Written on July 17th, 2009 at 12:07 am by Darren Rowse

9 First Step Goals for New Bloggers

Other Income Streams 207 comments

baby-steps.JPGMy youngest boy will take his first steps any day now. He’s been watching his older brother (and his mum and dad) run around the house for 12 months now and you can just see in his eyes the desire to be up and doing it too. This week he’s started pushing around the block trolley (right) and is practicing his standing up without the aide of anything to pull him up.

It’s not been a fast process and by no means do I expect to see him running around the house soon but he’s almost ready for his first steps.

Many bloggers start blogs these days with the dream of millions of readers and making large amounts of money.

While it is possible to build blogs that are widely read and profitable and there’s nothing wrong with dreaming big – the reality is that it takes time and a lot of work to build these kinds of blogs.

New bloggers would do well to spend more time thinking about their ‘first steps’ than just the big picture dreams and goals that they have..

Yesterday while chatting with a brand new bloggers who had some very lofty goals for this blogging I reflected back to him that I felt that in addition to the big dreams he had that I wondered if he might also benefit from having some realistic goals for the short term.

Here’s a list of 9 first step type goals that I suggested to him that might be a good place to start:

  1. Publish 10 Posts
  2. Getting your first comment from someone you don’t know
  3. Get your first link from another blog
  4. Build your readership up to more than 20 readers a day
  5. Hit a level of 20 RSS subscribers
  6. Getting your blog indexed in Google
  7. Get your blog earning $1 a week (update: only if making money from your blog is one of your goals – it’s not for everyone
  8. First guest post on another blog
  9. Having someone (not you or your mum) tweet about your blog

Note: Others goals might include goals more to do with setting up your blog including those related to design, platforms, setting up metrics/stats etc.

To someone who has been blogging for a while these kinds of goals might seem rather small and insignificant – but for a new blogger they’d be where I would start.

For new bloggers these goals might also seem a little insignificant also (in fact the blogger I was talking to told me I was thinking too small and dismissed my idea) – however I’d argue that to get to your big dreams there is a lot of steps in between – many of which might not be glamorous or as fun to think about. However sometimes it’s helpful to visualize the very next steps that you need to take in order to move towards your goals.

Tangent: I once had opportunity to meet a guy who had travelled the world climbing some of the highest mountains. When I said to him that it must be an exciting thing to do he told me that there are moments of exhilaration and excitement but that the reality is that much of what he does when climbing a mountain is pretty boring. It’s one foot in front of another type activity through foothills, carrying a heavy pack and not feeling like you’re making much progress. Of course once you make it to the top or conquer challenges along the path you have moments of excitement but it all starts with setting out from base camp and with the goal of getting to a point where the climb starts in earnest.

Once you’ve achieved these first goals start to increase them. You might want to double the numbers for the next step (although for different bloggers the numbers will no doubt be different) – then double them again and so forth.

What other ‘first step’ goals would you suggest to a new blogger just starting out? If you’re a new blogger what are your first goals?

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207 Responses to “9 First Step Goals for New Bloggers” - Add Yours

  • Robert T. Kiyosaki A.

    July 17th, 2009 12:13 am

    Taking action and putting the first step is really important. As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand steps begin with one”.

  • Andrew - WeBuildYourBlog

    July 17th, 2009 12:17 am

    Good list, especially about the 10 posts. That will get you blog noticed by Google real quick.

    I would add…start building a customer opt-in list as soon as you can by offering some sort of free giveaway.

    Andrew

  • Mikes Sumondong

    July 17th, 2009 12:18 am

    So far out of the 8 steps the last three are the ones that I haven’t done so far.
    Get your blog earning $1 a week >>This one I haven’t computed it.
    First guest post on another blog >>not yet but soon
    Having someone (not you or your mum) tweet about your blog >> This one I don’t know. lol!

    Really i can still consider myself to the blogging world. around 3months old. Probably just like your child, i still don’t know how to walk. but the message under tangent is so meaningful to me. it indeed is true that it’s hard to reach the top. I’m sure you too struggled when you started but as Miley Cyrus’es song goes “it’s the climb” that makes the journey more meaningful and joyful!

    Thanks Darren!

  • Jaky Astik

    July 17th, 2009 12:18 am

    I read you everyday, for my every blogging needs. Know what! I had two goals.
    1. To earn lot’s of money
    2. To get lot’s of subscribers
    And I think I have done my job well. Things have gone really well. People know me now. A web presence is created.

  • Mikes Sumondong

    July 17th, 2009 12:19 am

    about your question for few more things to do:
    Join a blog group like blogosphere or mybloglog and be known!

  • Andrew

    July 17th, 2009 12:20 am

    What adorable kids you have there Darren. As a father of 5 young girls I can relate to just how enjoyable this time must be for you.

    Thanks for this post, it kind puts into perspective what the ‘big guns’ of blogging look at as those first baby steps. I’m happy to report that I have achieved all of those listed milestones except for the guest post.

    Any offers?

  • Michael Fletcher

    July 17th, 2009 12:22 am

    Interesting post I have to say I can’t agree with you more. Many of the biggest mistakes i’ve made as a beginning blogger has been to think about the big things before I got the my house in order. I love the fact you’ve left get adsense account off the list. As a blogger in good standing for a whole two months, I’d have to say I have only really started enjoying my blogging since i’ve started focusing on the little things that will make my post better today. I need to focus on different things than an A-list blogger. One thing I’d add to your list of milestones is get your first hit from search engine traffic. Having started out with very little knowledge of SEO or blogging in general it took me a while until my indexed site got any real click love.

  • kosmo @ The Casual Observer

    July 17th, 2009 12:23 am

    I have hit 7 of these. I actually had post #200 earlier this week.

    For some reason, the people I attract aren’t very “clicky” on adsense (or I have implemented adsense poorly) as I struggle to make $5/month. Ah, well … I’ll keep chugging along :)

    Personally, I enjoy seeing international visitors.

    Kosmo
    http://www.observingcasually.com/

  • Justine Freeman

    July 17th, 2009 12:32 am

    Thanks for your insight Darren. I will keep these goals in mind as I work on my new blog! They are perfect to keep the focus…even though I have big dreams for my blog too! BUT I read your book and know that these things take time. Thanks for your help.

    On a side note…your kiddos are pretty cute!

  • dinu

    July 17th, 2009 12:32 am

    well said :) I think I am through these goals now :) should make a plan with higher numbers now though ..

  • Scott Cowley

    July 17th, 2009 12:34 am

    Thanks for this post. Having just started blogging, I was missing objectives to focus my strategy around, and this is a great start for someone like me. I do think that #9 is fairly negligible as far as the other ones go. If you write it, someone is bound to tweet it. It’s a no-brainer.

  • Christina Crowe

    July 17th, 2009 12:38 am

    Great post. I agree. You do have beautiful kids. :)

    So far, out of the goals listed, I haven’t achieved:

    5. Hit a level of 20 RSS subscribers
    7. Get your blog earning $1 a week
    8. First guest post on another blog
    9. Having someone (not you or your mum) tweet about your blog

    I think setting up goals like this is a great idea. Some extra goals I’ll add onto the list:

    1. Make the 40 post mark
    2. Have the blog running for 3 months
    3. Build my readership up to more than 100 readers a day
    4. Have at least 1 post popular on Digg
    5. Receive over 300 page views on any given post
    6. Receive over 15 comments on any given post

    Thanks for the good read!

  • Andy Zweibel

    July 17th, 2009 12:38 am

    Darren-

    I’ve been reading ProBlogger for a few months now, and absolutely love how much great content you’ve built up! I’m extremely glad you wrote this article, as it applies very specifically to my situation.

    What do you feel about getting guest bloggers to post on your blog as it is beginning? I have already had a few guest posters contribute and a few more lined up, but I don’t know if this might look “bad” to readers who are seeing a new site where the creator isn’t even responsible for all the content yet.

    Thanks for everything you do,
    Andy Zweibel

  • Myndmelt

    July 17th, 2009 12:48 am

    THis is a great posts, I am just starting out with my blog and I think these are some, exciting and obtainable goals that I hope to accomplish within the next few months (weeks for some of them).

    Thanks Problogger.net!

    Myndmelt

  • L-Jay

    July 17th, 2009 12:50 am

    To learn about what everyone is talking about. Blogging has its own language and it can be hard to decipher what a ‘learn to blog’ post is all about when they use so much ‘lingo’.

    There are so many new words to learn (post, blogger, dig, meme, RSS, SEO, tweet, link, etc) that most bloggers now take from granted but generally blows the minds of greenies.

    (I’m so glad I’m not a greenie any more ;)

  • Joshua Elliot

    July 17th, 2009 12:51 am

    Thanks Darren for the list.

    1. Well for me, I will make sure that my traffic increases in a weekly, then monthly, for at least 5 ~ 10% of increase of traffic.

