This post was most recently updated on July 29th, 2016
Blogging in 2015 will be an exciting adventure for those of you who are ready to answer some basic challenges.
Many of my clients, readers and subscribers will be working toward a major blogging goal in the upcoming year…
Turning their blogs into a business, or at least a better performing one.
I work with a lot of new and intermediate bloggers who want to learn the mechanics of blogging. They want to design an appealing blog, develop a niche, start getting some traffic to their sites, build some engagement and start crafting a reputation for themselves.
Once they’ve got all that in motion, they start wondering how to actually build a business on their blog sites.
The Blogging Process
At this point, I work with them in several ways.
First, I show them all the many things they can do on their blog site to convert visitors into subscribers.
Then I show them how to use this subscriber base to build the kind of business they’re looking for.
We then explore the many ways to use “off-site” methods to drive new traffic to their blogs. This involves things like social media engagement, leveraging traffic from other people’s blogs and more.
This is the foundation for turning your blog into a business.
As you advance to higher levels, there are more and more things you can do to create an even more robust business.
Start Here
It all starts with your blog.
Perhaps you’ve been blogging a short time with no results, or a long time with results that you’d like to improve.
In either case, why not make 2015 the year to turn your blog into a prosperous (or more prosperous) business.
So many of you out here have contributed greatly to making my own blog such a business.
I’m truly thankful for that, and have thought of how I could give something back to you.
My Gift To You
Being the Holiday Season for so many of us, I thought it would be a good idea to give you a gift… a gift that could help you turn your blog into a business, or elevate it to a higher level business.
So, click the link below to see what I’ve come up with.
A few months back, I grabbed my husband and partner (David), and presented a webinar that I called “Turn Your Blog Into A Business.”
This was a premium webinar, which means that people had to pay to attend.
The replay was only available for a few weeks to paying attendees. Today, it is only available inside the private members area of my “Whirlwind Success VIP Club.”
Of course, I’d love to have you join my dynamic coaching club to access this and other presentations. As a “VIP Club” member, you’d also get some top-notch coaching from me to help you achieve your online business goals in 2015.
But I told you I wanted to give you a gift.
So, here it is.
Will you open the door today, before this GIFT goes away?
I Appreciate You!
Hey… I just want to thank all of you who have contributed to making 2014 a great year for my blog and my business.
Whether you’re ready to ramp up your blogging business or not, I sincerely appreciate you, and thank you so much for being part of my own success.
So, what do you think?
Is your blog producing the kind of business results you want it to?
Are you struggling to get beyond the routine “process” of blogging?
What goals do you have for your online business in 2015?
What goals do you have for blogging in 2015?
I’d love to hear what you have to say in the comments below.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
-Donna
Twitter: ErikaMohssenBey
March 6, 2015 at 6:43 pm #
Thank you Donna for your generous gift,
sure everybody who is or was able to see it will profit from it.
Looked it ones and I am happy to be able to go to the member site
and look again.
Thank you for sharing all your knowledge.:)
Erika
Hi Erika,
So glad you liked this my friend. Yes it is still in the members site on the VIP Club. Gosh it is getting so filled up these days lol.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..3 Ways To Pump Up Your Blog
Hi Andrew,
Yes, blogging will always be part of our business… Marketing the other part. We do have to focus on monetization otherwise, we are putting in a lot of work and it is costing us money to host our blog and such.
We do need to monetize and we can. So true, business cannot survive without money coming in!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..Look Back To Move Forward
Twitter: CopyWarner
January 4, 2015 at 4:54 pm #
Hey Donna,
Great post.
I’m sure many people are eager and anticipating many good things to happen in 2015, as it should. If you work hard at it.
Blogging will always be a business
And I know I made one of my resolutions earlier on to not really focus much on monetization, but I may indeed start focusing on that and making it more a part of my business. After all, a business can’t survive if there’s no money coming in, right?
Great post here again, Donna.
– Andrew
Andrew recently posted..How To Create Conversational Content That Captivates Your Community
Hi Yorinda,
Glad you enjoyed this post. I encourage you to pass it on…it’s time sensitive.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..Taking Time Out
Hi Donna,
this is awesome!
