{"id":11916,"date":"2024-12-19T15:46:23","date_gmt":"2024-12-19T15:46:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/"},"modified":"2024-12-19T15:46:23","modified_gmt":"2024-12-19T15:46:23","slug":"how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Start a Blog: A Step-by-Step 12-Month Action Plan"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Blogging can be a fun pastime\u2014or it can be a profitable side hustle.<\/p>\n<p>For some, it can even turn into a lucrative, full-time job.<\/p>\n<p>So, what separates the hobbyists from the high-earners?<\/p>\n<p>An action plan.<\/p>\n<p>Below, I\u2019ll teach you how to start a blog that attracts and converts visitors.<\/p>\n<p>Including a month-by-month timeline of exactly what to do and when to do it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Blog Phases\" alt=\"Blog Phases\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/blog-phase.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>With actionable steps for each phase, you\u2019ll learn how to go from initial planning to a thriving business in 12 months.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, you\u2019ll see how other bloggers successfully used this system to build steady blog traffic and revenue. Like Kayla, who used this framework to grow her food blog from zero to 90K monthly visitors in a few years.<\/p>\n<p>Ready to build your blog the right way?<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s start with how to validate your blog concept.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>Download our <a title=\"12-Month Blog Launch Checklist\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1IuodECdU2MSxO_nUCIqP_rlUbw4IHFQLbLo44Y-raB8\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">12-Month Blog Launch Checklist<\/a> to follow along. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Phase_1_Plan_Your_Blog_Month_1\" >Phase #1: Plan Your Blog (Month 1)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Define_Your_Goals\" >Define Your Goals<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Purpose_Goals\" >Purpose Goals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Income_Goals\" >Income Goals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Growth_Goals\" >Growth Goals<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Research_Your_Niche\" >Research Your Niche<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Validate_Your_Idea\" >Validate Your Idea<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Search_Volume\" >Search Volume<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Keyword_Difficulty_KD\" >Keyword Difficulty (KD)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Assess_the_Competition\" >Assess the Competition<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Phase_2_Build_Your_Blog_Month_2\" >Phase #2: Build Your Blog (Month 2)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Select_Your_Domain_and_Hosting\" >Select Your Domain and Hosting<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Hosted_vs_Self-Hosted_Platforms\" >Hosted vs. Self-Hosted Platforms<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Design_Your_Blog\" >Design Your Blog<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Choose_a_Clean_Theme\" >Choose a Clean Theme<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Focus_on_Readability\" >Focus on Readability<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Optimize_for_Speed\" >Optimize for Speed<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Phase_3_Launch_Your_Blog_Month_3\" >Phase #3: Launch Your Blog (Month 3)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Research_Topics\" >Research Topics<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Conduct_Keyword_Research\" >Conduct Keyword Research<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Optimize_Your_Content\" >Optimize Your Content<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#H1\" >H1<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Subheads\" >Subheads<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Title_Tag_and_Meta_Description\" >Title Tag and Meta Description<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#URL\" >URL<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Focus_on_Quality\" >Focus on Quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Create_Internal_Pages\" >Create Internal Pages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Create_a_Lead_Magnet\" >Create a Lead Magnet<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Set_Up_Blog_Analytics\" >Set Up Blog Analytics<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Google_Analytics_GA4\" >Google Analytics (GA4)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Google_Search_Console_GSC\" >Google Search Console (GSC)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Phase_4_Grow_Your_Blog_Months_4%E2%80%9312\" >Phase #4: Grow Your Blog (Months 4\u201312)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Establish_Your_Publishing_Cadence\" >Establish Your Publishing Cadence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Create_a_Simple_Distribution_Process\" >Create a Simple Distribution Process<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Email_Marketing\" >Email Marketing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Social_Media\" >Social Media<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Relationship_Building\" >Relationship Building<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Paid_Ads\" >Paid Ads<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Review_Analytics_for_Year_Two\" >Review Analytics for Year Two<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Assess_Your_Top_Content\" >Assess Your Top Content<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Evaluate_Traffic_Sources\" >Evaluate Traffic Sources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Consider_Advanced_Analytics_Tools\" >Consider Advanced Analytics Tools<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Bonus_3_Blogs_That_Thrived_in_Their_First_Two_Years\" >Bonus: 3 Blogs That Thrived in Their First Two Years<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#1_Broken_Oven_Baking\" >1. Broken Oven Baking<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#2_Drawings_Of\" >2. Drawings Of<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Key_Takeaways-2\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#3_Malena_Permentier\" >3. Malena Permentier<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Key_Takeaways-3\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/19\/how-to-start-a-blog-a-step-by-step-12-month-action-plan\/#Start_Building_a_Profitable_Blog_Today\" >Start Building a Profitable Blog Today<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phase_1_Plan_Your_Blog_Month_1\"><\/span>Phase #1: Plan Your Blog (Month 1)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Focus on research and validation in month one.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Because it will set your blog up for <strong>sustainable success<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Define_Your_Goals\"><\/span>Define Your Goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your goals determine everything about your blog.<\/p>\n<p>This includes your:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"What Is a Content Strategy?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/content-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Content strategy<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Monetization methods<\/li>\n<li>Target audience<\/li>\n<li>Publishing schedule<\/li>\n<li><a title=\"19 Effective Digital Marketing Tactics\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/marketing-tactics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marketing tactics<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>But your goals should be more specific than \u201cI want to start a blog and make money\u201d or \u201cI want to share advice on [insert topic].\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Break your goals into three parts: purpose, income, and growth.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"3 Pillars of Succesful Blog\" alt=\"3 Pillars of Succesful Blog\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/3-pillars-of-succesful-blog.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This will define your \u201cwhy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>And clarify your strategy for long-term success.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Purpose_Goals\"><\/span>Purpose Goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Core topic expertise you\u2019ll share<\/li>\n<li>Problem you\u2019ll solve for readers<\/li>\n<li>Unique angle that sets you apart<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> \u201cHelp busy parents cook healthy meals in under 30 minutes.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Our Best Bites \u2013 Meals under 30 minutes\" alt=\"Our Best Bites \u2013 Meals under 30 minutes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ourbestbites-meals-under-30-minutes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Income_Goals\"><\/span>Income Goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Primary revenue stream (affiliate, ads, products)<\/li>\n<li>Target monthly revenue ($500, $5,000)<\/li>\n<li>Timeline for reaching income goals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> \u201cGenerate $1,000 per month through <a title=\"Affiliate Marketing: Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/affiliate-marketing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">affiliate marketing<\/a> within 24 months.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> It can take three to five years to make $1K\u2013$2K monthly with your blog, according to a <a title=\"How much do bloggers REALLY earn in 2024? (Statistics fro...\" href=\"https:\/\/www.productiveblogging.com\/how-much-do-bloggers-earn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blogger survey<\/a>. While it may take you less time (or more), keep your income goals realistic and attainable.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Growth_Goals\"><\/span>Growth Goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Monthly traffic targets<\/li>\n<li>Email subscriber goals<\/li>\n<li>Content publishing schedule<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> \u201cReach 25,000 monthly pageviews and 1,000 email subscribers in 12 months.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Research_Your_Niche\"><\/span>Research Your Niche<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Ideally, the niche you choose will be one you have an interest in long-term.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe it\u2019s something you\u2019re already an expert in. Or at least have a serious desire to learn about.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s WAY easier to create quality content when you know your stuff and are passionate about the topic.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, your content will feel more authentic to your readers.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to pick the perfect niche:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>List your interests:<\/strong> Start by writing down five to 10 topics. These could be hobbies, professional skills, or areas you want to learn more about.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Assess your expertise:<\/strong> For each topic, rate your knowledge level from one to 10. You don\u2019t need to be a world-class expert. But some familiarity helps.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Check market demand:<\/strong> Use Google Trends to see if interest in your topic is growing or declining. Stick to topics with steady or increasing interest.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Trends \u2013 Debt management\" alt=\"Google Trends \u2013 Debt management\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-trends-debt-management.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Validate_Your_Idea\"><\/span>Validate Your Idea<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>How do you know if your blog idea is any good?