I wanted to weigh in on the “How often should I post?” debate. There are several schools of thought on this one.
One schools says that more posts = more traffic. I’ve been able to confirm this myself.
In July, I was posting once a week. During August, I added the Fascination Series which took my posting schedule to 2x a week.. The results were clear. Traffic to Pushing Social increased by 46%. I suspect that I would see another jump in traffic by adding another post.
The other school encourages you to post when you have something important to say. This camp says traffic be damned. It’s about passion, sincerity, and authenticity. I call this the Passion Posting school. I love these folks, but I don’t 100% agree with them.
Here’s why:
- The “write when you feel like it” mantra gives you an excuse to not post at all. That’s a problem because –
- The more you write, the better you will get. Deliberate day-to-day practice is the key to mastery. But more importantly –
- Consistent and frequent post shows your readers that they can depend on you.
Your readers are looking for quality and consistency. For them, it feels good to know that every week, like clockwork, you will show up with something great to offer. In this case, the more you “show up” the bigger the audience.
The Key to Attracting Influencers
I’m an unabashed Influencer Marketing disciple. I know the influencers in my niche and I work my butt off to make sure they know about my content. After two failed blogs, I finally learned that the key to getting on an influencer’s radar is consistency.
Consistent high-quality posts show that you are a serious player. Consistency shouts that you are “here to stay”. Plus, a steadily growing archive of posts confirms that you have content to satisfy the Influencer’s readers.
Scattershot, infrequent, posting brands you as a flake. Not the image you want when trying to attract A-Lister support.
By the way, if you don’t care about attracting loyal readers, creating a steady income, or becoming influential in your niche, you can ignore this advice. Your blog is a labor of love. I get it. 
This isn’t a License to Kill Yourself
Am I saying that you immediately start posting twice a day? No. That’s like telling you to get off the couch and run a marathon. You’ll burn yourself out (and hate me in the process).
Do this instead. Set a goal for yourself (i.e. 5 posts a week). Create a calendar that gradually, over the next month, works you up to your goal. Take it slow but make it steady. As you write more, you’ll discover little tricks and techniques for keeping your quality high while writing more.
Make sure you watch your traffic. Soon you will see a nice, steady rise as your niche recognizes that your blog is “built to last”.
What’s your posting goal? What’s your biggest challenge with posting frequently? Talk to me and I’ll talk right back!
No,No,No.
Please don't walk away thinking that I'm dictating a 5x a week posting schedule. What I want you to think through is how posting frequency can help you achieve your goals. If you want a blog with a large and engaged audience then your posting schedule will be more frequent. If you are fine with a small audience then you have more flexibility. The best way is too experiment. Find a sweet spot that you are delivering good posts while not burning yourself out.
Wow! 5X times a week!!–that shatters the frequency I'd set for myself at 2x per week. Although my current blog is fairly new, I thought posting too much might make it more of a chore than a genuine pleasure AND that readers would get tired of the content.
Is this a genuine concern or am I over-analyzing for nothing.
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Wow! Just found you through your post on Copyblogger about making blogging sexy. I'm going to be reading all night just to catch up. You definitely have a place on my RSS, even if I need to make room for you.
My recent post Transforming Our Future 140 Characters at a Time
Eren, thanks for commenting and I understand where you are coming from.
One thing that I want to emphasize is making sure you understand your goal. Many bloggers want more traffic to their blogs, but only post once a month. Those two goals aren't compatible. However if you just want a small (perhaps very small) dedicated readership then once a month may work.
Hi Stanford,
I'm the passion poster. I do believe that consistency is what I aim to achieve but I haven't gotten there yet and it's okay for me. Consistency is very important I totally agree but I have found that many bloggers post average to below average posts just to get a post out. I want my readers to know that every time they get an email from me it will not be an average post. It will be something that will add value to their lives. Even if I only write that special piece once a month. It's not easy to write quality content. Takes a lot of time actually. So my thoughts are that you are right but I haven't gotten the consistency yet.
All the best,
Eren
My recent post Monkey Baby Shower Favors
Hey Stanford–
I enjoyed the post and have seen and read both types of bloggers (the passionate and the consistent). I think that the hardest part is keeping up one's self esteem as one learns to write better and more consistently. There's not really a formula for that…
My recent post How to Know When You’re an Adult
I agree! I've been a somewhat inconsistent poster but recently have decided to blog 5 days a week to keep up the discipline of writing but also to be a reliable source for readers. I've found that when inspiration hits me and I get an idea for three or four posts in one go, I use post scheduling to delay publishing them so that my readers get one a day. This works really well as I'm a busy mum and some days its hard for me to find the time/inspiration to blog! I just took my family name off the blog and exported to a new blog name, something more generic, which has meant that my followership has taken a nose dive but it has weeded out those who have followed but are not really following or commenting. I'm hoping that as the new blog name gets known, readership will grow!
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Great question Theresa.
Here's the simple answer. The quality of my posts get better the more I write. I really think that people spend too much time pre-judging quality. Just start writing and post. Your quality will improve quickly. Here's another tip: I have sketched out a pretty good process for writing each of my posts. The process makes sure that the foundation of the post is solid. This takes 80% of the guesswork out of creating quality.
Does that help?
Hi Stanford,
Really glad I found your blog – guest posting pays off, doesn’t it? I think your advice about trying to run a marathon is spot on.
Here’s my question for you; what are your “tricks and techniques for keeping your quality high while writing more” – just curious…
Excellent post – thank you. I look forward to following your blog!
