merchandise related to your blog’s niche

  • Services: Coaching, consulting, or freelance work in your area of expertise

Creating my first digital product – a comprehensive traffic generation training – was really when one of my blogs really took off. I had to find this on the Wayback machine it was so long ago.

my first digital product squeeze page

It took a lot of work to put together, but once it was done, it became a source of passive income. Plus, my readers loved having all that information in one convenient package.

Sell digital downloads

This is similar to selling products, but typically involves smaller, lower-priced items like:

  • Printable planners or worksheets

  • Stock photos

  • Templates (for things like resumes, social media graphics, or email newsletters)

  • Presets for photo editing

Sell memberships

If you have a dedicated audience, consider offering a membership program. This could include:

  • Exclusive content not available on your public blog

  • A private community or forum

  • Live Q&A sessions or webinars

  • Early access to your products or content

I was hesitant to start a membership program, worrying that no one would want to pay for extra content. But when I launched a “Digital Nomad Mastermind” membership, offering personalized digital nomad advice, I was amazed at the response. It became one of my most reliable income streams.

Offer sponsored content

As your blog grows, brands may approach you to create content featuring their products or services. This could be:

  • Sponsored blog posts

  • Social media posts

  • Videos or photos featuring the product

example of sponsored post for blog

My first sponsored blog post was for a hosting company. They sent me access to their hosting to review, and paid me to write about my experience using it. It was exciting, but also a bit nerve-wracking – I wanted to be honest about the product while also meeting the brand’s expectations.

Provide freelance services

Your blog can be a smart portfolio to attract freelance work. Consider offering services like:

  • Writing for other blogs or publications

  • Social media management

  • Virtual assistance

  • Photography or videography

  • You could even teach people how to start a blog, or even create their blog foundation for them.

Create and sell online courses

If you have expertise in a particular area, consider creating an online course. This could be:

blog profit path online training course for blogging
  • A comprehensive course on your blog’s main topic

  • A series of shorter courses on specific skills (this blog post in itself is part of a training on how to start a blog that I sell inside one of my trainings – in Video).

  • Live workshops or webinars

Creating my “Blog Profit Path” course was a lot of work, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. Not only does it provide a good income, but it’s also incredibly satisfying to help others improve their skills.

Offer coaching or consulting services

Once you’ve established yourself as an expert in your niche, people may be willing to pay for one-on-one advice. This could be:

  • Personal coaching sessions

  • Group coaching programs

  • Consulting for businesses in your niche

Offer coaching or consulting services from your blog

I started offering one-on-one online business building sessions, helping people start, build and grow their own online business… It was a great way to connect with my readers on a personal level and provide real value.

Tips for successful blog monetization:

  1. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: Diversify your income streams. This protects you if one source dries up.

  2. Start small: To start a blog, you don’t need to implement all these strategies at once. Start with one or two and expand as you grow.

  3. Always provide value: Your primary focus should be on creating great blog writing for your readers. The money will follow.

  4. Be transparent: Always disclose sponsored content and affiliate relationships. Your readers’ trust is your most valuable asset.

  5. Be patient: Monetizing a blog takes time. Don’t get discouraged if you’re not making much money right away.

  6. Know your worth: As your blog grows, don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth for sponsored content or services… this is key here guys… you need to realize it.

  7. Keep learning: The world of blog monetization is always changing. Stay up to date with new strategies and platforms.

  8. Understand tax implications: Remember, if you’re making money from your blog, you need to report it on your taxes. Consider consulting with a tax professional.

  9. Don’t compromise your integrity: Only promote products or services you genuinely believe in.

  10. Reinvest in your blog: Use some of your earnings to improve your blog, whether that’s upgrading your hosting, hiring a designer, or investing in courses to improve your skills.

Remember, monetizing your blog is a process, not something that happens immediately. It takes time, effort, and a lot of trial and error to figure out what works best for you and your audience. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t take off right away.

One last thing…

Don’t let the pursuit of money overshadow your passion for blogging. Your readers can tell when you’re writing solely for profit versus when you’re writing from a place of genuine happiness and desire to help.

Strike a balance between creating great content and monetizing your blog, and you’ll be setting yourself up for long-term success.

Final Thoughts on this Beginners Guide To Blogging

Starting a blog in 2024 is easier than ever — but only if you take action. Imagine how much your life could change by simply taking that first step. Trust me, the journey from zero to one, from nervous to confident, begins the moment you decide to start blogging.

Don’t wait around and let another year slip by. Your voice deserves to be heard, your passion deserves to be shared, and your story deserves an audience. Start your blog today, in just 20 minutes, and open the door to endless possibilities…. agggh, I’m excited.

jonah hill

So what are you waiting for? The world is ready for your blog — go hit “Publish” today and make it happen!

Here’s how…

1. Choose Your Niche:

Start by selecting a topic you’re passionate about and knowledgeable about. think about your interests, expertise, and the potential audience for your content. Remember, your blog niche should be specific enough to stand out but broad enough to provide plenty of content topic ideas.

2. Get Hosting and a Domain (Plus WordPress):

Choose a reliable hosting provider, Dreamhost is what I use and recommend to my students. Select a domain name that reflects who you are and your blog’s identity. Your domain should be easy to remember, relevant to your blogging name, and preferably a .com extension if available.

4. Design Your Blog:

Select a theme that aligns with your blog’s purpose and customize it to reflect you and your personal blogger name. Ensure your design is clean, user-friendly, and mobile-responsive. Remember, being simple often is far better than being complex when it comes to blog design.

5. Create Essential Pages:

Set up key pages like ‘About,’ ‘Contact,’ and ‘Privacy Policy.’ Each blog page helps establish your blog’s credibility and provide necessary information to your readers.

