There are a lot of guides that offer tips with things to do to blog better, but not quite as many talk about what a blogger might be better off avoiding. So below is a list of blogging mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Adding music or sound effects
Flash animation that is done well can provide an extra touch if it’s not too distracting, but playing sound is an unwelcome surprise to readers in an office environment
2. Neglecting to include contact information or about page
Transparency in blogging is a big aspect of attracting more readers and this is achieved when an audience knows who is talking and how to reach them.
3. Taking the default template
There are lots of great templates to choose from. Instead of just using the first default option because it’s easy, it helps to find the template that best fits the site or consider creating a new one.
4. Using the blogging platform domain
Everyone needs to start somewhere, and trying out a blog hosted on the bloggng platform makes a lot of sense. However, professional bloggers really should eventually host it on their own website
5. Organizing posts solely through the archives
Creating links to important posts in the navigation or putting posts in categories can help readers find their way around.
6. Posting sporadically
Having schedule means that readers know when to find new information. It doesn’t have to be very often but it should be consistent. Leaving a blog unattended can lose precious momentum and readership.
7. Flooding a site with ads
Ads are an acceptable way of monetizing a blog, but ads can make it difficult to find and read the content. Planning ad placement carefully and sparingly can end up paying dividends.
8. Including links that open in a new browser
Bloggers don’t want readers to leave, hence opening new windows for links. But blog readers can be annoyed at new windows they didn’t ask for. This could go either way, but the readers will usually know how to get back if they want, so new windows aren’t necessary.
9. Blogging blindly
Not know how existing readers are finding the blog via search engines can be like walking on a tightrope without a net. Blogging topics can be impromptu, but building a serious audience takes a little forethought and planning. Do some research and add some tools to help track traffic.
10. Rambling incessantly
A blog should be updated regularly, and if new topics are hard to find, then the individual posts may be too long. Generally it’s better to create shorter, more frequent posts. Keep the audience engaged through expanding on topics piece by piece, as dissertations tend to dissuade all but the most avid fans.
Am I missing any?