A blog is something that has certainly changed over the last few years, and what might have been a hobby has fast become a full-time business for many.
In this digital age that we live in, there are so many opportunities available online that we not available before.
Here are some tips to turn your blog into a business.
Table of Contents
Post Content Consistently
Content is obviously important because the reason blogs turn into the business is because the information on the blog is relevant and engaging for the readers. When you’re trying to build your blog into a business, it’s important that you’re posting content consistently.
You want to focus on the quality of the content and making sure that what you post is relevant to your readers.
If you’re writing about fly fishing on a fashion-based blog, then chances are your readers aren’t going to be interested, even if the purpose of the post was due to a paid collaboration with a brand.
It’s important to always come back to your readers and what they enjoy.
They will also get used to hopping onto your blog at certain times to check for new content so it’s worth trying to post up at the same time and on the same days you’ve planned the content to go live.
Consider Improving Your Skills With Education
Education is something that you certainly want to build on where possible. If you are starting a blog and you don’t have any writing qualifications, then it’s worth exploring the different courses and workshops that are out there in order to help you build on those skills.
Not only that but you can learn a lot from watching YouTube videos from bloggers who have turned their blogs into a business. They may even offer courses for you to improve your skills.
Like with any career you go into, it’s always worth improving your skills where possible.
Pitch Yourself To Turn Your Blog Into A Business
Remember that when you’re starting a business, that business doesn’t just immediately land in your lap. You have to be willing to go out and work hard for it.
That means you’re going to have to pitch yourself in order to really thrive in the blogging industry.
There are lots of bloggers out there and if you’re not doing your bit to look for the work, then you’re not going to get any.
Look at online resources on how to pitch yourself as a blogger and hopefully the work should come in eventually.
Build An Engaged & Loyal Following
Building an engaged and loyal following is important as a blogger because the more people that read your blog, the more enticing it becomes for brands to want to work with you.
Communicate more often with your following where possible and find ways to create a community within your blog and social media feeds.
Turning your blog into a business isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible. Use these tips to get the most out of the opportunities you have.
You’ll certainly stand a good chance of making your blog a success.
Start With An Email List To Turn Your Blog Into A Business
Starting a blog is just the first step. To turn it into a business, build an email list. Your email list is your best asset for making money.
Offer a freebie, like an eBook or a checklist, to get people to sign up. Once you have their emails, send them valuable content regularly. This keeps them engaged and builds trust.
Promote your products or services through these emails. Offer special deals and exclusive content to your subscribers. Use email to announce new blog posts, too.
Over time, this list will be the main way you make sales and grow your business.
My Story – Turning a Blog Into a Business
Writing a blog didn’t start out as a business idea. It was a way for me to help other people when I ran an online retail business.
It took years before I realized I could turn my blog into a business with services I began providing to others part-time while I worked full time in the newspaper industry.
Looking back, of course, I wish I had started the full-time journey sooner. But it can be scary leaving a weekly or monthly paycheck with health benefits.
You have to take the leap and once you do, you may not look back.
You must be willing to change quickly your vision, services, and your habits to survive today. I’ve constantly learned new things along the way almost daily.
I am always thinking of other ways to grow the business as one area may fold and others emerge. Nothing is forever in life or in business.
Others Who Have Turned Their Blogs Into Businesses
Others told me this like Ryan Biddulph and Donna Merrill. They have been blogging as a business for several years prior to me. And then there is Cattis Friberg who blogs with a business.
Now, I see many more like Dana Gore, Morris Grand and Sue-Ann Bubacz who left their jobs or other businesses and now offer services from their blogs.
These are the folks that have inspired me to turn Inspire To Thrive into a full-time business after blogging here for 12+ years.
Conclusion: How To Turn Your Blog Into A Business
Turning your blog into a business is all about focus and consistency. Identify your niche and stick with it. Regularly create valuable content that addresses your audience’s needs and interests.
Stay committed, and success will follow.
Maximizing your blog’s earning potential requires a strategic approach. Utilize multiple revenue streams like affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and product sales.
This diversified approach ensures a steadier income and reduces reliance on one source.
Building a successful blog business often means leveraging relationships. Network with influencers and brands in your niche.
Collaborate on projects, guest posts, and social media campaigns to expand your reach and audience base.