    2. To make sure that I hit at least page rank 2 within 3 months (Google will review page rank every 3 months).

    3. Link to previous posts that are related to the the forum topic, or from comment to the post.

    4. Increase lead capture from the blog to 20 on the first month, then increase by 5 ~ 10% every month.

    That’s all I can think of besides your 9 points, Darren.

  • John

    July 17th, 2009 12:52 am

    This is great for new bloggers like me. The only thing I haven’t done is try to earn money, which is what I’ll evenly get to when I start out with Google Adsense.

    Also, thanks for the suggestions everyone.

  • Andy Zweibel

    July 17th, 2009 12:55 am

    @ Joshua Elliot, what do you mean by “lead capture?”

  • Jeff Brown

    July 17th, 2009 12:56 am

    One of the highlights in my blogs relatively young (7 months) life, was when the one and only @problogger tweeted about one of my posts having to do with Twitter changing their @replies (http://thejeffbrown.me/2009/05/12/im-about-to-kick-twitter-in-the-nads-or-i-want-my-collateral/).

    I was fortunate enough to have Darren following me on Twitter. I was able to DM him the link to my post, increasing the chances he’d see it. (Note: I’ve done this only one or two times and only when I felt my post might be worthy of the attention. DO NOT do this every time you post something or to the same people. It’s rude AND they’ll probably unfollow you real quick).

    I’ve managed to have a few of my posts tweeted by people who have thousands of followers. In every case, I spent several months connecting with them (when appropriate) and attempting to offer value or feedback whenever possible. It’s all about the relationships. If you’re taking and not bothering yourself with giving, you’re gonna fizzle out fairly quickly.

  • rob, BtG

    July 17th, 2009 12:59 am

    another milestone; re-work your daily schedule to allow for “dedicated” blog writing/developement time (and stick to it for at least one month) !!

  • Paritosh

    July 17th, 2009 12:59 am

    I am through with 4 of the 9 steps above mentioned. Hope the rest of them are achieved soon !!!!

  • Nout van Deijck

    July 17th, 2009 1:11 am

    Thanks for the tips, Problogger!
    I’m just beginning (and I’m just 17) with a new blog myself (mainly about webdesign) and I think this will realy help!
    I’ve had some blog-ecperience in the past, but nothing serious. I think my blog will start somewhere this or next week.

    Nout

  • Stephen

    July 17th, 2009 1:12 am

    I agree with Joshua with regards an increase in traffic. This is probably more of an incentive than making the first dollar or getting 20 RSS readers.

    On top of that, traffic from a search engine should also be on the list. Especially if you want your blog to make money; people who find a site through search engines are more likely to click on AdSense ads than people who follow tweets or subscribe to an RSS feed.

  • Abbie

    July 17th, 2009 1:13 am

    I definitely agree with this as a beginner blogger. (6mos) I too began with stars in my eyes and my fingers itching to type my latest and greatest thoughts about organizing the home, and being the newest celeb on the blogging block. But I realized that it is really the community that matters. I have another goal and that is to learn something new every day that doesn’t relate to my blogging niche…gardening, parenting a premie, adoption, Korean culture, cooking, and cake decorating are the other blogs I learn about. Blogging, and building your blog I feel is about sharing your knowledge, personality and unique experience with others. A great way to gain readership is to stop concentrating on your niche and explore other interests…learn something new, and gain some perspective. Thanks darren, and your kids are so cute!! Good luck with the walking, mine is 18mos and we are still working on this one. :) Abbie

  • Manish

    July 17th, 2009 1:15 am

    Very Nicely put …

    This is also true for anything in life , like Career , relationships or trading stock markets .

    Perfect example . However I would like to say to there can be many blogs who has acheived these but still lag behind in one point or the other . Like for my blog i acheived all the milestones long back , but the 7th one came very late . Even now I dont make more than $4-5 a week .

    Manish
    http://www.jagoinvestor.com

  • Kathryn Whiteley

    July 17th, 2009 1:17 am

    Love this post. I was very pleased to see that I have completed three and a half of these (there’s an oxymoron for you) in just over a month as a blogger.

    I’d add my goal of posting at least once a week through the summer, then at least 5 times per week in the Fall.

    My 2 sets of twins are underfoot for the summer, but by the time they’re back to school in the Fall I plan to have completed all 9 of your list. Thanks for helping me set those goals!

  • Corey Freeman

    July 17th, 2009 1:20 am

    An important goal would be developing your writing style with your own personality and ideas. A lot of new bloggers want to copy somebody else’s writing style (usually a blogger they admire) but developing your own tone is essential. :)

  • Guna Deivendran

    July 17th, 2009 1:22 am

    Darren, thanks for your advice. As always a great post.

    I personally have achieved most of it except the guest post on another blog and twitter (new to twitter).

    Guest post is a great idea and to date I didn’t know that it was a welcoming concept by other bloggers. I thought it would be very difficult to post on other blogs.

    Since this article came out today, I have done some research on your blog and I think guest post is very important for early success. Working on one for problogger already!

    Twitter – well I am a late starter but I find it a wonderful tool to increase the readership of my blog. I am still learning about it and I hope one day you will start to follow @startupbooster.

    -Guna

  • Mario Garza

    July 17th, 2009 1:22 am

    Thank you so much for this post Darren. I started my blog about a week ago and it is a little disappointing two see less than 10 visits of which many are my friends.

    This post reminds me it’s not something that will happen fast. It’s actually a very long process. But what helps is that I’m writing about my passion, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. I enjoy writing about it.

    I’ll be using this post as a guide for my goals.

    Thank you again Darren.

    - Mario Garza

  • Uberblogged

    July 17th, 2009 1:22 am

    Hi Darren, great post and beautiful kids!

    I have started my blog about two weeks ago and I have accomplished several of the goals you mentioned but I still have to go for the most difficult like having a post retweeted or making 1 dollar per week!

    I am saving some of the promotion to a later time. I dont want to go promoting like a crazy and then having a lot of ppl coming to see my blog half empty, so Im dosifying my marketing actions. I think thats a good advice for anyone starting….. dont try to get huge in two days and dont promote your blog as the next big thing if you only have 3 posts.

    That’s my two cents :)

  • Eric

    July 17th, 2009 1:23 am

    I was able to do this on both of my blogs, but it has been a slow battle. It took many months to do these things on both of my blogs, but I was persistent and they have happened.

    Just stick with it and write good posts. The rest will mostly come in time.

  • Matt Harris

    July 17th, 2009 1:28 am

    First month blogging, and I’ve managed to do all those except 2, and 8.

  • Richard Tea @ netParticles

    July 17th, 2009 1:29 am

    This is a very cute post as it parallels a baby’s first steps.

    Here are a few refinements I would make
    – Publish 10 Posts of at least 500 words deemed useful to others
    – Get your blog earning $1 a week if money is your goal
    – First guest post on another blog after the first 10 posts are done
    – Add a timeline to each of them, if you fail, ask for help
    – Show some consistency in your posting schedule

    I have been in web design and development for a very long time but it is only now that I started my blog on web promotion and marketing, maybe a few years too late due to procrastination…ah well, I’m paying for it.

  • Luis Lopez

    July 17th, 2009 1:35 am

    I started my blog a month ago and my stats are incredibly better than what you wrote, (not excellent but better) so I could be proud of my, but I still have some great and bigger goals for the time coming.
    one of my goals is: a big blog like you linking to one of my articles, when you do it I’ll be happy.
    Thanks

  • Tiffany

    July 17th, 2009 1:37 am

    Thanks for the baby step goals. I’ve met quite a few of my own baby steps and regularly set new goals. So much of the blogging stuff I read is for business/marketing/really making money type blogs. It’s nice to see someone reminding us to think about and celebrate those baby steps.

    Cute kids, by the way! Isn’t it hard to believe that those first baby steps will build and build until you’ve raised a competent, confident adult? One step at a time.

  • Vicki@collegeparentcentral

    July 17th, 2009 1:40 am

    Really helpful post. It’s a great reminder to all of us that the small things we do each day add up. Having a long range goal is so important, but realizing what the individual tasks are that will get you there is crucial. Having manageable goals along the way is crucial.
    This was an important reminder for me. I’m relatively new to blogging (about 3 months) but at it just long enough to begin to get discouraged. Although I know everyone says that it takes time, some days it feels as though not much is happening. Your list was a reminder that I have reached some important goals along the way (I’ve accomplished about half of them). Now I know what I need to focus on in the next few months.

    And – your boys are adorable. These are wonderful years – enjoy them!

  • Graham Jones - Internet Psychologist

    July 17th, 2009 1:40 am

    Excellent advice, as ever, Darren. It’ sometimes difficult for each of us to remember when we were only 12 months old. But if we could easily do it, we’d realise that just like your youngest we learn by observing those around us and copying what they do. Transferring that to blogging, we ought to consider that the truly successful bloggers are the ones we should copy – in terms of their techniques and methods. Just like learning to walk, we would soon realise that it’s all about minor changes in actions, rather than massive leaps. We’d also realise that it’s also about continuous practice, never giving up when we “fall on our bottom” and taking things, literally, one step at a time. Far too many people want “overnight success” without realising that even those Hollywood Stars who have such a thing, usually have spent years on obscure theatres, honing their craft and learning by watching more successful actors. Your blog post is a reminder to us all that patience is one of the most important virtues we need to succeed.

