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Blog Like A Superstar

This post was most recently updated on March 26th, 2014

https://www.donnamerrilltribe.comI got curious the other day and went over to check my Google Page Rank and Alexa scores just to see how I was doing.    Now I only post to my blog once a week, and don’t check my score that often.  When I do, I’m always surprised to see how high I am continually ranked. I’m not posting this to brag, but to share what I do so it can help you, too.  I don’t intend to be a blogging superstar.  It just isn’t my mindset.    I blog primarily to share my experiences and internet journeys with my readers, and to offer them some clear solutions to their problems in life, and as internet marketers and bloggers.  That’s why I don’t really check any of my stats too often (though I’m told I should).     Anyway, I took some screen shots and here they are:  My Alexa Ranking: Alexa Ranking   My Google Page Analytics:

 

I often have people ask my how I rank so high in the blogosphere.  So, here’s my “method”.   I don’t use any SEO techniques.  Rather, I write from the heart and get most of my ideas from people asking me questions about blogging.  I chat with several clients and usually that is where I get most of my material to write about.  

 

Now, why would I get the inspiration for my articles from my readers?   Wouldn’t it be better if I decided what they should learn about, and then put it together into a post?   Actually, I think that’s backwards.  After all, as I said, I write to share solutions to my readers’ problems.

 

Question: How do I know what their problems are to begin with?

 

Answer: I listen to what they tell me!   Anyone that will ask their readers what problems they need to solve, or what issues they need to deal with… that blogger or marketer is certainly positioning themselves for “stardom” in the blogosphere.   So here is some things I believe you ought to consider, in order to Blog Like A Superstar:

 

1.  Give good content that answers someone’s question.  Just think of a reader who’s left a comment or question.  Think of who has emailed you with a problem, or caught up with you on Skype or Facebook to see if you could help them with something. 

 

It may be someone totally new to blogging that is looking for some specific tools.  Or maybe it’s a more experienced marketer who has plenty of knowledge, but still lacks confidence, incentive or a clear path to success.   When you address a particular person’s concerns in this manner, you are almost certainly speaking to the broad base of your readership at the same time.

 

Few people hold up their hands to ask questions, but when they do, almost everyone listens carefully to the answer.  That’s because everyone wants to know what only a few people will actually ask.

 

 

2.  Think what knowledge you are taking for granted.  No matter what niche you are in, if you’re passionate and involved in it, you probably know more than the majority of your readers.  Share the best information possible with them when writing a blog post.  Never be stingy.  Share freely and sincerely, and it always comes back to you.  After all, it’s not you, but your many grateful readers, who will make you a blogging superstar.

 

 

3.  I said it many times before.  Now, I’ll say it again…You need to be active on social media sites.  I don’t care if you squeeze in 5 minutes a day.  You need to have a presence there and reach out consistently (that means daily!).     Reach out to those who may need some help in a Facebook group. 

 

Ask some questions on a Google+ thread.  Show you are interested and part of the conversation, not just a silent bystander.     Don’t know what to say?  Post what is in your heart.  That’s the direct path to being sincere and authentic.  It has always worked best for me.

 

 

4.  Reach out to other bloggers!  You really need to get into groups or blogging alliances  in order to find people you resonate with.  As with social media, be active and consistent.  Let your voice be heard whether you’ve helping folks solve some problems, or bringing your own issues to the table and asking for advice from others.

 

My regular readers know that I stress the importance of authentic engagement all the time.  I blog and engage on social media sites every day.  When I’m not writing blog posts myself, I’m reading and commenting on others.  When I’m not updating my Facebook status, or tweeting some valuable information, I’m joining threads and conversations where others are.

 

I have tons of comments every day that never even make it to my blog posts, because of they don’t engage in the conversation.  They offer pointless one liners like “great article”.  Or they backlink to their own stagnant blogs or websites that only exist to sell stuff.  I don’t want those backlinks, and heaven knows, I don’t need them.

 

Now here is one trick I want to share with you.  When someone comments on my blog, I don’t reply until I go to their blog, read it, comment and share it on the social sites.  After that, I then go back to my blog and reply.  I do this so no one gets left out.  Yes, I am guilty sometimes if I miss a comment sometimes, but I catch it later and apologize to the person.

