Since it’s Caribbean Blogger’s Week 2016 #CBW2016, I thought what better way to celebrate blogger’s week than with a few tips on how to start a blog. There are no prerequisites to this, you just need some determination and persistence and you’re good.
Some of you may have seen me share on my Facebook Page that this week is Caribbean Blogger’s Week 2016 #CBW2016. Caribbean Blooger’s Week 2016 celebrates and showcases the power of Digital Influencers in the Caribbean and those of Caribbean descent. They [Influencers] are primarily Caribbean Millennials who are Bloggers, Podcasters, Instagrammers, YouTubers and other types of Digital Creatives (taken from SiliconCaribe.com). The event runs for 6 days (Dec 5th – 10th) and is hosted by Silicon Caribe which is a Caribbean Tech Media and Events Brand that’s been chronicling and showcasing how the Caribbean does Tech since 2007. If you’d like learn more visit their website siliconcaribe.com.
This is the process I used to get my blog up and running:
**Please note, you don’t necessarily have to use a website to share your content. You can use social media platforms to reach your audience. If you’re looking to share heavy content, then you may want to look into getting a website.
1.Budget
It is important to note that you can run a website without spending a dime. However, if you want to have a blog that’s dynamic and with much functionality, you will have to set some money aside.
2. Choose a topic
Decide on a topic. Not just any topic, but something that you see relevant, something you know people (outside of your friend circle) can really relate to. It can be inspirational content from your day-to-day activities or it can just be humorous, relatable content to lighten up your viewer’s day. It can simply be about products and services you think people may need. Whatever it is, make sure it is what people want.
3. Start Writing
Don’t wait until your blog is up and running to start putting your ideas down on paper or in a Word Doc. You may forget those ideas, so don’t wait.
4. Blogging Platform
This is where you’ll be publishing all your excellent content. Ensure to choose a blogging platform you think is best for you. Like I mentioned before, you can use free sites like WordPress.com, Wix or Blogger. I decided not to go free because of what I wanted to do later on. Before I got serious with my blog, I did some research which helped me to decide on a platform. There are many platforms available, but make sure you have an idea of what you want to do before you decide. Eventually, I chose WordPress.org. You can view this Blogging Sites Comparison Guide from MakeAWebsiteHub.com to help you decide.
5. Hosting
Web hosting is what you’ll need to store all your web files/posts/web pages. Basically it’s what makes you visible on the web. Some companies provide both platforms and hosting, but others provide only platforms and require that you do self-hosting. BlueHost makes very easy by connecting to WordPress in a few easy steps. PCMag.com lists some of the best hosting companies HERE.
6. Domain Name
Your domain name is the unique web address to identify your site. For example, Islepreneur.com is my website’s domain name. Ensure you choose a domain name that represents your company and one that is easy to remember. I purchased my domain through BlueHost.com, which I got free for the first year, but there other sites such as GoDaddy where you can purchase domains separately.
7. Theme
If you will like to add some spunk or have a more clean and organized look to your site, you can do that with a theme. There are loads of themes available for most platforms. Some are free, but if you want something dynamic and with mobile functionality, then it may come at a price. I am presently using a theme from SculptureQode. However, you can get themes from WordPress or purchase from other sites like ThemeForest or Creative Market.
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If you need more clarity, feel free to comment below with your questions.
Photos from CreateHerStock.com stock photos for bloggers.
