So you're thinking about starting a blog and I'm here to help you get started. If you're looking to share your passions, experiences, or expertise with the world, then a blog is a great platform to do just that. Whether you're starting a blog for fun or looking to turn it into a side business, the time to start is now. Let's jump right into it and see the five easy steps to get your blog up and running. Here's how to start a blog in 2024.
Step 1: Choose a Blog Name:
The first step in starting a blog is choosing a name. Get creative and use something that inspires you, whether it's a catchy phrase or a name that reflects what your blog will be about. To make sure the name you want is available, use a domain search tool from your web host. I personally use Wix, which is user-friendly and beginner-friendly. The blog name will likely also be your domain name, which is the address that internet users will use to find your website. When thinking of a blog name, you should also think of branding your blog.
Step 2: Get your Blog Online - Find a Web Hosting Platform:
Next, you need to find a web hosting platform to get your blog online. I use Wix, and I was impressed with how easy it was to use. You can purchase your domain and publish your website and first blog post on the same day. There are other web hosting platforms out there, but I found Wix to be a great fit for me.
Step 3: Create and Customize Your Website:
Now it's time to create and customize your website. I recommend watching a YouTube tutorial on how to create your first website using Wix templates. To make your website look professional and introduce visitors to who you are and your content, you'll want to create several static pages. This includes an About Me page, a Contact Me page, a Disclaimer page, a Privacy Policy page, and a Terms of Service page.
You want to create several static pages which will introduce your visitors to who you are and your content. Ideally, you want to include the following pages:
An About Me Page: The about me page is basically your mission statement. On this page, your share with the world who you are and why you do what you do. Perhaps your blog is about reviewing the best taco joints across the U.S. You may want to write about how you discovered this hobby on a trip to San Francisco, CA. You get the gist.
Contact Me Page: Your contact me page is where visitors can reach you or contact you. I suggest getting a free google email address. You can also purchase a professional address with your domain name directly from Wix. (Not sponsored by Wix)
Disclaimer Page: If you monetize your blog, such as using Google Adsense, you must include a disclaimer page that describes how you intend to generate income. Likewise, if you are discussing or endorsing a product and are making a profit via an affiliate link or sponsorship, this relationship must be disclosed. For example, I put in a disclaimer that this post is not sponsored by Wix just to make things clear. I just really happen to like Wix.
Privacy Policy: I include a privacy policy page on my Website since I use Google Adsense. This page is required by the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) and the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). I basically used an example from the Wix Help Center and created my own privacy policy.
Terms of Service: If you plan to create an online store or sell your services, it is highly encouraged that you include the terms of service. Again, I adapted my terms of service from an example I found on the Wix help center
If you don't want the hassle of having to create these important legal pages, like a Disclosure/Disclaimer Page, Privacy Policy, and Terms and Conditions, please find a link to my Blog legal pages and Policies Template Bundle. In the Bundle you'll get a bonus template for your Copyright Notice.
Step 4: Write Your First Post:
The fourth step is writing your first post. I recommend using a tool like Grammarly to make sure your writing is easy to read and engaging. Writing your first post can be scary, but remember to just start. The goal is to get the ball rolling.
Step 5: Publish:
Finally, it's time to publish your first post. Share the link with your friends and family and then share it on your social media pages when you feel bolder. If you don't want to link your blog to your personal social media accounts, create new accounts just for your shiny new blog.
Conclusion:
And that's it! These are the five easy steps to start your own blog. I hope you find this video helpful, and I'm rooting for you. Good luck!
XOXO,
Viv
Comments