<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s actually pretty simple:<\/p>\n<p>Use Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Keyword Overview: Discover New Ideas with Keyword Explorer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordoverview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Overview<\/a> to assess its popularity and potential.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> A free Semrush account gives you 10 searches in Keyword Overview per day. Or you can use this link to access a <a title=\"Backlinko &amp; Semrush: 14-day PRO Trial\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/backlinko-offer\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Type your topic into the search bar and click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>I used \u201cdog training\u201d for this example.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Search\" alt=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.46142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-overview-dog-training-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, take a look at two things:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Search_Volume\"><\/span>Search Volume<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This metric tells you how many people search for the specified term per month.<\/p>\n<p>For example, \u201cdog training\u201d gets over 49,500 searches per month in the U.S., which means it\u2019s a viable niche with active searchers.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Volume\" alt=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Volume\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-overview-dog-training-volume.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If your niche has less search volume, don\u2019t count it out.<\/p>\n<p>Small but engaged niches can be really lucrative.<\/p>\n<p>But if it\u2019s substantially less\u2014say 200 searches total per month\u2014consider three things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Is this niche likely to grow in popularity?<\/strong> Check Google Trends to see if interest in this term is steadily increasing to get an idea of its growth potential.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Do you plan to sign up for ad networks?<\/strong> Many ad networks have minimum monthly traffic requirements\u2014something that can be tough for small blog niches to meet. For example, <a title=\"New Mediavine Requirements\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mediavine.com\/new-mediavine-requirements\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mediavine<\/a> requires publishers to have 50,000 sessions per month before they can apply, while <a title=\"Raptive FAQs\" href=\"https:\/\/help.raptive.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360031181471-Raptive-FAQs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Raptive<\/a> requires 100,000 monthly sessions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Does the niche have revenue potential?<\/strong> Some niches with lower search volume can still be profitable if the audience is ready to spend. Consider what products, services, or digital downloads you could offer and the average cost of these items.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keyword_Difficulty_KD\"><\/span>Keyword Difficulty (KD)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Next, look at <a title=\"The FREE Keyword Difficulty Checker (+ Guide) by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/keyword-difficulty-checker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword difficulty<\/a>, a metric that tells you how hard\u2014or easy\u2014it\u2019ll be to rank for the specified term.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDog training\u201d has a \u201chard\u201d KD score, making this niche a tougher one to break into.<\/p>\n<p>Ranking highly will require optimized content and a strong <a title=\"What Are Backlinks in SEO? &amp; Why You Need Them\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/backlinks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">backlink profile<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Keyword Difficulty\" alt=\"Keyword Overview \u2013 Dog training \u2013 Keyword Difficulty\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-overview-dog-training-keyword-difficulty.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>As you review various niches, use these keyword difficulty percentages as a guide:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>0\u201329% = Perfect for new blogs<\/li>\n<li>30\u201349% = Manageable with good content<\/li>\n<li>50%+ = Requires serious <a title=\"What is SEO? Search Engine Optimization In Plain English\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/what-is-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search engine optimization (SEO)<\/a> effort and high-quality content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Strike a balance between volume and keyword difficulty to find the right niche for you.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> While these metrics give you general insight into your niche\u2019s potential, you can also check other metrics in Keyword Overview, such as cost-per-click (CPC). A higher CPC indicates stronger monetization potential.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assess_the_Competition\"><\/span>Assess the Competition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before you enter a niche, it helps to know who you\u2019re up against.<\/p>\n<p>Do a Google search to see which competitors appear in the first five results or so.<\/p>\n<p>Ignore any major sites that would be impossible to beat in <a title=\"What Are SERPs &amp; Why Are They Important for SEO?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/serps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search engine results pages<\/a> (SERPs) for now.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s say you want to start a blog on growing tomatoes.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on the rivals you\u2019d have a realistic chance of outranking.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Tomato growing tips\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Tomato growing tips\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.90142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-serp-tomato-growing-tips.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Check each competitor\u2019s traffic using a tool like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Check Website Traffic In One Click | Traffic Analytics | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/traffic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Traffic Analytics<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>For example, when I searched this term, The Old Farmer\u2019s Almanac had one of the top spots.<\/p>\n<p>But this site gets 4.1 million monthly visitors.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Almanac \u2013 Visits\" alt=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Almanac \u2013 Visits\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/traffic-analytics-almanac-visits.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>That\u2019s a hefty amount of traffic.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s cross this site off the list for now.<\/p>\n<p>In comparison, another blog that appeared highly in the search results, The Maker Makes, gets 25,400 visits per month.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s still a lot of traffic, but it\u2019s a much more attainable number.<\/p>\n<p>Add them to the list.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.41714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/traffic-analytics-themakermakes-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, scroll down to see this blog\u2019s top-performing marketing channels:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Traffic channels\" alt=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Traffic channels\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.41714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/traffic-analytics-themakermakes-traffic-channels.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>As you can see, The Maker Makes gets 99.93% of its traffic from organic search.<\/p>\n<p>This is both good and bad news.<\/p>\n<p>It means users actively search for this niche on search engines.<\/p>\n<p>But it also means the SEO is strong with this one.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll need to invest <strong>serious<\/strong> time learning optimization fundamentals to beat them in the SERPs.<\/p>\n<p>(Don\u2019t worry\u2014I cover SEO basics in <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/how-to-start-a-blog#phase-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phase 3<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Organic Search Positions\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 The Maker Makes \u2013 Organic Search Positions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.82428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-themakermakes-organic-search-positions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, check out their blog to get a feel for their content.<\/p>\n<p>Study their top posts to identify what they do well and areas of improvement.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The Maker Makes \u2013 Blog posts\" alt=\"The Maker Makes \u2013 Blog posts\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/themakermakes-blog-posts.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You\u2019ll also want to review how competitors structure their sites\u2014is the navigation intuitive? Does the site provide a good user experience?<\/p>\n<p>Note your likes and dislikes to make your blog\u2019s design a better experience for visitors and search engines.<\/p>\n<p>Rinse and repeat the above steps for three to five competitors.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phase_2_Build_Your_Blog_Month_2\"><\/span>Phase #2: Build Your Blog (Month 2)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Month two is when you\u2019ll make the technical decisions that set your site up for success\u2014from choosing a domain name to designing your layout.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Select_Your_Domain_and_Hosting\"><\/span>Select Your Domain and Hosting<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your domain name is your blog\u2019s permanent address on the internet.<\/p>\n<p>So, make it count.<\/p>\n<p>The best domain names share four key features.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Short (3\u201313 characters)<\/li>\n<li>Easy to say and spell<\/li>\n<li>Related to your topic<\/li>\n<li>Memorable enough to build a brand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Examples include \u201cBacklinko\u201d for SEO and \u201cNerdFitness\u201d for health\u2014they\u2019re concise, clear, and instantly tell readers what to expect.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Stick with .com, skip hyphens and numbers, and make sure you can say your domain name out loud without having to spell it.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Make a list of possible names and use a site like GoDaddy to check availability.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GoDaddy \u2013 Nerdfitness \u2013 Availability check\" alt=\"GoDaddy \u2013 Nerdfitness \u2013 Availability check\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.95454545454545\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/godaddy-nerdfitness-availability-check.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, decide where your blog will live.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ve got two main options:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hosted platforms:<\/strong> The company handles everything\u2014hosting, security, updates, and maintenance. Perfect for beginners who want simplicity over control. Examples include Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress.com.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Self-hosted platforms:<\/strong> The main self-hosted option is WordPress.org, an open-source platform that powers <a title=\"Usage Statistics and Market Share of WordPress, December 2024\" href=\"https:\/\/w3techs.com\/technologies\/details\/cm-wordpress\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">43.6%<\/a> of all websites. You\u2019ll need to choose a hosting company like Bluehost or SiteGround to install it, but you\u2019ll get complete control over design, features, and monetization.