Maggie Whitley

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{guest blogger :: Allora Handmade}

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Awww, look at my sweet friend Jess {points to the left}. She makes the prettiest rosettes I’ve ever seen! Seriously, head over to her shop and see for yourself ♥

I asked Jess to share some tips on blogging and community, a topic that I hold close to my heart for many reasons. I love what she gathered for this post ~

***

Hi friends! It’s me, Jess from Allora Handmade. Thanks to Maggie for inviting me here to talk a little about blogging ;]

I think about my readers all the time. Did they think that was funny? Are they cheering me on? Could they care less? Is what I have to say going to encourage them? Make them laugh? Inspire them?

Some write for the sake of writing, but I can honestly say that I LOVE the interaction that comes from blogging.

My blog is a place to share about my life as a small business owner/wife of a student/mom of 2, and it has been such a vital resource for my business and social life.

As a work at home mom who tends to hibernate in the winter (brrrrr), the community I have found in my own little corner of the internet has been such a relief. You know, there are days that I never change out of my pj’s or have any adult interaction… All I have to say is thank goodness for blogs!

I’m no expert, but here are a few tips I have to make your blog into the community that you long for:
  • Sincerity and honesty go a long way. Be the same person online as you are in real life. Authenticity is so important in fostering a supportive community.
  • Think about what you have to offer your readers.And we’re not just talking giveaways. Advice, experiences, support… these are things that we all need. If you are willing to give, your readers will respond.
  • Connect with your readers on other social media platforms. I need to be better about commenting on blogs, but I do make an effort to build relationships on twitter, facebook, etc. I love knowing what my readers had for breakfast and the great deal they found online.
  • Invite opportunities for guest posting/participation. (Good job, Gus! wink, wink) For the past few months I have had a guest post once a week and I love the interaction that comes from it!
  • Encourage creativity and learning. Share ideas, solutions, inspirations, and things you’ve learned that will encourage your readers to approach life with new eyes.

Thanks for letting me share, Gussy!

***

What do you think? Do you have a method that helps you connect with others in a natural way?

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Comments

  1. Adventures In Babywearing says

    I just hear about Allorah over at Pleated Poppy! I’m in love- can’t wait until her shop is open again!

    One thing that works for me is visiting other blogs (especially the ones that comment on mine) and reading through (not just their most recent post) and subscribing, really following along with their story. I’ve found that Twitter & Facebook are helpful, too, but it’s such a small version of who they really are, in their blog posts. And also after I read actual posts I am always inspired and a better writer because of it.

    Steph

    Reply

  6. April Foss says

    Great tips! I for sure struggle with the blogging thing. What to write about all the time???? Also I have 5 kids and a husband along with a growing business, so…………………………………

    Reply

  8. Sarah-Anne says

    social media IS important. having a blog that you don’t update every often won’t get you anywhere in readerships. twitter is a must have, you know! :)
    great post maggie and jess!
    Sarah-Anne

    Reply

  9. Abby says

    Great guest post! I’ve been thinking about the idea of blogs and community a lot lately. I’ll definitely use many of these suggestions. Thanks! :]

    Reply

  10. Natalie says

    I was excited to see Jess on your blog! I love Allora!

    I’ve really been thinking about starting a blog lately, so I’m trying to gain all the info I can before I take the leap! Thanks for the great tips!

    Reply

  11. Robyn says

    I’ve seen Allora handmade several times. I am amazed at her talent. I do believe that social media is a huge platform. I’ve tweeted with many people that I never would have had the opportunity had it not been for Twitter. Blogging has really opened up things for me to express myself in the things that I like and have made connections with others who have the same interests.

    Reply

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