  • Salman

    July 17th, 2009 1:48 am

    The nine first tips are awesome Darren but I am not able to build my readership can you help me?

    Thanx
    http://www.tips4blogging.co.cc

  • Tia Martinson

    July 17th, 2009 1:50 am

    Darren, I love this!

    I am in business development. One of the hardest things for my clients is to take the first step of writing. They are so far ahead of themselves they forget to take the first step. For me and perhaps my clients as well, I would add Write one blog as ground zero, then use your list from there.

    Thanks again, this is a terrific post!

    Tia

  • Tara

    July 17th, 2009 1:57 am

    Great post! It’s so important to keep things in perspective, especially when you’re just starting out. I started my blog on child photography a couple of weeks ago and my main goal is to build a steady readership. Commenting on other’s blog and participating in photography forums takes some time, but I’ve committed myself to doing an hour or so of this each day, to reach my goal. It won’t happen overnight, but it will happen if I don’t give up.

    Your children are absolutely adorable, btw.

  • Shajib

    July 17th, 2009 1:57 am

    It will be helpful for beginner.
    Thanks.

    Shajib
    http://www.ebooksdock.co.cc

  • Go Blogger (dot) net

    July 17th, 2009 2:01 am

    Interesting, D.But I don’t agree with getting indexed in Google after getting 20 subscribers.

    You see, getting indexed in Google is easy and getting 20 subscribers is harder (well, at least for me). I mean how would you get 20 subscribers naturally before your blog get indexed in Google? That’s almost impossible.

    Here is my suggestion:
    1. Publish 10 posts
    2. Get indexed in Google
    3. …

  • Nicholas Z. Cardot

    July 17th, 2009 2:07 am

    I’ve had my blog up for just over one month and I’ve accomplished everything except writing a guest post for another blog. Great tips and thanks for sharing!

  • Brittany

    July 17th, 2009 2:29 am

    What a very well-written post, and very practical at that. I have dreams of one day reaching many people, but I know and understand that blogging takes a lot of cultivating, patience, and upkeep. There are many aspects of it which must be tended to from the psychological aspect to the marketing aspect to other aspects.

    I’ve done farily well in taking my baby steps. I’m still looking for a blog in which I can contribute a post to, and after my hiatus, I am still trying to gain more readers, but it helps so much to be patient! I know my goal will get closer and closer as time goes on and as I work hard.

    Thanks for the tips and the reminder that things like this take time, and it’s only natural. :)

  • Tyler

    July 17th, 2009 2:57 am

    Darren,
    Great photo and analogy. I hope that you will continue to remember us new bloggers as you make content in the future.

  • Todd Wallace

    July 17th, 2009 3:10 am

    Right before his first birthday, my son was walking around holding onto things as it seems yours is. On his first birthday, I gave him a huge chocolate cupcake. Now we had never given him sweets before this. He ate the whole thing (big surprise there right?). He started walking on his own, almost running. He did that for hours like the Energizer Bunny (little pink mascot for Energizer batteries if they don’t market in Australia). Then, he crashed. He slept quite well that night.

    The moral of the story is, if you’re just starting up a blog, eat a huge chocolate cupcake.

  • Asswass

    July 17th, 2009 3:10 am

    Cute kids Darren. I already accomplished those things, now what? just kidding lol.

  • Kavey

    July 17th, 2009 3:18 am

    Great list, I have one question.
    I use google analytics to track my visitor numbers and referring links but NO idea how to check how many RSS subscriptions I have – I didn’t know this was possible.
    Please could anyone advise?
    THANKS

  • Dom

    July 17th, 2009 3:37 am

    First off, cute kids! Second, thanks for the reality check. It’s so easy to get caught up in the big picture that we miss the small steps sometimes. I’ll work on these!

  • Gwen

    July 17th, 2009 3:43 am

    Thank you Darren,

    I love the picture of your children. One learning how to walk and the other helping him. It is an important reminder that I don’t have to take each new step alone.

    I came to your blog today once again, for steps in getting started. Voila, you even set the goals for me. I discovered your blog a year ago and starting a blog has been on mind ever since.

    Today is the day my blog creation begins. Replying to this post is a big step for me. Also, I will journalize the process of my progress.

    gb

  • Hixby

    July 17th, 2009 3:51 am

    Your boys are very handsome. They kind of remind me of the boys off the ‘Ouch Charley’ video, only a little younger. This blog post relates to me on many levels and I enjoyed it. I look forward to keeping up with your posts

  • TheManRevolution

    July 17th, 2009 3:53 am

    I think he should eliminate the $1 goal. Money is a terrible motivator and when first starting out, I think it will definitely affect the quality of the blog itself.

    I’ve been tempted to using AdSense and other kinds of ads but truthfully, people are turned off by ads. New blogs should focus on the most important aspect which is content. The rest will come in due time.

    I set a goal for myself. It was that I wouldn’t really put any ads until I have at least 1000 visitors daily. It’ll be a long road but I think it’ll pay off better then opposed to right now.

  • Stephanie Valentine

    July 17th, 2009 4:02 am

    Yes, yes, yes! Thank you for listing these nine steps. These are like a blog post I did recently on 9 ways that you know you have found your online voice. Blogging and building an online following (and yes, generating income) is about doing things in baby steps. So many people I encounter want to know how I build a profitable online passive income stream, and it was by these very steps you mention, although I didn’t know it then. Like you, I have since gotten more formulaic in how I approach gauging the results of my online efforts, and I love the simplicity of your list. A great formula, and one that I will forward to many newbies in my group as they venture forth in their new online MLM adventures!

  • Rasheed Hooda

    July 17th, 2009 4:06 am

    Darren,

    Thanks for the wonderful post. I have big dreams for my blog and I am working on the little milestones successfully, one step at a time.

    Publish 10 Posts — done

    Getting your first comment from someone you don’t know — accomplished

    Get your first link from another blog — Yup

    Build your readership up to more than 20 readers a day — I’ve had days of 20+ need consistency

    Hit a level of 20 RSS subscribers — sitting at 4 two weeks after launch

    Getting your blog indexed in Google — I’ll have to learn how to find out

    Get your blog earning $1 a week — not focused on $ yet

    First guest post on another blog — One accepted, coming soon.

    Having someone (not you or your mum) tweet about your blog — Done

    I am half way there. Good to have this list, and I’ll use the other ones suggested as to track my progress.

    Rasheed

  • AWebFullOfCash

    July 17th, 2009 4:28 am

    Currently working towards the latter of those goals, slow steps equals giant leeps. got to keep a level head!

  • Debra

    July 17th, 2009 4:33 am

    Darren -

    I find so much of your advice invaluable.

    This list is so helpful. I’ve met 4 of the 9 steps you listed and, as soon as I hit all 9, I’m going to follow your advice + double the goals!

    It was + never will be my intent to become a celebrity blogger. Even if I could. I just love to write + document memories + I have to admit it’s fun when someone else enjoys my posts + comments.

    Thank you for sharing your expertise,
    Debra

  • Adam Baird

    July 17th, 2009 4:50 am

    This is a great article. I’m about halfway through the list of those goals with my newest blog and its great advice! Thanks for sharing Darren!

  • Paramendra Bhagat

    July 17th, 2009 5:13 am

    Such a cute photo. Thanks for sharing.

  • Ugo.jar

    July 17th, 2009 5:17 am

    Well written post there. The list really agree with me. It is very funny that as new bloggers, at the start, we are overwhelmed and preoccupied with the thoughts of savouring mega traffic hits and making mega $$. Like you’ve pointed out, we just have to be humble and agree that we start from the bottom.

    As a newbie in the game, I have done well to achieve a few from your list. Here are just some of the other feats I’m looking to clinch:

    -record my first 100th search engine visitor
    -get at least 5 visitors a day from mybloglog community
    -get indexed in yahoo; it’s proving reallx tough to summount at the moment. Tips would be appreciated
    -gain my first ‘religious’ twitter follower.
    -record a per visit duration length of at least 1 minute.

    To add, am on day 9 of 31DBBB and am seeing some success. Hope 2 grow more. Good thoughts Darren.

    Regards,
    ugo.jar.

  • CJ Partners

    July 17th, 2009 5:31 am

    As Graham said, we learn by observing others and copying what they do. And as we learn more and grow, we must incorporate ourselves, our personality to make what we do unique. It’ll make a better impression and to connect more to our readers.