Sharing your knowledge in such a generous way.
Will pass it on so more can benefit!
Thank you for making your expertise available!
Cheers,
Yorinda
Yorinda Wanner recently posted..Empowering Questions help getting more Results we want
Twitter: ikechiawazie
December 24, 2014 at 1:21 am #
Hi Donna
Thanks for a wonderful Christmas gift. I know that 2015 will be a bang for my blog. My blogging goal next year is to improve on my monetization model and getting more loyal readers. Thank you as your blog is an inspiration as well as you Donna. Have a nice week.
Hi Ikechi,
You are most welcome! I wanted to give a little gift to my readers and I’m glad you liked it. I’m sure you will achieve your goals in 2015!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: WillenaRose
December 21, 2014 at 8:36 pm #
Thank you so much for sharing the replay, Donna! My blog is taking a different turn in the new year, and I know I can learn from you!
Willena Flewelling recently posted..Week 12 – One Ideal
Hi Willena,
I sure do see how your blog has changed since I’ve know you. Oh boy do we go back a while lol.
I hope you get a chance to watch that replay..there are many ideas I know will have your wheels spinning in your head.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: joantruesuccess
December 21, 2014 at 7:27 pm #
Hi Donna 🙂
I always learn so much from you and would like to continue to do so in the coming new year 🙂 You are an inspiration and a great motivator for me and I just wanted to say THANK YOU for all that you do for us bloggers, especially for me 🙂 I so want to get my blog to a point like you have, making it a full time business 🙂 I have decided to set some goals and am going to write them down for not only my business but my life as well to make sure that 2015 is a fantastic year for not only me but for others who get inspired by my blog 🙂 That is truly my goal and dream to be the best damn blogger that I can and to help as many people as I can not only for the new year but for many years after 🙂
Thank you again for your inspiration and I would love to chat with you in the new year to see if you can share some ideas to help me with my blog and making it into a thriving business as you have 🙂
Big Hugs my friend!
Happy Holidays!
Joan
Joan Harrington recently posted..Are You Sabotaging Your Happiness When Running Your Business?
Hi Joan,
I am so happy my blog has helped you out. What a great goal you have -to be the best damn blogger that you can! That will come true. And as you do, you will be helping others.
That is the only reason why we blog..giving good content to others, and then selling 10 to 20% of the time.
But it doesn’t stop there. My advice to you is to learn as much as you can to become a savvy marketer. That is the full circle of blogging!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: tigerlilyva11
December 21, 2014 at 6:57 pm #
Hi Donna,
What a wonderful gift! That’s awesome. Blogging has become a part of me surprisingly. I love it and I am fairly new to it (about 1 year). There is so much to do with a blog that many people may not be aware. I’m so glad you’re giving your gift to others so they can build their business.
Thank you and Happy Holidays to you,
Lillian
Lillian De Jesus recently posted..3 Clever Steps To Use Multiple Graphic or Pattern Sheets in Canva [VIDEO]
Hi Lillian,
Wow only one year? You are blogging like a pro girl! There is so much to blogging besides content and sharing. There is that good old marketing edge to use wisely on our blogs too.
Looking forward to connecting with you during 2015,
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: leadingedgeadv
December 21, 2014 at 6:55 pm #
Hey Donna,
This sounds like a lovely gift. You are too kind.
One of my goals for the new year is to plan ahead better. At one point this year I had my posts set and ready but somehow I fell behind. I want to get back to that.
~Lea
Lea Bullen recently posted..Can You Really Trust Yourself?
Hi Lea,
I love to give out gifts this time of year. What better than a digital one I made myself? I thought it necessary to share some love.
Nice goals you have. Hint: Always have an extra post ready in your back office all done just in case of those….moments lol.
Looking forward to engaging with you in 2015
Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: rachellavern
December 21, 2014 at 3:15 pm #
Hi Donna,
Wow…your gift sounds like it would be a wonderful Christmas gift to those wanting to get their blogs hopping in 2015. I finally completed my 2015 business planning on Friday but blogging is not going to play a major part of it other than my commitment to respond to all thoughtful reader comments. I did a poor job of that in 2014 due to time constraints.