The digital landscape is always changing. Stay ahead by continuously learning and adapting like using AI.
Invest in courses, attend webinars, and stay updated with industry trends. This proactive approach helps you stay relevant and competitive.
Your Turn on Blogging into Business
Have you been able to turn your blog into a business? I’d love to hear your story.
I’d love to know more in the comments below if you are looking to turn your blog into a business in the coming year ahead.
FAQ: How to Turn Your Blog Into a Business
How do I start making money from my blog?
Start with affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and ads. As traffic grows, consider selling products or services.
What kind of content should I focus on?
Create valuable, engaging, and consistent content. Focus on your niche and solve problems for your audience.
How do I attract more visitors to my blog?
Use SEO strategies, social media promotion, and guest blogging. Engage with your audience and build a community.
Do I need to invest money to grow my blog?
Yes, at some point. You might need to pay for hosting, marketing tools, or professional services like design or SEO.
How can I build an email list?
Offer valuable freebies or incentives for signing up. Use pop-ups, forms, and call-to-actions on your site.
Should I use social media to promote my blog?
Absolutely. Pick platforms where your audience hangs out and share your posts, engage with followers, and join relevant groups.
How do I find the right niche for my blog?
Choose a niche you’re passionate about and has an audience willing to pay for solutions. Research competitors to find gaps.
Can I turn my blog into a full-time job?
With dedication and the right strategies, yes. It takes time, effort, and a clear business plan.
What’s the best way to monetize a blog with low traffic?
Focus on high-value strategies like selling digital products or offering services. Build relationships with a smaller, dedicated audience.
How often should I publish new content?
Quality matters more than quantity. Aim for at least one well-researched post per week.
What tools can help me manage my blog?
Use tools for SEO, email marketing, analytics, and social media scheduling. Popular ones include WordPress, Mailchimp, and Google Analytics.
How do I measure my blog’s success?
Track metrics like traffic, engagement, and conversion rates. Adjust your strategies based on what works and what doesn’t.
Is it better to have a personal brand or a separate blog brand?
Depends on your goals. A personal brand builds a direct connection, while a separate brand can be sold or expanded easily.
She has 30+ years of experience in marketing/advertising with 12 years of experience in content marketing, social media, blogging, and SEO.
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Lisa, thank you so much for mentioning me in this blog post! I’m quite honored that I’ve been able to inspire you on your blogging business mission, in fact I look up to bloggers like you and Ryan Biddulph. When I transitioned from blogging to online business, the key shift for me was less focus on generating traffic and more focus on connecting 1on1. It doesn’t matter if I have 1,000 readers but none of them want to connect with me 1on1. That’s probably my biggest take-away looking back.
You are most welcome Morris. That’s an excellent point Morris, it’s about targeted followers and that one person who is ready to become an avid reader, a client or purchase something from your blog website. Thanks for the comment and make it a great day Morris.
Hi Lisa,
I have started my blog just a month back.
I am not a writer and I am facing a problem in writing.
Can you guide me to any course where I can learn writing skills?
Thanks
Dipanjan Biswas
Hi Dipanjan, the Write Life is offering one right now! I keep getting emails from them as I am a subscriber to their blog. Good luck! It does take time and practice!
No wonder you talk about “Content” in the first place. I strongly agree that relevant, educating and interesting content plays a major role in turning a blog into serious business eventually. Content has been the major weapon to attract SEOs and audience, and eventually turn them into long-run fans.
You’ve mentioned a great point that how a irrelevant-paid-collaborated-content can hurt a blog in a way, I had experienced that back in 2017.
Overall, good to know some of your blogging experiences. Take care there, Lisa.
Lisa: I will develop my thoughts on this topic more in the future. I see an opportunity and challenge for the regular small business owner. I see many bloggers that writes about meta topics that is a certain kind of business. I will tell you more about this issue in a private conversation. I see so many “copy cats” out there. It is starting to become an “echo chamber”..
Best Premises,
Martin
Thanks, Martin, you have my email address. I will appreciate your thoughts on it. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Hey Lisa Mam ,
Excellent post as usual. You have introduced effective, working and rapid-fire tips to transform the blog into a business. Your tips are superb and i completely agree with your every mentioned tips. Every time your comes up with fascinating ideas that are truly engaging & helpful in every aspect and every time i get new ideas while scrolling through your post.
