You’ve started a blog. Now, what? Well, you’re in luck. This article is written just for you. Here are my five tips to help you be a better blogger.

1. Decide who you’re writing for.

For most people, there’s a big difference between when they’re writing an e-mail to a friend and when they’re writing one to their boss. Who exactly is going to be reading your blog? Is it people your own age or older? Is it for a local, global or national audience? What is interesting to them? Answering these questions will help you determine your target audience and help find your writing style.

2. Post regularly.

It’s so frustrating when a blogger says “coming next week” and three weeks roll by between posts. If you don’t take your blog seriously, why should your audience? Posting blogs on a regular basis not only helps you establish a following and it gets your audience in the habit of visiting your site, but it’s good for Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

3. Write constantly.

If you feel inspired, write it down or make a note of it in your smart phone. Don’t let a good idea slip through your fingers. There is nothing worse than staring a blank document with a deadline looming. So, if you’ve knocked out one blog and you have the idea for another, keep writing. There’s no rule that says you have to publish it immediately. Save it for a rainy day or for when writer’s block hits.

4. A pictures is worth 1,000 words.

Pictures help bring your blogs to life by illustrating what you’re writing about. They add another level of complexity. Just don’t rely too heavily on them. They’re supposed to enhance what is already there. Your writing should be able to stand on its own. People are smart and know when you’re just adding fluff. If your using pictures that you didn’t create, credit or link back to the original source.

5. Be social.

Promote your blog by commenting on other authors’ blogs. They appreciate comments as much as you do. Be insightful or contribute to the conversation. Nobody likes a spammer. Plus, the author of that blog or one of their readers may just become your next reader. When you update, get the word out. Let your friends on social media know with a Facebook post, a Twitter tweet, or a Pinterest pin.

That’s it. Now, you know how to be a better blogger!

Think I missed something? Do you have a tip you want to share? Leave your response in the comments section.

About the Author: 

Jonathan works as a social media manager, an experienced ghost blogger and is a new import to Dallas. He is also an independently verified Super-Nerd, having been fascinated by things that BEEP since early childhood. He enjoys writing biographic blurbs in the third-person, watching the Home & Garden Channel, going to comic conventions, and playing Uno competitively. Jonathan holds an undergraduate degree from the University of North Texas. Connect with him on Twitter, @JonathanJoyner.