 

So, do you still want to blog like a superstar?   Then always do this: Put others before yourself.  Yep!  If you want to blog like a superstar, you need to think of others first!  With that mindset, you will always be a giving of yourself, your time and your knowledge.   It won’t go unnoticed.  People really appreciate that.

 

It is so easy to spot a selfish blogger that is only concerned about his or her self.  Just the writing style will tell you that.  Plus, they will barely engage with you. So why would you go back to that blog?  It is like saying “Hi” to your neighbor and they never respond.  After a while, you just ignore them.

 

Treat your readers and blogging buddies like your best friends.  They are, or will become friends pretty darn fast.  Just recently I rekindled with two bloggers I first got to know 3 years ago.  I haven’t seen them on the social sites for one reason or the other, and they had both stopped blogging altogether. 

 

I reached out, and they actually reciprocated.  Both actually asked me if we could chat on the phone.  So, we did.  They told me their problems and guess what?  One just built her first Facebook business page and the other decided to start blogging again.  And they both wanted my advice and assistance.

 

When you put others first from your heart, they always appreciate it.  Lending a helping had to someone goes a long way.  So if you want to be a blogging superstar, you need to have the mindset of a leader, a “giver” instead of “taker”, and someone that truly cares about others.  That is what attracts them to you and to your blog.

 

So what do YOU think?  Maybe you’ve got some advice for me.  Should I be using more SEO on my blog?  Or do you think I blog more than once a week?  What do you think of the “system” I’ve given you for blogging like a superstar? I would like to know.    Also, I would like to know about your success, your system and insights.  Share how YOU did it, and continue doing it.  Thanks a bunch! -Donna

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

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62 Responses to Blog Like A Superstar

  1. Dawn Golden December 14, 2013 at 8:32 pm #

    Talking, networking, communicating from the heart is always best. Sincerity is a valuable commodity. As someone fairly new to blogging, I appreciate the help with the learning curve!
    Dawn Golden recently posted..Penny For Your ThoughtsMy Profile

  2. Lesly Federici
    Twitter:
    November 4, 2013 at 6:57 am #

    Ooo Donna,
    Love my Donna 🙂 I check my Alexa too .. but not the Google one! I’ll start doing that too … I love that you mentioned not “selling” yourself short .. we all know something about something, or have a passion, and it you learn more, write about it, creating good content, and do it weekly, you will rise towards the top. And, the number of blogs being created everyday is huge!So, stepping out from the crowd is a good thing .. 🙂
    Lesly Federici recently posted..What If You Don’t Use VideoMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 4, 2013 at 10:43 pm #

      Hello Lesly,

      Alexa is known to be a little sketchy. Check your Google ranking because it is more valuable.

      Yes, we cannot sell ourselves short. We have to realize that we do know more then the next guy somewhere and if we can lend a helping hand, we will do alright.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Leveraging Social MediaMy Profile

  3. Lorraine Reguly
    Twitter:
    November 4, 2013 at 4:37 am #

    I use your “trick” method for replying to comments, too. Mostly. I like to know who has taken the time to talk to me, express their feelings, or share their ideas. I do this especially for newcomers to my blog.

    I landed here today because of a comment you left on one of my LinkedIn connections sites for Bloggers Helping Bloggers. I was a newbie (still am?) ten months ago. I’m still learning, and blogging is something I like doing.

    I have followed advice from other (great) bloggers, too. For a free blog, my alexa rank is pretty good, too. For me.

    I don’t have a page rank, though. I don’t know how to get one. Same with a WOT rating.

    Anyways, it’s nice to meet you. I’ll probably see you around the web again, Donna! 🙂
    Lorraine Reguly recently posted..A Special Featured Friday, Featuring Author Donna Jean McDunn, and A BOOK GIVEAWAY!My Profile

  4. William Earl Amis, Jr. III
    Twitter:
    November 4, 2013 at 12:33 am #

    Donna,

    I had to return to this article. I have started to blog about causes that I feel need to be shared to everyone. Like when I found a new friend who is in Mexico and needed to raise funds for a Church being build focus on lives being supported in various challenges of lifestyles there.

    This is a new area for me to share and look forward in doing it from as always my experienced involvement.

    Donna, you are remarkable and articles like this shows it. Thank you for giving all of us readers a way to strengthen our imaginations.
    William Earl Amis, Jr. III recently posted..Selling is a Business, what a joke?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 4, 2013 at 10:08 pm #

      Hi William,

      Yes it goes beyond our blog and to social sites. When on social sites we are making friends.

