Nowadays, the world of the World Wide Web and digital marketing makes it seem like you have to vie harder than ever for the attention of your readers, as well as any business opportunities and partners that you might be trying to snag. Getting their attention can be so tough that, when they don’t take you seriously, it can feel like a real punch to the gut. While you’re not to blame for people underestimating you, there is a lot that you can do to make sure that they take real notice of you, and here, we’re going to look at a few options to think about.
Know the stereotypes
If you’re a businesswoman, and what’s more, a mom, then you’re going to need to acknowledge that there is likely to be some sexism at play, even if it’s under the surface and never given a voice. However, spend enough time on the internet, and you will find some people have no trouble giving it a voice at all. How you deal with prejudice and stereotypes is a thorny question. Some prefer to publicly acknowledge and denounce it, even if that can create new struggles for them, while others prefer to abide by and prove them wrong. However, it’s important to at least be aware of what you’re facing so it doesn’t blindside you.
Treat it as a business
Whatever it is that you’re doing, especially if you’re working in a field that you share with hobbyists, such as running a blog, you need to make sure that you’re treating it as a business, first and foremost. Even if you love running it, and might even do it without the pay incentive, you should avoid looking at it as a hobby for yourself. This can help you get in the right mindset of always looking for the opportunity to find profit and grow your brand as a professional. If you are caught demonstrating that you don’t take your own blogging business seriously, then you shouldn’t be surprised if others don’t do the same.
Ensure you have a unique look
Good imagery is the secret sauce that can transform your blog from bland to brilliant. Visuals are the first thing readers notice, instantly drawing them into your content. Compelling images not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also help convey your message more effectively. Whether it’s stunning photographs, eye-catching graphics, or engaging infographics, visuals break up the text, making your blog easier to read and digest. They also evoke emotions, creating a deeper connection with your audience. Plus, in today’s visually-driven digital landscape, strong imagery can significantly boost your blog’s shareability and social media engagement. By investing in high-quality visuals that align with your brand and content, you’re not just decorating your blog; you’re elevating the entire reader experience.
Have the data to show
As much as your blog might do to differentiate itself and show that it is, indeed, a cut above the rest, you should rely on more than just the surface level. First of all, paying attention to the analytics on your blog can help you be much savvier about what and how you post, ensuring that you’re focusing on the content that drives success. However, being able to showcase your numbers, especially to brands that you might want to partner with, is a key selling point. They want to make sure that you have the reach and the audience to make it worth partnering with you and being able to show these numbers displays an entrepreneurial mind behind the wheel.
Attend networking events
Networking isn’t just about swapping business cards at events (though that is valuable too); it’s a powerful tool for growing your blog business. Building genuine relationships with fellow bloggers, influencers, and industry professionals opens doors to collaboration, guest posting opportunities, and cross-promotion. Engaging with your peers in online communities and social media platforms expands your reach and exposes your blog to new audiences. Networking also provides valuable insights and advice, helping you stay updated on industry trends and best practices. Moreover, connecting with potential clients or sponsors through networking can lead to lucrative partnerships and sponsorships, boosting your blog’s revenue streams. Ultimately, by cultivating a strong network of support and collaboration, you’re not just growing your blog; you’re building a thriving community around it.
Rep your brand
Part of creating that strong visual identity for your blog may very well include creating a logo, or bespoke imagery that you associate with your blog’s brand at every opportunity. Branding is key in business for a variety of reasons, but its ability to lend a degree of prestige or even legitimacy shouldn’t be underestimated. Finding the opportunities to represent your blog, such as creating custom embroidery, that you can then wear to events and in interviews and podcasts, is a great example. Creating merchandise for your blog is another example, but you might want to wait until you can make sure that there is an audience that would be willing to pay for it and display it before you invest.
Stand by your community
If you want to be taken seriously as a professional, then you should stay keenly aware of those who have helped you pave the path to success. For most bloggers, this means your community of readers, other bloggers, and people who have shown their support in one way or another. All too often, audiences have seen bloggers and influencers abandon their audience to pursue a new, lucrative angle, and it very rarely works out well for them. Fostering a strong connection with your audience, and making sure that you keep them in mind, especially when it comes to taking on brand deals, will help you seal the authenticity and prestige of your brand, which in turn helps people take your business more seriously.
Of course, to be taken seriously, you have to ensure that you act with the seriousness that you project, as well. But the tips above can at least get you up to that point.
