Emily Toxward
Journalist, freelance writer, blogger and smarty pants
www.havealaughonme.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Why did you start blogging?
A friend told me that she loved my honest take on life and parenting and suggested I start a blog, she thought lots of parents would be able to relate to what I had to say and find it amusing.
Tell us about your blog?
It’s a parenting/humour blog that also touches on serious subjects and issues, things such as blood donation and swimming pool safety. I write about the trials and tribulations of what it’s like to be a mum to three children who also works about 30 hours a week from home.
There’s no sugar coating in my blog and this is what I think appeals to my readers, it gives them something to smile and laugh about when they are having a bad day. I say the things that everyone is thinking but doesn’t want to say out loud.
Why is content so important when it comes to your blog?
Content is king, your blog has to have fresh, current and interesting content that is well written and easy to understand. Make sure your content reflects you or your business, that it is unique – think out of the square in regards to what you write about. There are so many great blogs out there and you won’t keep your readers if you have boring, out of date or stale content.
What if I don’t have anything to say?
That never happens to me, I always have something to say! But if I’m stuck for ideas, I switch off from social media and get immersed in the real world. I speak to people at the chemist, the supermarket and I take note of what’s happening around me. Often my best ideas come when I’m driving, socialising or in bed, so it pays to have a notebook handy at all times to jot down ideas.
Where do you get your ideas?
If there isn’t much happening in my life that I think people can relate to then I look at what season it is, what time of year, for example, end of financial year, Easter or Christmas. When the children were heading back to school for the year, I wrote a post about things no one bothers to tell first-time school parents. It was my most viewed EVER!
Step outside of your life, think about what’s happening in your industry, your world or your community and write about it.
Why do you have to post regularly?
Your followers expect a certain amount of online presence, it also gives you credibility. Regardless of what you’ve got going on your life, make sure you post at least twice a week.
The joy of technology means that you can schedule a post for a certain day weeks in advance, this is handy for those going on holiday or who are super busy with work.
Posting frequently also keeps your statistics ticking over, something worth considering if you want to build your traffic and attract advertisers and sponsors.
What are your thoughts on commenting?
While I’d like to think that my amazingly awesome content is what directs traffic to my blog, the truth is a lot of it comes down to how you treat other bloggers. It took me a few weeks to realise that great writing alone would not bring in traffic to my blog.
Commenting on other people’s blogs is how I have built up a loyal and supportive readership. I spend hours at other blogs reading, writing and building up relationships with other bloggers. I actually take a genuine interest in their lives, and it shows in my comments.
If you asked me about one of the 60 blogs that I commented on each week then I will know personal details about most of them.
What is your number tip when it comes to blogging?
Be yourself – don’t try to be something you’re not because it’s a hard act to keep up. There is only one you and while we are all trying to appeal to a certain audience, some will love what you other’s won’t, don’t be offended.
One more thing…
If you have the chance to join a link-up then do it, the traffic you get is amazing, and worth the time it takes to comment on fellow bloggers!