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Hosted Blogging Platforms<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Low learning curve<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Medium-high learning curve<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Limited customization<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Unlimited customization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Limited monetization<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Unlimited monetization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Basic SEO control<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Advanced SEO control<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Platform-owned<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Self-Hosted Blogging Platforms\">Full ownership<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hosted_vs_Self-Hosted_Platforms\"><\/span>Hosted vs. Self-Hosted Platforms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Hosted platforms are undeniably the easiest option for new bloggers.<\/p>\n<p>This is because they come with everything you need: hosting, domain name, templates, and basic <a title=\"8 Powerful SEO AI Tools and Their Top Features\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO tools<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Squarespace \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Squarespace \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.6\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/squarespace-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The big advantage?<\/p>\n<p>Everything works right out of the box. You don\u2019t need to think about technical setup or maintenance\u2014it\u2019s all handled for you.<\/p>\n<p><strong>But there\u2019s a catch.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Hosted platforms make starting easy, but they also limit what you can do with your blog. This includes monetizing it with affiliate and ad networks.<\/p>\n<p>Think of it like renting an apartment versus owning a house.<\/p>\n<p>When you rent, you\u2019re not allowed to change the paint color or make any other upgrades.<\/p>\n<p>But when you own, you can do whatever you want.<\/p>\n<p>Yes, you\u2019ll need to get a domain name, find a host, and set everything up yourself. (Or hire someone to help you.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"WordPress \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"WordPress \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/wordpress-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But you\u2019ll have MUCH more control over your blog.<\/p>\n<p>You can customize everything about your site. Add any features you want. And scale without hitting platform or monetization restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019ll take more setup time (many hosts will connect your domain to your site for you), but the flexibility and control are worth it.<\/p>\n<p>The key takeaway here?<\/p>\n<p>If you want more control over your blog, I highly recommend a self-hosted WordPress blog.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Design_Your_Blog\"><\/span>Design Your Blog<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your <a title=\"How to Design a Blog: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/blog-design\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blog\u2019s design<\/a> affects everything from user experience to search rankings.<\/p>\n<p>While it\u2019s an essential foundation, don\u2019t get caught up in unnecessary details like colors or custom fonts,<\/p>\n<p>The faster you launch, the faster you can start driving traffic to your blog.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choose_a_Clean_Theme\"><\/span>Choose a Clean Theme<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>A blog theme is a pre-designed template that controls your site\u2019s visual elements and layout\u2014including fonts, colors, navigation, and spacing\u2014without requiring you to write code.<\/p>\n<p>WordPress themes like GeneratePress, Astra, and Elementor are popular for a reason.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lightweight, which means faster loading<\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Mobile SEO: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/mobile-seo-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mobile-responsive<\/a>, so your site works on all devices<\/li>\n<li>SEO-friendly to help you rank better on Google<\/li>\n<li>Customizable, which makes it easy to tailor it to your niche or needs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Elementor Theme Hello\" alt=\"Elementor Theme Hello\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/elementor-theme-hello.webp\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Avoid themes packed with flashy animations, complex layouts, or built-in features you won\u2019t use.<\/p>\n<p>These can slow down your site and distract readers from what matters most\u2014your content.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t forget to create a logo (and matching favicon) for your blog. Sites like Fiverr and 99 Designs are affordable options for hiring a designer. Want to make your own logo? Try Canva or an <a title=\"Logo Maker | Create a Beautiful Logo For Free Design.com\" href=\"https:\/\/www.design.com\/s\/logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI logo generator<\/a> tool. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Focus_on_Readability\"><\/span>Focus on Readability<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Don\u2019t make your readers work to read your content.<\/p>\n<p>(Because they\u2019ll likely go elsewhere if you do.)<\/p>\n<p>Follow these best practices:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use large, readable text (16 pixels minimum)<\/li>\n<li>Keep plenty of white space between paragraphs<\/li>\n<li>Stick to black text on a white background<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 Information Gain \u2013 Intro\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 Information Gain \u2013 Intro\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.90857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/backlinko-information-gain-intro.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimize_for_Speed\"><\/span>Optimize for Speed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Your design choices affect your <a title=\"Page Speed and SEO: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/pagespeed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">website\u2019s loading speed<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>So keep things simple:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Compress images with a tool like <a title=\"TinyPNG\" href=\"https:\/\/tinypng.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TinyPNG<\/a> before uploading<\/li>\n<li>Keep plugins to the essentials (SEO, security, caching)<\/li>\n<li>Avoid elements like sliders and animations that can slow down your blog<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko Blog\" alt=\"Backlinko Blog\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/backlinko-blog.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phase_3_Launch_Your_Blog_Month_3\"><\/span>Phase #3: Launch Your Blog (Month 3)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Now comes the fun part.<\/p>\n<p>Month three is when you\u2019ll research topics and create content that will help you build an engaged audience.<\/p>\n<p>Write (and post) at least five blog posts before you officially launch.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Because you want people to stick around when they land on your site.<\/p>\n<p>If you only have one post\u2026 they probably won\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p>But if you have five+ awesome articles?<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019ll have a good sample to read (and share).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush Blog\" alt=\"Semrush Blog\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.95\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-blog.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Research_Topics\"><\/span>Research Topics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Instead of guessing what to write about, research relevant <a title=\"25 Creative Ways to Find New Content Ideas\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/find-content-ideas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content ideas<\/a> that\u2019ll attract your target audience.<\/p>\n<p>Start with Google\u2019s autocomplete feature.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if you blog about organic coffee, type this term into Google to see what people search for related to this topic.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Search \u2013 Organic coffee\" alt=\"Google Search \u2013 Organic coffee\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.94857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-search-organic-coffee.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Add \u201chow to,\u201d \u201cbest,\u201d or \u201cwhat\u201d to get more targeted suggestions.<\/p>\n<p>For example, typing \u201corganic coffee what\u201d brings up potential blog post topics like \u201cWhy organic coffee is important\u201d and \u201cIs organic coffee worth it?\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Search \u2013 Organic coffee what\" alt=\"Google Search \u2013 Organic coffee what\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.77714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-search-organic-coffee-what.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can also use a content ideation tool to get targeted blog post ideas.<\/p>\n<p>I used Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Topic Research: Topic Finder Tool for Finding Content Ideas | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/topic-research\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Topic Research<\/a> for this example:<\/p>\n<p>Type your topic into the search field and click \u201c<strong>Get content ideas<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Topic Research \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Search\" alt=\"Topic Research \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.39857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/topic-research-organic-coffee-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The tool will reveal popular topics related to your term along with monthly search volume.<\/p>\n<p>For example, searching \u201corganic coffee\u201d results in ideas like \u201cArabica beans\u201d and \u201corganic coffee syrups.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Topic Research \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Content Ideas\" alt=\"Topic Research \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Content Ideas\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/topic-research-organic-coffee-content-ideas.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Click any card to see a difficulty score, headlines, questions, and related searches.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Topic Research \u2013 Content Ideas \u2013 Cards \u2013 Arabica Beans\" alt=\"Topic Research \u2013 Content Ideas \u2013 Cards \u2013 Arabica Beans\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.78857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/topic-research-content-ideas-cards-arabica-beans.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Look for topics with solid search volume but reasonable competition.<\/p>\n<p>Pay special attention to questions people are asking.<\/p>\n<p>And topics your competitors haven\u2019t covered yet or well. (Remember that <a title=\"How to Conduct an SEO Competitor Analysis [Comprehensive]\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-competitor-analysis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">competitive research<\/a> I suggested in <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/how-to-start-a-blog#phase-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phase 1<\/a>? This is where that information will come in handy.)