All Things Bukola Oriola

Thursday, July 30, 2015

5 ways to start a blog with $0

What is a blog? This is a question that I get asked by people who have never blogged or done any writing for the web. According to Google search, a blog is “a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style.”

Webopedia defines it as “a Web page that serves as a publicly accessible personal journal for an individual. Typically updated daily, blogs often reflect the personality of the author.”

Daily Blog Tips defines it as, “… 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.”

With these few definitions, I think you now understand what a blog is about. I will like you to know that blog is not just about writing personal content. It can also be used to write about or promote your work and other subjects that interest you.

The question I will like to answer here today are five ways that you can start a blog with $0 down, meaning, no financial commitment but just your time.

Blogger: Open a blogger account at www.blogger.com and start your blog. After setting it up, which is very simple, create your first post. If you are having trouble, there are lots of resources on Google. In fact, Blogger has a help section, where you can learn more about this platform. The good thing about using blogger is the fact that it is a google product, so you will enjoy the search engine optimization of your site.
WordPress: Sign up for a WordPress account at www.wordpress.com. WordPress has some free templates that you can use for your blogs. The downside to having WordPress is that you have to really work hard to get your site optimized. You may have to buy some templates like the Genesis Framework to help you with your free WordPress site. So, as you can see, you may have to spend some money. But the purpose of this blog is to show you how not to spend a dime if you don’t have or don’t want to.
Facebook: Make use of your Facebook “Notes” page. The “Notes” page is designed for you to write a long entry. You can start your blog that way. The good news about that is the fact that you have a captive audience already. Your friends and your friend’s friend may see your blog entry. The bonus you get in addition is that, you can even get comments and shares really quickly. Smart Rebrander, wrote an in-depth article on Facebook “Notes” and how to use it. You can click on this link to read http://www.smartrebrander.com/Home/VisitourBlog/tabid/139/entryid/87/How-to-Use-The-Notes-Application-on-a-Facebook-Page-as-Your-Blog.aspx.
Instagram: Start using your Instagram as a blog site. Instagram is set up for pictures, so it is a bonus for you if image has a lot to do with your blogs. You have the luxury of using unlimited characters under your image description. So, what are you waiting for, turn it to your blog and use pictures. Picture is one of the ways that makes blogs popular, so take advantage of this free platform to starting “Photo blogging.” According to Instagram, there are 300 million active users on the platform. Classifying the platform into three unique elements – engaged community, a visual medium, and a beautiful environment, Instagram stated, “Instagrammers are passionate about the platform and their love for amazing imagery. You'll reach people who are open to new perspectives. Instagram's simple design allows captivating visuals to take center stage. Each image or video fills the screen with nothing to clutter the experience. On Instagram your brand's story will be surrounded by other beautiful content in a creative and inspiring environment.”
YouTube: Open a YouTube account. There are so many people using YouTube for personal or business communications. That is another interesting way that you can start your blog without a penny commitment. Plus, you can share your video on other platforms and you can get subscribers.