Resources For Bloggers

Resources For Bloggers

Step 1: Getting Setup

To do blogging "right", host your own blog with its own domain name on your own web server.  If you're serious about getting business from your site, this is essential.  And, don't worry if you're not "technical" -- here's everything you need to do.First, register a domain name using this link to GoDaddy.com -- it has a built-in coupon code for you.

• Keep your domain name short
• Include your brand name in your domain name, if appropriate
• Don't use hyphens in your domain name
• Don't use numbers in your domain name unless it's part of a phone number
• Less than 20 characters is the ideal length for a domain name
• If you can't get a .com domain, try a different URL
• Decline every other offer GoDaddy throws at you -- only buy the domain name

You're only using GoDaddy to register a domain name because it's cheap and because they have excellent customer service for when you need technical assistance.Next, you're going to want a web server of your own.Use my experience on this one.  Do not share webspace with your boss, with the office, or with a friend.  You need a professionally-managed server with techies on staff 24x7 to fix problems, attend to "internet issues", and answer your questions.  I can't stress this enough.For web hosting, I recommend that you use this link to HostGator -- it has a built-in coupon code for you.

• Take the "hatchling" plan for $8.95 per month -- it's more than enough for you
• Give HostGator the domain name you registered with GoDaddy in Step 1
• HostGator will ask you about your nameservers -- don't sweat it. You'll do it later

Then, with your server in place, go to the WordPress Download Page and download the latest version of WordPress.Complete these 3 steps and you'll be ready to get started.  The next steps, by the way, are a little more technical.

Step 2: Installing Your WordPress Blog

There are many platforms for blogging but WordPress is the most flexible and scalable.  I've tried two other platforms in my life and neither did as much to grow my blog and my business as much as WordPress has.  Plus, WordPress is free.You should be using WordPress for your blog.For people that know how to FTP, CHMOD, and use phpMyAdmin, the WordPresssetup shouldn't take more than a few minutes.  The complete setup instructions are available at the WordPress website.  They say it takes 5 minutes and it does.For the non-technical, though, there's two ways you can go:

1. Lean on HostGator's helpful video tutorials and excellent customer support
2. Hire a professional to install, build, and tune on your behalf

Of the two choices, I suggest the latter.  Unless you're familiar with how web servers work -- even with the tutorial -- your time-to-install could run 10 hours or more and that doesn't account for the work after-the-fact.  You still have to build your theme, set your layout, and choose your plug-ins.A lot beginners poo-poo these last steps and then wonder why their blog isn't working. Don't be like that.For $750, hire Chris Johnson to handle everything. I know Chris and know his work.  He's selling for $750 what other "mortgage blog" companies sell for $3,000.  He's accessible by phone, email and Twitter and will always take your calls.And if $750 seems like a lot of money, it is.  But it's still cheaper than wasting days trying to get it right on your own.

Step 3: Building Your Marketing Plan

Now that your blog is live, it's time to start marketing it.  Nobody's going to find your site unless you tell them it's there.Here's some actionable ideas for you:

1. Change your email signature to include a link to your blog.  Make sure the link is clickable (i.e. not in an image) and test the link to make sure it works.  If you don't know how to make an email signature in Outlook, there's videos for that.
2. Get blog-specific business cards. VistaPrint prints 250 business cards for free. Your card should only have your name and your blog domain name on it.  This really works!
3. Send an email to your database that tells them about your blog. It can be 3 sentences: "Hi, I want to point you to my blog at http://yourdomain.com. I'm been posting mortgage market updates and it's been a helpful resource for my clients. I'm sure you'll find it helpful, too."
4. Send emails to your database every 2-3 weeks that highligt recent blog posts. This is my best source of new business.  Use a third-party mail service to manage your emails so you stay spam-compliant. I use MailChimp's email services because it's free for smaller lists.
5. If you use Facebook, Twitter, or other marketing services, link back to your blog liberally.

And, lastly, tell people about your blog.  If you're not telling them about it, nobody else will, either.

Step 4: What's Next

Your blog is your online "base".  It's your main marketing channel and the only piece of "technology" you'll truly own.  Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn -- these are companies that can bankrupt or change.  Your WordPress blog, on the other hand, is yours.If you've got a blog already, it's never too late to start fresh.  The goal is maximum impact and WordPress is how you get there.  If I can switch my blog allegiance after 4 years, you can certainly do it, too.Email me with specific follow-up questions.  I'll do my best to help you but remember that I am a loan officer first and a blog consultant second.  I'll give you time as I can.Thanks!