<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conduct_Keyword_Research\"><\/span>Conduct Keyword Research<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve selected blog post topics, it\u2019s time for keyword research.<\/p>\n<p>Adding a <a title=\"Choose Keywords: A 6-Step Essential Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/choosing-keywords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">target keyword<\/a> to each blog post helps Google understand what your content is about.<\/p>\n<p>It also helps you rank higher on search engines.<\/p>\n<p>A target keyword is the primary phrase you want your post to rank for in search results\u2014like \u201cstore coffee beans\u201d or \u201ccoffee cocktail recipes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll need a keyword research tool like <a title=\"Keyword Generator by Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmagic\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Magic Tool<\/a> for this task.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> I\u2019ll be using Semrush to show you how to do keyword research. You can conduct up to 10 searches per day on a free account. Or you can use this link to access a <a title=\"Backlinko &amp; Semrush: 14-day PRO Trial\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/backlinko-offer\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Type your term into Semrush\u2019s Keyword Magic Tool and click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Search\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.43142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-magic-tool-organic-coffee-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For example, I searched for \u201corganic coffee,\u201d and the tool returned over 11,000 potential keywords.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Keywords\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Keywords\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-magic-tool-organic-coffee-keywords.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>While this list has many great keyword suggestions, you can refine it to make the suggestions more relevant and targeted.<\/p>\n<p>The trick\u2014especially for a new blog\u2014is to find keywords with decent search volume and low keyword difficulty.<\/p>\n<p>Select the \u201c<strong>KD %<\/strong>\u201d filter and click \u201c<strong>Very Easy<\/strong>\u201d or \u201c<strong>Easy<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 KD filter\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 KD filter\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-magic-tool-organic-coffee-kd-filter.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Now, you\u2019ll see terms you\u2019ll be likelier to rank for in the SERPs.<\/p>\n<p>For example, \u201cis organic coffee sprayed with chemicals\u201d gets 1,900 searches per month and has an easy KD score of 22.<\/p>\n<p>Not bad.<\/p>\n<p>Next, check the search intent column.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Search Intent and SEO: A Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Search intent<\/a> is the reason behind a user\u2019s search.<\/p>\n<p>There are four main types:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Informational:<\/strong> People want to learn something (\u201chow to brew french press coffee\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong><a title=\"Commercial Intent Keywords: What They Are &amp; How to Rank\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/commercial-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Commercial<\/a>:<\/strong> People are researching products (\u201cbest coffee makers\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Navigational:<\/strong> People want to find a specific site (\u201cStarbucks near me\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transactional:<\/strong> People are ready to buy (\u201cbuy Ethiopian coffee beans\u201d)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Start with informational intent.<\/p>\n<p>Content that solves your readers\u2019 problems will boost your blog\u2019s credibility.<\/p>\n<p>As you <a title=\"7 Proven Ways to Increase Your Domain Authority\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/increase-domain-authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">build authority<\/a>, expand into commercial and transactional (if relevant) keywords.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Select the \u201c<strong>Intent<\/strong>\u201d filter from the menu<\/li>\n<li>Choose \u201c<strong>Informational<\/strong>\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Click \u201c<strong>Apply<\/strong>\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Intent filter\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Organic coffee \u2013 Intent filter\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.86142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-magic-tool-organic-coffee-intent-filter.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This refines the list even further.<\/p>\n<p>Now, you\u2019ll only see keywords with low keyword difficulty and informational intent\u2014perfect options for your first blog posts.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimize_Your_Content\"><\/span>Optimize Your Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>By optimizing a blog post, you\u2019ll help it perform well in search results while making it easy for readers to consume.<\/p>\n<p>This means using your target keyword in the right places and structuring your content clearly.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"H1\"><\/span>H1<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Every blog post (and page on your website) should have an <a title=\"H1 Tags: Best Practices, Examples &amp; Tips for SEO\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/h1-tag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">H1<\/a> (aka headline).<\/p>\n<p>The H1 should include your target keyword and be compelling enough to attract readers.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if your keyword is \u201chow to store coffee,\u201d your H1 might be \u201cHow to Properly Store Coffee, According to a Professional Roaster.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Food &amp; Wine \u2013 H1 headline\" alt=\"Food &amp; Wine \u2013 H1 headline\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.85\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/food-and-wine-h1-headline.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Subheads\"><\/span>Subheads<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Break up your content with descriptive subheadings.<\/p>\n<p>Use H2s for main sections and H3s for subsections.<\/p>\n<p>(H3s, H4s, and H5s nest under H2s in that order.)<\/p>\n<p>So, your blog post\u2019s structure might look like this:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>H1:<\/strong> How to Properly Store Coffee, According to a Professional Roaster<\/li>\n<li><strong>H2:<\/strong> Coffee Storing Tips<\/li>\n<li><strong>H3:<\/strong> Avoid Storing Coffee in the Fridge<\/li>\n<li><strong>H3:<\/strong> Keep Beans Airtight and Cool<\/li>\n<li><strong>H3:<\/strong> Buy Small Batches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You\u2019ll find heading options on the WordPress editor:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"WordPress \u2013 Add header tag\" alt=\"WordPress \u2013 Add header tag\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.955\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/03\/wordpress-add-header-tag.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Include <a title=\"Semantic SEO: What It Is and Why It Matters\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/semantic-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword variations<\/a> in your subheads if you can do so naturally, but focus on making your content easy to scan and skim.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Title_Tag_and_Meta_Description\"><\/span>Title Tag and Meta Description<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Every time you search on Google, you see title tags and meta descriptions\u2014you might just not have known that\u2019s what they\u2019re called.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Title tag:<\/strong> The clickable headline your audience sees in search results. It should include your headline and range from 50 to 60 characters.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a title=\"How to Write SEO-Friendly Meta Descriptions\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/meta-descriptions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meta description<\/a>:<\/strong> Appears under the title tag in search results and is what persuades people to click. Keep it under 155 characters, include the target keyword, and make it compelling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s what these elements look like on Google:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"KitchenAid \u2013 Title and meta tag\" alt=\"KitchenAid \u2013 Title and meta tag\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.23428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/kitchenaid-title-and-meta-tag.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Install a free SEO plugin, like <a title=\"Yoast SEO Plugin\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/yoast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yoast SEO<\/a> or RankMath, to easily customize title tags, meta descriptions, and URLs on your blog. These user-friendly tools will also alert you if you go over (or under) the recommended character counts.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"URL\"><\/span>URL<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Every <a title=\"How to Write a Blog Post: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/write-a-blog-post\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blog post you write<\/a> needs a unique URL.<\/p>\n<p>Keep it short and keyword-focused.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Epicurious \u2013 Short &amp; keyword focused URL\" alt=\"Epicurious \u2013 Short &amp; keyword focused URL\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.45714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/epicurious-short-and-keyword-focused-url.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Remove unnecessary words like \u201cthe,\u201d \u201cand,\u201d or \u201cto.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Focus_on_Quality\"><\/span>Focus on Quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Optimizing your blog content can only get you so far.<\/p>\n<p>Your content also needs to be high quality to rank and attract readers.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Google E-E-A-T: How to Create People-First Content (+ Free Audit)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-e-e-a-t\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google\u2019s E-E-A-T guidelines<\/a> are an important framework for creating content that delivers tangible value to readers.<\/p>\n<p>E-E-A-T stands for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>E<\/strong>xperience<\/li>\n<li><strong>E<\/strong>xpertise<\/li>\n<li><strong>A<\/strong>uthoritativeness<\/li>\n<li><strong>T<\/strong>rustworthiness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Let\u2019s say you\u2019re starting a cooking blog.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of just listing recipe steps, talk about:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How you discovered the recipe<\/li>\n<li>The mistakes you made while making it<\/li>\n<li>Photos, videos, and screenshots you took to highlight recipe steps<\/li>\n<li>Tips you\u2019ve learned from making it multiple times<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>That\u2019s <strong>experience<\/strong> in action.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 Pancake recipe E-E-A-T\" alt=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 Pancake recipe E-E-A-T\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0833333333333\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinchofyum-pancake-recipe-eeat.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You don\u2019t need to be the world\u2019s leading expert to demonstrate <strong>expertise<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>But you DO need to know more than your target reader.