Have a Merry Christmas and may 2015 be a huge success for you!
Rachel Lavern recently posted..12 Days to Get Your Online Biz Booming: Day 9
Hi Rachel,
Thanks…the webinar contains more than getting our blog up, but how to use it effectively and so much more.
I too have so much to do in 2015 other than taking care of my blog. Well….it’s kind of been that way for the past several months.
Wishing you all the success you well deserve my friend!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: yesabhijith
December 21, 2014 at 3:12 am #
Mine is a Tech news and Gadgets blog. The competition is tough in this niche, and I know it. The organic search visitors that my blog attracts was very low, until last week. Last week, I published an exclusive story, which attracted the attention of many reputed News blogs & Magazines. They covered my news and got me a link back from each of them. (Which also attracted many page views). So my goal in 2015 will be to aim for exclusive news and reach out for the reputed websites and magazines.
And by the way, thanks for the precious gift!
Hi Abhijih,
What fantastic news. Some times we have to try and try and then we hit something that gains traction and then we have to go with it!
Good Job!!!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..The 10 Best Ways To Blog in 2015
Twitter: JacsHenderson
December 20, 2014 at 5:38 pm #
Merry Christmas to you Donna, and thank you for your generous gift to us all 🙂
You have certainly showed the way in 2014 with some fantastic posts this year, backed up by all your goodies for your subscribers and members,
and I feel sure 2015 will be a business boom for bloggers following your lead!
It is definitely a strategic way to make money, and I’m looking forward to seeing your webinar…
Thank You 🙂
Jacs
Jacs Henderson recently posted..Who Can You Lift Up?
Hi Jacs,
It is nice to know that you enjoyed some goodies I’ve shown you in 2014. This is one of the webinars I did during that year and hope it can shed some light on blogging. Enjoy my friend.
Merry Christmas,
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
You are such a nice to give such gift. And also thanks for sharing your brilliant idea for your next year blogging. I’m glad to read this. I learned and many great insights here. Great post!
Dylann Andre recently posted..5 Retail Marketing Ideas
Hi Dylan,
I am so glad you have learned some good insights here. Hope you enjoy the “free gift”
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: msellithorpe
December 19, 2014 at 2:40 pm #
Hi Donna,
I can’t tell you how much I have been learning from you and our own PAC Community, along with meeting some of your associates and learning from them too.
Looking forward to a fabulous 2015 for everyone. Have a great weekend.
Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Who Is Really At Fault?
Hi Monna,
I am so happy I could lend a hand to you. I know of your plans for 2015 and to me it scrams SUCCESS!!!!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: coachtocoachguy
December 19, 2014 at 10:19 am #
First of all what a fantastic gift Donna thank you!
Whether it’s the holiday season or not!
What a great and thoughtful way of giving back!
And I’ll probably start studying your class right after I finish leaving this comment!
And one of my main goals for 2015 and beyond to continue diligently studying
the proven strategies of the leaders I know, like and trust, such as yourself!
And when it comes to successful Internet marketing in general and blogging in particular, I can’t think of a better leader to follow!
Thanks again! And the best this holiday season and beyond to you & David!
Mark recently posted..Why You Might Want To Seriously Consider Hiring A Lion Tamer As Your Next Marketing Consultant!
Hi Mark,
Thank you so much for your kind words. David and I decided to give something to our readers. We have chosen this particular webinar because it covers a lot and easy to understand.
So have fun with it and you can feel free to share it with your readers if you want.
Your goals for 2015 sound like ours…..we have to be learning every day in order to be able to give to others.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
My goal for 2015 blogging is to create blog worth reading and create valve, while hidden priority is to make money through my blogging career.
Olayinka recently posted..5 Proven Ways To Generate FREE Targeted Traffic
Ho Olayinka,
As long as you are creating good value, your blog will reach heights you have never expected.