      I’m sure that if you spent more time to expand your readership, you will soar high.
      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Leveraging Social MediaMy Profile

  5. Nile November 3, 2013 at 1:58 pm #

    Mine is due to time. Before my re-focus in 2009, I already had a following and I knew that I wanted to be competitive in my niche.

    The biggest thing is covering the things that others won’t usually touch, AND to cover exactly what you competition does, but with your knowledge and with a goal to make it more thorough and complete than your competition.
    Nile recently posted..Blondish.net Podcast – 2013 Mini Episode 6My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 4, 2013 at 10:07 pm #

      Hi Nile,

      Yes, we have to keep our eyeballs on our competition. We need to create that balance what our competition covers and go that extra mile.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Leveraging Social MediaMy Profile

  6. Rebekah Radice
    Twitter:
    November 2, 2013 at 9:37 pm #

    Fantastic tips Donna! You are such a great role model when it comes to blogging like a superstar. You write quality content and it’s obvious it all comes from the heart. You share what’s happening in your world and your audience obviously has a huge connection to that.

    It doesn’t hurt that you’re highly interactive on social media either. People want to know you care before they’ll ever do business with you. That’s where you shine about everyone else out there. It’s evident that you do!
    Rebekah Radice recently posted..5 Tips to Breathe New Life into Old Blog ContentMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 3, 2013 at 1:19 pm #

      Thanks Rebekah!

      Between blogging and social interaction on the Social Media sites, I think growth is a sure fire thing.

      Organic growth to me is the best of all because people will come to me instead of me chasing someone down, which is just not in me!

      Thank you for such kind words!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  7. Michael Belk November 2, 2013 at 12:07 am #

    Hello Donna, first of all congrats on the stats. These are some good ideas.

    A novel way to approach blogging. Thank you for sharing this information.

  8. silviu November 1, 2013 at 5:33 am #

    Hi Donna,

    My particular problem is related to the phrase “reaching out” other bloggers.
    On Facebook, for example, I know how to connect and talk to somebody. It is easy. On Twitter I have no idea what to do. The same with GPlus and LinkedIN.
    This is a real problem. You want to connect to others but you don’t know how.
    For the moment I limit myself only to share posts and make comments. I know it is not enough so this is what I want to know:
    How to reach out and connect to people?

    Have a wonderful day
    silviu recently posted..How to Make a Podcast and Attract ListenersMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 9:53 pm #

      Hi Silviu,

      It’s pretty easy to do. My best advice I can give to you is not to think of what other people would think of what you are putting out on social media.

      Put out whatever is in your heart, your passion. As long as it is a positive statement, in time you will get your likes, comments and shares.

      Shooting from the heart always works!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  9. Dragan Palla
    Twitter:
    October 31, 2013 at 3:07 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Great advices you just shared and straight to the point. Now, that tip to be active on social networks is something I need to do more often. It happens to me I don’t know what to say but I see people uploading cool pictures or favorite video songs instead. I think that’s better than nothing.

    I like your motto, writing from heart and for the readers (and less for search engines ;). I think this is the cornerstone of successful blogging.

    Thanks Donna for sharing this excellent post.
    Dragan Palla recently posted..Should You Ever Call Yourself a Freelancer?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 9:51 pm #

      Hi Dragan,

      I would say to get on the social media and just post what’s from the heart. Be you and that is all you have to do.

      Engaging with others is so important. All you have to do is scroll down Facebook, see what you resonate with like and comment! Sometimes it is even worth a share.

      I will be seeing you on the social networks,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  10. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    October 31, 2013 at 7:21 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Excellent! The moment you put others before yourself you will become a blogging rockstar. Your content improves, your network grows and you succeed all because you gave freely. SUCH a simple concept, and you are a master of it 😉

    Thanks for sharing!

    Ryan
    Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Home Based Opportunity Insight: 3 Tips for Growing a Stunningly Successful BlogMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 9:49 pm #

      Thank you Ryan!

      Putting others first and coming from that mindset as a blogger will only help others.