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to show expertise:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Address common questions and problems<\/li>\n<li>Feature your credentials prominently<\/li>\n<li>Consider having experts review your content<\/li>\n<li>Include detailed step-by-step instructions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While backlinks are a vital way to build <strong>authority<\/strong>, it\u2019s also important to <a title=\"How to Write a Blog Post Step by Step\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/how-to-write-a-blog-post\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">create blog content<\/a> backed by solid research and real expertise.<\/p>\n<p>Reference authoritative studies, add expert insights that support your points, and include author and team credentials in detailed author bios.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 Team\" alt=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013Team\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinchofyum-team.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Focus on transparency and delivering consistent value to build <strong>trust<\/strong> with your target audience.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Disclose affiliate relationships<\/li>\n<li>Keep your content up to date<\/li>\n<li>Include reliable sources and expert quotes<\/li>\n<li>Show real results<\/li>\n<li>Feature star ratings and reviews from users (if applicable)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 Recipe reviews\" alt=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 Recipe reviews\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.43714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinchofyum-recipe-reviews.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further Reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"7 Proven Blog Post Templates (That Work Like A Charm)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/blog-post-templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">7 Proven Blog Post Templates That Work Like a Charm<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_Internal_Pages\"><\/span>Create Internal Pages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before you launch, you\u2019ll want to set up at least three core internal pages to look professional and build trust.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>About page:<\/strong> This is your chance to establish expertise in your niche. Share relevant experience like industry certifications, years working in the field, or results you\u2019ve achieved. Help readers understand why they should trust your advice over someone else\u2019s.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Contact page:<\/strong> Keep it simple with a contact form and email address. This makes it easy for readers\u2014and potential partners\u2014to reach you.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Privacy policy:<\/strong> If you collect any data about your web visitors, like emails or information from analytic tools, you\u2019ll need a privacy policy. Use a template or free <a title=\"Free Privacy Policy Generator\" href=\"https:\/\/termly.io\/products\/privacy-policy-generator\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">privacy policy generator<\/a> to create one quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 About\" alt=\"Pinch of Yum \u2013 About\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinchofyum-about.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Before launching your blog, proofread your content for errors and click every link\u2014from the footer to the menu\u2014to ensure everything works. Nothing kills credibility faster than typos and broken links.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_a_Lead_Magnet\"><\/span>Create a Lead Magnet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Don\u2019t wait to <a title=\"11 Ways to Get More Email Subscribers\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/get-more-email-subscribers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">build your email list<\/a> until you get steady traffic.<\/p>\n<p>By that point, you\u2019ve already missed countless potential subscribers.<\/p>\n<p>The solution?<\/p>\n<p>Create a <a title=\"What Are Lead Magnets?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/lead-magnets\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">lead magnet<\/a> that launches with your blog.<\/p>\n<p>A lead magnet is a free resource you give away in exchange for email addresses. The key is making it so useful visitors can\u2019t help but download it.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on creating lead magnets that are quick to make but highly valuable:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Templates<\/li>\n<li>Checklists<\/li>\n<li>Guides<\/li>\n<li>Calendars<\/li>\n<li><a title=\"How to Write an AWESOME Email Newsletter\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/write-email-newsletter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Email newsletter<\/a> signup forms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n<p>At Backlinko, our main lead magnet is an email newsletter signup form:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko newsletter \u2013 No navigation\" alt=\"Backlinko newsletter \u2013 No navigation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.8\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/11\/backlinko-newsletter-no-navigation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can also put relevant lead magnets on individual webpages and blog posts like HubSpot did with this free Ebook.<\/p>\n<p>When users click \u201cDownload Now,\u201d it prompts them to enter their email address.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"HubSpot \u2013 Free download needs email address\" alt=\"HubSpot \u2013 Free download needs email address\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/hubspot-free-download-needs-email-address.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Whether your lead magnet is sitewide or on individual pages (or both), what matters most is that it\u2019s valuable to your target audience.<\/p>\n<p>So, create something awesome your readers will love.<\/p>\n<p>And start collecting email addresses from the get-go.<\/p>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve established your list, use it to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"How to Promote Your Blog: 21+ Proven Strategies for Growth\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/promote-your-blog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Promote blog content<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Advertise products or services<\/li>\n<li>Provide exclusive content<\/li>\n<li>Keep readers engaged with your blog and brand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Set_Up_Blog_Analytics\"><\/span>Set Up Blog Analytics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ve spent a lot of time and energy getting your blog up and running.<\/p>\n<p>Now it\u2019s time to find out if your hard work is paying off.<\/p>\n<p>Analytics tools can tell you:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Which posts are getting the most traffic<\/li>\n<li>Where your readers are coming from<\/li>\n<li>How long people stay on your site<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>And that\u2019s just scratching the surface.<\/p>\n<p>Google Analytics and Google Search Console are two must-have analytics tools to track your website\u2019s progress.<\/p>\n<p>Even better?<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re free.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Google_Analytics_GA4\"><\/span>Google Analytics (GA4)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Google Analytics helps you understand exactly how visitors interact with your blog by tracking key performance metrics.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GA \u2013 Traffic report\" alt=\"GA \u2013 Traffic report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.58307692307692\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ga-traffic-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Traffic sources:<\/strong> See where your readers come from, such as search engines, social media, email, or direct visits<\/li>\n<li><strong>Content performance:<\/strong> Track your most-viewed pages, average time spent reading, and which posts keep readers engaged (and those that don\u2019t)<\/li>\n<li><strong>User journey:<\/strong> Learn how visitors navigate your blog, which pages they visit first, and where they exit<\/li>\n<li><strong>Audience insights:<\/strong> Learn about your readers\u2019 demographics, interests, devices used, and geographic locations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Installing Google Analytics requires adding a tracking code to your website or CMS.<\/p>\n<p>Not technically savvy?<\/p>\n<p>Follow along with our <a title=\"Google Analytics 4 (GA4): The Ultimate Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-analytics-4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Analytics 4 Tutorial<\/a> to get step-by-step setup instructions. (Or ask a friend to assist with setup.)<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Google_Search_Console_GSC\"><\/span>Google Search Console (GSC)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Google Search Console shows you how your content performs in Google search results (but it doesn\u2019t provide data from any other search engines or traffic sources).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GSC \u2013 Performance report\" alt=\"GSC \u2013 Performance report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/08\/gsc-performance-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You\u2019ll learn:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Search performance:<\/strong> Monitor which keywords bring visitors to your blog, your average position in search results, and how often people click through to your content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Technical health:<\/strong> Identify issues like broken links and security problems before they impact your rankings<\/li>\n<li><strong>Loading speed:<\/strong> Track <a title=\"Core Web Vitals: Essential Guide to Better Site Performance\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/core-web-vitals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Core Web Vitals<\/a> metrics that affect user experience and search rankings<\/li>\n<li><strong>Indexing status:<\/strong> Ensure Google can find and index all your blog posts properly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Installing GSC requires uploading an HTML file to the root directory of your domain.<\/p>\n<p>This is Google\u2019s way of verifying you actually own the domain.<\/p>\n<p>Sounds a bit too technical for you? Enlist someone to help.<\/p>\n<p>Or read our <a title=\"Google Search Console: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-search-console\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Definitive Guide to Google Search Console<\/a> for detailed setup instructions.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"What Is a Content Calendar? How to Build One + Free Template\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/calendar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">What Is a Content Calendar? Plus, Free Template<\/a> <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phase_4_Grow_Your_Blog_Months_4%E2%80%9312\"><\/span>Phase #4: Grow Your Blog (Months 4\u201312)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>By this point, you should have a solid foundation of content.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on growth in months four through 12 by setting publishing goals and promoting your posts.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Establish_Your_Publishing_Cadence\"><\/span>Establish Your Publishing Cadence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To determine how often you should post, refer to the goals you set in month one.<\/p>\n<p>For example, say you want to have 50,000 monthly visitors in two years.<\/p>\n<p>Determine how many blog posts you\u2019ll need to achieve that goal, such as 50 posts total, each bringing in 1,000 visitors monthly.