This is a guest post by Dr. Bob Clarke.
It’s hard enough to build a successful and profitable blog when you have all day and night to devote to it. But when you’re a part time blogger working around a full time job, taking care of the kids and/or your elderly parents, success can seem like it’s a mile away.
While it’s not impossible to transform yourself from a part time blogger to a highly successful full time blogging machine (think Kristi Hines, creator of this blog and others), those blogging part time face unique challenges.
The fact is, if you want to succeed as a part time blogger, you’d better bring your “A game” at all times. You simply cannot afford to be wasting time in the few hours you have to devote to blogging each day.
While it’s always a good idea to study those who are successful, sometimes it works equally well to examine the reasons why many fail to thrive.
With this in mind, I share with you the most common wasteful habits that will torpedo a part time blogger faster than a submarine can sink it’s unsuspecting prey.
1. You Don’t Understand WHY You Want to Blog
Everyone thinks they should have a blog when they start marketing online; yet, you’d be surprised how many “bloggers” have no idea why they’re doing so. The result is a mediocre blog lacking direction and results.
Take some time to figure out what you want your blog to accomplish. Are you looking to build your email opt in list, sell products or an income opportunity, or simply wanting to build your reputation and value to others?
Understanding why you are blogging in the first place will help you become clear about your expectations and what actions you wish your readers to take.
2. You Don’t Understand WHO You are Writing For
This is just as wasteful as #1. If you try to write for everyone and anyone, your results will be just as diluted as your profits.
For example, I wasted over a year with my Network Marketing blog because I was not clear about who my target audience really was. But when I focused my writings on helping Part Time Entrepreneurs navigate the struggles and difficulties associated with building a business “on the side”, my blog’s popularity grew by leaps and bounds.
3. You Treat Your Blogging as a Hobby Instead of a Full Time Enterprise
Being a Part Time blogger doesn’t make you any less serious than those that blog full time. It simply means you have less time than most to build your business.
Don’t make the mistake of treating your blog like a hobby.
Be sure that you have a dedicated work area that is used solely for your home business, if at all possible. Open up an email account just for your business and perhaps get a dedicated phone line, as well.
Get your family to respect your business hours by discussing the benefits they’ll receive when you’re successful!
Be professional and be serious when it comes to your business.
4. You Fail to Set Goals and Have a Plan
A sailboat with a broken sail and no rudder will float aimlessly in the ocean, going wherever the tide takes it. Similarly, a part time blogger without goals and a plan will flounder aimlessly with not much to show for his effort.
Set some goals for your blog, make them specific, measurable and attainable, and check your progress regularly. Create a plan that is consistent with reaching your goals in a reasonable period of time.
By doing so, you’ll go a long way towards boosting your productivity and the success of your blog.
5. You Don’t Have a Blogging Schedule
Setting a writing schedule is all about organization. Decide how many blog posts you can reasonably write on a weekly basis and stick to it. I use the Editorial Calendar WordPress Plugin to map out my posts each month and create reminders to publish, but it can be as simple as putting a pen to paper.
However you decide to do it, most successful Part Time Bloggers have a rigid system for scheduling their posts.
6. You Lack Consistency and Accountability
This one is true for all bloggers, but especially so for part timers. Being consistent in your blogging efforts works on a couple of different levels — it creates a routine for the blogger and gets her readers used to expecting posts on a regular basis. Both are crucial for the success of the Part Time blogger.
It’s also a great idea to have an accountability partner, someone who helps you stick to your schedule and expected work output.
The bottom line: Be consistent in your efforts and accountable to yourself and your readers.
7. You Fail to Identify and Plug Productivity Leaks
If you are a Part Time Blogger, it is especially important that you identify leaks in your productivity and do your best to plug them.
What do I mean by productivity leaks? Simply, places where you are not using your time as efficiently and effectively as you could. For me, I was spending too much time browsing social media and not enough time performing tasks that would actually generate income.
Also, I made the mistake of keeping Skype and my email open while trying to blog. The result?
Too many distractions and wasting too much time.
What are your productivity leaks? Where are your time-wasters?
When you identify them and make adjustments in your work habit, you’re productivity will skyrocket and success will soon follow.
8. You Believe That Multi-Tasking is the Answer
It is my opinion that multi-tasking for a Part Time Entrepreneur is rarely a good thing and can cripple your productivity rather than boost it. While it may seem like you’re getting more done by doing two or more things at the same time, this usually results in many half-finished projects or putting out mediocre work.