Theresa
Ahhh it all makes sense now
thank's for that!
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
I've noticed that I have more readers with more posts. I think 2 to 3 times a week is just about correct. I want my readers to take in what I've said and if I post everyday it will be too overwhelming. Twice a week depending on what the subject matter is can cause a slight lag, but 3 time a week, I think is just right. I'm working towards this rhythm and feel comfortable with this number. I appreciate the insight and I'm glad I know about your website.
My recent post Using Your Suffering to Live a Life of Purpose- Part 1
you mean re purpose some of my other stuff for guest posts? Should I spin it, or submit it as is?
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
I've noticed that I have more readers with more posts. I think 2 to 3 times a week is just about correct. I want my readers to take in what I've said and if I post everyday it will be too overwhelming. Twice a week depending on what the subject matter is can cause a slight lag, but 3 time a week, I think is just right. I'm working towards this rhythm and feel comfortable with this number. I appreciate the insight and I'm glad I know about your website.
My recent post Using Your Suffering to Live a Life of Purpose- Part 1
I love your stuff. Maybe you want to use one of those posts for guest posts. You can't beat the exposure and credibility you get from guest posts.
3 times a week at the moment, and I just started guest posting, but haven't gotten nearly as much out as I would like honestly. Still trying to figure out how to publish, create video, and do client work without having to kill myself and find 28 hours in a 24 hour day… 17 of which I'm using to work…
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
Now that's interesting. How many times a week do you post? Also, are you guest posting?
Great advice as usual!
Something I've noticed with my own blog though Stanford is that my traffic has actually gone down since I started posting more. I've been spending so much time trying to come up with content that I don't have the time to get out and network with others… and so my blog's traffic suffers… which is a bit discouraging when the most visitors I've seen in a day is like 35 anyways… :-/ would love your thoughts on this.
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
Now that's interesting. How many times a week do you post? Also, are you guest posting?
3 times a week at the moment, and I just started guest posting, but haven't gotten nearly as much out as I would like honestly. Still trying to figure out how to publish, create video, and do client work without having to kill myself and find 28 hours in a 24 hour day… 17 of which I'm using to work…
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
I love your stuff. Maybe you want to use one of those posts for guest posts. You can't beat the exposure and credibility you get from guest posts.
you mean re purpose some of my other stuff for guest posts? Should I spin it, or submit it as is?
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
Nope, I'm thinking that if you are writing three posts a week. Use one of the posts for guest posting. Don't even think of spinning or reusing old posts. Preferably, use the best post out of the three as guest posts.
Great advice as usual!
Something I've noticed with my own blog though Stanford is that my traffic has actually gone down since I started posting more. I've been spending so much time trying to come up with content that I don't have the time to get out and network with others… and so my blog's traffic suffers… which is a bit discouraging when the most visitors I've seen in a day is like 35 anyways… :-/ would love your thoughts on this.
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
Great advice as usual!
Something I've noticed with my own blog though Stanford is that my traffic has actually gone down since I started posting more. I've been spending so much time trying to come up with content that I don't have the time to get out and network with others… and so my blog's traffic suffers… which is a bit discouraging when the most visitors I've seen in a day is like 35 anyways… :-/ would love your thoughts on this.
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
Now that's interesting. How many times a week do you post? Also, are you guest posting?
3 times a week at the moment, and I just started guest posting, but haven't gotten nearly as much out as I would like honestly. Still trying to figure out how to publish, create video, and do client work without having to kill myself and find 28 hours in a 24 hour day… 17 of which I'm using to work…
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
I love your stuff. Maybe you want to use one of those posts for guest posts. You can't beat the exposure and credibility you get from guest posts.
you mean re purpose some of my other stuff for guest posts? Should I spin it, or submit it as is?
My recent post What do people REALLY look for in an influencer
PS – I noticed your comment Stanford that blogging is a difficult topic to blog about – which is true I guess from a competition perspective, but I'd also say that blogs about blogs have a ready made audience, ie other bloggers!
Those of us who post for other niches need to worry about basic things like "Does my niche read online?". Not an easy problem to solve for a blogger if the answer to that question is "No". Anyway mate, thanks for writing a great blog, keep it up and I'll look forward to your next, frequent post.
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
PS – I noticed your comment Stanford that blogging is a difficult topic to blog about – which is true I guess from a competition perspective, but I'd also say that blogs about blogs have a ready made audience, ie other bloggers!
Those of us who post for other niches need to worry about basic things like "Does my niche read online?". Not an easy problem to solve for a blogger if the answer to that question is "No". Anyway mate, thanks for writing a great blog, keep it up and I'll look forward to your next, frequent post.
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
PS – I noticed your comment Stanford that blogging is a difficult topic to blog about – which is true I guess from a competition perspective, but I'd also say that blogs about blogs have a ready made audience, ie other bloggers!
Those of us who post for other niches need to worry about basic things like "Does my niche read online?". Not an easy problem to solve for a blogger if the answer to that question is "No". Anyway mate, thanks for writing a great blog, keep it up and I'll look forward to your next, frequent post.
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
Hi Stanford & everyone,
I've only been going a couple of months, but I initially hit it really hard, churning out up to 3 posts a day, pretty much 7 days a week. I then hit a wall, as I started 2 new jobs and seemed to just run out of steam (go figure!). I'm back to posting 2 or 3 times a week now, more because it's sustainable than because I think I'll get more readers that way.
