One of the most common questions I’m asked by bloggers is “how do I find readers?“.
I do have a pretty standard reply, although it really does depend on several factors: mainly who is their target audience, where are they mostly online, and how can you participate in those places?
One of those places could possibly be a forum or social media group (like a Facebook or LinkedIn Group), and you’re missing out on a wealth of untapped readers if you’re not in there being part of the community too.
Today’s episode of the ProBlogger Podcast and 31 Days to Build a Better Blog focuses on forums but also how they may have morphed into social network groups, and why it’s in your best interest to participate in these places where your future audience is congregating. It also features the challenge of the day to find a forum or group and get started. I’ll show you how.
Don’t forget to let me know how you’re faring on Twitter (tag @ProBlogger), or if you have any questions. Stay tuned for a brand new topic tomorrow!
Click here to listen to day nine of the 31 Days to Build a Better Blog series on the ProBlogger Podcast.
Further Reading:
- Finding Readers Week: Corinne Talks Commenting, Engagement, and Are Forums Right for Your Blog?
- How to Use Online Forums to Promote Your Website – Shout Me Loud
- Donna tells us all about 7 Ways to Benefit from Facebook Groups over at Socially Sorted
- LinkedIn Groups: Getting Started
- Make the Most of LinkedIn Groups – Sydney Morning Herald
social book marking is a important fact now-a days in the world.
How do you feel social bookmarking has worked out for you?
Hands down Darren, being active on social networking groups and on sites like Triberr has helped me gain traffic and clout and yes, my eBook sales have not suffered by being active on these networks ;) This add is critical; I too get the reader question. Some are trying to be the hunter but by being active members on groups you’ll be the hunted.
I joined an inspired group on Facebook for travel bloggers. I have built a nice little rep by being active, by engaging, by sharing my knowledge and by sharing folk’s posts regularly. Just a little bit of engaging makes all the difference on earth.
Thanks for the helpful podcast!
Ryan
Completely agree, Ryan. I think being active in various communities makes you more accessible and more human. You’re not some random blogger harping on about your favourite topic: you become a friend.
You know what? i almost skipped this podcast. So glad I didn’t. So many things to learn thank you! I have been more or less ignoring forums. They sort of felt like an extra blogging task. Now I can see the benefits. I am doing 2 fabulous online courses both with super active forums -Fizzle and Jeff Goins Intentional blogging course. I’m going to get more active for sure.