If you’re tempted to multi-task, think again. It will make you more unproductive and ultimately less successful.
9. You Edit While You Write
Editing your posts as you write is a very unproductive way to create a post. You can be a much more prolific blogger if you just write a post from start to finish, without editing. Later, go back and reread your post, cutting unnecessary words and fixing spelling and grammatical errors.
Write first, edit later — it’s the strategy of most productive bloggers.
10. You Don’t Batch Your Work
Batching involves setting aside a certain period of time for writing and creating multiple posts at one sitting. By blocking out time specifically for writing, your blogging productivity will soar.
I find it much easier to create several posts during a 2 hour period of writing, rather than writing posts as needed. It’s also helpful to have backup posts when “life happens” and you are unable to blog for whatever reason.
11. You Don’t Have a Method for Capturing Ideas
Everyone struggles at times with finding topics to blog about. For the Part Time blogger, this can be especially daunting since you don’t always have the time to go searching for ideas.
Ideas for a blog post can come at any time — at your computer reading a related article, standing in line at the supermarket, even in the shower! It’s really important not to waste a single idea.
Have a system for capturing these ideas immediately. One “old fashioned” way is to have a pad of paper and pen with you at all times. Alternatively, you can turn to technology.
In the past, I have used a voice activated recorder to capture ideas as they come to me. Now, I use my iPhone for this purpose.
I also use a Mobile app called EverNote to take more extensive notes about blogging ideas. Wherever I am, I can open EverNote on my iPhone or laptop and capture an idea when it hits.
12. You Fail to Leverage Technology
There are so many ways that technology can make your life easier; to not leverage that technology is simply foolish.
Here are just a few ways that technology can make the part time blogger more productive and successful:
- Using RSS feeds to keep up with your competitors and provide ideas for future content.
- Sharing your content on social networks
- Using services like OnlyWire to share your posts on dozens of social bookmarking sites simultaneously
- Installing WordPress plugins that automatically make your blog SEO friendly and faster to load
The technology available to bloggers is amazing; leverage it to your advantage!
13. You Don’t Leverage The Skills (and Followers) of Other Bloggers
Asking other bloggers to guest post on your blog is a win-win situation in my view, as long as your blog posts predominate. By having another blogger in your niche post on your site, not only are you creating more content for your blog but you are potentially attracting a whole new set of readers to your site.
Similarly, guest blogging on other blogs is an extremely productive use of your time. You get exposure to new readers and build relationships with other bloggers.
It can be a little intimidating to do it the first time, but don’t let fear stop you. Just do it!
14. You Don’t Take Advantage of Blog Commenting and Syndication Tribes
Some of the fastest ways I’ve found to boost the popularity of my blog has been through the use of blog commenting groups and content syndication tribes. The concept is simple — you arrange with other bloggers to promote their content and comment on their posts and they do the same for you.
For the struggling Part Time Blogger, this strategy can really help your blog get a foothold and established in your niche.
15. You Don’t Take Care of Yourself
It’s really tempting to skip your workout or grab some fast food when you are pushed for time and need to get writing. But to ignore your health is a huge mistake for Part Time bloggers.
In order to be more productive, you must feel well. This means getting enough sleep, eating well and getting physical exercise on a regular basis. Don’t skip this — it will come back to haunt you. I speak from experience on this one!
Bonus Tip: What If Life Gets In the Way?
I’ve added this last tip because it’s been an issue for me lately. What do you do if life “happens” and you just can’t find time to blog?
It happens to all of us at some point, and it’s important that you don’t beat yourself up over it.
My advice here is to direct your focus on taking care of your life issues first and foremost. If not, you will likely be distracted and not be very productive anyway. Give yourself permission to take a break and resolve your other problems.
Your blog will be there when you get back.
Explain to your readers why you’ve been missing in action and maybe even share some aspects of your personal struggles. They will love you for your openness and honesty.
Final Words
As a Part Time blogger, it will be easy for you to become frustrated when your blog readership isn’t growing fast enough or your blog isn’t generating much income.
The most important advice I can give you is to be patient! Your time will come! Make sure you are using your limited time as efficiently and effectively as possible, and the results will follow.