BUT, if I were to start another blog, I would do it the same way again. The sheer volume of posts I created in such a short period of time got me a guest blogging spot, I think because there was a variety of content, and proof that I was going to work hard. That gig hasn't turned into much yet, but it will – AND it was a great boost to my confidence to have someone approach me so early on.
So I think a big bang approach will help get you out of the blocks and get you further along the learning curve faster. After that, you'll need to find a steadier pace – but as I think you're saying Stanford, it's the consistency that counts, as long as you're posting often enough to keep people on the hook.
Great blog mate, I've watched it evolve and improve over the last little while – you're one of the few bloggers I follow who I can actually SEE improving and scoring goals week in week out!
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
Hi Stanford & everyone,
I've only been going a couple of months, but I initially hit it really hard, churning out up to 3 posts a day, pretty much 7 days a week. I then hit a wall, as I started 2 new jobs and seemed to just run out of steam (go figure!). I'm back to posting 2 or 3 times a week now, more because it's sustainable than because I think I'll get more readers that way.
BUT, if I were to start another blog, I would do it the same way again. The sheer volume of posts I created in such a short period of time got me a guest blogging spot, I think because there was a variety of content, and proof that I was going to work hard. That gig hasn't turned into much yet, but it will – AND it was a great boost to my confidence to have someone approach me so early on.
So I think a big bang approach will help get you out of the blocks and get you further along the learning curve faster. After that, you'll need to find a steadier pace – but as I think you're saying Stanford, it's the consistency that counts, as long as you're posting often enough to keep people on the hook.
Great blog mate, I've watched it evolve and improve over the last little while – you're one of the few bloggers I follow who I can actually SEE improving and scoring goals week in week out!
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
Hi Stanford & everyone,
I've only been going a couple of months, but I initially hit it really hard, churning out up to 3 posts a day, pretty much 7 days a week. I then hit a wall, as I started 2 new jobs and seemed to just run out of steam (go figure!). I'm back to posting 2 or 3 times a week now, more because it's sustainable than because I think I'll get more readers that way.
BUT, if I were to start another blog, I would do it the same way again. The sheer volume of posts I created in such a short period of time got me a guest blogging spot, I think because there was a variety of content, and proof that I was going to work hard. That gig hasn't turned into much yet, but it will – AND it was a great boost to my confidence to have someone approach me so early on.
So I think a big bang approach will help get you out of the blocks and get you further along the learning curve faster. After that, you'll need to find a steadier pace – but as I think you're saying Stanford, it's the consistency that counts, as long as you're posting often enough to keep people on the hook.
Great blog mate, I've watched it evolve and improve over the last little while – you're one of the few bloggers I follow who I can actually SEE improving and scoring goals week in week out!
My recent post 7 Secrets That Will Make You a Winner at Anything
Hi Stanford,
I think the blog niche, subject matter and audience interest will dictate the quantity of posts published by a blogger.
Posting frequency shouldn't be 1 size fits all and there are sties getting excellent traffic publishing 1 to 2 times a week.
Experimenting with posting frequency isn't necessarily a bad idea if you prepare your audience for changes in frequency. I saw more comments when I abandoned 5 times a week and went to 2-3 times a week. I even saw more email and rss subscribers as a result.
Great topic and comments.
My recent post How Google Can Help You Find Your New Townhouse Apartment in Brooklyn
Hi Stanford,
I think the blog niche, subject matter and audience interest will dictate the quantity of posts published by a blogger.
Posting frequency shouldn't be 1 size fits all and there are sties getting excellent traffic publishing 1 to 2 times a week.
Experimenting with posting frequency isn't necessarily a bad idea if you prepare your audience for changes in frequency. I saw more comments when I abandoned 5 times a week and went to 2-3 times a week. I even saw more email and rss subscribers as a result.
Great topic and comments.
My recent post How Google Can Help You Find Your New Townhouse Apartment in Brooklyn
Hi Stanford,
I think the blog niche, subject matter and audience interest will dictate the quantity of posts published by a blogger.
Posting frequency shouldn't be 1 size fits all and there are sties getting excellent traffic publishing 1 to 2 times a week.
Experimenting with posting frequency isn't necessarily a bad idea if you prepare your audience for changes in frequency. I saw more comments when I abandoned 5 times a week and went to 2-3 times a week. I even saw more email and rss subscribers as a result.
Great topic and comments.
My recent post How Google Can Help You Find Your New Townhouse Apartment in Brooklyn
Hey Stanford. I have been struggling with this as well. Don't!…go check my site because I am having a complete redesign done and posting has been lite until it's completed. Anyway, I just wanted to add that I am LOVING the WP Editorial Calendar (free) plug-in. You can drag and drop and post right from the dates. I do my keyword research in bulk and now I can go in and draft the titles on the calendar and really get a good picture of what the month could (or should!) look like.
Hope you are well!
My recent post BLOGGING MISTAKES
Hey Stanford. I have been struggling with this as well. Don't!…go check my site because I am having a complete redesign done and posting has been lite until it's completed. Anyway, I just wanted to add that I am LOVING the WP Editorial Calendar (free) plug-in. You can drag and drop and post right from the dates. I do my keyword research in bulk and now I can go in and draft the titles on the calendar and really get a good picture of what the month could (or should!) look like.
Hope you are well!