  • Philip Miles

    July 17th, 2009 5:35 am

    I would add:

    - Comment on 5 blogs similar in topic to yours

    I recently started an employment law blog and have seen bloggers from blogs I’ve commented on come over to my site and drop comments on my entries. It’s a great way to interact with others in your field and build traffic.

    Not to mention you often have the ability to include your URL along with your comment (notice how my name above is a hyperlink to my blog?).

  • Arif

    July 17th, 2009 5:47 am

    Good post.

    Very relevant to to me since I read his article minutes after I posted the first article on my newly launched blog! lol

    It would be pretty sweet if #2 on this list was completed for my blog by Darren himself; especially considering the fact that his blogs and book is what got me into creating the site in the first place. :)

    -Arif

    :)

  • NorthandClark

    July 17th, 2009 5:52 am

    I am working on all of those. Having had my blog/podcast for about three months I can say I have accomplished at least 6 out of your nine goals. What I haven’t done is get up the readers.

    I like these guidelines, but I wonder how soon I should look to have accomplished these goals. If I have been posting since April and my RSS following is still meager should I make that an area of focus?

    Because I record interview podcasts I find that my traffic fluctuates wildly according to who I have on. If they are a person with an internet following or a flair for self promotion I can get great traffic, but if I am interviewing someone less connected it can be hard on my traffic.

  • Msjosay

    July 17th, 2009 5:55 am

    Nice article. As a new blogger I definitely understand having big dreams. I’m just now realizing that achieving my big goals aren’t going to happen without taking the small steps first. Some may consider this disheartening and give up but reaching your big goals is much sweeter when you put in the hard work to achieve them.

  • Jogalrungkung

    July 17th, 2009 5:57 am

    Wow, another good list from you. Thank ya for your info.

  • teratips

    July 17th, 2009 6:03 am

    just want to say that your these tips i found great, thanks
    http://teratips.com

  • Pheak Tol

    July 17th, 2009 6:16 am

    i’m almost at the 20 subscriber mark! one of the highlights when that happens to my blog.

    awesome 9 things to look for to start your blog out on the right direction/path to sucess

  • gadgets review

    July 17th, 2009 6:25 am

    great article, Helps me a lot since im new to wordpress. thanks

  • Sophie

    July 17th, 2009 6:32 am

    Wonderful post! I’ve been a reader and fan of your blog for a while and it’s been such a great resource for me as a newbie blogger. thank you!

  • Nathan

    July 17th, 2009 6:54 am

    I’m new to blogging – about 2 weeks now – introduced after reading an article on how to make extra money in a Times supplement. So far, only my family and friends have seen it, but slowly i’m adding links to other sites and blog directories. Thought i could make some riches, but, as you say, one step at a time. Kind of forgot about the money now, and am blogging for fun and to spread the message of AIRLINE SALES TO GET YOU THE BEST PRICES.!

  • We Fly Spitfires - MMORPG Blog

    July 17th, 2009 6:59 am

    Great post and sound advice. I remember being thrilled when I got my first few RSS subscribers and commentors. It’s a good feeling knowing that someone else actually wants to read your stuff. One step at a time, indeed!

  • carey

    July 17th, 2009 7:12 am

    I can understand the novice blogger’s dilemma and why he is not to keen to take your advice.

    He has no idea what he is aiming for and have to work for!

    Great post. Must read for novice bloggers.

  • Lady HotchKiss

    July 17th, 2009 7:50 am

    Feeling pretty good about my two new blogs (6 weeks old):

    1. Publish 10 Posts. Done.
    2. Getting your first comment from someone you don’t know. Done.
    3. Get your first link from another blog. Done, but doesn’t show on the backend yet.
    4. Build your readership up to more than 20 readers a day
    Hit a level of 20 RSS subscribers. Averaging 10.
    5. Getting your blog indexed in Google. Not even sure what this means; guess will have to figure that out! Perhaps my business partner has taken care of that . . .
    6. Get your blog earning $1 a week. YES YES YES; soon!
    7. First guest post on another blog. Done.
    8. Having someone (not you or your mum) tweet about your blog . Done.

    Some things to learn; but overall pretty happy with my progress.

  • se7en

    July 17th, 2009 7:53 am

    Excellent Post! My first step was the hardest!!! Actually My husband begged and begged me to blog and I couldn’t think why!!! Eventually he started a blog – wrote one post and it was so hideous that I had to go and fix it up!!! That was it I wrote one post and never looked back. Haven’t missed a day in over a year – I never knew I would totally love blogging. My initial goal was to earn a heap of money and I read everything about monetizing… but after months of not earning a cent (let alone a dollar!!!) I realize that I love blogging for the interaction – to see what other folk in our genre are doing and living.

    If I were to add a step I would say choose a weekly carnival, out of the millions, and stick with it – persist… you will meet bloggers like you and you will find the same friends popping up wherever you do… not to mention it will force you to write one post every week to a deadline and a topic… it takes you just a little bit out of your comfort zone!

  • Sandy

    July 17th, 2009 8:23 am

    Great tips for the first time blogger. I have to present at BlogHer on how to promote your blog. How do you think you achieve these goals?!! :)

  • Tim

    July 17th, 2009 8:28 am

    Darren:

    Great post. I think all of us have some initial dreams that are very lofty and then we realize it is not as easy as it might seem. Your book addresses “expectations” very well.

    In any case, I’ve hit the first three goals on your list. I’m starting slow, but I’m getting there.

  • MoneyFunk

    July 17th, 2009 8:57 am

    I would love 20 RSS subscribers. What is a good way to enhance that property?

  • wayne

    July 17th, 2009 9:24 am

    Nice list.
    I read it thinking “yep, yep, nope, yep, nope” but not necessarily in that order.
    Never really considered the importance of the RSS feed. Is it that big a deal?
    I have so much to learn. But it’s gonna be fun.

    w
    http://www.idetectorist.com

  • Peter Emanuel Roos

    July 17th, 2009 9:26 am

    Thanks Darren,

    This is my first comment after reading your always nice posts for a while! I have started to build a blog for composers and producers with digital studios (using WordPress and Thesis), but must admit that setting it up and writing the first 20 or so posts is harder than I thought (although I have a lot of topics that I want to write on).

    The humble approach you suggest to start with sounds good – sometimes it’s hard to focus on priorities: design, having ad stuff included from the start, branding (do I need a good banner right from the start), or are some 20+ well written and enthousiastic posts worth more than having it all right from day one…

    Thanks mate, I really dig your posts!

    BTW, is your last name pronounces as “Rose” (just like mine in Dutch)?

  • Vivian Love

    July 17th, 2009 9:32 am

    Just one thing is a bit weird. Whenever you hear someone post about achieving baby steps in blogging (or in any thing for that matter), you all feel fired up and ready for any challenge. But that ambition dies off after a few days. I noticed that there are lots of comments on this blog for the last 5 years. There are many posts about not giving up. But when I clicked on people who left comments 2-3 years ago, their blogs either shut down or they stop blogging. I just hope that 2 years from now, when people click on my comment on this blog, there is actually a successful blog awaits them on the other link. Hope all of the people here also keep their blogging hope survive until then too.

  • needmoney.com

    July 17th, 2009 9:42 am

    I don’t see why anyone would even consider launching a blog with fewer than 10 posts.

  • Stef

    July 17th, 2009 9:49 am

    I have completed everything that was mentioned in the article except
    20 RSS Subscribers. Currently I only have 2.

    Stef
    12 year old blogger at LaptopMemo.com

  • Strength and Fitness

    July 17th, 2009 10:00 am

    These are some great steps, and another great post. I like the way you’ve given some attainable goals.

    My fitness blog has done most of these, but I don’t think I’ve written a guest post somewhere else. I also don’t follow my RSS stats, so I don’t know how many followers I have.

  • Tony

    July 17th, 2009 10:03 am

    Hi All,

    I shouldn’t of even started a blog, I only have 8 post. For some reason I can’t think of anything to put everyday, I guess cause I see other gardening blogs that look better than mine lol. Plus I only container garden, if I had a big enough area to garden then I may be able to post more, dunno. Yes Darren, I do read your post everyday. About google, hate them since you can’t call them with problems. It’s too long to explain here, but I am using amazon. So the make a dollar a day is out for me…lol

  • Slice

    July 17th, 2009 10:27 am

    That’s a good plan to build a solid base for your blog.

  • Dan

    July 17th, 2009 10:34 am

    This is great, I hope you’ll put together a set of second step goals. I’ve almost got these ones covered, trying to build links and traffic now to get consistently above 20 visitors a day.

  • Temperance

    July 17th, 2009 11:08 am

    Interesting list, Darren.

    I didn’t have too many problems with earning $1 a week – although depending on how you monetize and how you are at getting indexed I can see where this may be a huge step for new bloggers.

    The goals I am working on now are to increase my average from $1 a day to $3 a day – its not a large goal but sometimes moving in these micro type actions makes the larger overall goal much more manageable.

    Going from $1 a day to $60 a day (my long range goal for the year) on the other hand seems quite insurmountable in comparison!