About Dr. Bob Clarke
Kikolani covers blog marketing and blogging tips for personal, professional, and business bloggers to succeed in search and social media marketing. Kristi Hines is a 
Interesting post Dr. Bob (with deference to the old Muppet Show, I loved saying that). There’s almost none of this that I can disagree with, while at the same time feeling like I have to add that no one has to be as rigid as the points seem to come across.
For instance, I’m not sure #9 is all that wasteful a habit, just a recommendation for people who find that they have problems completing articles because they’re doing it. Also, #13 is a nice recommendation, but if you’re a part time blogger struggling to find time to write your own posts, it’s illogical to step out of your time zone to go writing for others until you get a handle on your own processes.
Still, it’s a nice list for people to look at to see where they might fall, so good job.
Mitch Mitchell recently posted Making Money By Blogging – Let’s Talk
Hey Mitch,
You’re absolutely right — the items on this list is what I find personally unproductive and what other bloggers have related to me. In the end, one’s productivity is intensely personal.
What may be an unproductive habit for me may have no effect on you.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted Can a Bribe be Ethical?
I am a part-time blogger and #1 thing that I have changed this year that has drastically increased my productivity and the quality of my blog is #11… Having a way to capture ideas for your blog at all times.
You don’t get your best ideas only when sitting in front of the computer. Having ways to capture those ideas anytime (i.e. Evernote or just caring a pad and pen) is extremely important.
Thank you!
Ryan Hanley@Content Marketing recently posted How Small Business Can Leverage Social Media to Fight Back Against Their Big Business Competitors
Hi Ryan… I love EverNote as a way to not only capture an idea but sketch it out with some notes. I have it installed on my computer and my iPhone, so pretty much wherever I am I can capture an idea. Thanks for the comment.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Very good article! I especially liked #7 and #8. The concept of “productivity leaks” is new to me, but immediately recognizable in my own habits! Also, I am a serial multi-tasker! Guess I should start rethinking some of my routines.. Thanks for sharing!
Serena recently posted Bringing Live Support to Facebook
I recommend on my blog that people actually do a “time audit” — basically to figure out where you are spending your time and where your leaks exist. It’s a great exercise — try doing it for a few days and see how it goes.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
wow….u have said it all…… each and every blogger can relate with these habits…i guess most of the problem arises when people try to blog to earn quick cash…..soon they realize that it was not that easy as they thought it to be so and then they either quit or the blog quality decreases…
its all about passion… if passion is put before money….quality will automatically reflect….
there is no quick rich scheme..
thanks for this wonderful share..
Regards
Aniket
Aniket@GTX 590 recently posted GTX 590 – Review!!! On Sale NOW Save 17% on the GTX 590
As I was writing this post, it occurred to me that most of the points relate to both part time and full time bloggers. It’s just that with those of us who blog part time, it’s even more important to stay on topic and get things done. You’re right, Aniket… it is all about passion. Otherwise, its just like having another job!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Hey there Bob,
Excellent tips/reminders for all of us part-time Bloggers. I find #10 and #11 very effective. I tried batching my work a couple times in the last few weeks and I find it very efficient. That was before I succumbed again, to the natural instinct of writing as I go. I will be sure to make it a habit to batch from here on out. I believe posting content regularly (which is the positive result of batching), also helps search engine robot get in a habit of checking your page frequently, so it’s definitely a plus.
I will check out that app you mentioned in #11. My method is very archaic at this point. I just email myself the ideas as they come, then those emails get buried under a pile of other emails, and the rest is history
Cheers!
Kodjo
Kodjo recently posted Partner Workout – Clap Pushups
Whatever works for you, Kokjo! As for batching, it’s a hard habit to break — writing as you go — I also have trouble sometimes sticking to the batching idea. But it does work very well when you can knock out a few posts at a time. It feels good to have some posts “in reserve” should life happen or you start drawing blanks on what to write about.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Sorry for misspelling your name, Kodjo! It was late at night and my fingers stopped working!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
I find the concept of a blog tribe (for traffic, comments, what have you) to be really appealing and yet surprisingly difficult to organize. Plus few people have heard of it (or at least people I’ve thrown the idea out to). How do you get this started? Do you just email a blogger you have a connection with and toss out the idea?
Alexis@babysleep recently posted Too Young to Cry it Out?
