If you ask me, perfection is overrated. We are defined by the mistakes we make because they help us learn, grow, adapt, experience humility, move on, move forward and improve ourselves. I think sometimes as bloggers we can become obsessed with getting it right – immediately. By “it” I mean everything from your content strategy to your voice, your brand partnerships and social media strategies. Here’s the thing though: you won’t. You’re going to screw something up, have a regret or two and make adjustments and changes all the time, continuously throughout your blogging career. Let’s talk about some common mistakes, starting with these 5 minor and easy-to-remedy ones that we’re all probably familiar with.
1. Linking your social media channels.
For successful engagement with your followers, it’s important to understand that people want different things from each of your platforms. Pushing your tweets to your Facebook page doesn’t make sense because the “@” replies and #hashtags don’t translate. Tweeting all your pins will drive your followers bonkers. Yes, it takes more time, but creating unique updates for each of your networks creates genuine conversations and encourages more authentic interactions.
2. Neglecting emails.
This isn’t the first time I’ve talked about how important it is to keep up with your inbox on IFB, even if it means rejecting pitches and tactfully unsubscribing to lists. It’s so, so easy to just click delete or say to yourself, “I’ll get back to so-and-so later,” which often leads to forgetting altogether. Take the time – you will reap the rewards 10 times over, I promise.
3. Giving all your blog posts nonsensical titles.
I used to do this all the time. I made my post titles inside jokes with my friends, the beginnings of sentences with “…” at the end or completely random phrases. I think it’s really fun to be creative with your post titles, but too much silliness can mean a missed opportunity for SEO or even click-throughs from your followers. For example, if I want to give a personal style post a title that’s sort of obscure, I at least put “{outfit post}” in front of it so my readers know what the content is about.
4. Forgetting to disclose.
From sponsored content to “care of” items, it’s an important part of business transparency as a blogger to keep up with your disclosures. In addition, having a disclosure section on your “About” page is a professional addition that brands and readers will appreciate.
5. Falling behind on keeping your “pages” current.
From your About page to Press and contact info, it’s easy to let these pages gather dust once they’re created. Try and remind yourself to check up on them at least once a month to update your press mentions, location, media kit statistics, etc. You never know who will be looking at your pages or when, so keep them fresh!
Thank you.
Such a great list of things to think about – Thank you for sharing. I’ve been working on my blog for a year now and I can’t believe how much has changed – From how I cite things to my writing to the content of my posts. It’s important to evolve and change with the times!