  • Miracel

    July 17th, 2009 11:46 am

    Hi, Darren! I just started blogging last March and I’m proud to say that I have achieved all those goals that you’ve listed. Thanks to your 31DBB program!

  • buy online dvds

    July 17th, 2009 11:51 am

    Darren is that the little mini-Rowses’ walking around up there? Man they are growing.

    Great post again. This is the type of post I wished I read five years ago. Would have saved me a lot of time.

  • Keller Hawthorne

    July 17th, 2009 1:20 pm

    I often deal with clients who have big dreams, but no short term goals. It seems, once they find out I make my living online, they assume they can do the same within a month’s time. Truth is, it took me one year before my first online business began to generate a descent income.

    I’ve only just become a real blogger and have much to learn. I started off with short-term goals, which I met much quicker than I anticipated. I wasn’t really expecting to earn money from my blog. I launched it so that I could begin to get my name out there as an Internet marketer, build new business relationships and begin to pave the way for future endeavors.

    Surprisingly, my blog is already paying for itself, has a PR of 6 on the home page, and has some loyal readers! My blog is still a baby (2 months old) and has a long way to go to meet my long-term goals, but I’m off to a motivating start!

    It’s a lot like dieting. If you make your goals unrealistic, you’ll give up quickly. Think ahead and plan. Remember, all of the hard work you put in now helps to nurture a strong future for your business!

  • mike

    July 17th, 2009 1:42 pm

    Once you get the ball rolling, it becomes easier to keep the traffic coming.

  • Jason @ One Money Design

    July 17th, 2009 2:06 pm

    Thanks for this post. I’m a new blogger. I’ve only been blogging for a few months now and really enjoy the creative aspect of it and the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience to hopefully help others in personal finance.

    I think a good short – term goal is to create an about page. Creating an about page will help you think about how you want to introduce your site, your mission, the types of posts you plan to write and something about you.

  • Lee Ka Hoong

    July 17th, 2009 2:25 pm

    Darren, that’s great steps for a new blogger to follow and achieve. I’ve actually started a new blog last week, I’m going to follow what you’ve listed above. My new blog hasn’t achieved any steps above, going to achieve one by one.

    Regards,
    Lee

  • youtube

    July 17th, 2009 3:55 pm

    Nice article. As a new blogger I definitely understand having big dreams. I’m just now realizing that achieving my big goals aren’t going to happen without taking the small steps first. Some may consider this disheartening and give up but reaching your big goals is much sweeter when you put in the hard work to achieve them.

  • Kartolo

    July 17th, 2009 5:05 pm

    Thank you Darren, it’s almost like the trick for approved adsense account.. hehehehe.. Now, my blog was being a good money source.. Thank you veru much.

  • mean2sexy

    July 17th, 2009 5:25 pm

    Hi, Darren This is very useful for me. I just start launching my blog at blogger. I will follow through your suggestion

    PS.I am just a fan of problogger.net and also try to complete your 31DBB program.

    Thanks.

  • Martin Richardson

    July 17th, 2009 6:23 pm

    I would say getting more than 5 comments(other than your replies) on a post would be a good first step. I think I’ve managed most of your first steps except maybe for readership/subscribers; working on it though!

  • Alvin

    July 17th, 2009 6:27 pm

    Hi Darren,

    Based on the 9 types of goals listed, I managed to achieve 2 items only that are item # 1 and # 6.

    Hopefully can achieve the other goals for the next few months.

    Regards…

  • Luke

    July 17th, 2009 6:33 pm

    Great post friend, i always come here to read your new post

  • Jud Hampson

    July 17th, 2009 6:56 pm

    Hi Darren,

    absolutely. 10 posts is what I set myself before getting serious about promoting my blog. I think that if I can’t make it into double figures then it is a fad and I should direct my energy elsewhere. However, if I make that little goal then I will feel confident about pouring more energy in with the aim of getting to the next goal which is having readers.

    Thanks for the tips. I am impressed that a seasoned blogger such as yourself can still put himself in the shoes of a newbie.

    Regards

    Jud Hampson

  • Wakas Mir

    July 17th, 2009 7:49 pm

    Aww first Darren.. I must say you got some lovely kids. May they have an amazing healthy life..

    Now to the post. Well I recently put the link to subscription to my blog via email “via feedburner” well really wish I had done it before.. As for earning from my blog, have two sponsors but am looking for something big so am on track and hopefully will soon :)

    Cheers

  • car info

    July 17th, 2009 9:06 pm

    Wow.. It is good to know your goals..
    I also want to setup my goal

  • stephanie

    July 17th, 2009 9:27 pm

    Great blog post as usual, I’ve done all these steps apart from number 9. which I’m defo going to start trying as I keep hearing good traffic returns from it. Also great patience is needed running the blog don’t expect anything to happen overnight

  • Anita Lobo

    July 17th, 2009 10:17 pm

    Darren this is a very useful post.

    Can you please settle a question for me:

    Frequency:

    How frequently should you post for a business blog thats just starting out?

    Does the frequency change acc to the topic i.e. should sports blogs be more frequent X per day vs business?

    What is the X number thats healthy?

    Thank you in advance

    Anita

  • Michael

    July 17th, 2009 10:33 pm

    I like step number 9 – a LOT of bloggers really underestimate the power of Twitter

  • Torbjørn Nordgaren

    July 17th, 2009 10:34 pm

    I think an important step for a blogger is to get his first quality post out there and really feel accomplished by it. If you post a blog entry and don’t feel like you actually put some time and energy into it, it’s probably not well put together or not well edited. I could be completely wrong, since everyone is different, but for me that is the case.

    Yesterday was an example of when I felt like I did something. I post on a few topics that were almost a month old, but were related and haven’t been linked up yet. Things that I’m sure some people are aware of or have thought of, but I haven’t seen anything about these topics being linked up on the internet yet.

    Another step would be, just enjoy the blogging community. Interacting with other sites is not only a way to get traffic, but a way to have fun and just have a great conversation with readers of another blog. Learn what turns blog readers on, and what turns them off.

    -Torbjørn

  • Jim Morrison

    July 17th, 2009 10:50 pm

    Hi Darren, what would reccomend as the blog platform to use for a beginner, Google Blogs or Wordpress

    R.Jim

  • Karen

    July 17th, 2009 10:55 pm

    As a “newbie” I don’t find the list obvious at all and really appreciate it! I have certainly done #1, and I’ve done #9 – it’s all the ones in the middle I’ve missed!

    Thanks, Darren.

  • swag lamps

    July 17th, 2009 10:59 pm

    what a great illustration…i absolutely agree…that’s what i’m thinking about since one year ago…having alot of readers in my blog…but poor me…it’s still just a dream

  • Michele

    July 17th, 2009 11:00 pm

    Great post! Although we have been blogging for almost a year, we still feel like newbies. There is so much to learn and you provide such helpful information.
    Thanks.

  • Laura - The Journal of Cultural Conversation

    July 17th, 2009 11:01 pm

    As someone who is, in a way, a veteran and new blogger, I agree with these 100%. I am just starting a new project, but thankfully have all the lessons of the old to help make it easier this time. But, my mom is always the first to post. Every single day. And she just joined Twitter. Madness.

    Thanks for this! Cute pics – made my day.

  • fas

    July 17th, 2009 11:13 pm

    This is a very nice guide for newbies, have emailed it to my bro.

  • Jacob Stoops

    July 17th, 2009 11:14 pm

    Another good goal might be to use some form of social media to promote at least 1 post or 1 thing about your blog, once a week.

  • Barbsawyers

    July 17th, 2009 11:19 pm

    Great analogy with the kids. Cute, but busy, I’ll bet.

    I’ve followed much of your advice in building my blog and I’ve achieved everything on the list (more actually) except the money part. I’m on a free wordpress site and wondering what you and others suggest I do to move to a platform that allows ads. What traffic levels do you have to be at to justify the expense and hassle. I love blogging and have been growing slowly but steadily. But I’m spending so much time on it, in addition to work for paying clients. I need to make more money. Teens to feed. Thanks

  • BloggerDaily

    July 17th, 2009 11:27 pm

    Nice. The steps look relevant and every new bloggers should be capable of it.

    Starting a new legacy or even small small steps is very important because that is the point that lead you the path to success.

  • Felix Albutra - SighNetDollars

    July 17th, 2009 11:35 pm

    Thank you for the tips Darren. I am a newbie blogger that have a big dream. You give ideas and courage to move on. Thank and more power to you…

    Sincerely,
    Felix Albutra – SighNetDollars.blogspot.com

  • Stephanie Graham

    July 18th, 2009 12:28 am

    Thanks for this post. Very helpful and things that I will think about as I try to find ways of making my personal blog more fun and effective.