<\/p>\n<p>Next, do some quick math: 50 posts \u00f7 24 months = about two posts per month.<\/p>\n<p>So, you\u2019ll need to write around two high-quality posts per month to achieve your goal.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Calculate Your Ideal Blog Publishing\" alt=\"Calculate Your Ideal Blog Publishing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/calculate-your-ideal-blog-publishing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Factor in writing time to see if the publishing cadence is manageable with your schedule.<\/p>\n<p>This will help you create a sustainable schedule that aligns with your goals and available time.<\/p>\n<p>Most importantly?<\/p>\n<p>Focus on quality over quantity.<\/p>\n<p>One quality post per week beats five rushed ones.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Keep your eye on the prize. The faster you reach your traffic goal, the faster you can monetize your blog by joining ad networks, affiliate marketing programs, and selling products and services. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_a_Simple_Distribution_Process\"><\/span>Create a Simple Distribution Process<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Want to get as many eyes on your content as possible?<\/p>\n<p>Create a distribution plan.<\/p>\n<p>The key to making this work for you (especially if you\u2019re a solo blogger) is to keep it simple.<\/p>\n<p>You can always expand later.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on doing a few things well rather than spreading yourself thin across every platform.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Email_Marketing\"><\/span>Email Marketing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"60 Key Email Marketing Stats\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/email-marketing-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Email marketing<\/a> is still one of the most effective ways to get your audience\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, for every $1 spent on email marketing, marketers receive <a title=\"The ROI of Email Marketing [Infographic] - Litmus\" href=\"https:\/\/www.litmus.com\/blog\/infographic-the-roi-of-email-marketing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$36<\/a> in return.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s a mighty fine return on investment (ROI).<\/p>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve started collecting email addresses (you made that lead magnet in month three, right?), put them to work immediately.<\/p>\n<p>Start with a simple email schedule, such as sharing new posts and exclusive tips weekly.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Email marketing tips\" alt=\"Email marketing tips\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.77\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/email-marketing-tips.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Pick one day (like Tuesday morning) and stay consistent.<\/p>\n<p>Write your emails in the second person to connect with your audience.<\/p>\n<p>And share specific tips rather than general advice to show subscribers the value of staying on your email list.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Backlinko\u2019s email newsletter is sent by the head of SEO, Leigh McKenzie.<\/p>\n<p>In each newsletter, he talks directly to subscribers and uses compelling hooks to entice subscribers to read the featured blog post.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWant to know how we generate 722,000+ monthly sessions at Backlinko?\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 Email newsletter\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 Email newsletter\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/backlinko-email-newsletter.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Encourage engagement (and increase the chances of making it into subscribers\u2019 inboxes) by asking readers to respond to you.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t forget to link to the featured blog post(s) in multiple spots, from images to anchor text, to drive traffic back to your blog. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This is what Erica Schneider, founder of content marketing coaching business Cut the Fluff, does in their weekly emails:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Encourage engagement\" alt=\"Encourage engagement\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.268\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/encourage-engagement.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Social_Media\"><\/span>Social Media<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Pick two social media platforms (for now) where your audience spends time.<\/p>\n<p>This way, you can focus on building a consistent online presence on these platforms. As you grow, consider adding more <a title=\"The 20 Most Popular Social Media Platforms\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/social-media-platforms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">social media platforms<\/a> to your distribution plan.<\/p>\n<p>But don\u2019t bite off more than you can chew at the beginning.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what works for different niches:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a title=\"32 Mind-Blowing Instagram Marketing Stats\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/instagram-marketing-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instagram<\/a>:<\/strong> Great for lifestyle, fashion, and fitness content<\/li>\n<li><strong><a title=\"LinkedIn SEO Tips: Optimize Your Profile And Content\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/linkedin-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn<\/a>:<\/strong> Ideal for business, marketing, career, and professional topics<\/li>\n<li><strong><a title=\"X (Twitter) Statistics: How Many People Use X?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/twitter-users\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">X<\/a>:<\/strong> Works well for tech, news, and trending topics<\/li>\n<li><strong><a title=\"Pinterest Usage and Revenue Statistics: How Many People Use Pinterest\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/pinterest-users\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pinterest<\/a>:<\/strong> Perfect for visual topics like food, DIY, home decor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinterest post\" alt=\"Pinterest post\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.69857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinterest-post.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Relationship_Building\"><\/span>Relationship Building<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Build relationships with other bloggers in your niche to make valuable connections and promote your content.<\/p>\n<p>The most important thing to remember about this tactic?<\/p>\n<p>There needs to be mutual value.<\/p>\n<p>So, how do you build these mutually advantageous relationships?<\/p>\n<p>Creating a <a title=\"Blogger Outreach: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/blogger-outreach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blogger outreach strategy<\/a> is actually pretty simple:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Make a list of 10\u201320 bloggers and industry leaders in your niche<\/li>\n<li>Follow them on social media<\/li>\n<li>Leave insightful comments<\/li>\n<li>Share their content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Do this consistently, and you\u2019ll start building a network of bloggers who will also share and comment on your posts.<\/p>\n<p>This drives more engagement and traffic for your blog. And it can also help you get more backlinks.<\/p>\n<p>This is something Leigh knows well.<\/p>\n<p>He often comments on posts from digital marketing bloggers and thought leaders on Linkedin.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"LinkedIn \u2013 Post commented by Leigh\" alt=\"LinkedIn \u2013 Post commented by Leigh\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0615384615385\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/linkedin-post-commented-by-leigh.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This strategy helps build relationships and connects you with subject matter experts who can <a title=\"Guest Blogging: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/the-definitive-guide-to-guest-blogging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guest post<\/a> on your blog or provide quotes to enhance your content.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paid_Ads\"><\/span>Paid Ads<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>SEO can be extremely effective at driving <a title=\"How to Get Traffic to Your Blog (14 Actionable Tips)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/how-to-get-traffic-to-your-blog\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blog traffic<\/a>\u2014but it takes time to see results\u2014especially for new blogs.<\/p>\n<p>A quick way to get traffic is by using paid ads.<\/p>\n<p>Start with Facebook and Pinterest\u2014they\u2019re beginner-friendly options that allow you to quickly create ads and target specific audiences, even if you have no advertising experience.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinterest Ads Amazon\" alt=\"Pinterest Ads Amazon\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.89142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinterest-ads-amazon.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Set a small budget to see how your content performs.<\/p>\n<p>But don\u2019t throw money at just any content.<\/p>\n<p>Get more out of your investment by promoting:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>High-performing content (check analytics to see which posts have the most traction)<\/li>\n<li>Posts that contain affiliate links<\/li>\n<li>Blog posts with a lead magnet so you can capture your readers\u2019 emails<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Document your content distribution process in a simple checklist. When each post goes live, follow the same steps every time\u2014consistency beats complexity every time.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Review_Analytics_for_Year_Two\"><\/span>Review Analytics for Year Two<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your first year of blogging has provided valuable insights.<\/p>\n<p>Now, it\u2019s time to use that data to fine-tune your strategy and achieve even greater results in year two.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assess_Your_Top_Content\"><\/span>Assess Your Top Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ve hopefully already been looking at your content\u2019s performance on a regular basis.<\/p>\n<p>But you\u2019ll want to review how things performed overall for the year.<\/p>\n<p>Pull up Google Analytics and look at your top posts.<\/p>\n<p>Go to <strong>Engagement<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Pages and Screens<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Then, select the date in the upper right and change the filter to \u201c<strong>Last 12 months<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GA \u2013 Pages and screens \u2013 Last 12 months\" alt=\"GA \u2013 Pages and screens \u2013 Last 12 months\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0485714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ga-pages-and-screens-last-12-months.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Look for patterns:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Which topics performed best?<\/li>\n<li>What content length performed the best?<\/li>\n<li>Which titles got the most clicks?<\/li>\n<li>What content types (how-to, lists, case studies) drove the most traffic?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For example, you might find that your step-by-step tutorials got 3x more traffic than your roundup posts.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s pure gold for planning year two\u2019s content.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evaluate_Traffic_Sources\"><\/span>Evaluate Traffic Sources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Next, look at your top traffic sources for the year.