Of course we are here to make some money, and I’m sure you will be successful with that.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: atishranjan
December 19, 2014 at 2:41 am #
Blogging is becoming exciting every day and I am sure in 2015 it is gonna even more exciting with few more challenges. And the Gift you are offering is really cool!
Atish Ranjan recently posted..A Mini-Guide To Use Google Plus For Business/Blog
Hi Atish,
Yes, blogging is an exciting journey. I do know that 2015 is gonna rock! Take advantage of the gift my friend and you can always share it with others.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: worthblogger
December 18, 2014 at 6:32 pm #
Hi Donna,
Thank you so much for that wonderful Christmas gift. It shows how supportive blogger you are. Giving out a premium product as a gift especially this time of the year when people do lots of evaluations about their blogging journey can be very handy.
Well, to start with, 2014 was awesome! In fact it’s been the best my best year ever since I started blogging. I have made a handful of friends who have helped shaped my mind to what blogging really is all about. I am also glad to say people have learned from me too.
I am quite sure you are aware I started my blog this year August ending? Precisely 28 August was the day I launched my blog and ever since then I have been on top of my game. I can say this anything anywhere Donna and you know why 🙂
Well my blog being less than 4 months old still makes it a new blog and so in 2015 I plan on adding more content to it, building my list and writing special mails to them, and of course the one certain thing I must do – connect more with bloggers in my niche.
I also have plans of writing an eBook on how I achieved some of results and records I broke in 2014 (you remember you recommended this Donna?) and use it as a giveaway when people joins my list.
Making money will happen naturally because I know for sure that writing offers like reviews will always pop up because I had written three of those within this 4 months.
Any other thing that comes up in 2015 will equally be handled especially earning opportunities 😉
Donna, I am so happy to have met you this year. I can’t thank you enough for all your supports. You have remained an instrument of motivation to me and my blog and I am looking forward to more of it come 2015!
Thank you once again for your gift. I watched it half way and then came back to write this comment, now is the time to go back to it again…
Have a wonderful weekend my good friend 🙂
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
~Jackson
Jackson Nwachukwu recently posted..Don’t Bury Your Words When Commenting [My 2014 Blogging Strategy]
Hi Jackson,
I’m so glad you liked the free gift..feel free to spread it around…it’s time sensitive lol.
I cannot believe the heights you have climbed since you rolled out your blog in late August! I am so happy we have connected. Besides all the content and sharing we do, i consider you a friend and am so grateful that you often feature me on your blog.
It is also great to know that you have plans to write that ebook about how you achieved some of results and records I broke in 2014 – Yes I do remember suggesting that you write that one lol.
You have plenty of great advice to share….2015 is going to be a good year for us all.
Happy Holidays!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: BarbaraCharles
December 18, 2014 at 10:03 am #
Hi Donna,
Great gift to everyone and a perfect Christmas present if you want to start your new year right! I don’t know if everyone will appreciate how special this gift really is. As I’m a client, I can tell them having access to you is incredibly valuable. My story was all of the above. Needed to refresh my blog and generate traffic and we are in the process of doing that. I can’t wait to report my success as we go through this journey!
Very excited for the new year.
You’ve come a long way yourself and it shows. 🙂 Have a Merry Christmas and much success to us all.
Barbara
Barbara Charles recently posted..Adrienne Smith’s Build A Blog Community
Hi Barbara,
I am enjoying the journey we are on together Barbara. Yes, this gift is a special one. But it is almost two hours long and not many people have the willpower or patience to sit and learn.
On the other hand, if they want, they can learn lots here in this webinar we did. But it is only just a part of what we do as you know so well.
Thank you for your kind words,
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: Lisapatb
December 18, 2014 at 7:52 am #
Hi Donna, thank you for sharing the gift with us – I will have to sign up. I really need to focus more and find how where I want to go in the coming year. This year was filled with personal things that kept me from focusing on the blog though I still kept up and going. I really used it more for my resume this past year but want to make it more in the coming year. I love blogging and connecting with other like minded people. You really have taken yours to another level this year Donna – so excited for you about it too!
I hope you have a great day and rest of the week Donna and thanks again!