As we know that content is a king and plays a vital role in business field, hence it is really important to post content on regular basis. It is also vital to focus on quality of content instead of quantity and it is also important to maintain relevancy. We must post content according to readers expectation and that are truly relevant to readers. It is also necessary to focus on improving the skills along with education. Pitch ourself and Building an engaged & loyal following are also good tips. Adopting and implementing your included tips will be a great helping hand.
As we know that success can’t happened overnight, afterall every thing need some hard-works, patience and constant practices.
Eventually thanks for sharing your knowledge, ideas and such a fantastic post.
Thank you Aadarsh. Yes, that’s the biggest thing I try to tell newbies is that it takes years to build up a blog and/or business. It does not happen overnight. It takes a lot of time and/or some money. You have to invest in yourself and your business. Patience is a must too! Thanks for coming by and for your thoughts on this one. Have a great weekend!
Hi Lisa,
You are just great in expressing your thoughts. I have read each and every tips and tricks on your blogs, not just this one but other blogs as well. I think interacting with your customers helps in growing your business a lot. Thank you for all the useful information.
Hi Roman, welcome to Inspire To Thrive. Thank you. Yes, one must keep on interacting with customers and not just send invoices out monthly for services or products. Repeat business is much easier to keep than obtaining new business. Thanks for coming by and have a great weekend!
Hey Lisa,
Awesome post, and thanks so much for the shoutout.
Gosh, it took me a while to find my groove, but I’m glad I gave it whatever time was necessary. I’ve been blogging for years and I don’t always create new content, but I do love what I do and I’m so glad I’ve met people like you along the way.
It can be a long journey and it sure has its ups and downs, but it’s worth it to do your own thing and live your truth.
Hi Dana, thanks. You are most welcome, you have inspired me to do more with my courses online. Yes, I’ve loved meeting others like you along the way. It’s nice how we can all help each other out too. I agree, it may take time but is well worth it. Thanks for coming by and have a nice weekend Dana!
There are so many paths we can take once we begin to demonstrate our knowledge, expertise and point of view with a blog. It’s a powerful tool that can put us in touch with the right people who can become colleagues and/or clients.
Thanks for the post Lisa.
Hi Ileane, thanks for coming by here! Yes, you make some great points here. That is after all, how we met almost a decade ago now. I appreciate your time coming by as I know how busy you are! Have a great day and a long weekend ahead!
Hello Mam,
Your article is very insightful.
I have started my blog just a few days back and I am trying to start a full-fledged digital marketing business through my blog.
I am just facing one problem and that is I can’t able to decide my target audience.
Can you guide me on how I will find my target audience?
Thanks
Dipanjan Biswas
Hi Dispanjan, I almost put your comment into spam, a gravatar would be very helpful for you! I saw your blog and knew you were real. So who do you want to help? Who has been reading your new blog or on social media networks? I began mine when people asked how I used Twitter to make sales for an e-commerce website 10 years ago. Thanks for coming by and welcome to Inspire To Thrive!
I am trying to rectify the gravatar issue mam.
Did you go into Gravatar.com ? You should be able to add your photo there.
A blog also helps enhance one’s business and can actually draw business. That’s what you’ve done with this blog, and it’s what I’ve done with my business blog. I’ve gotten speaking engagements and sold a book or two because of the articles I write matching up with the business I do. It’s been a fairly solid 15 1/2 years; I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Thanks for the mention!
Hi Mitch, Excellent point! It is similar to a resume – we can showcase what we do on our blogs. I’ve received business directly and indirectly from the blog over the years as well. I can’t believe how long you have been at it Mitch, that’s awesome. You are most welcome. Have a wonderful Wednesday.
We live in such a blessed time Lisa. Anyone can turn their blog into a business if you stick to the basics generously, genuinely and persistently. Everything I do is quite simple but it gets uncomfortable and flat out scary sometimes. I see the journey through because I love being free to circle the globe….and I also love getting kind mentions from bloggers like you. Spot on post!
Hi Ryan, Yes, you are right. Anyone can do it but they must STICK to the basics. I’ve seen too many come and go and give up before they hit success. It’s not easy of course and scary at times for sure. Thanks for coming by and have a great rest of the week Ryan at your new digs!