      To me, that is what is most important about blogging. We each have something to put on the table and we need to for others.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  11. Lisa
    Twitter:
    October 31, 2013 at 7:05 am #

    Donna, great tips and congrats on your stats. Blogging once a week is great, it gives you more time to share others content, comment and learn more along the way making your next post even better. I think the new SEO is more about quality content and less about the old rigid “SEO rules” – so don’t sweat it! I found blogging 1-2 times a week much better than blogging 3-5 times per week. People dono’t have time to read your posts that often either and less comments and less readers is not always a good thing. I also try to only post things that I think will be useful to others from my experiences and mistakes. And the mistakes always go on…so will the blog.
    Have a great day Donna and weekend coming up…
    Lisa recently posted..List.ly Builds Traffic To Your Blog and Goes Beyond CommentsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 9:38 pm #

      Hi Lisa,

      I’m so glad the new SEO is more about quality content and how we are socializing on the social networks. It shows we are real people and not bots.

      Also, those old overloaded SEO blog posts were next to impossible to read!

      I like the way you mentioned that you try to post on things you think will be useful to others from your experiences and mistakes…and mistakes always go on..so will your blog!

      When we write about our mistakes, it is certain that others have made the same and may be looking for a way to “fix” things.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  12. Babanature October 30, 2013 at 9:14 pm #

    Hello Donna,
    This post is indeed great and it is filled with information on how to improve ones blogging skills :).

    As you, i often write post based on what problems my readers, clients or blogging buddies are facing and i believe that when one has any issue with his or her blog, that problem might also be affecting some other somewhere. so when you solve it, you’re also helping thousands…

    You never can beat a good content. A good content can make other bloggers and readers share your articles. there is no traffic like referral traffic 🙂

    Thanks for such a wonderful post and do have a wonderful week ahead…
    Babanature recently posted..How To Disable Any Plugin From a Particular Post or PageMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 9:35 pm #

      Hi Babanature,

      I find that when we write about problems we hear from our readers and/or clients, it does make a great blog post.

      Because of the heavy stream of “newbies” coming into my “fold” I am trying to save them the pain that I myself went through when starting to blog.

      There is so much information out there, and some bogus, I honestly believe that sharing what gave me good effects sharing it is the only thing to do.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  13. marquita herald
    Twitter:
    October 30, 2013 at 2:34 pm #

    No surprises here Donna, it’s very obvious everything you do comes from the heart. And I can certainly relate to your point about how many comments don’t make the cut because I tend to be pretty brutal in that area myself. It’s so also obvious when a blogger is just putting in time and spitting out posts to have some kind of content. I think that’s why I tend to bristle at the great ongoing debate about posting frequency. Yes, consistency is important, but it’s better to post high quality content once or twice a week than post words without value 5 days a week. Readers are just too smart to not know the difference.
    marquita herald recently posted..How to See People For Who They Truly AreMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 1, 2013 at 12:55 am #

      Hi Marty,

      I feel the same way. Sometimes I see blogs that are spit out 5 times a week and it is a bunch of words with heavy SEO content.

      I feel like I’m reading something a computer spit out, not a person. You are spot on when you say that readers are too smart to know the difference.

      Thanks!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  14. William Butler
    Twitter:
    October 30, 2013 at 8:57 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I resonate with writing from the heart. I like to think of things that will benefit and bring value to others.

    You’ve offered excellent advice, and I must say, you certainly shine on in #4. I also love the trick you shared. It shows how thoughtful you are.

    Have a bright week, what’s left of it.
    Bill
    William Butler recently posted..What Everyone Ought to Know about Alzheimer’sMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 31, 2013 at 8:25 pm #

      Hi Bill,

      Well I sure know you resonate with this one. You are always Giving in your posts and I know it is straight from the heart.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  15. Dr. Erica Goodstone
    Twitter:
    October 30, 2013 at 12:49 am #

    Donna,

    I love what you have written here. Congratulations on terrific Alexa and page ranking. I use google Good Keywords, the older version, to track my Alexa and other rankings. My newest site, which I started creating in late March has a ranking now of 584604, which is much better than my previous sites which were 1 or 2 million or higher in Alexa Ranking and 3 Page ranks. Your ranking is really high because you have spent the time to write what people want and need to hear – and – to respond to their comments. But what I especially like about what you shared, which I will now follow, is that you don’t respond to their comment until after you have gone to their site to show their blog some attention. I always intend to get there, but do sometimes get caught up and forget at that moment.

    One of the things I love about being in a blogging tribe, like B3, is that if I do forget one week, I will always get to the person’s blog at a later point and maybe comment on 2 of their blogs at a time. I love building these relationships with people, like you, who are sharing their expertise and passions openly and authentically.

