MORE Things Your Blog Needs But Doesn't Have + Google Reader Alternatives

Lately I'm working with clients on blogging/social media AND deep cleaning/organizing the house. What better way to kick start an organization series than to help you clear up and organize something you might not think about- your blog and web presence. Ready to get organized?! Here's some things you blog needs but doesn't have:

Me and the Yuko have been rearranging and organizing things as much as possible at the casa.

1.) Clear E-mail: I've gone to hundreds of blogs that don't have a clear way to send an e-mail! Bad bloggers! You never know when someone's going to contact you with an amazing offer, so get it up there! Now!

2.) No Social Media: Your blog should connect all of your shops and social networks for easy viewing and scanning.

3.) Streamlined Sidebar: Streamline everything on your side bar as much as possible! I work at this all the time, editing and streamlining the site for better aesthetics and easier browsing for the viewer.

4.) Above the Break: Try to have all of your most important information above the page break on your blog. (Or "margin", it's where the page stops before you have to scroll down.)

5.) Link Yourself: You don't have to go crazy with this, and I feel like authentic, organic writing is best for good SEO, but linking to previous posts and other pages on your blog will help you move up on the search engine rankings.

6.) Ditch Google Reader: If you're looking for alternative ways for bloggers to follow, direct them to follow you via e-mail, RSS, or networks like Blog Lovin'. If you're not already following me on Blog Lovin' or RSS!

7.) Sidebar Diet: The content on your sidebar shouldn't be longer than the content on your main page, edit and reduce when necessary.

8.) Need Moar PHOTOS: Unique photography is so important in blogging! The photos don't have to be perfect, in fact, it's awesome when bloggers mix it up and have some unprofessional photos mixed in, its makes a blog feel more human and less like a pure magazine. Just make sure each post has at least one!

9.) Socializing: Respond to comments, follow and chat with people who interest you via social media. Authentic communication is the best tool for helping your blog grow an audience!

10.) More YOU: A photo on the side bar really helps personalize your blog and helps us realize you're a real person and not a robot. Inserting yourself via a distinct voice and images is paramount in blogging. It's all about you and your story, don't be shy!

I love to help bloggers and newbie business owners set up their online world, send me an e-mail if you need help! Those were the top issues I've been seeing on hundreds of blogs these while working with clients. Tell me, what problems do you keep having with blogs? What do you like to see on blogs? Let's help each other improve! This week I'm going on a home and business organization theme, so come back tomorrow for more!

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