You can organize your own group by finding other bloggers in the same or related niche and proposing a collaboration, perhaps even posting your desire on Facebook and see what happens. Or, you can join an already established group. Try CleverMarketer.com for this — Heather Stephens has an awesome blog commenting tribe.
Hope this helps.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
I do agree that blogging part time can make you a hobbyist, at best. People should treat blogging as a business, if they are serious about reaping any rewards out of it.
Hi Raj, I didn’t mean to imply that Part Time Bloggers are less serious about their business. On the contrary, many of the most dedicated bloggers I know are part time. I also know some full time bloggers that sometimes treat it as a hobby. It all comes down to the person, I suppose.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
This is blunt, but true. I think many bloggers fall into some of these habits at some point in their blogging career. Blogs can be time consuming and when you are not making any money – frustrating. I think focus is key, thinking about your readers, connecting with them helps!
Since blogging is on the Internet – multi-tasking and procrastinating are so easy! Having a tab with Facebook and another one with youTube can really stomp out productivity! One thing I have tried is writing my blog post in Word without having a browser open.
Julie @Blogging Tips recently posted Writing an eBook to Educate, Encourage and Inspire for the Beginner
Hi Julie,
I love the idea of writing your posts in Word first, away from other internet distractions. I haven’t done that routinely but perhaps I should. Great tip!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Hey Bob,
You’re so right. So many people who start their own blog don’t even have an Idea why they started it. People should think of their goal first and do they need and how they need to accomplish those goals. Without goals set people who start new blog will fail and you and me, we know that.
Don @Schwinn Strollers recently posted Schwinn Free Runner Jogging Stroller
Agreed, Don… as I said, like a boat without a rudder!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
I fell into the trap of so many of these before. I found that editing while I write or multitasking was distracting me too much. I like the saying, “Don’t edit yourself,” because to be in the flow of creativity is liberating.
The one I didn’t think about was batching the work. That’s a good idea and makes sense. I set aside hours at a time to do work so why wouldn’t I set aside hours at a time to do writing for my own business blog? Thanks for that!
Gabrielle recently posted Engagement from Scratch! A Giveaway Copy of Danny Iny’s Book
I guess it depends on the person, Gabrielle. Some people work best by editing as they go, but I find that it slows me down and, more importantly takes me out “of the zone”. When I write I get into a flow and to stop and edit breaks everything up. It is tempting, though, I know.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Bob. Lots of cool stuff here. I agree with most of it. On scheduling: sure most part time successful bloggers have a schedule, but it doesn’t make having a schedule a determining factor of their success.
On WHO you’re writing for, I like your approach. It’s interesting though, because I have a different approach which is to write for no one. I write what I feel, what I’m thinking and what’s interesting in areas I write about. I think “those who align will follow,” and so far that’s been the case. But to your point, I am writing mainly to entrepreneurs and marketers.
It’s another approach, Ryan and if its working for you, that’s great.
It’s a personal choice. I think that if I tried to blog that way I would be too much all over the place and it wouldn’t be consistent.
But like I said, if it works for you, that’s great.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Hi Dr. Bob,
Those are fantastic tips for successful blogging! One thing that I found extremely helpful especially in the early days was syndication. It really helped to build my blog traffic, build relationships, etc. I’ve had many followers stick around from those early days.
Stacy
Stacy recently posted The Habit Building Challenge
Hi Stacy, great to see you over here! I agree that syndication can supercharge your productivity, and help you build a following especially at the start. I have a syndication checklist that I go through every time I write a post, just to be sure I don’t forget.
Thanks for your insights, Stacy!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Great insights Dr.Bob. Working on helping another part time blogger start up, so will definitely share this post with him. Great ideas, especaially on managing productivity, and keeping yourself accountable for your actions.
I had life get in my way too, and it made me take a look at what I have been doing in my own business, and things I want to change. thanks for these tips.
James@ Relationship Marketing recently posted Taking Action To Achieve Your Dreams and Goals
You’re welcome, James… glad these tips will help you out with your new client. Life can definitely get in the way, sometimes and it’s good to step back and reassess.
Thanks for the comment, James!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Thanks for the post, great information! The tip on identifying productivity leaks truly spoke to me. As I was reading your post I was actually editing a post on my own blog and tweeting. I tend to do this when working later in the day to accomplish multiple tasks at once. But you are correct when my attention is placed on 2-3 different tasks at once, then neither of those tasks receive 100% of the attention they truly need.