<\/p>\n<p>Go to <strong>Acquisition<\/strong> &gt; <strong>Traffic Acquisition<\/strong> and change the filter to \u201c<strong>Session \/ medium<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GA \u2013 Traffic Acquisition \u2013 Session source \/ medium\" alt=\"GA \u2013 Traffic Acquisition \u2013 Session source \/ medium\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ga-traffic-acquisition-session-source-medium.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Look at:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Which social platforms drove the most engaged visitors<\/li>\n<li>What percentage came from search<\/li>\n<li>Which referral sources were most valuable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Then, ask yourself:<\/strong> \u201cWhere should I double down? Where should I pull back?\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consider_Advanced_Analytics_Tools\"><\/span>Consider Advanced Analytics Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Now that your blog is growing, consider using <a title=\"41 Best SEO Tools (Free &amp; Paid)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-free-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">analytics tools<\/a> that provide deeper insights to reach your blogging goals.<\/p>\n<p>Start with a rank-tracking tool like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Position Tracking: Keyword Rank Tracker Tool | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/position-tracking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Position Tracking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Landscape\" alt=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Landscape\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.78428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/position-tracking-backlinko-landscape.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It tells you how your posts rank for each keyword, how those rankings change over time, and top keywords.<\/p>\n<p>More importantly, it reveals ranking drops early so you can fix issues before they hurt your traffic.<\/p>\n<p>A <a title=\"The 18-Step SEO Audit Checklist (+ Free Template)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-site-audit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">site audit<\/a> tool is another helpful addition to your analytics arsenal.<\/p>\n<p>These tools check for issues on your site and tell you how to fix them. Like missing meta descriptions, indexing issues, slow pages, <a title=\"Duplicate Content and SEO: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/duplicate-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">duplicate content<\/a>, and much more.<\/p>\n<p>Platforms like <a title=\"Ahrefs: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ahrefs-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ahrefs<\/a> and <a title=\"Semrush: The Ultimate Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/semrush\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush<\/a> provide free, limited access to site audit tools.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Ahrefs \u2013 Site Audit\" alt=\"Ahrefs \u2013 Site Audit\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ahrefs-site-audit.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Finally, consider using a heatmap tool.<\/p>\n<p>These interactive tools are helpful (and fun to use) because they reveal how users interact with your content and blog.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll learn the percentage of visitors who click on buttons and links.<\/p>\n<p>And where on each page visitors stop reading.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Hotjar \u2013 Scroll &amp; move map\" alt=\"Hotjar \u2013 Scroll &amp; move map\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/hotjar-scroll-move-map.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This information can help you refine your blog\u2019s content and layout to keep readers on your site for longer and improve your conversion rates.<\/p>\n<p>Use a free heatmap tool like Microsoft\u2019s <a title=\"Microsoft Clarity\" href=\"https:\/\/clarity.microsoft.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Clarity<\/a> or check out the budget-friendly paid options by <a title=\"HotJar\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hotjar.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HotJar<\/a> and <a title=\"Website Heatmap - Visualization &amp; Analytics Software - Mouseflow\" href=\"https:\/\/mouseflow.com\/features\/website-heatmap-tool\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mouseflow<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> As you review your blog\u2019s performance, keep monetization in mind\u2014from display ads to brand sponsorships. Research any specific programs or partners you\u2019re interested in. Remember, many affiliate and ad programs require traffic minimums. Knowing these thresholds helps you set clear traffic goals for year two.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bonus_3_Blogs_That_Thrived_in_Their_First_Two_Years\"><\/span>Bonus: 3 Blogs That Thrived in Their First Two Years<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Want to see what\u2019s possible in your first two years?<\/p>\n<p>These bloggers built engaged audiences and steady traffic streams faster than most.<\/p>\n<p>Below, I break down how they did it.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Broken_Oven_Baking\"><\/span>1. Broken Oven Baking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/brokenovenbaking-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Kayla Burton loves baking.<\/p>\n<p>So much so that she started a blog in 2020 to share her favorite recipes with the world.<\/p>\n<p>After just two years of consistent blogging, <a title=\"Broken Oven Baking\" href=\"https:\/\/brokenovenbaking.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Broken Oven Baking<\/a> shot up the SERPs and attracted an engaged audience.<\/p>\n<p>By January 2022, the blog had:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>3.2K monthly organic visits<\/li>\n<li>$2.1K in traffic value<\/li>\n<li>3K ranking keywords<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013  Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.33714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-brokenovenbaking-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This was enough for Kayla to start earning income from affiliate marketing.<\/p>\n<p>But she also focused on growing her Instagram presence to promote her blog and recipes.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Instagram \u2013 Broken Oven Baking\" alt=\"Instagram \u2013 Broken Oven Baking\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1485714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/instagram-brokenovenbaking.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This led to lucrative brand sponsorships.<\/p>\n<p>These collaborations provided enough income for Kayla to quit her job and start blogging full-time.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Instagram \u2013 Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Paid partnership\" alt=\"Instagram \u2013 Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Paid partnership\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/instagram-brokenovenbaking-paid-partnership.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But quick wins don\u2019t mean much if they\u2019re not sustainable.<\/p>\n<p>Luckily for Broken Oven Baking, success wasn\u2019t fleeting.<\/p>\n<p>By November 2024, Broken Oven Baking\u2019s monthly visitors skyrocketed to 76,600.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/traffic-analytics-brokenovenbaking-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, what\u2019s her secret to success?<\/p>\n<p>From day one, Kayla read everything she could about <a title=\"Blog SEO: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/blog-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">blog SEO<\/a> to help Broken Oven Baking rank highly in search engines.<\/p>\n<p>Then, she implemented what she learned on her site by optimizing content and ensuring her blog theme was fast, responsive, and user-friendly.<\/p>\n<p>And it paid off\u2014Broken Oven Baking currently has over 3,000 keywords in Google\u2019s top 20.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013  Broken oven baking \u2013 Organic Search Positions\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 Broken oven baking \u2013 Organic Search Positions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-brokenovenbaking-organic-search-positions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Kayla\u2019s blog also displays clear E-E-A-T signals.<\/p>\n<p>With step-by-step written instructions, videos, and visuals, it\u2019s clear she tests each recipe before sharing them with readers.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Step by step instructions\" alt=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Step by step instructions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/brokenovenbaking-step-by-step-instructions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There\u2019s also an \u201cExpert Tips\u201d section where she provides helpful advice to help her readers perfect each recipe.<\/p>\n<p>It also builds trust with her audience and search engines.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Expert Tips\" alt=\"Broken Oven Baking \u2013 Expert Tips\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67846153846154\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/brokenovenbaking-expert-tips.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But one of the smartest things Kayla has done is diversify her blog\u2019s income sources.<\/p>\n<p>Today, Broken Oven Baking brings in revenue from multiple streams:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Display ads through Mediavine<\/li>\n<li>Brand sponsorships<\/li>\n<li><a title=\"22 Best Affiliate Programs for Beginners &amp; Experts\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-affiliate-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Affiliate marketing programs<\/a><\/li>\n<li>One-on-one food blog coaching<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Food Blog Coaching \u2013 1 on 1 Coaching\" alt=\"Food Blog Coaching \u2013 1 on 1 Coaching\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/foodblogcoaching-1-on-1-coaching.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Kayla\u2019s recipe for success might have a lot of ingredients, but she never cut corners.<\/p>\n<p>With a commitment to quality, thorough recipe testing, detailed instructions, and optimization, she\u2019s been able to set her blog apart from the competition.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Focus on <a title=\"SEO Basics: How to Rank #1 on Google\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-basics-for-beginners\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO fundamentals<\/a>:<\/strong> Knowing how to optimize your content and blog is non-negotiable\u2014read tutorials, take <a title=\"7 SEO Courses (&amp; Certifications) That Actually Deliver Results\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-certification-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO courses<\/a>, and apply what you learn<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prioritize quality over quantity:<\/strong> Build a sustainable business by taking the time to create content that provides real value to your readers and stands out from the crowd<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Drawings_Of\"><\/span>2. Drawings Of<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"DrawingsOf \u2013Homepage\" alt=\"DrawingsOf \u2013Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.66\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/drawingsof-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, let\u2019s look at a blog that proves you can turn your creative passion into a thriving business.<\/p>\n<p>Lillie Marshall launched <a title=\"DrawingsOf.com\" href=\"http:\/\/drawingsof.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DrawingsOf.com<\/a> in 2020 with a unique vision: teaching English through hand-drawn illustrations while making learning fun for kids, teens, and adults.