    I have a silly question though if anyone can help. What does it mean to guest post?

    any takers?
    thanks in advance

    Stephanie
    http://www.twitter.com/missgraham

  • eResumes4Vips

    July 18th, 2009 12:29 am

    Darren,
    I’m not a BLOGGER; but I own a niche website (eResumes4Vips.com). Over a year ago, I had LOFTY dreams; pie-n-da-sky. Nothing wrong with that. Quickly learned that webbing/blogging/creating is damn hard work. Fast fwd, now have +800 unique daily visitors plus some OK 3-figure money revenue. Your advice is SOO Right-On, Mi Amigo… — eResumes4Vips

  • Online Business

    July 18th, 2009 12:33 am

    The first few months of a new blog is more crucial to handle. That needs more hard work. But the fact here is, you have to continue that work afterwards. I think most of the newbies stop’s blogging over a period of time.

    I have read lot from this site that blogging needs patience and hard work. Lets hope for the good !

    -Ven

  • ITrush

    July 18th, 2009 12:43 am

    My first steps were very slow since I don’t have idea yet on what to do but eventually it become faster as time goes on..

  • Royal Blogger

    July 18th, 2009 12:46 am

    Hi Darren,

    Building a solid foundation is very much essential in the early days of blogging. For this it may be advisable to write and post some pillar articles. Patient and intelligent blogging are the keys, for growing the blog ….so that later on , it will rewards you the fruits.

    I have started serious blogging some 48 days before on May 26 2009. And today Its good to see some 1400 unique visitors with some 1800 pages view per day. I request your to post a article for those who are already getting some 1800 pages view per day, focusing on the points that could help to double the traffic within the next 30 days…

  • Noah Lieske

    July 18th, 2009 1:00 am

    Good list, especially about the 10 posts. Thanks for posting it. Noah Lieske

  • Noor Loam

    July 18th, 2009 1:14 am

    I tweaked my free template somehow, but I suck at all things HTMl/Java and so on. I want a 3 column on the layout I have, to make this all look way nicer, but I dont know how too :/

    I was looking into a custom made template ( from one he already had, but tweaking a 3rd column to it and add some buttons) but he wanted $60 and said he need to have total power of my blog and he will have to take it down for 3 days.

    I refused, but if anyone on here knows about a good designer with reasonable prices, please leave a reply on my blog with your work/ link and pricing.

  • Dating advice forum

    July 18th, 2009 2:01 am

    “6. Getting your blog indexed in Google”, this quite most first target to aim at after setting up the blog because its the main aim of achieving better traffic to the blog.
    Nice post!

  • youngistaan

    July 18th, 2009 2:04 am

    Nice tips and a newbie. I not newbie but i really miss some thing which i learn from here.

  • youngistaan

    July 18th, 2009 2:04 am

    Nice tips for a newbie. I not newbie but i really miss some thing which i learn from here.

  • Get Skinny! Be Happy!

    July 18th, 2009 2:10 am

    I love ProBlogger and read it all the time, but this is one of my all-time favorite posts. Sometimes a simple checklist of basic things is so helpful. I have just started a new blog and there are so many possibilities that it can become overwhelming.

    It was a coincidence, but on the day I read this, I got tweeted up by a P.R. person for one of the companies I write about. It was a huge confirmation and the traffic was nice as well.

    After I knock off these checklist items, I’ll be moving into the 31 Days to Building a Better Blog.

  • Brown Thumb Mama

    July 18th, 2009 2:22 am

    This is excellent advice. I’m a new blogger, and the first things I did were:

    1. Study the bloggers I like and participate in their blogs
    2. Set myself a schedule of publishing 3x a week
    3. Settle in for the long haul.

    I did the happy dance when I finally got a comment from someone who wasn’t related to me. It took nearly a month!

  • Laura

    July 18th, 2009 2:26 am

    Great post, and very focused—which is what I need. I set out with two goals in mind: to write a mommyblog with a unique spin (parenting a toddler while caring for elderly parents) and to make a few bucks here or there doing something I enjoyed. I’m just into my second month of doing this, so I know the latter goal will take a while to achieve since I’m still trying to get up to speed with all the lingo! I can say that I was the amazed by the rush I got when I saw the face of my first Google follower show up on my homepage, quickly followed by my second follower. I think what I struggle with the most, though (as someone who is a parent AND has a regular full-time job), is finding the time both to write and to read (and comment) on other people’s blogs that I enjoy. And I find more of those every day. I wish I could give up sleeping!

  • Terrence Murray

    July 18th, 2009 2:41 am

    What a refreshing post. It helps put things in perspective. I recently launched Green Energy Reporter and have been trying to define some realistic targets that compiled together will create an following. I’ve met some of your goals and others I’m still trying to reach. Next step print your 9 first steps a and post it by my computer!

  • PrintedProof.com

    July 18th, 2009 3:08 am

    Great simple list for beginners. Its important not to try and reach for the high branches without taking a step up the ladder. I have been blogging for years and I am still working on accomplishing beginning “steps”

  • Wesley Craig Green

    July 18th, 2009 3:16 am

    Some good pointers here. I would add to that list by suggesting you get your blog “out there” by posting some meaningful comments on forums & blogs which share the same audience as yours. Also, email some other bloggers which are also just starting out for networking purposes.

    Wesley Craig Green
    The Geek Entrepreneur

  • Rob

    July 18th, 2009 3:34 am

    Those are for sure baby steps.

  • Samantha

    July 18th, 2009 4:00 am

    Great stuff – thanks so much. The two most striking observations I have as a COMPLETE newbie to the blogosphere are watching the times that the comments are posted. A whole lotta people are proving my fear that there aren’t enough hours in the day for this – so they are posting between midnight and 5 am. Scary. I can’t do that. On the otherhand, the presence of posts way into the future (12 hours into the future) just goes to show how international it can be. Scary, too.Or, maybe all the post midnight ones are West Coast, Hawaii and the far east?

  • Christine @ GoGoMamaGo

    July 18th, 2009 4:17 am

    What adorable kids Darren! I love the PJs.

    What a fantastic post. I can relate since I have a one-and-a-half-year-old.

    I am hitting my second month on my blog and need keep things in perspective. Thanks for helping me with that! Baby steps indeed.

  • David Stillwagon

    July 18th, 2009 5:26 am

    One of my goals is a high ranking with google!

  • Bruce

    July 18th, 2009 6:08 am

    What I would add is working on a new post concept or working on the post itself so that you have 5 new posts(or posting ideas) “in the bank,” ready, or almost ready to go.

    And yes, Darren, cute kids! ;o)

  • Alex Newell

    July 18th, 2009 6:44 am

    I think that this kind of “baby step” planning is an important part of accomplishing anything big.

    I’ve learned from Todd above that I need to get my chocolate cake (yum!) and from you to then to plan my blog more carefully – what direction, feeling, purpose…that kinda thing.

    Yeah, I’m sure the chocolate will help.

    :-)

  • Jeanette Bolvary

    July 18th, 2009 8:16 am

    Love the pics, you have two gourgeos boys.

  • Daz

    July 18th, 2009 8:36 am

    Being realistic is the key – you don’t want to set the targets too high (100,000 RSS subscribers within a month for example), as it’ll only demoralise you when you don’t get to that level. Setting realistic targets makes it much more fun – getting 10 subscribers isn’t easy, and still a real challenge, but achievable – and, once you’re there, it’s time to get 50, and so on.

    I must admit, I watch web server logs in real time, and nothing beats the feeling that someone is on your site, reading what you’ve created.

  • Alex

    July 18th, 2009 8:46 am

    Baby steps is what it takes with everything in the beginning. Good stuff mate.

  • Tony @ Phoenix Strategic Internet Marketing

    July 18th, 2009 9:28 am

    These might be ’steps’ and they could certainly be called ‘milestones’ ‘but they are not goals. Goals always have a strategic and tactical plan behind them, otherwise they’re just wishes. Where is the follow up post that tells bloggers, “OK, campers, here’s how we go about getting a comment from someone we don’t know.” I’m not criticising the post, just wondering.
    Thanks.

  • Lisa Marie Mary

    July 18th, 2009 11:17 am

    This is a great post, Darren – even as a person who has been blogging for a while now, I find it helpful to go back and review the basics from time to time to make sure that I’m really doing all I can to take my blog where I want it. I particularly like the conversation you had with the climber – that is so true in so many things we do, really. We just forget about the ‘work’ part of things.

    I can’t believe your little one is already a year! Wow – they both look adorable!! :D

  • Scott_T

    July 18th, 2009 1:18 pm

    Another great post to guide others to success, thanks.

  • Blogger Make Money

    July 18th, 2009 1:41 pm

    Thanks for this post, it affectionate puts into angle what the ‘big guns’ of blogging attending at as those aboriginal babyish steps. I’m blessed to address that I accept accomplished all of those listed milestones except for the bedfellow post.

  • Kamal

    July 18th, 2009 3:06 pm

    Hello this is my first comment but i read your post every day, i started my blog around 8 months back. I wanted to tell a detailed story about what happened and what mistakes i made.