Regina S. recently posted LearnVest: Getting My Financial House in Order
Hi Regina, multitasking is so tempting, isn’t it? Even though I know better, I still find myself doing it once in a while. And I invariably get LESS done than if I had just done things one at a time.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Wow, I leave the first comment and it gets totally ignored? Guess I’m outta this post.
Mitch Mitchell recently posted So Much For My “Klout”
Sorry Mitch, the first comment is still awaiting moderation. That’s why you don’t see it yet. When Kristi approves it you’ll see that I have in fact answered your comment.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
That’s my fault Mitch! That comment was stuck in the spam filter while the others went through – not sure why. He replied to you first though.
Dr Bob – I especially liked #3: You Treat Your Blogging as a Hobby Instead of a Full Time Enterprise. We advise our clients to examine their online habits closely and to eliminate habits which do not directly lead to generating income.
Michael Stetina recently posted How Blog Backlinks Drive Traffic to Your Site
That’s great advice, Michael. When you are blogging as a business, of course you need to consider income. You cannot ignore it, although I think the first priority needs to be the problems of your readers. If you help them solve their problems, I’ve found that the money always follows.
Great insights, thanks for your comment, Michael.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
I agree with all your points! Especially the idea of NOT multi-tasking. I wrote a similar post solely about the downside of mutli-tasking. I will have to look into evernote…my ideas definitely come at the most random times, and I run to write them down before they leave my brain. An app for this would be great for ideas that hit while I’m on the go.
Tracy recently posted 10 Ways to Help Rid Yourself of Brain Fog
I love EverNote, but there are other apps that will work as well. And I know some who just carry a notepad and pen with them at all times. They are more comfortable with non-tech solutions! Whatever works!
Thanks for the comment, Tracy.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Very interesting post, while reading down the list I found myself thinking, hey I’m doing that for few of the points. Better take note and do something about it
Nishadha recently posted How to Select a SEO Company For Your Business
Hi Nishadha, its so easy to lose a bit of productivity here and there.. that’ why I like to call them leaks. A few small leaks can add up to a large dropoff in your productivity if you don’t keep an eye on them.
Glad you enjoyed the post!
Dr Bob,
Great post here. I would say that while just about every single one of these is extremely important to productivity ones are specifically near and dear to my heart. My work online is the only way I make my living and still finding time to do everything is not always an easy proposition. I’m rigid with my time since I think it is one of my most valuable commodities.
Being consistent, planning and executing an efficient manner are elements that I believe are essential to successful blogging.
Steve@Affiliate Marketing Tips recently posted 119 Free Internet Marketing Tools to Grow YOUR Online Business or Blog
Great contribution, Steve. I totally agree that consistency and having a plan and schedule goes a long way towards boosting your productivity and making you more successful — in just about anything!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Networker recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Great Post Dr. Bob, I think having a blogging schedule is very important though its sometimes difficult to keep to your blogging schedules especially if you are studying.
True, Joseph but better to have a schedule than not. Are you using anything in particular to create your schedule (like the Editorial Calendar plugin)?
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Very well said. I am a full time developer and i find it extremely difficult to maintain my blog. Although the site rankings are crawling up, the growth is really slow. Surely needs dedicated time for this to reap success and im striving hard..
Congrats on taking action Roy. Like I said in a previous comment, these productivity tips apply to both full time and part time bloggers.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Really nice post Dr. Bob, I think there are a lot of part time bloggers out there who waste a lot of time doing different unproductive stuffs. I think you could also include social media in your list since nowadays social media sites like Facebook and Twitter too have started adding to the un-productivity of bloggers. I think it is really important that one should make a schedule and try to follow it while blogging
Shiva @ Blogging Tips recently posted Popup Domination Discount – Popup Domination 3 Launch
Hi Shiva… social media is a huge productivity leak, especially for me. I have to be very careful to turn off FB and my Twitter feed when its time to blog…. oh, and Skype gets shut off as well.
Great contribution, Shiva.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted 5 Free Ways to Stand Out From the Crowd and Get Noticed!
