How To Start Blogging

Photo from Wix. A blog on a laptop.

Starting a blog is a wonderful way to build a portfolio of work. This portfolio can be used to share with publishers, potential clients, magazines, and job applications - it's a pretty versatile way to get your work out there.

My favourite part of blogging is the writing community you come across, and the wonderful people you get to interact with and read the stories of.

Not only that, it's a lot of fun.

So how do you start?

1) Pick a platform.

There are many different platforms to choose from. My favourites are Medium.com and my personal website livvyskeltonprice.com. You can try Medium and your own website but you might also prefer a different platform I don't know about. Choose wisely as you want a platform that is reputable, will bring an audience, and one where you have control over your own work.

2) Get Writing.

There's no better place to start than to get those words on the page. Write short stories, poems, slice-of-life articles, or how-to guides. Whatever it is, get it on the page. When you're just starting out, quantity over quality, in my opinion. Learn how the platform works and get your work out there. Once you've wrapped your head around what's what, you can start sharing your best work. Let me know if this way works for you or if you prefer starting out a different way.

3) Join publications.

If you're writing on Medium.com there are things called 'publications.' They are like online magazines within the platform. They have their own audience and their own genre of writing. You can find publications about travel, tech, humour, all sorts! There are specific ones for new writers on the platform as well. These are great for when you're just starting out, as the editors are there to help you and guide you to format your story up to the Medium standards. Find the publications that suit your writing style and interests.

4) Bask in the community.

Don't just sit back and hope people find you. Get reading! There are some amazing writers out there blogging to their hearts' content, and you won't find them if you don't look. Search the internet, search your chosen platform and get reading. Comment on their blogs and tell them what you like most about their article - you never know, they might do the same for you. Through reading, you'll learn what the standards are for blogs and blog posts. You'll come across all types of writing and genres, and you'll be able to find writers who align with your interests and writing style - connect with those people and see if you can make an online blogging friend! It'll benefit both of you.

5) Show off.

I know, we writers hate this part. I'm here to tell you that you don't have to verbally tell anyone you're writing a blog. But tell other bloggers when you comment on their post. Don't write "I'm a blogger too." But you could say something like "I love your writing style, it's similar to my blog!" You let them know you also have a blog and understand the work they're doing without being a pushy salesperson.

If you're brave enough to tell people in person or upload it to social media - go for it!

What are you most excited about when it comes to blogging?

I've always loved connecting with other writers and readers. The community is my favourite part and the part I was most excited about when I first started. out.

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