Have you ever thought, “I really ought to write a blog post about that”?
No? I didn’t think so! But hang on a minute.
If you’ve ever thought: “I’ve got something to say about this”, then a blog could be just the thing. And while social media services like Facebook and Twitter have generated a lot of noise in recent years, there are many good reasons why an independent, well-cared-for blog, with its own domain name, can be a valuable property.
If you’re toying with the idea of setting up a blog of your own, here are 10 great reasons to get started.
1. It’s a great new challenge
Looking for a way to stretch yourself? Blogging fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to create a blog, but the challenge lies in keeping it going beyond that momentous first post. It takes planning and dedication to post regularly and build a successful blog, you’ll grow as a writer (or in whatever medium you use), and you’ll develop your web skills in the process.
2. Showcase your creative skills
The beauty of blogging is its limitless opportunities for creativity. You can be who you want to be, write about anything you like, and publish a post whenever the inspiration strikes. And blogs don’t just have to mean writing! Use yours to share your creativity no matter what form it takes — artwork, photography, video, music clips. The only limit is you.
3. Make new friends
Blogging might look like a solitary pursuit, one person behind a computer. But no matter what you blog about, there’s a community of bloggers and readers out there, and you’ll soon be in touch with like-minded people who share your interests (and there are lots of opportunities for making new friends in-real-life at blogger meet-ups and brand events). You might also choose to interview people on your blog, which gives you another way of making connections via your new hobby.
4. Boost your career prospects
Blogging about your chosen career can be an effective way to improve your job prospects, helping you stand out from the crowd by showing potential employers that you’re passionate about what you do. Even if you choose to blog about something that isn’t career-related, the fact that you dedicate the time and energy to a blog shows off how motivated and proactive you are. Not only that, but the skills you will pick up as you write and promote blog posts will broaden your opportunities. A quick look through any job search site reveals how many employers are looking for people who understand things like search engine optimisation, or social media marketing.
5. Tell your own story
Many people blog to tell the world about their story — their experiences, their journeys, their lives. There are therapeutic benefits to this, particularly for those who write about things like illness or adversity. If you write this kind of blog, you might also find satisfaction in inspiring others, or by using their blog to help raise money for relevant causes.
6. Make money
Did you know that you can make money from blogging? Whether it is through banner advertising, affiliate links, or sponsored posts, blogging can provide pocket money. For a lucky few, blogging even has the potential to provide a full-time income.
7. Raise your profile
You never know what kind of opportunities will come your way once you get your name known! Look at people like Perez Hilton or Ree Drummond, who have made names for themselves through blogging and translated that into television shows and book deals. Raising your profile also exposes you to brands who might want you to review their products, employers looking for their next hire, or even a publisher who sees potential in you.
8. Position yourself as an expert
Blogging is also a great way of demonstrating your expertise in a particular subject. Your posts can be as long as you like, so you have plenty of room to express yourself. By blogging regularly on a subject you are passionate about — baking, sports, climate change, whatever! – you can become a go-to expert on your field, helping further your personal and professional goals.
9. Learn new skills
There’s no doubt about it: blogging regularly, for an audience, will teach you new skills. You might improve your writing, explore photography for the first time, learn some basic coding, or develop expertise in social media.
10. It’s easier than you think to get started
Setting up a blog is easier than you might think: you could be up and running within minutes doing nothing more complicated than clicking a few buttons. Today’s blogging platforms let you choose from thousands of layouts and design, and make writing posts and uploading photos quick and easy.
At Blacknight we’ve got a great deal to get you started! Buy a 12-month hosting plan for only €49.95*, and you can register a .BLOG domain name for only €1**!
Easily install WordPress software for free and you’re up and running with the world’s most popular publishing platform.
Or if you prefer something less technical, choose a BaseKit siteBuilder subscription and claim the €1 .BLOG deal with that instead.
Got questions? Call our sales team in Carlow and we’ll be happy to help!
Blogging is a rewarding hobby that can bring many opportunities — if you’re dedicated enough to keep publishing. You might be surprised at the unexpected benefits it brings you. So what are you waiting for?
* All prices are exclusive of VAT
** Offer price applies to the first year of a new .BLOG domain name. Renew at the normal price of €24.99.
About the Author: Conn Ó Muíneacháin
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