Jason Murphy

Website Producer

I think I know what my next play is. I’m seven days into my 30 day challenge and so far I’ve talked about motivation, I’ve talked about personal branding, and I’ve talked about getting out of this slump. I have 23 days to go, and I’m going to run out steam if I don’t switch things up a little.

Today I was reading through my Netvibes feeds when I came across a simple, yet brilliant post at 45n5 about starting a Money Making Blog. Michael explains that if you’re trying to earn revenue online: “Don’t be lame, you need a blog talking about these adventures.” This makes total sense. Not only do you get journal entries to catalog your journey, you also have a chance to build your personal brand, add an additional stream of income, and most likely help others who are trying to do the same thing!

Although I’m sure that John Chow would probably agree with a lot of what Michael discusses, he’s quick to point out that there is also a wrong way to start a blog every aspiring entreprenuer needs to keep in mind. The lessons learned from the bad example that John points out are to A) be yourself, B) don’t plagiarize other bloggers works, and C) have a solid “about” page.

An “about” page? Is that important? Seems a little self-fulfilling doesn’t it? No way! It has a much higher purpose, as Neil Patel had pointed out previously when he discusses why About Pages are essential. You could point out that you were captain of your high school football team and winner of a hot dog eating contest. But that information would be totally useless to the readers and potential clients. To paraphrase Neil, it’s best if you post helpful information as to what services you provide, what areas you specialize in, and how people can get hold of you. What else? Oh yeah, a photo. (I’m guilty). Your readers want to know what you look like. If you really are camera shy, you could always become simpsonized like these guys.

And finally, if you’re going to start a blog, create a decent About Me page, and work on your personal brand, you’re going to start becoming an authority on a subject whether you like it or not. Ryan Imel offers some authority blogging tips to help put you on the fast track.

Most important rule: always, always be true to yourself. I know, growing up sucks (that link might offend some readers, but Jon F. offers a great example of what makes him unique), but if we were all the same then why would we want to waste 20 hours a day reading other peoples blogs? Keep your voice, it’s the most important asset you have.

Oh, and the “next play” I mentioned when I started this post? It’s pretty simple: after I’m finished with this 30 day blogging challenge, I’m going to start another personal challenge. It’s been pretty successful so far, and the end result is I’m giving myself new behavioral habits to help me achieve my goals. Then, after that challenge, I’ll do another.

•  Today is Day 7 out of 30 for My Own Thirty Day Challenge.