Have you ever asked yourself what a blog actually is or, more precisely, what the meaning behind a blog is supposed to be? If I chose 20 random people and told them to describe what a blog is to them, how would they respond? More importantly, would their responses be the same?
Let’s look at what famous bloggers have to say:
‘A blog is a type of website that is usually arranged in chronological order from the most recent ‘post’ (or entry) at the top of the main page to the older entries towards the bottom.’
‘Blogging is the ability to write fairly well and work diligently [and] the opportunity to reach thousands of people for fun and profit.’
‘A blog is basically a type of website, like a forum or a social bookmarking site. As such it is defined by the technical aspects and features around it, and not by the content published inside it.’
Huh? All three of these bloggers seem to be saying something different. However, all three answers are valid. Ask anyone – your wife, a co-worker, a friend – what a blog is, and that person would probably give you a different answer as well.
So, then, what is a blog? Well, we all agree that it’s a website. But not just any website. The purpose of a blog is to share your thoughts and past experiences with your readers. Blogs don’t usually promote specific products, though they can. A number of bloggers have affiliate marketing integrated in their content. However, blogs are mainly informational sources to help readers learn more about something or improve something in their lives.
A reader will usually come to a blog with a question in mind. For example, if your blog is about healthy lifestyle choices, someone might go to your blog for help with staying slim and eating healthy. The reader will then browse your topics for specific advice that will answer the question – How do I eat healthy foods in order to stay slim? If the reader does not find an answer to the question, she may leave your blog and find another one that will answer her question. However, if she does find what she’s looking for, she may even continue to read further about other topics on your blog that might not have anything to do with the original question. If you have personal experience with eating healthy foods and you share your experiences, your reader will probably come back to your blog later, since she will be able to relate to you and your blog will become valuable to her. You also now have authority because you had already went through the same events she’s going through right now.
A blog is a place where you can build a community around a topic that you’re passionate about. Readers will want to read about topics that interest them and that they can learn from. By blogging about specific topics that interest you, you attract readers who are also interested in the same topics. If you have personal experience in your niche, readers will begin to look up to you and seek you out for advice.
A blog shouldn’t just be about sharing your interests. You should also use your blog to help readers to grow or improve in certain skills or to help visitors with solving a particular problem. While some blogs don’t necessarily do this, the majority do. Readers should benefit from your blog in some way or they won’t come back.
I’m passionate about personal finance and earning online income at my own pace, without a boss looking over my shoulder and watching my every move. Being independent and having the ability to control my own future financially is something I’ve desired to do for a long time. Cash Campfire is a blog that helps readers to accomplish the same goals I wanted to accomplish – to be financially free. Through my experience, visitors learn how to build their online income to the point where they can eventually make a living off of it. Readers can also share their experiences and grow with the community by participating in comments or contacting me directly.
Still confused? For further reading, check out Gayla Baer’s article Should You Become a Blogger on The Freelance Writing Jobs Network.
Tags: Blog benefits
I've been making money with my writing since 2008. With this income, I'm able to travel the world, indulge in my hobbies, and govern my own life. And the best thing is, I love every second of it!
Hillary Bost (1)
intresting! I’ve never asked my self this question…
Bilal Kamoon´s last [type] ..50 Questions That Will Free Your Mind
Hey Bilal Kamoon,
Thanks for sharing.
I’m glad you enjoyed the article.
Christina
Cute cat picture. August month you have lots of useful & interesting posts
I think u started on July/August. Happy blogging 
Hehe, thanks Faris!
I’m glad you like the cat. I thought she was pretty cute too.
Christina