My recent post BLOGGING MISTAKES
Hey Stanford. I have been struggling with this as well. Don't!…go check my site because I am having a complete redesign done and posting has been lite until it's completed. Anyway, I just wanted to add that I am LOVING the WP Editorial Calendar (free) plug-in. You can drag and drop and post right from the dates. I do my keyword research in bulk and now I can go in and draft the titles on the calendar and really get a good picture of what the month could (or should!) look like.
Hope you are well!
My recent post BLOGGING MISTAKES
Great point Jen.
You are right – there is a space in the middle.
I would just add "Consistently and REGULARLY Good"
I want to capture the point that as more blogs compete for attention, simply posting 1 or 2 a month may not get the job done.
I realize you understand the importance of quality over quantity. I think though that your post inplies there's an either or choice: "more posts=more traffic" or "when you have something important to say." I think what several people here are arguing is that there's something in the middle, which is very much in line with your advice. One might call that "consistently good."
Thanks for the kind words on the blog. It's my passion!
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
That's awesome that you did a survey to specifically gauge your reader's "breaking point". Much smarter way of doing this right than plugging in an arbitrary post number.
Plus I think it bears repeating, I AM NOT advocating posting for quantity. I AM advocating creating a system where you can consistently post quality material regularly. As niches get more crowded, people are going to gravitate to blogs that continually stay in front of them with quality content.
Thanks for stopping in Jen. BTW: I really like your blog and the quality of your posts!
I did a survey on my blog about reading frequency, and several said they were just overwhelmed with stuff to read. Some people said it was even keeping them from subscribing, b/c they didn't want one more thing coming in their inbox.
Like Srinivas, when I cut my posting from every other day to 2x per week, my numbers actually went up. Consistency is far more important than quantity, and I think quantity may eventually backfire. For example, I love Seth Godin, but I just can't read everyday. It makes me feel guilty, and I don't think that's exactly the emotion you want to stir in your "customers."
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
That's awesome that you did a survey to specifically gauge your reader's "breaking point". Much smarter way of doing this right than plugging in an arbitrary post number.
Plus I think it bears repeating, I AM NOT advocating posting for quantity. I AM advocating creating a system where you can consistently post quality material regularly. As niches get more crowded, people are going to gravitate to blogs that continually stay in front of them with quality content.
Thanks for stopping in Jen. BTW: I really like your blog and the quality of your posts!
I realize you understand the importance of quality over quantity. I think though that your post inplies there's an either or choice: "more posts=more traffic" or "when you have something important to say." I think what several people here are arguing is that there's something in the middle, which is very much in line with your advice. One might call that "consistently good."
Thanks for the kind words on the blog. It's my passion!
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
Great point Jen.
You are right – there is a space in the middle.
I would just add "Consistently and REGULARLY Good"
I want to capture the point that as more blogs compete for attention, simply posting 1 or 2 a month may not get the job done.
I did a survey on my blog about reading frequency, and several said they were just overwhelmed with stuff to read. Some people said it was even keeping them from subscribing, b/c they didn't want one more thing coming in their inbox.
Like Srinivas, when I cut my posting from every other day to 2x per week, my numbers actually went up. Consistency is far more important than quantity, and I think quantity may eventually backfire. For example, I love Seth Godin, but I just can't read everyday. It makes me feel guilty, and I don't think that's exactly the emotion you want to stir in your "customers."
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
I did a survey on my blog about reading frequency, and several said they were just overwhelmed with stuff to read. Some people said it was even keeping them from subscribing, b/c they didn't want one more thing coming in their inbox.
Like Srinivas, when I cut my posting from every other day to 2x per week, my numbers actually went up. Consistency is far more important than quantity, and I think quantity may eventually backfire. For example, I love Seth Godin, but I just can't read everyday. It makes me feel guilty, and I don't think that's exactly the emotion you want to stir in your "customers."
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
That's awesome that you did a survey to specifically gauge your reader's "breaking point". Much smarter way of doing this right than plugging in an arbitrary post number.
Plus I think it bears repeating, I AM NOT advocating posting for quantity. I AM advocating creating a system where you can consistently post quality material regularly. As niches get more crowded, people are going to gravitate to blogs that continually stay in front of them with quality content.
Thanks for stopping in Jen. BTW: I really like your blog and the quality of your posts!
I realize you understand the importance of quality over quantity. I think though that your post inplies there's an either or choice: "more posts=more traffic" or "when you have something important to say." I think what several people here are arguing is that there's something in the middle, which is very much in line with your advice. One might call that "consistently good."
Thanks for the kind words on the blog. It's my passion!
My recent post Searching For A New Status Quo
Great point Jen.
You are right – there is a space in the middle.
I would just add "Consistently and REGULARLY Good"
I want to capture the point that as more blogs compete for attention, simply posting 1 or 2 a month may not get the job done.
Mike,
The theory is that you will be getting more of the same type of traffic your posts normally would get. In this case, your content's subject matter and quality dictates if you get the "right" traffic.
Excellent, I can't wait to see it!
I struggle with this conflict, too. I do think that more posts means more traffic; then I start asking myself, is it The Right Traffic. And if no, what is and how do I get to the right traffic? Challenging.
Mike
Mike,
The theory is that you will be getting more of the same type of traffic your posts normally would get. In this case, your content's subject matter and quality dictates if you get the "right" traffic.
I struggle with this conflict, too. I do think that more posts means more traffic; then I start asking myself, is it The Right Traffic. And if no, what is and how do I get to the right traffic? Challenging.
Mike
I struggle with this conflict, too. I do think that more posts means more traffic; then I start asking myself, is it The Right Traffic. And if no, what is and how do I get to the right traffic? Challenging.