Dr. Bob, these gently delivered pieces of advice are critical to ponder, and I’m still struggling with why I want to blog and who I’m blogging for. I have learned a great deal from my experimenting, but am still experimenting. I know that some of my audience likes humor, others like more technical articles and commenting, while others are drawn into product reviews by search engines. I would like eventually to make some money, am building a list, and running a few ads. My main objective is to figure out how to get readers. But my strange mix of topics means my blog is at odds with itself. For now, I’m having fun and want to keep blogging part time. But as a web guru, product hawker, humor writer I’m really just a dabbler! A steady schedule of posts that I can sustain and have value to someone is my immediate goal. A second six months may have me more focused.
AstroGremlin@premium CommentLuv enabled recently posted Comment Treasure
I think it’s the biggest issue for new bloggers “How to get readers?”. You should allow some quest posts on your blog and do some quest posting on other people blogs also involve yourself into more commenting on relavant topic blogs. By accepting quest posts to your blog will be easier to keep that steady posting.
Don @Schwinn Strollers recently posted Schwinn Joyrider Jogging Stroller
Yes Don. It is a natural process. Once you start commenting on other’s blogs you will get requests for guest posting too.
Sanat from Web Marketing Blog recently posted All About Quality Score – The What, How and Why of Google AdWords QS
It’s important to have fun while blogging; it’s alot easier to do something when you find it fun. But I cannot overemphasize the need to understand who you’re targeting with your blog posts. This will dictate the overall message you’re sending with your blog.
Having said that, it will take some time to find your voice. It’s great to experiment and try new things. Let us know how it comes out!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Time Management and Fixing Schedules are very important in these matters. This is a good guide for those part time bloggers out there who are still starting to make their own blog. All of what you’ve said are very true, because of peoples wide interest in many things they sometimes forget to focus on the niche of their blogs.
Some just do it for fun but what important in my opinion is they keep their Inspiration and Motivation in blogging.
Cheers!
John Knights@Designers Websites recently posted How to choose a web design firm in the UK?
Well said, John. If you’re going to be an effective and successful blogger, you must be passionate about what you’re doing and who you are trying to help. Find what motivates you and run with it.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
These are all great comments! I am gearing up for to launch my own blog, so these recommendations came a perfect time for the part-time blogger.
Thank you for sharing this.
By the way, I came across this post on a Twitter from a link shared by @TweetSmarter
Respectfully,
Chris
Thanks, Chris… glad you have found it useful. Very cool that you came over here via Twitter.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
That’s very practical advice there. Thanks.
Being a part-time blogger I understand, most of the precious time is wasted on SEO and research which can be accomplished by automated tools.
Gtricks recently posted A Better Chrome Extension Manager
I agree. As a part time blogger, I automate as much as possible, especially in terms of SEO and sharing my posts. What I never outsource is my writing, because in my opinion this is the heart and soul of my blog.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Hi Dr Bob. Wow, I see a lot of those things in myself when I had first started and there are a few that even today i struggle with.
I think one of the biggest problems is #3. For some reason lots of us tend to not take blogging seriously as a business. I guess the way the society thinks of “internet marketing” in general, plays a roll in it as well.
satrap@ How to Make Money Fast recently posted 60 Ways to Make Money Without a Job
It’s true, when I tell people that I help other part time bloggers how to make more money online, I often get a blank stare and a strange look. But in the end, we have to look within ourselves to find the motivation and dedication to give your blog the time and effort it deserves.
Thanks for the comment.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
This is very true. I must admit, I sometimes fall into the category of a lack of blogging schedule. It’s so hard to create one in our hectic and busy lives today – and it’s even harder to stick to one!
Sean@SEO Philippines recently posted SEO Philippines
Agreed, Sean.. but its really tough to keep you blog moving forward without some kind of post schedule, at least for me. I need the structure to keep moving forward.
I might also suggest finding a fellow blogger or someone else in your life that can serve as an accountability partner, someone who will keep you accountable for doing what you say you’re going to do.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Sometimes I suffer from the point #8. I am a full-time blogger and a SEO Content writer. Though both seem two sides of same coin, but it is not. When I write for clients I don’t get too much of freedom. This is against my blogging nature which I don’t like.
All your points are valid. I appreciate the way you have put forward the lessons.