Lisa recently posted..15 Bloggers to Make You Think in 2015 and Beyond
Hi Lisa,
You are most welcome…there is no pitch to this gift…just a share! 2014 has been a whirlwind for you but you managed to stay a float.
Now all you have to do is sit down and make a good plan for 2015 and I know you will make huge strides. You are a fab blogger and businesswoman.
So let’s take it to the next level!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: FrugalSoldier
December 18, 2014 at 7:10 am #
WOW,where has the year gone! I started my blog in April of this year so I definitely see myself as a new blogger. My goal for 2015 is continue to build on my attempt to be an authority figure in my niche. I want to provide more value and be that guy known for being frugal.
I do have a goal for 1,000 subscribers to my blog in 2015. I have so much to learn though to get to that point but I hope to continue to be mentored by the likes of people like yourself. So definitely another goal of mine is to engage on a closer relationship with authority bloggers like you.
Thank you for sharing and inspiring me this year.
Nathaniel Kidd recently posted..Frugal Tips on Debt Consolidation
Hi Nathaniel,
You sure are doing well with your blog that you just started in April of this year. I have seen the growth and how well you are engaging with others.
I like your goal and I’m sure you will reach it.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: Carol_Amato_
December 17, 2014 at 7:09 pm #
Hi, Donna,
Blogging in 2015! That has a nice ring to it. 🙂 Wow, this year sure did flyby pretty fast.
I am so excited about 2015 because we’re moving to Florida to be near my daughter and son-in-law, (and beach!), and I have a lot of wonderful Business plans that I’m stoked about.
Meeting you and so many other wonderful bloggers in 2014 has been the highlight for me, and I’m so grateful.
My main goal will continue to be to simplify and mainstream… delete, dream it and delegate!
Thanks for sharing this cheery message, and that was very generous of you to share your training with everyone.
Hope you have a relaxing evening.
Speak soon,
˜Carol
Carol Amato recently posted..Talking Smack Online – Not Professional!
Hi Carol,
What great news! Moving near your daughter in Florida by the beach? WoW Congratulations and many blessings to you.
I’m so happy to have met you this year and I know 2015 will be so great for you. You have a plan and it will work out just fine. I could just imagine you walking the beach and coming up with wonderful ideas.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: BAMoneyBlogger
December 17, 2014 at 2:11 am #
Hi Donna
Very to the point post but of high value.
It is generally assumed that blogging is a set of a few most essential chores. But those who are doing it fully know techie things can be outsourced but all the conceptual things one must do herself to create her blog on strong foundation.
Your prowess in blogging is above board and your every advice can make one move towards his blogging success. This am saying with that much confidence after regularly following your blog for the last six months.
I think blogging in 2015 will more focus on quality and mechanical way of doing things will further be discouraged by coming updates of Google.
So the survivors will be those who can create quality and those who just run after numbers blind-folded have to review their blogging strategy.
So it is must for newbie and struggling bloggers to formally love how to blog and then enter into this field to make it their fully fledged profession.
Mi Muba recently posted..6 satanic thoughts that never let you be a pro blogger
Hi Mi Muba,
Indeed, it is assumed that people need to put up a blog and keep up with its chores, but it goes way beyond that!
It is so true that the survivors will be those who can create quality in their blogs. Especially those who have a good marketing strategy. It all comes together like a circle.
I see those who are chasing numbers…it just doesn’t work, not only here in the blogging world, but in life itself. Quality is much better than quantity.
Newbies need to know the value of how to blog and to see it as a business strategy. This is why I just love teaching.
Thank you for your kind words.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: coachgladyd
December 16, 2014 at 7:42 pm #
Hello Ms. Donna
Thank you for the surprise gift to your readers.
I want to say that I really enjoyed the webinar you had a couple of weeks ago. Cannot wait for the next one.
I am setting new goals for my business and the website/blog.
This coming new year will open doors for many of us.
Thank you again and have a wonderful holiday and be safe.
Gladys
Hi Gladys,
I’m so glad you enjoyed the webinar we did a few weeks ago. We are doing one a month, to keep things fresh and new.