Mike
Mike,
The theory is that you will be getting more of the same type of traffic your posts normally would get. In this case, your content's subject matter and quality dictates if you get the "right" traffic.
I think the editorial calendar is something that I desperately need to create. That part of my writing has been very haphazard…..what a rookie! I appreciate the solid feedback. By the way, I am working on my Boogie Man post. It may not be your bag, as far as the content is concerned, but you did help motivate me to write it so I will email you a link when I have it finished:)
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I still hesitate in transitioning to the twice a day volume other bloggers are embracing. While it took me a while to embrace the "post more frequently" philosophy my concern is that it becomes overkill.
I think twice a day can be a bit much (regardless of how good the content is) Even the information junkie in me gets a tad overwhelmed by the amount of blogs hitting my reader. Multiply that by two each and it feels like overkill.
I understand the increase in website hits but fear it can cost subscribers but that's all a gut feeling and my own "stuff" I need to move beyond.
Like everything else, we all need to be prepared to move out of our own comfort zones and give it a whirl.
I guess the jury is out for me until I give it an honest try!
Thanks for your valuable insight!
Respectfully,
Paul Castain
I still hesitate in transitioning to the twice a day volume other bloggers are embracing. While it took me a while to embrace the "post more frequently" philosophy my concern is that it becomes overkill.
I think twice a day can be a bit much (regardless of how good the content is) Even the information junkie in me gets a tad overwhelmed by the amount of blogs hitting my reader. Multiply that by two each and it feels like overkill.
I understand the increase in website hits but fear it can cost subscribers but that's all a gut feeling and my own "stuff" I need to move beyond.
Like everything else, we all need to be prepared to move out of our own comfort zones and give it a whirl.
I guess the jury is out for me until I give it an honest try!
Thanks for your valuable insight!
Respectfully,
Paul Castain
I still hesitate in transitioning to the twice a day volume other bloggers are embracing. While it took me a while to embrace the "post more frequently" philosophy my concern is that it becomes overkill.
I think twice a day can be a bit much (regardless of how good the content is) Even the information junkie in me gets a tad overwhelmed by the amount of blogs hitting my reader. Multiply that by two each and it feels like overkill.
I understand the increase in website hits but fear it can cost subscribers but that's all a gut feeling and my own "stuff" I need to move beyond.
Like everything else, we all need to be prepared to move out of our own comfort zones and give it a whirl.
I guess the jury is out for me until I give it an honest try!
Thanks for your valuable insight!
Respectfully,
Paul Castain
It looks like you found the point where quality and quantity are aligned. I'm still searching for it
I understand where you are coming from. I have 3 boys and a day-job. I only get to work on Pushing Social from 10-1am every night. And…I blog about blogging (not the most easiest niche!)
However, I have a plan. My editorial calendar is the holy grail and I make it a priority to make it happen. Do you have an editorial calendar?
I think you have a good plan – now just focus on steadily increasing the value of your content.
I think the editorial calendar is something that I desperately need to create. That part of my writing has been very haphazard…..what a rookie! I appreciate the solid feedback. By the way, I am working on my Boogie Man post. It may not be your bag, as far as the content is concerned, but you did help motivate me to write it so I will email you a link when I have it finished:)
My recent post A readers review Grace Based Parenting3
Excellent, I can't wait to see it!
I understand where you are coming from. I have 3 boys and a day-job. I only get to work on Pushing Social from 10-1am every night. And…I blog about blogging (not the most easiest niche!)
However, I have a plan. My editorial calendar is the holy grail and I make it a priority to make it happen. Do you have an editorial calendar?
I think you have a good plan – now just focus on steadily increasing the value of your content.
I understand where you are coming from. I have 3 boys and a day-job. I only get to work on Pushing Social from 10-1am every night. And…I blog about blogging (not the most easiest niche!)
However, I have a plan. My editorial calendar is the holy grail and I make it a priority to make it happen. Do you have an editorial calendar?
I think you have a good plan – now just focus on steadily increasing the value of your content.
I think the editorial calendar is something that I desperately need to create. That part of my writing has been very haphazard…..what a rookie! I appreciate the solid feedback. By the way, I am working on my Boogie Man post. It may not be your bag, as far as the content is concerned, but you did help motivate me to write it so I will email you a link when I have it finished:)
My recent post A readers review Grace Based Parenting3
Excellent, I can't wait to see it!
Thanks for jumping in with both feet!
Listen, this post isn't arguing the fact that you need quality posts. Quality trumps everything else. There is never an excuse to publish anything that you aren't happy with. I hope I'm clear on that.
This post IS really about consistency and expectations. If you expect to grow your blog quickly by posting 1 stellar post a month? This may work but I'm going to bet against this strategy. On the other hand, you'll be further ahead, if you sit down and brainstorm out a serious calendar with great topics that you can post 1-2x a week. At first, I felt like this couldn't be done, but with planning it became a lot easier.
Being adamant about getting a certain amount of posts published a week has the potential to be conducive to publishing posts that aren't of the highest quality.
Of course, I can see what's potentially in it for the blogger to post more: They believe it's going to help their blog grow more. But will it really? Because it's gaining readers that makes your blog grow, not feeling good about yourself as the author of your blog.
Many of the A-Listers started blogging years ago. Long before us. It was MUCH easier to grow back then and as a result they have all the social proof in the world. If they don't do anything stupid, they'll maintain their gain.