6. Plan Your Content Strategy:

Develop a content calendar, deciding on how often you will post and what you will talk about. Aim for a mix of content types, including how-to guides blogging tips, listicles, and in-depth articles. Remember, consistency is key in blogging.

7. Write and Publish Your First Posts:

Start creating high-quality, valuable content for your audience. Focus on solving problems or providing insights unique to your niche. Don’t aim for perfection, starting a blog should be fun, not full of head holding… your skills will improve over time, and you will start to understand your own posting schedule.

8. Optimize for Search Engines:

Implement basic SEO practices from the start to help with the search engines. Use relevant keywords naturally, create descriptive titles and meta descriptions, and ensure your site structure is search-engine friendly.

9. Promote Your Blog:

Share your blog posts on social media, join and get stuck into online communities related to your niche (if that’s your thing), and consider guest posting on other blogs to increase your visibility.

10. Engage with Your Audience:

WordPress is a cool blogging platform and has an easy comments section, so… respond to comments, encourage discussion, and use reader feedback to inform future blog content. Building a community around your blog can be super important for long-term success.

11. Analyze and Adjust:

Use tools like Google Search Console and Analytics to get search traffic and track your blog’s performance. Pay attention to which posts your audience loves and adjust your strategy accordingly.

12. Consider Monetization:

Once you’ve built a steady readership, look at how to make money without being a burk.

Remember, building a successful blog takes time….

It’s not a sprint. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Each blog’s growth is unique, so don’t be discouraged if your path looks different from others.

Stay focused on creating value for your readers, and success will follow.

Do it…

Ciaran

Untitled design 7

PS: I’m excited for you… keep me updated with how you get along, and let’s have some real fun with this.

Blogging FAQ

Still need some extra info about blogging? Below are the most common questions I get about starting a new blog.  If you can’t find an answer to your question here, please do contact me via my contact page, or leave a comment below.

What makes a successful blog?

A successful blog is all about consistently delivering valuable, engaging content that really connects with your audience. It’s about finding your unique voice and staying true to it. You want to have a clear focus that tells people exactly what your blog is about, and a design that’s easy on the eyes. Successful bloggers know that it’s not just about writing great posts — they keep their sites updated, make sure their content is optimized for search engines, and most importantly, they actively engage with their readers.

What do you need to start a blog?

Starting a blog might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what you’ll need to get started: First, you need a niche or topic — something you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in. This is what your blog will focus on, and it helps you connect with the right audience. Next, you need a blogging platform, like WordPress.

How do I find a profitable niche for my blog?

Finding a profitable niche can feel like a big challenge, but it’s easier when you start with what you already love and know. Begin by thinking about your passions and areas of expertise. What topics excite you? What could you write about for hours without getting bored? Once you have some ideas, it’s time to do a bit of research. Use tools like Google Trends or keyword research tools to see if people are searching for information on your topics.

How do I name my blog?

Naming your blog is a fun but important step. Your blog’s name should reflect your niche and be memorable. Keep it simple and easy to spell, so people can remember it and find you easily. Make sure the name is unique — do a quick search to see if it’s already in use. You also want it to be future-proof, so pick something that will still fit if your blog grows or changes direction.

What do you do if your domain name is taken?

If your preferred domain name is already taken, don’t worry — you still have options: Try a Different Extension: Instead of .com, consider .net or .org. These can work just as well. Add a Prefix or Suffix: Add words like “the,” “my,” or “blog” to your original idea to make it unique. Use a Phrase: Consider turning your blog name into a short, catchy phrase.

Where is the best place to create a blog?

The best place to create a blog depends on your needs, skills, and goals: WordPress.org: Ideal if you want full control and plan to grow or monetize your blog. It offers tons of customization but requires your own hosting. Wix or Squarespace: Great for beginners.

How much does it cost to start a blog?

The cost of starting a blog can vary, but here’s a rough breakdown: Domain Name: Around $10-$20 per year. Web Hosting: Between $3-$30 per month. Optional Extras: Premium themes ($0-$200), plugins ($0-$200 per year), and email marketing services ($0-$30 per month). At a bare minimum, you could start a blog for as little as $50-$100 per year if you stick to basic domain and hosting costs.

Do bloggers make money?

Yes, bloggers can make money — sometimes even a full-time income. But not everyone makes money right away, and it often takes time to build up to a significant amount. Bloggers earn through different methods like ads, affiliate marketing, a sponsored blog post, selling digital or physical products, offering services, and even memberships.

How do bloggers get paid?

Bloggers get paid in different ways, depending on their monetization methods: Ads: Ad networks like Google AdSense pay through direct deposit or check. Affiliate Marketing: Payments are usually made via PayPal or bank transfer when sales are made through affiliate links. Sponsored Content: Brands typically pay through bank transfer or PayPal for a sponsored blog post or promotion. Digital Products: Payments for products like eBooks or courses are often processed through platforms like PayPal, Stripe, or Gumroad.

Should I start my blog on WordPress?

Starting your blog on WordPress is often a fantastic choice, especially if you’re serious about blogging. WordPress offers unmatched flexibility and customization. It’s scalable, which means it can grow with you — from a simple blog to a complex, high-traffic website. WordPress is also SEO-friendly, giving you a solid foundation to get found in search engines. Plus, it has a massive community, which means plenty of resources, plugins, and themes are available to help you personalize your site.

How often should I blog?

Well, that really depends on a few things—like your goals, niche, audience, and the time you’ve got to create content. Posting often can help your blog grow faster, but quality is definitely more important than quantity.

Why do blogs fail?

There are a bunch of reasons. A big one is inconsistency—if you don’t post regularly, readers lose interest. Poor content quality is another killer; people won’t stick around if they’re not getting value. Not having a clear niche can confuse your audience, and even a great blog post won’t get far if you’re not promoting them enough.