It is great to know that you are setting new goals for 2015, get in touch with us anytime you need to.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: joyhealey
December 16, 2014 at 5:49 pm #
Hi Donna
Great gift – thanks, and I’m excited to watch it.
As you read on my blog I’ve just finished a free eBook and almost finished the launch of my first paid Internet Marketing product.
I plan to use both of these as a springboard for 2015 – as you say, turning my blog into a business.
Oddly enough I plan to look more at the offline marketplace and have joined some “real world” networking groups where I will be meeting and actually talking to people. Quite a step for me as I’m pretty shy 🙂
Thanks again for this gift and Happy Holidays – my family are already dropping in and out too!
Joy
Hi Joy,
In the spirit of the holiday season I just had to give a gift out to my readers and followers.
I am so happy we have connected and I know that 2015 will change your world. Once you finish a paid product, things start becoming different.
How much fun it will be to work off line in the “real world” for a change too. I’m certain that even though you say you are shy, taking that first step, like anything else and engaging with real people will become easy.
Happy Holidays!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: DrErica
December 16, 2014 at 4:53 pm #
Donna,
Thanks for the gift. I bookmarked the page and will look at it later – after finishing more uploading and organizing of my computer files (from my failing hard drive problem). Even though I’ve been blogging for quite awhile now, I am sure I can pick up a few valuable tips. Both of you have worked hard to develop your understanding and skills in this virtual world.
Warmly,
Dr. Erica
Hi Dr. Erica,
I have noticed on Facebook all that you are doing lately. What a huge job it is to take on, but one that must be done.
Yes, David and I are busy bees these days creating products. I just had to give something away for the holidays.
-Donna
Twitter: nkeriakos
December 16, 2014 at 4:38 pm #
Hi Donna,
Thanks for the gift!! Very thoughtful of you and it makes a great Christmas gift for bloggers who want to achieve more in 2015!!
I am not sure if I watched this webinar or not but I will definitely watch it as I am looking to take my blog to the next level in 2015 and I want more ideas on how to monetize it.
Thanks Donna for the gift and wish you a very happy Holidays!!
Enjoy your week ahead.
Be Blessed,
Neamat
Hi Neamat,
The webinar is almost 2 hours long, but full of information you might want to apply. It is not only about the blog itself, but other ways to market. This is why I chose it. I know many bloggers that want to monetize lately. This is only a beginners look at it.
I’m sure 2015 will bring you much prosperity!
Thanks and you too enjoy your week ahead!
-Donna
Twitter: AdrienneSmith40
December 16, 2014 at 12:28 pm #
Hi Donna,
I agree, what a wonderful gift to share with your readers. I’m sure anyone eager to get their hands on that webinar will greatly benefit and that will just show them the value you continue to share inside your VIP club membership. Watch out, I’m sure 2015 is going to get even busier for you both.
I have some things up my sleeve for 2015 as well and to incorporate some other avenues to gain new readers, customers and clients for the new year. I’m excited and eager to get started actually but before any of that can happen I’m taking a much needed break. Yep, going to chill for a couple of weeks although I’ll be doing some behind the scenes research and work as well. How can I not right!
Great share Donna and I hope you’re looking forward to the holidays as well as a great new year.
Until any of that can happen you just enjoy your week okay.
~Adrienne
Hi Adrienne,
I wanted to come up with a gift for Christmas for my readers and followers. I chose a webinar to share because of the value it has for beginners as well as other bloggers who need that push to see that blogging is part of our business.
I do have my plans for 2015 and we are doing the finishing touches on it as I write. Our goal is almost complete to roll out, but we are working on those darn technical difficulties.
I’m sure you have many things up your sleeve for 2015 and positive it will work out for you.
So you are going to chill? Good for you girl! Enjoy.
Thanks so much,
-Donna
Twitter: AlmostPractical
December 16, 2014 at 8:19 am #
Hi Donna,
2015 will be a banner blogging year – I just know it!
Sometimes, even if you know what to do in theory, it is helpful to have a guide to keep you on track.