But it's different now. We're going up against those who have already established themselves. So our greatest asset is not this many posts a week or that many posts a week, but truly stellar posts that give people a reason to subscribe to us even though we're covering the same topic as someone else with 60,000 subscribers and a brand everyone knows.
I see some blogs doing pretty well by publishing a lot. And I think they'll become successful. But I think they'll hit a plateau before others who are more concerned with writing truly great content that's not dependent on a regiment, but on having something important to say. Generic content gets old quick.
I'm much more reluctant to subscribe to a blog that publishes 5 days a week than a blog that publishes once a week or less but puts true care into every word they write and only writes when they have something important to say.
Two blogs comes to mind that I really enjoy because from my perspective these authors are more concerned with quality and having something important to say than some arbitrary rule for getting a certain amount of posts published:
http://calnewport.com/blog/ & http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/
Of course, this is just my opinion. And maybe I'm in the minority which would only prove your post correct.
To use Brian Clark as an example, when he first started CB, he was only posting twice a week. I saw him say in a youtube video that he was simply posting the two best posts he could in a week and that his blog grew by leaps and bounds as a result.
These are just my 3 scents. I actually think that as time goes by, the blogging culture might actually begin to change and more and more people will begin to perceive frequent posting the way I do.
This semi rant, though, to be honest–is more from the perspective as a reader. I as a reader want unique, though-provoking, engaging, and interesting content. And I as a reader can tell when a blog is simply posting to get more posts out and when they are posting because they have something that needs to be said.
And, to be honest, I still need to post more myself even with my philosophy. And I plan to do that soon.
Anyways, good post as it was a good controversial perspective to share with your readers.
Thanks for jumping in with both feet!
Listen, this post isn't arguing the fact that you need quality posts. Quality trumps everything else. There is never an excuse to publish anything that you aren't happy with. I hope I'm clear on that.
This post IS really about consistency and expectations. If you expect to grow your blog quickly by posting 1 stellar post a month? This may work but I'm going to bet against this strategy. On the other hand, you'll be further ahead, if you sit down and brainstorm out a serious calendar with great topics that you can post 1-2x a week. At first, I felt like this couldn't be done, but with planning it became a lot easier.
Being adamant about getting a certain amount of posts published a week has the potential to be conducive to publishing posts that aren't of the highest quality.
Of course, I can see what's potentially in it for the blogger to post more: They believe it's going to help their blog grow more. But will it really? Because it's gaining readers that makes your blog grow, not feeling good about yourself as the author of your blog.
Many of the A-Listers started blogging years ago. Long before us. It was MUCH easier to grow back then and as a result they have all the social proof in the world. If they don't do anything stupid, they'll maintain their gain.
But it's different now. We're going up against those who have already established themselves. So our greatest asset is not this many posts a week or that many posts a week, but truly stellar posts that give people a reason to subscribe to us even though we're covering the same topic as someone else with 60,000 subscribers and a brand everyone knows.
I see some blogs doing pretty well by publishing a lot. And I think they'll become successful. But I think they'll hit a plateau before others who are more concerned with writing truly great content that's not dependent on a regiment, but on having something important to say. Generic content gets old quick.
I'm much more reluctant to subscribe to a blog that publishes 5 days a week than a blog that publishes once a week or less but puts true care into every word they write and only writes when they have something important to say.
Two blogs comes to mind that I really enjoy because from my perspective these authors are more concerned with quality and having something important to say than some arbitrary rule for getting a certain amount of posts published:
http://calnewport.com/blog/ & http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/
Of course, this is just my opinion. And maybe I'm in the minority which would only prove your post correct.
To use Brian Clark as an example, when he first started CB, he was only posting twice a week. I saw him say in a youtube video that he was simply posting the two best posts he could in a week and that his blog grew by leaps and bounds as a result.
These are just my 3 scents. I actually think that as time goes by, the blogging culture might actually begin to change and more and more people will begin to perceive frequent posting the way I do.
This semi rant, though, to be honest–is more from the perspective as a reader. I as a reader want unique, though-provoking, engaging, and interesting content. And I as a reader can tell when a blog is simply posting to get more posts out and when they are posting because they have something that needs to be said.
And, to be honest, I still need to post more myself even with my philosophy. And I plan to do that soon.
Anyways, good post as it was a good controversial perspective to share with your readers.
Being adamant about getting a certain amount of posts published a week has the potential to be conducive to publishing posts that aren't of the highest quality.
Of course, I can see what's potentially in it for the blogger to post more: They believe it's going to help their blog grow more. But will it really? Because it's gaining readers that makes your blog grow, not feeling good about yourself as the author of your blog.
Many of the A-Listers started blogging years ago. Long before us. It was MUCH easier to grow back then and as a result they have all the social proof in the world. If they don't do anything stupid, they'll maintain their gain.
But it's different now. We're going up against those who have already established themselves. So our greatest asset is not this many posts a week or that many posts a week, but truly stellar posts that give people a reason to subscribe to us even though we're covering the same topic as someone else with 60,000 subscribers and a brand everyone knows.
I see some blogs doing pretty well by publishing a lot. And I think they'll become successful. But I think they'll hit a plateau before others who are more concerned with writing truly great content that's not dependent on a regiment, but on having something important to say. Generic content gets old quick.
I'm much more reluctant to subscribe to a blog that publishes 5 days a week than a blog that publishes once a week or less but puts true care into every word they write and only writes when they have something important to say.
