Many bloggers on the internet feel insecure, and I completely get that – I've been there too. Do you ever worry that no one will read what you write? If that's the case, this post is especially for you.
Now, there are a few scenarios where your work might go unread:
- Keeping all your posts in drafts.
- Not completing or publishing your posts.
- Password-protecting everything to hide from internet Grammar Nazis.
- Making your site invisible to search engines by setting it to private. But fear not, people will read what you write. It might not be the crowds you dream of, but someone will be there, reading. It could be your mum, an old high school teacher, your sister, or a blogging buddy. And that's already better than no one.
Even if it's just one loyal reader, coming back week after week, that's an audience. You're being read, and that's what matters.
You might think you deserve more readers because you're a brilliant writer, or simply because you love what you do. Whatever your reason for wanting more readers, it takes work to attract them. Start simple, like adding your posts to your Facebook stream and inviting comments. Maybe share in relevant LinkedIn groups, but take it easy as you find your footing. It's up to you how much or how little you promote.
Consider using tools like MissingLettr for promotion. This will help you automate your content promotion. I don't think I'd be able to live and have time to promote without MissingLettr.
You could also invest a small amount to promote a post on Facebook. It's not about blowing a fortune, but ensuring you get the right eyes on your content.
At first, promoting your posts may feel odd, but over time, you'll start making connections through your blog. You'll collaborate with other bloggers to promote each other's work.
Find Your Tribe
When you connect with like-minded people, more will read what you write. Participate in Facebook and LinkedIn groups. Don't just drop links to your posts; engage with the group. Comment, interact, and then share your content. When you contribute value, people are more receptive to your posts. It's about giving as well as receiving.
Until then, appreciate the readers you have. They may be quietly lurking, but they're there, and they're reading your words.
Remember, blogging isn't just about the numbers; it's about connection, growth, and sharing your unique voice. Keep writing, keep sharing, and your audience will find you.
Sarah
Great blog Sarah. I am finding that the more consistently I am blogging, the more readers I’m getting.
I used to worry that people WOULD read my blog, because I didn’t have confidence that it’d be any good! I used to send my posts to my friend to read first and then pop them up. Now I’m not worried about that – or about people not reading them. I know people read them and I know that blogging gets me business, and I quite enjoy it too! I also use buffer and absolutely love it 🙂
Thank you Sarah! That was a nice and very encouraging post. It takes a little time to build up but posting consistently and regularly seems to be part of the key. And keeping an eye on your blog analytics is often a good indicator on whether you are being read – I’ve been surprised so many times at the number of viewers and as importantly, the amount of time they spend on the blog. Onwards and upwards!
Sarah, I’m at a stage where I just want to create good content and if people read it it’s incidental. Having said that, I had the pleasure of belonging to a wonderfully supportive tribe a few years back. Sadly, it disintegrated and I’d love to find a similar one soon.
Like Nicole said, this is a very motivating post, thank you!
I like your comment to find your tribe. I think this is an under- utilised avenue.
Thank you Sarah this is just the kind of inspiration that push me forward on the difficult days. I am really enjoying the ‘blogging fears’ series 🙂
Our inner critic is a freak. I know some people get a complex from visiting others and worrying that they may not be “good enough”. I remember, when I moved my blog to self-hosting a few years ago, someone suggested I delete some of my old posts. I didn’t. I am happy to see where I came from.
You are right. I love the list you put up about situations when people may not read the blog 😀 That draft post is the cuss!
Inspiring post, Sarah!
It is like anything it takes time for people to find you and you have to tell people about it more than you think.
Such an important blog post! This is what stops people blogging and what stops them starting too. As Gary V said 1>0 (one is greater than zero) only takes 1 person to make it worthwhile.