    Warmly,

    Dr. Erica
    Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..The A, B, C’s of Love – The Art of Loving Made SimpleMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 31, 2013 at 6:54 pm #

      Hi Erica.

      It does work out so much easier when I respond to the commentluv on a comment FIRST before I comment on my own blog. I don’t want to leave anyone out!

      Oh..I do the same thing on B3. If I happen to miss someone, I go back and comment on 2 of their posts.

      Same goes here, I love the relationship we have built together.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  16. Barbara Charles
    Twitter:
    October 29, 2013 at 6:47 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    First, I love all the advice. Great points and tips.
    Second, I think your system works just fine as noted, you have tons of comments, engagement and interaction with people who visit your blog. What more do you need to do? 🙂 If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! (I love that saying! 🙂

    I had the same SEO question today and still mull it over each week to see if I should be doing something different. Had that talk again today with Adrienne on do more SEO or not. I think it’s something we all have to make decisions on and keep in the forefront of our mind. Some people focus on SEO, others do not.

    Same with how many times to blog. I wrote a post just recently on it. It’s up to your schedule and how your life works. Do what you feel is right for you.

    The best I love is ‘put others first.’ That is the best advice and everything else then falls into place.

    Great tips. Love ’em all.
    Barbara
    Barbara Charles recently posted..The Blogging Syndrome and Blogging to SuccessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 7:12 pm #

      Hi Barbara,

      Yes…if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it is my motto! I do toss around the SEO factor quite a bit, but I imagine that from my comments and social interaction Google likes me. But, you know Google, a two-faced friend. One day they like you and the next they don’t he he he.

      As for putting others first, it always has worked out for me.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  17. Gladys
    Twitter:
    October 29, 2013 at 4:47 pm #

    Hi Ms. Donna

    Awesome post.
    This is something we all need to keep in front of us.
    Why we blog? My reason is to share my experiences and the solutions I found to work.

    Like you, I get ideas on what to write about, when I have my coaching clients and also from comments.
    I do get inspired from taking walks and also from reflection.

    I do need to get better on social media,but I am not too familiar with Tweeter.
    Donna, thank you for writing from your heart. It will ALWAYS impact the human heart.

    Have a super week.

    Gladys posted…Take Action Against Self-Doubt
    Gladys recently posted..Take Action Against Self-DoubtMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 7:09 pm #

      Thank you Gladys,

      And thanks for sharing how you get your inspiration. I am not a super fan of Twitter. I got into it for a bit, but it always seems like I have to push myself to socialize on that platform.

      It is powerful to do, but not from the heart 🙁 for me yet.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  18. Corina Ramos October 28, 2013 at 10:33 pm #

    Thank you for sharing what works for you. What’s the saying, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it…I wouldn’t change a thing. You have proven that we don’t have to blog for Google or for SEO. We should be blogging for people not for robots.

    My success comes from me following the advice from you, Lisa, Adrienne, and other bloggers who have shown me what do to and anything new I learn from you all I implement it right away.

    My favorite is “treat your readers and blogging buddies like your best friend” this rule has made it some much easier for me to write and make new connections too.

    Thanks for sharing the secrets to your success Donna! I wish you all the success! Have a great week my dear friend.
    Corina Ramos recently posted..Monday Work from Home Job Lead MadnessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 1:27 pm #

      Hi Corina,

      Thanks so much for your kind words! Yes, as long as we treat our readers and blogging buddies like they are our best friends, and make new connections we will do fine.

      I don’t write for robots, but when I do check and see, I think Google likes that lol!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  19. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 7:48 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Indeed, your blog ranks pretty well, and a page rank of 3 is great 🙂

    I think that when it comes to those things it’s better to take it the way you’re taking it, not over obsessing with it. My blogs had plummeted in the past few months and are now back up. I’ve asked the question why to some people, but nobody really has an answer when it comes to that. It’s really partly a mystery. So, I’m not going to over analyze it.

    It’s so great of you to put others before yourself and going to their blogs before your replying to their comments on yours.

    I have so many blogs to go to, that I often go to their blogs before I take care of my own comments too.

    Thank you for sharing this, Donna 🙂
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..5 Reasons You Should Never Treat A Customer BadlyMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 10:27 pm #

      Hi Sylviane,

      I guess that 3 is a good thing, but who knows what it will be tomorrow? I don’t like checking it because well, I just don’t think of it.