Two blogs comes to mind that I really enjoy because from my perspective these authors are more concerned with quality and having something important to say than some arbitrary rule for getting a certain amount of posts published:
http://calnewport.com/blog/ & http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/
Of course, this is just my opinion. And maybe I'm in the minority which would only prove your post correct.
To use Brian Clark as an example, when he first started CB, he was only posting twice a week. I saw him say in a youtube video that he was simply posting the two best posts he could in a week and that his blog grew by leaps and bounds as a result.
These are just my 3 scents. I actually think that as time goes by, the blogging culture might actually begin to change and more and more people will begin to perceive frequent posting the way I do.
This semi rant, though, to be honest–is more from the perspective as a reader. I as a reader want unique, though-provoking, engaging, and interesting content. And I as a reader can tell when a blog is simply posting to get more posts out and when they are posting because they have something that needs to be said.
And, to be honest, I still need to post more myself even with my philosophy. And I plan to do that soon.
Anyways, good post as it was a good controversial perspective to share with your readers.
Thanks for jumping in with both feet!
Listen, this post isn't arguing the fact that you need quality posts. Quality trumps everything else. There is never an excuse to publish anything that you aren't happy with. I hope I'm clear on that.
This post IS really about consistency and expectations. If you expect to grow your blog quickly by posting 1 stellar post a month? This may work but I'm going to bet against this strategy. On the other hand, you'll be further ahead, if you sit down and brainstorm out a serious calendar with great topics that you can post 1-2x a week. At first, I felt like this couldn't be done, but with planning it became a lot easier.
My goal is currently to post once a week but lately that has been a struggle because of the demands of family and work. I don't blog for a living so my biggest obstacle has traditionally been a lack of time. I just wish I could operate on 4 hours of sleep and then I could get quite a bit of writing done! Since I have been following more established bloggers, I have also been challenged with the idea of whether or not my content really matters to others or if I am just not targeting the right readers. I don't have a huge following, or even a substantial one at that, so my focus really needs to change. Between my frequency and my focus on the influencers that are more appropriate to my topic, I think that I should be able to grow my traffic. What do you think Stanford?
My recent post A readers review Grace Based Parenting3
My goal is currently to post once a week but lately that has been a struggle because of the demands of family and work. I don't blog for a living so my biggest obstacle has traditionally been a lack of time. I just wish I could operate on 4 hours of sleep and then I could get quite a bit of writing done! Since I have been following more established bloggers, I have also been challenged with the idea of whether or not my content really matters to others or if I am just not targeting the right readers. I don't have a huge following, or even a substantial one at that, so my focus really needs to change. Between my frequency and my focus on the influencers that are more appropriate to my topic, I think that I should be able to grow my traffic. What do you think Stanford?
My recent post A readers review Grace Based Parenting3
My goal is currently to post once a week but lately that has been a struggle because of the demands of family and work. I don't blog for a living so my biggest obstacle has traditionally been a lack of time. I just wish I could operate on 4 hours of sleep and then I could get quite a bit of writing done! Since I have been following more established bloggers, I have also been challenged with the idea of whether or not my content really matters to others or if I am just not targeting the right readers. I don't have a huge following, or even a substantial one at that, so my focus really needs to change. Between my frequency and my focus on the influencers that are more appropriate to my topic, I think that I should be able to grow my traffic. What do you think Stanford?
My recent post A readers review Grace Based Parenting3
First big question to ask is: "Are my ideas helpful to other coaches". Get real about this. Are your ideas useful and "sharable". If yes, then work to become the Influencer yourself! They key here is to be consistent so that your audience knows you. Be the one source that your niche can rely on. Also look to complementary niches that service coaches or benefit from what you do (i.e. Parents)
My 2 cents…Go get 'em
Great post! My problem is the Influencer. I'm an athletic coach and my blog is for other coaches, but not many of us are out writing and sharing…what's the next step?
First big question to ask is: "Are my ideas helpful to other coaches". Get real about this. Are your ideas useful and "sharable". If yes, then work to become the Influencer yourself! They key here is to be consistent so that your audience knows you. Be the one source that your niche can rely on. Also look to complementary niches that service coaches or benefit from what you do (i.e. Parents)
My 2 cents…Go get 'em
Great post! My problem is the Influencer. I'm an athletic coach and my blog is for other coaches, but not many of us are out writing and sharing…what's the next step?
Great post! My problem is the Influencer. I'm an athletic coach and my blog is for other coaches, but not many of us are out writing and sharing…what's the next step?
First big question to ask is: "Are my ideas helpful to other coaches". Get real about this. Are your ideas useful and "sharable". If yes, then work to become the Influencer yourself! They key here is to be consistent so that your audience knows you. Be the one source that your niche can rely on. Also look to complementary niches that service coaches or benefit from what you do (i.e. Parents)
My 2 cents…Go get 'em
Have you tried surveying your readers? They may help you generate more ideas – Darren wrote an excellent post on this at Problogger – http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/09/01/how…
Stanford,
I've noticed different patterns with this. I used to post every day when I first started my blog. Now I've scaled it back to about 3 times a week. Strangely, my blog has grown much faster once I started doing that. I think that the most important thing is some semblance consistency as you pointed out. There are bloggers who are in my RSS feed and I've more or less stopped reading their blogs because they post so inconsistently. In my mind your audience should have some sort of expectation of what your schedule is. Definitely lots of food for thought here.