Your gift is both helpful and thoughtful.
Have a great holiday season!
Hi Neena,
I’m sure that if you set your goals to have a blogging banner year in 2015 you will do it.
I am so glad you liked the gift!
-Donna
Twitter: donpurdum
December 16, 2014 at 6:16 am #
Hi Donna,
I’m so happy you shared your process and offerred some extras details on what you do and how you do it. Inexperienced and intermediate bloggers can feel like the learning curve is so overwhelming.
I love that you are allowing your audience to experience you for free for a short time. What a great idea and a brilliant move!!!
In 2015 I have a massive movement coming on my site and have already started witih my weekly Q&A with Don video series which is already doing extremely well without a lot of promotion. I’m kinda blown away!!!!
I’m starting a weekly podcast interviewing business ownes and entrerpreneurs as well and I’m accepting a guest blogger per week starting in January as well as doing a few guest posts per week on other high quality sites and larger blogs. Then there is the offline stuff that is also kicking in…
2015 is going to be a big year and it all kicks off in just a few short weeks now. I’m ready and I know you are as well.
Keep up the amazing work Donna!
~ Don Purdum
Hi Don,
I wanted to give my readers something for Christmas, so I chose this. If they choose to learn something they can for a limited time.
I love the way you are doing your weekly Q & A …I can see how much it is growing. Wow..I love your plans for 2015. Looks like you have all your ducks in a row.
I have been working like a crazy lady to complete a sales funnel to market. Rolling out with it 2015. Also plan on writing some ebooks!
-Donna
Twitter: SocialCopy
December 16, 2014 at 1:16 am #
Hey!
Nice write. My goal in 2015? Managing 2 big sites (personal ones) while juggling with some copy writing for companies.
Got to make money (more money) and of course, smacking the head for wasting so much time.
Haha! I wasted my 2014 with projects that failed miserably. Well, lesson learned!
Have an awesome day dear friend!
Reginald Chan recently posted..11 SEO Tips For Restaurants To Get Number 1 On Google
Hi Reginald,
I wouldn’t say you wasted time in 2014, but rather learned a great lesson! When we do things like this and think it is a waste of time, it is a gift to show us the proper direction to take on.
I know you will prosper in 2015 because you are brilliant!
-Donna
Twitter: HelpStartMySite
December 15, 2014 at 11:06 pm #
Hi Donna!
What an awesome gift. I’m going to begin watching over it as soon as I’m done writing this comment, and I’ve already tweeted it out. I’m really looking forward to all the good info I know is inside.
I have a lot of goals for 2015, and hopefully I’ll make some good progress towards achieving some if not all of them. I’ve been a bit eBook crazy since I released my first a few months ago, and am about to publish my third. Once I get a book written for each of my main websites, I’m hoping I can take the time to actually focus on one niche and really build up a nice catalog of products for it. My goal in 2015 is to try and write and publish 1 book a month.
I’m also looking to outsource more in 2015, primarily on some of my other niche blogs. With all the extra free time I’ll have, I want to double the amount I write on and market my main blog.
Things are going fairly well right now so other than that, I’ll be doing a lot of the same stuff. Still, I’m looking forward to seeing what the next year has to offer!
Here’s wishing us all much success in 2015!
– James
James McAllister recently posted..How To Build A Successful Amazon Affiliate Site – The Ultimate Guide
Hi James,
You always amaze me. I think that once you do something like writing your first ebook, it becomes easier and easier to do. That’s the way it went with the webinars I do every month.
I’m sure you will meet your goals writing one ebook a month in 2015.
Having your niche sites are wonderful. I just read your last post about having an Amazon niche site and it was wonderful. I did attend many trainings for that in the past, but you wrote it so simply and gave stellar information. If you elaborated on that one post, you could make it an ebook that people would want! ….
You are fantastic …now have yourself a good holiday season and all the best in 2015!
