So, you’re thinking of starting a blog… but have absolutely no idea where to start?

Well, here is our 5-step guide to starting your own blog from scratch…

STEP 1: Pick a domain for your blog

A domain is your own unique URL, that people will use to find your blog, for example, yournewblogsetup.com.

The domain name you choose is super important, as this will be the first thing people will see before even visiting your blog, so make sure you take your time when deciding on your domain name. Here are some of our top tips for determining a good domain name for your blog:

• Make it memorable
  You want people to be able to remember your domain after the first time they see or hear it.

• Keep it short
  The shorter the name – the easier it is to remember! That’s all we really need to say… Oh, and the longer the domain, the more room you allow for errors and spelling mistakes = fewer visits to your blog.

• Avoid using numbers/hyphens/special characters or doubled letters
  This just leaves huge room for error, so just try to avoid it unless absolutely imperative e.g. they are included in your blogs name.

• Always ensure you aren’t copying anyone else
  You don’t want to accidentally use a trademarked name or get accused of copying another blogger or company because if you do, chances are you’ll end up losing your domain. So, always do your research to avoid copying anyone else and infringing on a trademark.

Once you have decided on your domain name you will then, of course, need to register it, which can cost as little as a few pounds. There are tons of domain registrars out there such as Fasthosts, GoDaddy, and 123Reg to name but a few.

STEP 2: Choose a host

After you have decided on a name for your blog and purchased the domain name, you will need to choose a reliable host for your blog. A host is a server that will store all of your blog files so that when a user types in yournewblogsetup.com into their browser, your blog will show up.

When searching for a host for your blog you must look for the following:

• Great customer support
• Fast server speed
• High security
• Good reputation

It’s worth noting that some domain registers out there also offer blog hosting services.

STEP 3: Install WordPress

Installing WordPress is super simple. Just head over to the WordPress site and select ‘Get WordPress’ and follow the easy step by step instructions.

STEP 4: Pick a theme

Once you have installed WordPress you can then log into your new website and begin the fun part – making it your own.

One of the great features of WordPress is that it allows you to customise the look and feel of your website by using themes. There are thousands of free and paid theme options to choose from, so you can pick which one bests suits your ‘vision’ and has the features you are looking for.

STEP 5: Make a plan and start creating great content!

After deleting the sample page and post that WordPress includes by default, you are now ready to start planning your blog and publishing compelling content.

Establish how often you want to commit to publishing new content and research a bunch of ideas for new posts. Once you get into the swing of things you can then start planning weeks or even months ahead.

Want to start blogging for your business, but don’t know where to begin? Get in touch with us today!

Square Media is Northamptonshire’s premiere Web Design & Marketing Agency experienced in developing effective content and marketing strategies for forward-thinking companies in the local area. Our team of specialists consistently deliver outstanding results working in a variety of areas such as Search Engine Optimisation, Social Media Marketing Consultancy, Pay Per Click (PPC) and AdWords Management amongst a wide range of other services.