It looks like you found the point where quality and quantity are aligned. I'm still searching for it
Stanford,
I've noticed different patterns with this. I used to post every day when I first started my blog. Now I've scaled it back to about 3 times a week. Strangely, my blog has grown much faster once I started doing that. I think that the most important thing is some semblance consistency as you pointed out. There are bloggers who are in my RSS feed and I've more or less stopped reading their blogs because they post so inconsistently. In my mind your audience should have some sort of expectation of what your schedule is. Definitely lots of food for thought here.
Stanford,
I've noticed different patterns with this. I used to post every day when I first started my blog. Now I've scaled it back to about 3 times a week. Strangely, my blog has grown much faster once I started doing that. I think that the most important thing is some semblance consistency as you pointed out. There are bloggers who are in my RSS feed and I've more or less stopped reading their blogs because they post so inconsistently. In my mind your audience should have some sort of expectation of what your schedule is. Definitely lots of food for thought here.
It looks like you found the point where quality and quantity are aligned. I'm still searching for it
I'm hesitant to give a number. The most important part is posting consistently and frequently enough to stay on your niche's radar.
I really think it's about taking it slow and steady, and frankly hardly ever checking your stats to blogging success. My mantra is, "If You Plan To Speak Forever, You Can Blog Forever", which is a post I wrote last week.
Consistency is key. 2 times a week is all you need I think.
My recent post Spending Too Much Money And Course Correcting
I'm hesitant to give a number. The most important part is posting consistently and frequently enough to stay on your niche's radar.
I really think it's about taking it slow and steady, and frankly hardly ever checking your stats to blogging success. My mantra is, "If You Plan To Speak Forever, You Can Blog Forever", which is a post I wrote last week.
Consistency is key. 2 times a week is all you need I think.
My recent post Spending Too Much Money And Course Correcting
I really think it's about taking it slow and steady, and frankly hardly ever checking your stats to blogging success. My mantra is, "If You Plan To Speak Forever, You Can Blog Forever", which is a post I wrote last week.
Consistency is key. 2 times a week is all you need I think.
My recent post Spending Too Much Money And Course Correcting
I'm hesitant to give a number. The most important part is posting consistently and frequently enough to stay on your niche's radar.
Stanford,
My biggest challenge is to come up with topics I think my reader would benefit from reading. I do not know if it is making any impact as I am not getting comments. I do however get requests for followers on twitter & emails from people, but not as comments on my blog. In regards to frequency, I try to post at least 2-3 times a week. I wish I could post daily… I would LOVE to hear suggestions from gurus like yourself on the topic. Thanks for reading!
A very insightful article! I write on topics of Social Media marketing, disabilities advocacy, project management, Lotus Notes and vintage jewelry. I decided to keep the vintage jewelry blog separate!
-Shabana
Social Media Strategist & Project Manager
@swollin
My recent post How to Series- Low Fidelity Prototyping – Part 1 of 3
Stanford,
My biggest challenge is to come up with topics I think my reader would benefit from reading. I do not know if it is making any impact as I am not getting comments. I do however get requests for followers on twitter & emails from people, but not as comments on my blog. In regards to frequency, I try to post at least 2-3 times a week. I wish I could post daily… I would LOVE to hear suggestions from gurus like yourself on the topic. Thanks for reading!
A very insightful article! I write on topics of Social Media marketing, disabilities advocacy, project management, Lotus Notes and vintage jewelry. I decided to keep the vintage jewelry blog separate!
-Shabana
Social Media Strategist & Project Manager
@swollin
My recent post How to Series- Low Fidelity Prototyping – Part 1 of 3
Stanford,
My biggest challenge is to come up with topics I think my reader would benefit from reading. I do not know if it is making any impact as I am not getting comments. I do however get requests for followers on twitter & emails from people, but not as comments on my blog. In regards to frequency, I try to post at least 2-3 times a week. I wish I could post daily… I would LOVE to hear suggestions from gurus like yourself on the topic. Thanks for reading!
A very insightful article! I write on topics of Social Media marketing, disabilities advocacy, project management, Lotus Notes and vintage jewelry. I decided to keep the vintage jewelry blog separate!
-Shabana
Social Media Strategist & Project Manager
@swollin
My recent post How to Series- Low Fidelity Prototyping – Part 1 of 3
Hi Stanford–
I agree that posting consistently and with quality content is the way to go. For me and my industry, (psychotherapy) I find it challenging to come up with fresh, interesting, and well-researched material more than once per week. That may change, but I have stuck to 1x/week, and have noticed my posts ranking higher in Google search engine, as a result.
Thanks for the suggestion to increase posting numbers–not ruling that out!
Linda
Have you tried surveying your readers? They may help you generate more ideas – Darren wrote an excellent post on this at Problogger – http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/09/01/how…
Hi Stanford–
I agree that posting consistently and with quality content is the way to go. For me and my industry, (psychotherapy) I find it challenging to come up with fresh, interesting, and well-researched material more than once per week. That may change, but I have stuck to 1x/week, and have noticed my posts ranking higher in Google search engine, as a result.
Thanks for the suggestion to increase posting numbers–not ruling that out!
Linda
Hi Stanford–
I agree that posting consistently and with quality content is the way to go. For me and my industry, (psychotherapy) I find it challenging to come up with fresh, interesting, and well-researched material more than once per week. That may change, but I have stuck to 1x/week, and have noticed my posts ranking higher in Google search engine, as a result.
Thanks for the suggestion to increase posting numbers–not ruling that out!
Linda
Have you tried surveying your readers? They may help you generate more ideas – Darren wrote an excellent post on this at Problogger – http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/09/01/how…