-Donna
Twitter: harleenas
December 15, 2014 at 9:21 pm #
Hi Donna,
Lovely post indeed, and thank you for such a lovely gift for all of us too 🙂
Yes indeed, most of us decide to open blogs but never really think about making it your business till it’s so late in the day, and this includes me too! I’ve been blogging for nearly four years now, but it’s only been very lately that I am thinking on monetizing it or earning from my blog, without shifting my focus on helping people. I guess that’s one reason I’ve rejected many offers that’ve been coming my way, because they go against our principles, and we’d never compromise on it!
Nevertheless, the coming year is going to be focused on building my new blog community, the ABC (Aha!NOW Blog Community), which has a very active forum that takes away ALL of my time…lol,,,but I love it. Besides, learning the right ways to monetize it and turn it to a business too. Small goals, but I think they are achievable as one’s already in the process.
Thanks for sharing this with us, and wishing you and your family – Happy Holidays as well 🙂
Harleena Singh recently posted..The Aha!NOW Chat With Enstine Muki [Interview]
Hi Harleena,
Your blog is amazing! And now you have your ABC community on it which makes it shine.
Although you didn’t think about monetizing your blog, you still can because it’s never too late.
And of course, you are there to help people which you surely have been doing for the past 4 years. You will never shift your focus!
I know what you mean about rejecting those offers that came your way because it is against your principles and it is wise to never compromise. I too had many offers that I had to turn down. It just wasn’t the same energy fit for me.
Learning how to monetize is a tricky business lol. As long as you learn the ropes in marketing in an ethical way (and I know you won’t do it any other way) you can achieve those small goals bit by bit.
Thank you…the holidays have begun in our house as we get family visiting almost every week!
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: sylvianenuccio
December 15, 2014 at 7:54 pm #
Hi Donna,
Blogging in 2015 is going to be more engagement, more involvement, and more content that educates the reader, such as yours.
I think we can, and even need to turn our blog into a business, or at least a serious business platform. Blogs are so important for our online business.
Lately I’ve connected with a very successful business woman that has recently come to the realization that she can get even more clients through her blog.
I think that’s good news. Blogging is what MAKES the internet the precious information basket that it it. You’ve got to love that!
Have a wonderful evening 🙂
Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..42 Bloggers You Want To Meet In 2015
Hi Sylviane,
I do believe strongly that your plan for 2015 will be a wonderful journey. I’m sure you will be getting more engagement and reaching out to others.
Yes, we can turn our blog into a business, once we know how. If we treat our blogs as part of our business platform and reach out a bit, it can turn into a business.
When people out of the blue come to me to purchase a product, the first thing they do to check me out is go to my blog. It shows social proof. Sometimes I feel like it is a big business card because people get in touch with me and say “I am purchasing your product because I visited your blog and its great!
What good news that you made that connection. I’m sure you will prosper.
Have a great week,
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: marquitaherald
December 15, 2014 at 7:53 pm #
What a wonderful gift Donna, and you can bet I’ll be sharing this everywhere because I know many people will want to take you up on this offer! Yes, I for one am very excited about 2015. Things always (always!) take longer than we expect them to and for me much of this year can be chalked up to learning and laying a foundation, and I am SO ready to start moving forward in the New Year. Thanks so much for all that you do to help bloggers thrive online!
Marquita Herald recently posted..Why We Need to Learn to Embrace Moments of Clarity
Hi Marquita,
I’m sure 2015 will bring you many good changes in your business. You are a fantastic writer and have so much to give us with your wisdom when it comes to inspiration. Whenever I visit you, I come away feeling so great.
As for the gift, I just had to give my readers and followers a little something ….Tis the season lol
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority
Twitter: ppk_law
December 15, 2014 at 5:36 pm #
One of my blogging goals for 2015 is to post at least three times weekly—one with original and high-quality content, one of curated content, and one that is anything—one of the former two, or perhaps something different. And I want to increase the number of internal links on my blog—posts pointing to each other.
Zach recently posted..Christmas Greetings from Pickard Parry Pfau
Hi Zach,
Oh boy Zach, that is one powerful way to blog. Three times a week? You my friend will be a busy bee!
I’m sure it won’t be a problem at all for you because of the knowledge you can share with us.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted..How Bloggers Gain Authority