Sanat from Web Marketing Blog recently posted All About Quality Score – The What, How and Why of Google AdWords QS
Ah Sanat, the mulittasking bug will bite you in the butt. I have yet to meet a blogger that can truly multitask and write meaningful, powerful posts. I’m not sure it’s possible.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Very nice Dr. Bob, and well thought out. Much of it seems like common sense but still often overlooked. You would think that we would have a good grasp on why we actually blog but I bet a lot of bloggers can’t answer that one decisively. The answer “to make money” is probably one way to insure that doesn’t happen. I can remember a few years ago when my best friend asked me that exact question and I was shocked at not having a decent answer. The next four wasteful habits are all but irrelevant without the answer to “why” we blog. It was very appropriate that you listed that as the number one point.
I am very guilty of #9 – editing while I write. I have developed a habit of saving a post to draft, editing a dozen times or more and previewing the post with each edit. That’s probably why it takes me several hours to write a single post when you add in the time spent researching it. Something to work on.
16) Never learning to type! Using two fingers to type and one of those is reserved for the shift and enter keys slows me down in a big way.
Brian D. Hawkins@Blogging Tips recently posted Linking Out To Other Blogs And Getting Noticed For It
Hey Brian, I started with the first tip about knowing why you’re blogging because I was one of those that couldn’t answer that question. For some, this is a difficult nut to crack, but crack it you must before you write another post.
Love #16, can just picture you typing out your posts with 2 fingers. Maybe you should try some software programs that will take your audio and convert it to written words!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
What a great post, the only problem I have is not setting up a blogging schedule. I truly believe that if I could get this in place then I will easily triple my income.
Dean Saliba recently posted Optimizing Your Website for Performance and Loading Time
Yes, Dean.. get that blogging schedule set up. You may want to try the Editorial Calendar plugin from WordPress. It keeps my organized and reminds me as well.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
I’m also a part time blogger, juggling all the things you mentioned. If you are a part time blogger, it’s important to understand that you need to manage your time really well. Also, you’ll havve to be more patient with growing your blog as you will need to give it more time to grow. Finally, remember that your other life endeavors still take precedence. At least for the time being. Don’t neglect the other parts of your life, trying to juggle everything.
Richard recently posted Adventures in Ecommerce: Starting Out
Great reminder Richard… your life outside blogging continues and you need to balance, not ignore. I learned this lesson a while back when I was neglecting some important things in my life in order to work on my business. It won’t happen again!
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
I agree with a lot of this and disagree with a lot of the rest, but a very interesting read, nonetheless.
Hey, I have six kids and I homeschool. NOT multitasking isn’t an option.
Alison Moore Smith@Lifestyle Design recently posted Natural Cures for Depression
I hear you Alison! 6 kids!! I can see where in this case multitasking is not optional
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
I’m guilty of several of those habits, the main one that I got over in the last several months is multi tasking, I used to have all kinds of tabs open, working on design, SEO, post creation and more on 5 different websites.
Well now I have a plan, I have times for each thing, and I make sure I stick to that time, it’s much easier to get tasks completed and not be overwhelmed, which keeps me motivated.
Thanks Dr. Clarke
HI Jamie,
Having a plan and schedule is half the battle! It’s so hard to keep productive when you don’t know what your goal is or have some plan on how you want to accomplish it.
Congrats on putting your plan into action and becoming more structured.
And thanks for your contributions to this discussion.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Hi Bob,
Good Article!
I’d like to share a couple of observations from past experience. My focus now is on creative writing and blogging but in the past I’ve worked as a technical writer.
The key is to provide step-by-step procedures as concisely as possible but still point out areas that require special attention. I don’t want to ‘steal your thunder’, you’ve made your point well. Mainly, I’m making practical application and possibly pointing out some types of resources that may be helpful.
For me, I’ll address number 7. I find that I am continually thinking up new ways to improve both my business and my blog and jotting them down. So much so that I soon feel overwhelmed at the sheer volume of possible improvements I can make. and a “to do” list that numbers close to a hundred items.
I find lately that if I focus on a single task or project until completion I’m able to accomplish more in the long run. Plus you end up with many feelings of accomplishment, vs. a feeling of leaving many things incomplete.
Warren@Internet Marketing recently posted The Pros and Cons of Echo Chambers in Social Media
Hey Bob,
I can safely say I am guilty of 2,4,5,9 and some of the others to a lesser degree. In my defense though, I am becoming way more organised as of the late. The reason why is kind of ironic. I’ve been doing a linkbuilding exercise which has invariably lead me to blogs like this. Unlike most who are out simply to get as many links as possible, I actually ready every post from start to finish. At the minute my bookmarks folder looks like a bombsite from all the blogs I’ve marked. I’m going to separate those into different folders, according to niche so that I can revisit them.
