Running a blog has been one of the most rewarding experiences ever.
When I began blogging back in 2018 I did it simply because I love to write. If you know anything about me, you’d know that this has been my passion since I was a young child. That’s the beauty of the whole thing! I’m truly living out my dream one day at a time.
Today the blogging industry is booming and it’s great to see all the new niche’s being created by writers wanting to express themselves. There’s seriously a blog for everything.
You can find blogs about DIY’s, cars, travel, lifestyle, fashion, sports, you name it! You’ll even find blogs that teach other bloggers how to blog. The categories CamilleLove falls into are lifestyle, travel, and blog coaching, otherwise known as teaching other bloggers how to blog.
Finding my niche did not happen overnight. Believe it or not, I recently found what fits me 3-years later. I bet you’re wondering how I got to this point and what took me so long to reach it. So, let’s talk about it. Storytime!
Why my blog lacked authenticity
As a beginner blogger, it can be challenging figuring out where you fit in this field of amazingly creative individuals. I struggled with doubt, confusion, and not believing in myself as a writer early on.
Although I did start my blog for fun, I didn’t notice it then, but I was basing my content off what I saw others doing. Instead of what I wanted to blog about.
That was my first mistake.
Blogging to reflect what I saw in front of me instead of looking within for my inspiration.
Now, i’m not saying finding what other bloggers do as inspirational is a bad thing. Because it’s not! I actually have a lot of blogs I read from time to time that i’ve been able to take bits and pieces of inspiration from. However, the trouble starts when you think that just because someone else is doing something you need to do it too. That’s not how it works. You have to remember that your blog, your vision, your talent is completely different than the next person’s, so it’s important to always show up as your authentic self.
That was hard for me to grasp for many years, hence why it took me 3-years or so to find my niche.
I don’t want the same to happen to you. Be mindful of the thoughts you let into your head when it comes to blogging. Especially as a beginner you’re being exposed to so much at once. It’s like a child learning to do something for the first time. They’re so impressionable at a young age and latch onto things and adapt to people that bring them comfort. I like to use that same analogy for beginner bloggers. It’s easy to get attached to ideas and people. That’s why having an idea of the vision you want for yourself is imperative.
That brings me to my second mistake.
My vision for my blog was not as clear as it could have been.
Clarity is KEY even after the beginning stages. Even if you’re blogging for fun and don’t have any intention of turning your blog into a profitable business, having a vision will take you so far. As I said, I began blogging for fun, although that has changed now. I’ll get into that in a later post! But, even when I was blogging for fun I lacked creative direction. As I’ve become more intertwined with the industry my vision has become much clearer. So, if you don’t have a vision take time to brainstorm and write some ideas out.
How to bring authenticity to your blog
Now enough about me. Let’s talk about you! Yes, you.
If you’re reading this is likely you’re a beginner blogger looking for direction on where to go next. I wish I could have had someone share these tips with me as I was starting out. But, I was on the struggle boat for this very moment. To help you out and make sure you don’t make the same mistakes as me!
These tips are what helped me bring authenticity to my blog and transform my content to be relatable to the audience I want to appeal to. Let’s get into it.
1. Be your authenic self
Remember how I said earlier that we all have a uniqueness that we bring to the blogging industry? Well, I need you to tap into that.
Think about what makes you special, even the little things. Are you an older sibling, like I am? Are you an avid reader? Do you love to crochet and drink green tea while doing it? I guarantee from those three things there are thousands of people out there that would appreciate that content.
Showing your readers what makes you unique will only make your bond with them stronger.
2. Show the good and the bad on your blog
This one is easier said than done.
Being vulnerable can be scary, but it’s necessary. You want your readers to trust you and the only way they can do that is if you open up. Of course, only share what you are comfortable sharing. Don’t feel obligated to share your deepest darkest secret, but if you had a tough day and turned it into a positive one, share that. Everyone has bad days and everyone makes mistakes. Highlighting those from time to time will only show that you are human.
3. Identify your audience and appeal to them
Your audience will become the community that supports and uplifts you. Do you know who they are?
Knowing your audience early on will help you as you’re furthering your creative vision for your blog. Understanding that your content is not for everyone is one of the best things you can do. The people you want to appeal to will appreciate what you have to offer. Those that don’t just aren’t your audience, and that’s okay!
I’d like to note that your audience may change over time as things change in your life. So, go with the flow and know that your audience will as well.
4. Let your blog readers in
I understand this tip may look different for various bloggers. For example, if you blog about sports or tech you may not speak about yourself as often as a lifestyle blogger like myself would.
But, to all my lifestyle bloggers out there let your readers meet you again, and again, and again. The great thing is you’re always going to have new readers on your blog. Some people may stick around for the long haul, and others may just be there for a season. So it’s important, to be honest, and open about who you are at every stage of life.
This again is what makes you relatable to your intended audience. How you do this is totally up to you. But promise me you’ll keep it in mind!
5. Implement social media.
A good post on social media goes a long way. It also gives your readers an inside look at your life.
Social media presence can get your blog out to those with who you otherwise would have never crossed paths. It’s also a great way to have thought-provoking conversations with your readers and build connections for networking. Which is always a great thing!
If you aren’t on social media and promoting your blog often, start now! Let’s do this.
Comment your blog’s Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter handle below, and let’s follow each other. Time to get those follower counts up!
I currently only have a Twitter for my blog. My handle is @CamilleLoveBlog – I promise i’ll follow you back!
I hope this post was helpful for you. If you’re a beginner blogger welcome to the community. If you find you have any questions comment below or shoot me a DM on Twitter.
Can’t wait to see the things you do with your blog!
See you later!