<\/p>\n<p>By December 2022\u2014just two years after launch\u2014Drawings Of had:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>34.2K monthly organic visits<\/li>\n<li>$6.9K in traffic value<\/li>\n<li>14.9K ranking keywords<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013  DrawingsOf \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 DrawingsOf \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.70428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-drawingsof-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>With an impressive number of keywords bringing in targeted traffic each month, Lillie was able to quickly monetize her blog.<\/p>\n<p>She created an <a title=\"Ecommerce Marketing: 11 Strategies to Drive Traffic and Sales\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ecommerce-marketing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ecommerce<\/a> shop with clothes, classroom posters, printables, and more.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Ecommerce shop\" alt=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Ecommerce shop\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0272727272727\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/drawingsof-ecommerce-shop.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Drawing Of\u2019s traffic has continued to grow at a rapid pace.<\/p>\n<p>In November 2024, it had:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>201.7K monthly organic visits<\/li>\n<li>$19.3K in traffic value<\/li>\n<li>49.5K ranking keywords<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013  DrawingsOf \u2013 Overview November 2024\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 DrawingsOf \u2013 Overview November 2024\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.31857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-drawingsof-overview-november-2024.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, how\u2019d Lillie do it?<\/p>\n<p>Instead of creating generic teaching content, Lillie leveraged her dual expertise as a teacher and artist to create something unique.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Hard words to spell\" alt=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Hard words to spell\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.99666666666667\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/drawingsof-hard-words-to-spell.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The blog attracts and retains readers through:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Original hand-drawn artwork for every post<\/li>\n<li>Keywords that bring in targeted traffic each month<\/li>\n<li>Educational content from a teacher with 20 years of experience<\/li>\n<li>Clear author credentials and background<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 About\" alt=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 About\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53076923076923\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/drawingsof-about.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Lillie also has a smart monetization strategy that includes multiple income streams, from affiliate marketing to display ads.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Ads\" alt=\"DrawingsOf \u2013 Ads\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92615384615385\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/drawingsof-ads.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The key to Lillie\u2019s success was finding an underserved niche.<\/p>\n<p>Creating content that serves teachers and students enabled Lillie to build a loyal audience that keeps coming back for more.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways-2\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Combine unique skills:<\/strong> Use multiple areas of expertise to create content that stands out in your niche<\/li>\n<li><strong>Build diverse income sources:<\/strong> Start with strong content, then expand into various revenue streams like ecommerce, digital downloads, and ad networks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Malena_Permentier\"><\/span>3. Malena Permentier<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/malenapermentier-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When <a title=\"Malena Permentier\" href=\"https:\/\/malenapermentier.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Malena Permentier<\/a> launched her self-named blog in 2020, she created a unique mix of practical and aspirational lifestyle content.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of focusing on just one niche, she combined four topics that naturally complement each other: apartment living, decor, organization, and productivity.<\/p>\n<p>By June 2022, the blog was attracting 6,600 organic monthly visitors.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013 Malena Permentier \u2013 Overview June 2022\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 Malena Permentier \u2013 Overview June 2022\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.33571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organic-research-malenapermentier-overview-june-2022.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>With a decent amount of traffic coming in from search engines, she joined Amazon\u2019s affiliate marketing program, Amazon Associates.<\/p>\n<p>Every time someone buys a product through an affiliate link in Malena\u2019s posts, the blogger earns money.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Affiliate link in post\" alt=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Affiliate link in post\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.615\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/malenapermentier-affiliate-link-in-post.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But you might be surprised to hear that search traffic wasn\u2019t her goal.<\/p>\n<p>While many bloggers focus solely on SEO, Malena took a different approach. She invested heavily in visual content, particularly on <a title=\"Pinterest Usage and Revenue Statistics: How Many People Use Pinterest in 2023?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/pinterest-users\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pinterest<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Her secret?<\/p>\n<p>Spending a significant amount of time learning how to create eye-catching Pinterest designs in Canva.<\/p>\n<p>This helped her drive serious blog traffic from the social media platform.<\/p>\n<p>In September 2024, Malena\u2019s blog had 23,600 monthly visitors.<\/p>\n<p>69.47% of this traffic comes from organic social alone.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Malena Permentier \u2013 Traffic channels\" alt=\"Traffic Analytics \u2013 Malena Permentier \u2013 Traffic channels\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.41714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/traffic-analytics-malenapermentier-traffic-channels.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, how did she succeed in a competitive lifestyle niche?<\/p>\n<p>This visual-first approach works perfectly for her lifestyle content, which is often full of eye-catching home decor tips and ideas.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Pinterest \u2013 Malena Permentier\" alt=\"Pinterest \u2013 Malena Permentier\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pinterest-malenapermentier.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Thanks to her blog\u2019s lightning-fast growth, Malena was accepted into Mediavine\u2019s ad network.<\/p>\n<p>But that\u2019s not the only way Malena\u2019s blog brings in cash\u2014the blogger created digital products her audience can download for a fee.<\/p>\n<p>This includes a \u201cViral Pinterest Strategies\u201d course and Pinterest templates.<\/p>\n<p>Prices range from $9 to $120.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Viral Pinterest Strategies\" alt=\"Malena Permentier \u2013 Viral Pinterest Strategies\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.57\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/malenapermentier-viral-pinterest-strategies.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Malena claims to make over $20,000 per month from her blog monetization strategy, which now also includes YouTube and TikTok videos.<\/p>\n<p>While I can\u2019t confirm or deny this, her traffic numbers and various income streams certainly back up the potential.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"YouTube \u2013 Malena Permentier\" alt=\"YouTube \u2013 Malena Permentier\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75538461538462\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/youtube-malena-permentier.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways-3\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Find your audience online:<\/strong> Invest in platforms where your readers naturally look for content. Pinterest worked for Malena, but your niche might thrive on <a title=\"How to Grow Your YouTube Channel: Insider Secrets\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/grow-youtube-channel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">YouTube<\/a> or Instagram.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Break niche boundaries strategically:<\/strong> Combining complementary topics (like home decor with productivity) can create a unique value proposition\u2014if the connection makes sense for your audience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>Download our <a title=\"12-Month Blog Launch Checklist\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1IuodECdU2MSxO_nUCIqP_rlUbw4IHFQLbLo44Y-raB8\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">12-month Blog Launch Checklist<\/a> now. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Start_Building_a_Profitable_Blog_Today\"><\/span>Start Building a Profitable Blog Today<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This 12-month timeline isn\u2019t set in stone.<\/p>\n<p>You might spend less time on research and more time on blog design.<\/p>\n<p>What matters most is focusing on three proven blogging fundamentals:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Quality content<\/li>\n<li>SEO<\/li>\n<li>Diversified income strategy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These aren\u2019t just nice-to-haves.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re essential for starting a blog that ranks highly and generates income.<\/p>\n<p>Ready to advance your SEO knowledge?<\/p>\n<p>Read our <a title=\"The Ultimate SEO Tutorial\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-tutorial\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ultimate SEO Tutorial<\/a> to learn how to optimize your content for UX, build backlinks, and drive more qualified traffic to your blog.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/how-to-start-a-blog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Start a Blog: A Step-by-Step 12-Month Action Plan<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Blogging can be a fun pastime\u2014or it can be a profitable side hustle. For some, it can even turn into a lucrative, full-time job. So, what separates the hobbyists from the high-earners? An action plan. Below, I\u2019ll teach you how to start a blog that attracts and converts visitors. Including a month-by-month timeline of exactly what to do and when to do it. With actionable steps for each phase, you\u2019ll learn how to go from initial planning to a thriving business in 12 months. Plus, you\u2019ll [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":11917,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8,52],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11916","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko","category-marketing-blogs"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/blog-phase-hvbPyC-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/blog-phase-hvbPyC-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11916","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11916"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11916\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11917"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11916"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11916"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11916"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}