That is why the points I listed strike such a chord with me. Since becoming more organised and planning my content/activities, not only am I seeing an increase in traffic, I am learning something new with every post.
Frank@AcronisCoupons recently posted Elance, Get Paid to Write Articles, Develop software and Build Websites
I’d be willing to bet that 67 and eight are probably my biggest weaknesses. I have too many leaks in my time because I’m trying to do too many tasks at once. I’m working on trying to fix that.
as far as editing while you write, I think that’s a mistake a lot of people make. Having done NaNoWriMo a number of times, I can tell you that you can get a lot more done by not stopping to edit while you are writing a post. Get the thoughts out, and then you can correct it later.
Great post.
Grady Pruitt recently posted I’ve Reached My Goal… Now What?
Thanks, Grady. I have to say that I don’t always practice what I preach regarding not editing while writing. It’s a habit I’ve had for a long time and it’s a tough one to break. But I agree — when I just keep writing and edit at the end, not only do I finish faster but it usually turns out to be a better piece of writing.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Entrepreneur recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
I agree with most of the points as I am doing this as a “part-time” hobby. I love to revisit this and have to-do items and break-through in 2012.
Kent @ Make Extra Money Online recently posted 7 Steps to be Free from Information Overload
While reading the post, I saw myself and all my mistakes. I am a part time blogger and I have little time to work with myblog in fact. I have no cler purpo why I need all this stuff and who I am writing to and you are 200% right that I am not oganized at all. I need to decide myself if to cary on or just stop all this. I hope your tips will help to make this decision.
I hope so, too Anna. Perhaps it will help to know you are not alone… many, many bloggers out there are in the same boat as you. Take your time, talk to some people and perhaps a mentor if you have one and decide what is your voice in all of this.
I hope you will carry on and continue to blog. Once you find your voice and your target readers, blogging is very rewarding! Just ask Kristi!
A lot people are here in the blogging scene but they do not know why they blog in the first place. They just thought of it as a monetary terms without thinking.
Ricardus @WordPress Hosting recently posted Christmas and Winter Sales Promotion for WordPress Hosting by WPWebHost
I also believe this is true, Ricardus… people think that making money from blogging is “easy money,” when we bloggers understand the complexities and the work it takes to have an awesome blog that brings in cash.
I will also say that, for the most part people whose primary goal is to make money from their blog don’t make money, or if they do it’s not nearly as much as it could have been if they focused on helping others first. Just my 2 cents.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Entrepreneur recently posted How To Get Over The Fear of Writing Guest Posts
Very interesting article – the one thing that lept off the page & struck a nerve with me was to write without editing as you go. I can see that to write the whole piece will be more productive and probably have a better natural flow. I will implement this straight away – great post
Linus Moran – Dorset Wedding photographer recently posted A Guide to How & Why you should choose a Professional Wedding Photographer
Hi Linus,
This was one of the biggest production boosters for my writing, switching from an “edit as you go along” style of writing to a “write first, edit later” style. You’re right, when you don’t stop to edit, ideas just keep flowing as you write.
In the end, I’ve found that my articles are of better quality as well.
Dr. Bob Clarke@Part Time Network Marketing recently posted Introducing Experts Speak!… Where 18 Blogging Experts Share Their Secrets
Thanks for the post – it helped clarify some of the ideas I’ve had – especially moving from part-time to full time. In the past the biggest problem for me was #15, “you don’t take care of yourself”. I definitely eat well and exercise, but work + studies meant that I was sacrificing sleep to be able to write.
–
Michael
Michael Alexis recently posted How did this procrastinator get 342 comments on one blog post?
Great post! I’ve been blogging for over a year now and you still brought up some points that I’ve not quite taken care of…ooops
Great advice for any bloggers, not just part time.
Rachael Macgregor
Rachael Macgregor @ Internet Network Marketing Blog recently posted How To Create A Home Based Business Plan In 30 Mins
You are right. These are some of the mistake which part time bloggers commit.
I find most of them waste their time just looking the stats which is no more helpful.
Nice post.
Swamykant@Your Digital Space recently posted 100 Best Free Blogger Templates for 2012