    1. Gradually increased my post from 2 per day to 9 per day over MoM.
    2. Added Adsense in the second month
    3. Providing readers the latest news
    4. Subscribers increased – Providing Subscription Options via email/rss
    5. Received comments
    6. Linking other sites with the same set of category blogs
    7. Exchanged mails to other bloggers about the latest happenings
    8. Blog Google Page Rank Increased
    9. Placing Top posts in the left bar to increase more page views
    10. People engaged with my site
    11. Increase in pageviews from 3/visitor to 5/visitor
    12. Place Google Custom Search for Increase earnings
    13. Placing many plugin to engage with my readers
    14. Replying to reader’s comments to continue the discussion

    These are the things that i am able to remember right now. Anyway I will add if some other thing strikes my mind.

    You are doing a great work.

    Kamal.

  • V.C

    July 18th, 2009 4:42 pm

    I just need the 8th goal that is guess post an article on my blog.
    I was wondering if there is some one who can contribute my site but it seems to be unchangeable

  • Game Site Builder

    July 18th, 2009 5:03 pm

    Great post. Never seen your kids before, cute. Future pro bloggers :).

  • Steven J Snelling

    July 18th, 2009 8:33 pm

    Great tips. Especially to someone at my stage. My next step is wating for the blog landing page to be completed! A work in progress. I have pre-written blogs as practice and/or inclusion once launched.

    Being a realistic optomist (to me that would define setting lofty goals yet not being disappointed if I do not quite achieve them) I can already see this is going to be rewarding. I have been spending hours thinking about many of the steps you listed and now can include more of them.

    The photo of your sons bring back fond memories as I was fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home primary care providing Dad for our two sons.

    Thanks for sharing both the photo and its effective relationship to the steps.
    Steven J Snelling

  • make money online

    July 18th, 2009 8:45 pm

    I think you are right. Personally if I focus to much on the long term I will get frustrated at the time which it takes to get their. It is very important to live in the now rather than thinking how big your blog will hopefully be one day it is better to try and get a little notice then build upon that. Anyway thanks for the post.

    Kris,

  • Lisbeth Tanz

    July 19th, 2009 1:13 am

    Darren,

    Your posts are always so helpful. I liked this one because it’s so relevant to not only my clients, but to me as well. After writing for others for years, I’ve decided to blog for me. Thank you for the great starting points and the reminder that the big picture is great, but the first step(s) are the most important.

    Cute kids!

    Lis

  • Eric B.

    July 19th, 2009 1:43 am

    Nice post. I’m still stuck on goal #3, though.

  • Isabel

    July 19th, 2009 5:19 am

    Wow, I loved this post. With this advice I have learned that patience and taking baby steps towards our blogging goals are key factors for success. I started my blog less than a month ago and I already have 12 posts.
    Today I received my first comment, from a friend of mine (at least it wasn’t from Mom and Dad!). I will definitly use this post as a guide to keep track of my blog’s growth and development.
    Thanks a lot!

  • Rhi Bowman

    July 19th, 2009 6:40 am

    Thank you for this reminder. Like your blogger friend, I’ve got my expectations set high. Unfortunately, reality dictates a different rate of progress than what I’d prefer. All we can do is take each day as it comes while doing our best. And, you’re right, the best way to be a successful goal accomplish-er is to break them down into small, easy-to-digest bites.

  • Dean Saliba

    July 19th, 2009 8:44 am

    Very good tips, I can understand why people suggest new bloggers check out your blog.

  • Victor

    July 19th, 2009 8:50 am

    Thanks, Darren. Your site is one of the only blogging sites I read. You’re so humble and realistic. I really appreciate the advice.

  • Dr.T

    July 19th, 2009 1:17 pm

    I have just stepped into the world of blogging and confess I am quite clueless re how this all works.

    I’m especially confused re the “building of readership” piece, which I suppose must be the most important thing. (Advice?) I read somewhere that the number of new blogs coming out every day was ??? (A HUGE NUMBER), so competition for readership must be equally huge, with everyone saying “look at me!”

    We were encouraged to develop a blog to help promote a game we recently released. We really do like the idea, and think this has great merit, but to date haven’t understood how to promote the site.

    To date, all we’ve really done is to write about ten posts. Weve had some nice responses to these, but mostly from folks we know. So; next steps? We plan to “work the program” as they say, and to start down the road (or up the mountain) with some of the advice and direction you’ve presented here.

    Thanks!

    Dr. T

  • Happy Hardcore

    July 19th, 2009 1:46 pm

    Thank you for the great post Darren,

    I know I only started commenting on your post recently, but I actually followed your blog for last few months now.

    By using your advice, my traffic numbers and readers gain everyday.

    Again, thank you for the great post. I will keep that goal in my mind.

  • SURVEYS FOR MONEY

    July 19th, 2009 4:50 pm

    Four down, six to go. Once I reach 20 RSS subscribers and have a guest post on another blog, ill be extremely motivated and can say my blog is going places.

  • Raju

    July 19th, 2009 9:02 pm

    The list of goals are great, but some of the goals are really hard for a new blogger i.e. to obtain it ‘fairly’.

    Thanks for the goals

  • AutoCritical

    July 19th, 2009 10:26 pm

    Nice post – I think every ‘new’ blogger is finding this helpful because it’s something we can measure ourselves against since starting our blogs – seeing where we are at!

    I noticed a person who made a comment here, who had only been blogging for a week, and feeling a ‘little’ disappointed as not many people have visited their site – Keep going, its early days! :-)

    My ponderance/question is related to the earning $1 a week goal. I just don’t believe that people will click on ads. Perhaps it’s related to my blog topic, i’ve had about 4 clicks in 2 months (approx total of 2000 visitors) – I just don’t see it happening. Should I be giving the same advice I gave in the upper paragraph – keep going, its early days?

  • Robomaster

    July 20th, 2009 2:33 am

    Hm…

    Those are great goals and all, but how exactly would one accomplish them? How does one get people to visit a blog that is completely isolated on the web? How likely is it that the few random visitors that I get on my blog would like the content, even if it IS well written?

    I know that the readers of the blog should be the main source of promoting it, but how do I get the first readers?

    Those are the questions I am facing right now.

    Please check out one of my blog posts:

    http://freshtechreviews.blogspot.com/2009/07/windows-7-new-era-for-windows.html

  • Iris

    July 20th, 2009 3:52 am

    Consistency . . . that’s what I need to employ more of because I need to be reading your blog EVERY DAY on a more CONSISTENT basis! You offer such great advice and guidance — I’m so glad I stumbled upon you.

    Thanks, for delivering such great content!

  • Jeff

    July 20th, 2009 9:02 am

    What would be cool is a “ProBlogger Goals” plugin for WordPress that allows a blogger to check their progress on these objectives (or others they set for themselves in the Dashboard.

  • Wes Johnson

    July 20th, 2009 10:11 am

    Thank you for the article. I digg it. :-)
    I like your 9 step list. I never really thought about having goals like this before for my blog.

    I’m about half way there.
    I would agree with Jeff about a wordpress plugin to help with measurable goals.

  • the crazy suburban mom

    July 20th, 2009 8:44 pm

    Yep, yep yep and yep… And this convinces me so much more that I need to write these things down… And darren, how does one, as a new blogger, actually chat with you about these things ? :)

  • Adsense Tips

    July 20th, 2009 9:18 pm

    Thanks for sharing this post. There are a number of things that help our system to better determine which ads will need to be placed on your site. Advertisers pay as users click on their ads and are based on Google Adwords price system that results in the CPC or the price that is paid. After account approval, the start guide provides helpful information for the steps involve in generating an AdSense code.There are several different built-in color choices for adsense ads.Google uses technology that can analyze clicks.Smart pricing helps the advertisers and publishers to obtain maximum benefit. For more details refer http://www.bloggingwithchris.com/adsense-tips/

  • Belinda Hutchinson

    July 20th, 2009 10:41 pm

    Hi Darren
    I just love your analogy! Thank you. I am very much a newborn to blogging and it can be overwhelming when I keep realising what I do not know. Thankfully with time and simple goals I’ll see the benefits.
    I look forward to reading and learing more.
    Thanks, Belinda

  • Isleen

    July 21st, 2009 3:42 am

    Agreed, Slow and Steady Wins the Race! (which means I should end up a BIG winner! LOL)

    No plans to make money, as of yet…just putting my perspective on things out into the Universe. Do with it what you will, lol.

    Thanks for the list of Goals, they have been Incredibly Helpful! :o)

  • Szabi

    July 21st, 2009 7:49 am

    Actually I just realised that I have completed seven from this list and I did not even notice them as milestones. I was quite concerned how badly it goes. Now you cheered me up. Thanks Darren.

    Still ahead:

    First guest post, 20 RSS subscribers and making money.

