Whether you’re blogging for fun or for business, there are several tasks you should complete before your blog goes live. Here are 10 key things you should do before launching your blog (There’s also a downloadable checklist at the end of this blog post).
1. Pick a Blog Name:
Choosing a unique and memorable blog name is crucial for branding and recognition. Brainstorm ideas that reflect your blog’s theme or niche. Once you’ve settled on an idea or a few options, check if the domain is available as well as social media handles.
2. Purchase Domain and Hosting:
Invest in a reliable domain registrar and web hosting service. Everyone has their own preference. I use Elitehost and I’ve never had an issue. Be sure to select a hosting plan that is suited to your wallet and your blog needs. You need a service provider who is reliable and provides support.
3. Design a Logo on Canva:
Create a logo and header using tools like Canva. Incorporate your blog name, relevant visuals, and colours that represent your brand identity. I talk a bit about branding in this blog post here. Basically you want to keep your colours and fonts consistent. Designing an attractive logo and header will make your blog look more professional.
4. Draft 4 to 5 Blog Posts:
Before launching your blog, prepare a sizable chunk of content by drafting four to five blog posts. This ensures that you have something ready to publish and keeps your blog active from the start. Focus on delivering valuable information and engaging storytelling that resonates with your target audience.
5. Set Up Your Blog Categories:
Organize your blog posts into relevant categories. This will make navigation easier for your readers. Plan out your categories based on your blog’s main topics and ensure they are clear and intuitive. Well-defined categories help visitors find what they’re looking for and improves overall user experience.
6. Write a Compelling About Me Page:
Craft an engaging and authentic About Me page that introduces you to your readers. Share your story, passion, and expertise to build a connection and establish credibility.
7. Create Eye-Catching Pinterest Pins:
Pinterest is a valuable platform for driving traffic to your blog. Use Canva or another graphic design tool to design images for Pinterest. Optimize your pins with compelling headlines, keywords, and relevant descriptions to attract clicks and shares.
8. Create Social Media Accounts:
Establish a strong social media presence by creating accounts on platforms relevant to your target audience. Consider platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, depending on your blog’s niche and where your audience can be found. Again, consistent branding across all platforms reinforces your blog’s identity and helps you reach a wider audience.
9. Install Yoast SEO:
Optimize your blog’s visibility in search engine results by installing a plugin like Yoast SEO (for WordPress users). This tool provides guidance on optimizing your blog posts for search engines, improving your chances of ranking higher and attracting organic traffic.
10. Publish Your Blog Post:
After completing all of the above, it’s time to hit the publish button and officially launch your blog. Choose your strongest blog post from the ones you drafted earlier and make any necessary final edits. Share your post across your social media platforms and start building a community around your blog.
Launching a blog involves careful planning and execution. Here’s a checklist with the above steps. By following this before your blog goes live, you’ll set a solid foundation for success.