      But after I did I just had to analyze how I got there and that is by being consistent, engaging with my comments and commenting on other posts. Of course social media plays a role now too with Google.

      As for SEO….I just cannot write around that.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  20. Jeevan Jacob John
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 7:13 pm #

    Congrats, Donna 😀

    I don’t I have ever come under 150k in Alexa (So, accomplishing that would be one of my supporting goals. I do know that I shouldn’t focus too much on numbers, especially Alexa numbers, but numbers are interesting and fun, right? :D).

    You have got a great system here, Donna. In my first blog, I relied solely on guest blogging, social media and social bookmarking sites for traffic (and it worked out pretty well :D). But, I do regret not including commenting on my list. Sure, I used to comment, but mostly only on blogs I guest posted, not like I do now. I decided not to repeat that mistake with my second blog, and I achieved even more success in a short time frame (you can’t beat the power of commenting!).

    So, that’s my main strategy now. Lot of commenting, lot of social media, and little bit of guest posting 😉

    As for things like SEO and blog posting scheduling, I think that’s all upto the blog owner. I have experimented around with it, and had different results (Can’t say anything conclusive). I am planning to post only 2-3 times a month, but it would be longer (and well researched – something I didn’t really do for my previous blogs) posts. But, I haven’t finalized it yet. I do plan to post book reviews and stuff, so this schedule won’t probably work. I am still considering my options 🙂

    Anyways, thank you for sharing your experience with us, Donna 🙂 Appreciate it!

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 1:20 pm #

      Hi Jeevan,

      Thank you for sharing what you have done! This adds so much flavor to this post.

      Yes, commenting goes a very long way with your brand. Put that together with a good social media strategy and Boom….Google loves you!

      I am sure glad the changed their algorythems because it includes all the social activity we do. It is more organic and those of us who are blogging and socializing do get a wink and a nod from Google! 🙂

      Good luck with your new blog!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  21. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 4:54 pm #

    What great advice Donna…

    I use to obsess over the numbers because back when I started I was “told” that’s what people looked at more then anything. As we both have learned from our time blogging that those numbers aren’t always the most accurate and most people never pay attention to them. Even with that said they’re still good because it’s an overall observation.

    It should be more about the relationships we’re able to build along the way. Like you said it’s about helping others get what they want and if you’re the one that can help them then you’ll have a new follower probably for a very long time.

    I think it’s important to be sure to at least check out the blogs that visit yours and if their content is something you can relate to then comment as well. I believe that’s just showing them appreciation for them having visited yours. Is it a must for everyone? Not if they’re not interested in building relationships I guess not but I can’t imagine you really have a popular blog without it. Even though you only post once a week your blog gets a lot of attention for this very reason. Once again, proof is in the pudding.

    There are more new bloggers coming on the scene now then ever before. Hopefully if you can help enough of them then they’ll make it past the six month mark because we know why they give up too soon. It’s important to help them as best we can.

    Thanks for sharing this with us Donna and great advice. Enjoy your week now.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..22 Ways To Create Compelling ContentMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 10:24 pm #

      Hi Adrienne,

      I remember being “trained” when I first started too and I just couldn’t get into that number thing. I still can’t.

      The other day I got curious and noticed I’m doing pretty well. I know Alexa doesn’t hold its salt as much as Google, but what the heck!

      It made me think of how I got there and it was due to pure engagement. Just do what we do and all will be well.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  22. Arleen
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 4:18 pm #

    Your ranking is very good. Alexa is not accurate as it is based on who has the alexa tool bar installed. It’s a handy tool for evaluating a website and calculating a giving a rough estimation of traffic. You really need to note is that Alexa ranking is very easy to game. In fact, the fact that you use that extension is more likely to raise your ranking in Alexa. This is because you will spend a lot of time on your own websites (admin/posting screens etc) and each visit is recorded by Alexa. They track any hit to their service, whether through their own toolbar or through their services that return what the current rank is.

    However with all that said as far as getting ranked in Google all your points are valid and get you ranked in the search engines. The best way to track your site is to do a Google search for what your blog is about or what you are selling, etc.
    Arleen recently posted..Lessons from Successful Branding EntrepreneursMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 1:07 pm #

      Hi Arleen,

      Yes, Alexa is sketchy. I don’t have it installed on my blog because I know it can give a wacky number. There is so much pros and cons about it, that is why I don’t pay much attention to it.