  • Logan Graham

    July 21st, 2009 11:50 am

    Hey Darren,

    Thanks for the “checklist”. Within 3 weeks, I’ve almost accomplished all (and that’s great, because I’m 14), including writing TWO guest posts, having a guest poster, and even reading your book! The only thing that I haven’t accomplished yet is monetizing my blog: I think it’s too new. If anyone has time, can you check it out and tell me whether it’s ready for something like AdSense?

  • Brianna

    July 22nd, 2009 7:13 am

    I just started my blog two days ago, actually. I suppose my goal would be to get people to actually read it. I’d like some comments. I’d also like to make some money off of it. I haven’t yet reached any of these goals, but I’m working on it!

  • eldritch

    July 22nd, 2009 2:24 pm

    Good thing is also to avoid making spelling misakes like the author of this post does…

  • Article Directory|Free Articles|Free Content

    July 26th, 2009 7:12 pm

    Hello Darren,

    Until now i’ve completed 8 steps from the 9 of the new blogger!
    The missing step is the rss subscriber:( I have only 14

  • Kurt Evans

    July 27th, 2009 5:17 am

    I like the idea of taking it one step at a time. Too often, in today’s world we’re thinking about instant gratification as a way of getting things done. We forget that it’s a journey to get anywhere in life and too often we think that it’s the end result that matters the most; when, in fact it’s the very process of getting there that is the most meaningful. Being able to build a blog as well as a following requires that you be honest with yourself first, then; others will catch on and trust you as being a sincere person.

  • thigiru

    July 30th, 2009 6:34 pm

    as a blogger, my first goal is to get many followers as possible.

  • Vijay

    July 31st, 2009 5:25 am

    Thanks for the tips. My first blog is now 3 weeks old. It’s a personal blog. I have to follow these tips now. Thanks.

  • Baby Shoes

    August 1st, 2009 10:54 am

    The Internet “browser”… is the piece of software that puts a message on your computer screen informing you that the Internet is currently busy and you should try again later.

  • Natalie

    August 2nd, 2009 6:46 pm

    Great list! As I am currently setting up a new blog on self development, I will be keeping this in mind.

    Even though I am not new to blogging (I have 2 blogs on music, 1 on writing and 1 on programming), I am new to blogging “regularly” and I believe in the importance of doing it one step at a time.

    This is the approach I apply to everything I do, whether it is recording an album or writing a novel, and it has worked well for me so far so hopefully, it will work well with blogging too!

  • Andrew Keir

    August 2nd, 2009 6:54 pm

    “8. First guest post on another blog”

    1 to go ><

  • Maria Estrella

    August 4th, 2009 3:56 pm

    1st of all, thank you for the wonderful resource that is problogger! I have dozens of your articles bookmarked, they are very helpful and encouraging :)

    So far I’ve achieved… almost #1. I think I have 7 posts. I just started my blog a week or so ago I think. I’d been setting it up – playing with the template, the HTML, the widgets – for a couple of months but not until just recently did I actually start posting.

    This list is very helpful to me – thank you for giving me goals to strive for!

    Maria

  • Iain Buchanan

    August 5th, 2009 9:44 am

    Hey Darren!

    Great post – it puts things into perspective and sets some great goals to aim for.

    Like many others, I’ve hit some of the targets already, and in just a few short weeks of blogging. I’ve had some great feedback from the comments that I’ve been left on my blog – but now you’ve given me “the next steps” to take, and helping me to ensure I keep the momentum moving forward for my blog.

    Cheers Darren!

    Iain.

  • thigiru

    August 5th, 2009 5:11 pm

    Working on my blogs have been a little hard. I came to note that choosing the right content may solve this problem.

  • thigiru

    August 6th, 2009 3:37 pm

    something i would suggest to upcoming bloggers is that the first commandment to on line business is never to spam. this can reduce their lifespan in business drastically!

  • Karen Kalata

    August 15th, 2009 6:15 am

    I am new to internet marketing, but I think that posting on a regular basis, at least three to five times per week, starting out is something that new bloggers can do, this will start their traffic climbing and get them a good rating with Alexa.

  • Padmanabhan

    August 16th, 2009 3:53 pm

    Thats an amazing gist of what actually a person has to start, to become a successful blogger.I’m on the start with my blogging. Although i’ve posted enough content, im yet to achieve some of the targets. I just wanted to say that your website has given me more innovative methods for building my blog and im very thankful for it…
    Keep Going…
    All the best Dude…

  • thigiru

    August 17th, 2009 7:04 pm

    Karen Kalata is right. posting regularly is an essential thing to do.

  • Interior Design Tips

    August 21st, 2009 9:54 am

    Thanks for all the tips. I’ve set myself the goal of at least three posts a day. I’t a field I’m passionate about so shouldn’t be too hard. Thanks again Darren :)

  • Sanjay

    August 26th, 2009 10:10 pm

    its really a great information for the novice blogger like me.
    thanks a lot for sharing. I shall implement most of the steps mentioned above very soon, for sure :)

  • Robomaster

    August 27th, 2009 3:00 am

    To tell the truth, these goals aren’t that hard to think up – it’s hard to accomplish them, though, and you don’t mention how to do that.

  • Jeronimo

    August 29th, 2009 2:27 am

    Before all these steps I think the main objective is to establish what the purpose of the blog. If for commercial purposes, make money or just fun :)

  • farouk

    August 29th, 2009 10:03 pm

    yes you are right, its really funny how key phrases such as “how to become a millionaire over night” are popular search key phrases in Google!!

  • Travis

    August 30th, 2009 11:59 pm

    Gaining RSS readers is a big issue I’m running into right now myself. I already get a steady stream of readers, but convincing them to subscribe to my site, thus ensuring them as repeat readers, can present quite a challenge in itself.

  • DeniseD

    September 2nd, 2009 10:13 am

    As a new blogger, etting realistic goals has been key to me keeping my sanity. Its great to have lofty ambitions and to keep them in mind daily, but its the small accomplishments that have kept me going everyday. Its easy to get a little discouraged otherwise. Great starter list!

  • Usman

    September 4th, 2009 3:46 am

    Great post…thanks :)

  • Earn Money Online

    September 9th, 2009 5:22 am

    That is a pretty useful list of first steps for blogs. I’m personally aiming for the 20 readers a day currently.

  • divisiononeathletics

    September 11th, 2009 12:26 pm

    These all sound like great ideas and a good start to a beginning blog. Making money is not my main goal with this blog, so they money tips don’t really apply to me, but I will be sure to try some of the other things. My blog is brand new and I am trying to get it going right now. Hopefully your tips can help me get some traffic.

  • Everleaf Network Rakeback

    September 14th, 2009 7:42 am

    I have been looking for information on starting a blog, and found this article very informative. It seems like such a daunting task to start a blog and develop a readership, but this simplified it quite a bit for me.

  • thigiru

    September 15th, 2009 7:49 pm

    My problems are now getting solved!

    healthy growth exercise,
    http://www.igrowtall.com

  • Jennifer

    September 16th, 2009 1:17 pm

    I need #5 and #6. RSS feed subscribers only 16, and I made .52 in August. Im working on it. That’s why Im here :) Thanks for the great info once again!

  • cdr vierge

    September 17th, 2009 10:05 pm

    I’m still in the planning stage to launch a blog-for-profit, and it’s nice to be reminded not to try to jump too far ahead. The business I sold 7 years ago took me 20 years to build and started with 2 other people and 2 clients.

  • Pascal

    September 28th, 2009 2:39 am

    I am going to publish my blog on October 5. My goals are

    1. 100 RSS readers in 30 days.
    2. 100 posts in 30 days.
    3. 100 backlinks from blogs and sites in 30 days.
    4. 1000 facebook fans, 1000 twitter followers etc in 30 days

    I will post again here on November 5 about what i achieved.

  • Eric

    September 28th, 2009 4:02 am

    A good post! Starting out small is always a good idea with anything that you do. I’ve just started my blog recently, and I would say I’ll have my hands full for a few months just trying to accomplish some of those goals.

  • muntthee

    September 28th, 2009 8:16 am

    Great post. I just started a blog about a month ago and I have been looking for very specific goals to follow. The 10 list is a really great start for me. Thank you!

  • moonwalker

    September 29th, 2009 9:17 am

    im start 3months in blogging and not achieve my goal,yet, i will practically follow your 1st 9 steps

  • jeux pokemon

    September 30th, 2009 8:07 pm

    Hi Darren, I just became a fan of your club here….and yes I would have to agree with you on this, I think anything in life that we propose to achieved, there is the requirement to taking baby steps, before we want to walk and then run…. the challenge is to be consistent with the plan….I’ve seen this kind of connection happen in my kids too, and is such a lovely experience for any parent to see,…. I love this thread or post… :-)

  • David

    October 4th, 2009 3:14 am

    goals 1 and 2 = done
    currently working on 3 and 4.

    Im glad this post was written because I was looking for some goals to strive towards and was getting only 2 or 3 in my head. Thanks for giving me and many others goals to look forward to.


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