We’ve all heard how the content on your website needs to be fresh and updated on a regular basis. A blog seems like the perfect answer, as it also showcases your expertise.

So, are you thinking of starting a blog? Maybe you already have one, but haven’t updated it for a while. Whatever stage your blog is at, here’s a list of ten things to do BEFORE you actually start regularly blogging!

#1: Be realistic about the time you have. Look at your workload and decide how much time you can realistically dedicate to your blog. Remind yourself that you’re in it for the long haul. Whatever time you can dedicate to it, make a commitment and stick to it.

#2: Decide on schedule. How many times are you looking to update your blog? Weekly is a great practice to get into as a starting point, however 2-3 times a week would really ramp up the content and your visibility.

#3: Brainstorm topic ideas. Make a list of all the topics you can think of that relate to your expertise and niche – these can be turned into your blog titles, as well as being used for your tags and categories.

#4: Think variety. If writing isn’t your strong point, why not consider doing audio or video blogs?

#5: Devise templates. Whatever variety of post you pick, devise a standard layout for them and include the basics needed for each blog. (E.g. question & answer/problem & solution – along with short description, tags, keywords etc.)

#6: Images. These help make the blog look appealing and can help with SEO, so decide where you will get your images from. Will you be using your own or using a free/paid library?

#7: Call to action. What is the number one thing you want people to do after reading your blog? Do you want them to visit a link, comment on your post or follow you on social media? Make a list and get all links etc. ready.

#8: Tweak your website. Get your site ready for your blog. Install a blogging page, change your general settings to state whether you want a full or partial post shown on your blogging page and add a social media plugin to make sharing posts easier.

#9: Set aside time for writing your posts. Whether you decide to write them weekly, monthly or quarterly, set aside a regular time to complete them, upload them and schedule them on your site.

#10: Don’t expect overnight success. Be realistic about seeing results and interaction. It takes time to build a following, so don’t expect to get a noticeable change in results within the first 4-6 months.

What are your plans regarding blogging? Do you currently have a blog or is it all a new area for you to explore? Which of these tips was the most helpful to you and which will you be sure to implement into your existing routine? Why not share your thoughts and opinions in the comments box below?