      However, it is a guideline sometimes to see where stuff is coming in. And yes, Google is more of a reliable number. Again, I don’t check it often for my blog, but if selling something that sure comes in handy.

      Thanks!
      Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  23. Bren October 28, 2013 at 2:58 pm #

    That’s awesome Donna! I don’t get into checking mine all the time either. I always forget to or something else has taken priority. Keep up whatever your doing gf! You’re rocking it out!

    Sharing this along so others may read!
    Bren recently posted..Depression and the Menopausal WomanMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 29, 2013 at 1:29 pm #

      Hey Bren,

      I am not a numbers gal. This is supposed to be good, but when it comes down to it all, my blogging buddies and customers are what is more important to me.

      So what is that big 3 supposed to do for me? I really don’t know lol.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  24. Jennifer Kennedy October 28, 2013 at 11:42 am #

    This post is spot on! I just recently reached out to my readership via email and asked them what they wanted to read about on the blog! I didn’t want to make assumptions about their problems and what they’ve wanted to hear. And, the feedback was definitely eye opening!

    SEO is not top of mind although I do sprinkle a few key words here and there. But, as you pointed out, I mainly think about how I can help my readers and build bonds.

    I’ve realized that building this type of ranking then takes time (which most anything does anyway!). But, my plan is like yours – to be of service and help others. I feel I get more out of that personally than I would if I just concentrated on SEO!

    Thanks for the inspiration!
    Jennifer Kennedy recently posted..4 Must-Do Ideas for Reclaiming Your TimeMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 9:33 pm #

      Hi Jennifer!

      If I had to concentrate on SEO, I just couldn’t write at all! Yes, I sprinkle stuff here and there but not so much.

      With all the changes in Google, the are not looking for SEO much, but rather organic reach and take into consideration our time on social media.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  25. Amiti
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 8:01 am #

    Great tips. I have to say that from the entire list above that reaching out to other bloggers, if its for brainstorming or collaborations, is a terrific way to improve the quality of a blog.

    Also, in regards to social media I see it as an art, one that takes time to conquer, so if there is more time to give to it, then use it, and in time experienced bloggers can finish it all up in minutes.
    Amiti recently posted..Promote Content on Social MediaMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 9:24 pm #

      Hi Amiti,

      Yes, agreed…reaching out to other bloggers is one of he best ways to start social interaction.

      I just love social media! Yes, it does take some time, but if one is consistent, one can conquer it.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  26. Julieanne van Zyl October 28, 2013 at 4:10 am #

    Very well said Donna, you certainly do blog from your heart. blogging when you’re inspired is the best way, because your writing (or video) flows, and you can’t stop until you’re finished.
    Julieanne van Zyl recently posted..How to Create a GravatarMy Profile

  27. Shalu Sharma
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 3:22 am #

    Your website stats are great. Alexa rank less than 50,000 and a PR 3 which is a great achievement. I am also blogging once a week now as I have other things to do. I like you advice on engagement, its important and this is where the magic begins. Great advice and am sure if anyone followed them, they will also become a blogging superstar.
    Shalu Sharma recently posted..Try chaat, India’s most popular street foodMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 5:44 pm #

      Hi Shalu,

      I guess I’m doing OK when it comes to the ranking. Absolutely, engagement is where the magic begins.

      Thanks for coming by,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  28. Kumar Gauraw
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 3:07 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I admire this the most, “I don’t use any SEO techniques. Rather, I write from the heart and get most of my ideas from people asking me questions about blogging.”

    That, indeed is an excellent advice! I am sure a lot of people will benefit from this post. Thank you for sharing some awesome tips here. Have a great week!

    Regards,
    Kumar
    Kumar Gauraw recently posted..How To Correctly Use And Manage Twitter Direct MessagesMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 5:43 pm #

      Hi Kumar!

      Yes it’s true. I may use a word or two in my content that is the same as my title, but that’s it…if I remember lol.

      Mainly these days I’m answering the questions I am getting from people who are finding it difficult to step into the blogging world.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  29. Sue Price
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 2:45 am #

    Hi Donna

    What an awesome post and I agree with everything you have written here.

    Also congratulations on your rankings but hey you deserve those results.

    I do a little SEO but it is very interesting to hear you say you don’t do any. I think it is much more important to write from the heart.

    The one thing you said that really stands out is taking our knowledge for granted. I think it is so easy when we do something well we miss other people struggle with it. I know I have been guilty of thinking some of the things I do well are not important and assume everyone can do them. Of course we all have our unique talents and knowledge.

    A great post once again Donna.

    Have a great week.

    Sue
    Sue Price recently posted..Who Is Empower Network For?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 2:55 pm #

      Hi Sue!

      I never paid attention to SEO and will try to when writing, but it all comes from the heart.

      I believe that communicating with others and making friends are the backbone of our blog stats.

      I just like things to grow organically. To me, it is stronger and long lasting.

      We all take our knowledge for granted. It took several of my students to remind me of that. Questions from them reminded me of how the were my own questions when I started blogging.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  30. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    October 28, 2013 at 1:03 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I couldn’t agree more with what you’ve written 🙂

    I think you’re doing the perfect thing and doing pretty well for yourself, something you should be proud of. Yes, I do use a little SEO, which I do for some of my posts, though I yet don’t know what’s the right or wrong ways….while at other times, I just wouldn’t care less and would write if and what my heart tells me, and it works either ways.

    Ah…I am SO SO glad you too follow the same method as I do where blog commenting is concerned. I always comment on those people’s blogs who leave comment first so that I don’t miss out on their posts, putting them before myself, and that’s one reason many of my posts have still got unanswered comments, something that I take up at my own sweet time. I know some bloggers don’t like this method and most prefer to take up their own blog comments first and then the others, but like you, it’s always putting others before yourself.

    Same is the case with the social media. I always put up my guest authors post also on all the various G+ communities or FB groups, just like my mine – after all they are my honorable guests, and sharing their posts is a way of helping them reach the masses, which again I rarely see other bloggers doing. I wonder why they don’t make the same efforts for others as they do for their own posts?

    However, I need to change my ways, something I am seriously debating about, or perhaps take a little break or slow down to catch up the lost threads. So, I might just write something that I believe now is the time to carry forward. Sometimes, changing yourself and your ways for the better is what’s needed, isn’t it?

    I agree about having a strong social media presence too, and if you don’t spend some time on the main social media sites, you’re bound to lose out on a lot of interaction and conversation, besides making new contacts and friend’s. And being a blogger, all this does matter.

    If you feel you are comfortable posting once a week, then so be it! If you feel you can devote more time, then let it be twice a week for you, but then those posts and their comments will be something you’d have to be ready to take up too, beside your other tasks in hand. So, that is a choice you have finally make for yourself. I think doing what you are comfortable doing is what really matters at the end of the day, isn’t it?

    Thanks for sharing these tips with us. Have a nice, new week ahead 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..Halloween Ghost PostMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 2:52 pm #

      Harleena,

      I see we are on the same page the way we answer our comments. I find that this way, I don’t leave anyone out. Putting others before ourselves is a great mindset to have. When doing it with our heart and soul, the return is always beneficial.

      I love sharing posts because the ones I read …especially yours…needs to get out to others. If we are good bloggers, we do know that giving good content to our readers goes beyond what we write. It is sharing other people’s content too.

      I think that as we change, so does our blogging and business. If you think there is something that you need to carry forward…go for it! What we do is a reflection of our growth. Ahhh….a mystery. I cannot wait until I see it.

      As for your guest posts. I was honored when you had asked me to do one and I’ve met so many of your followers that I found so interesting. I went to each and every one before I commented and made some new friends.
      I thank you for that!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

  31. Carolyn
    Twitter:
    October 27, 2013 at 11:22 pm #

    Excellent advice, Donna. If all bloggers followed your words of wisdom the Internet would be a better place.

    Your instincts have served you well in blogging but you also recognize that what comes naturally to you may be a mystery to others. Learning what others don’t know is key to getting ideas for future articles.

    This article is an excellent example of that, Donna. Congratulations on your success!
    Carolyn recently posted..30 Top iOS 7 Tips and Tricks!My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      October 28, 2013 at 2:43 pm #

      Hi Carolyn,

      Thanks so much! My sole purpose is to help other bloggers with techniques but also Self Development.

      When combining those two factors together, one can really grow pretty quickly.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Blog Like A SuperstarMy Profile

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