Blogging Basics: CRUX of Blogging Tips for New Bloggers

Table of Contents The CRUX Of BloggingCONTENTRELATIONSHIPSUSER EXPERIENCEBlogging Basics For Beginners As evident from the title, this post…
Image of laptop, notepad, pen, mobile, and coffee on table as basics of blogging

As evident from the title, this post is about the blogging basics for beginners.

If you have decided to start blogging or haven’t achieved your blogging goals yet, then you can’t afford to miss this post.

I have the essentials of blogging laid out for you.

You will also learn more tips after reading the expert views of other seasoned bloggers in the comments section.

As a beginner, it is important that you know the basics of blogging to be a successful blogger.

In my four years of blogging journey, I have come across many bloggers. I have seen some of them rise to success, but I have also witnessed many bloggers who quit blogging altogether.

Yes, blogging is not easy and this is one of the harsh realities of blogging.

However, if you understand the blogging basics, you can be assured of a long haul as a blogger.

You will also avoid the mistakes of blogging that many newbie bloggers make. It’s okay to make mistakes but we should learn from them, shouldn’t we?

You can treat this post as a beginners mini guide to blogging, but I’m sure it will also help many bloggers who have been blogging for some time but not yet quite touched the mark they aspired for.

Before we go ahead, here is a small announcement.

I’m going to start a new blog, and it will be only about blogging. Yes, you can call it a blog for the bloggers, by a blogger. 🙂

My new blog is harleenasingh.com, and you are ALL cordially invited to subscribe to the invitation list to know when it is launched.

What is blogging: Blogging is the act of writing in a blog, which is a regularly updated chronological web log of articles written by one or multiple persons known as bloggers, about various topics or events. This is just the basic definition of blogging, as there is a lot more to it.

The CRUX Of Blogging

It’s true that blogging is a combination of tasks and it is not just writing.

Blogging mainly includes researching, formatting, making it visually appealing (creating specific images related to the post), optimizing it for the search engines, and then post promotion.

Most bloggers go through this basic process in blogging. However, not every blog or blogger becomes successful in achieving the desired results.

Successful bloggers do the same thing but in a different way or do it by adding more pizzazz to it. 🙂

They know that you need to rise above the basics of blogging and go to the advanced level, which is the CRUX of blogging. That’s their secret sauce to success.

“Implement The CRUX of blogging to be a successful blogger.” 

CRUX is an abbreviation, where:

C means CONTENT
R means RELATIONSHIPS
UX means USER EXPERIENCE

You knew it, right?

However, knowing is not enough and you need to practically implement CRUX on your blog and in your blogging methodology.

There are tons of different factors that go into ranking well, but the biggest is high-quality content. – David Sinick

CONTENT

You know content is the king. Some may try to dethrone content with SEO or link building, but the fact is that “quality content” will always rule the blogosphere.

“If comments are the soul of a blog, then content is the heart.” 

Content is the backbone without which your blog cannot rise to success.

I had written a post on how the writing process can help to create compelling content. I hope it helps you improve your blog post content.

Here are some more quality content writing strategies that I wrote in one of my guest posts.

Most importantly, your content should be:

  • Well-researched and supported with authentic facts.
  • Meaningful, with the end purpose of helping the readers.
  • Unique and useful with fresh matter.
  • Written in a compelling style along with impressive images.
  • Optimized and strengthened with keywords.
  • Formatted with tempting title and compartmentalized with helpful headings.

If you get all these things right along with implementing the points from the two linked posts mentioned above, you would definitely have great content and do wonders as a blogger.

Links are valuable, but Google still gives importance to quality content. You can read its guidelines to create valuable content here.

Quote on blogging basics by David Aston

RELATIONSHIPS

If content is the king, then relationship is the queen.

Unless your content is backed up with highly effective SEO, it would spend its life anonymously – as if living in exile, no matter how great it is.

This is when relationships come to aid. Building relationships creates engagement , which  makes your blog lively.

This in turn ensures a regular supply of traffic to make your content valuable and royal.

Relationship is the breath of your blog (though SEO can be termed as power breathing!). Combining them both will give super power to your blog.

It will keep your blog pulsating with visitors and keep it active.

At The ABC, we teach our blog members the importance of building relationships. The members visit each other’s blogs through post promotions and reciprocate in all ways.

“Reciprocation is the key to building relationships in blogging.” 

As a blog starter you should:

  • Enable comments on your blog. Comments are really required – read this post to know why. You may also use the CommentLuv plugin if you want to. It helps new bloggers get comments, which helps in relationship building.
  • Reply to the comments on your own blog posts.
  • Visit, read, and comment on other blogs, and those who visit your blog. Don’t forget to share the posts on social media too!
  • Find influencers in your niche and connect with them through their blogs and social media profiles.
  • Join communities like The ABC and bond with other bloggers.
  • Create round-up posts on your blog and invite other bloggers.
  • Interview other bloggers and influencers on your blog.
  • Guest post on other blogs and invite other bloggers to guest post on your blog.
  • Mention and link to other bloggers and blogs in your blog posts.

Remember that the search engines such as Google like interaction and engagement on the blog. The only way to do that is to create quality content and long lasting mutual relationships.

USER EXPERIENCE

You can think of user experience as the palace of the king and queen. 🙂

People will be interested to meet the king and queen only if their palace is beautiful, quick to reach, and easy to navigate.

Why would anybody want to meet them if they don’t get the royal treatment?

Similarly, the user experience of your blog, which includes its speed, navigation, and the user interface, is one of the main deciding factors for people to visit your blog.

If you are a beginner or a seasoned blogger you should:

  • Make your blog load fast. Remember that many search engines including Google, consider speed as one of its ranking signals. You should start from fundamentals here & look for web hosting services that offer speed and read this post on Aha!NOW to learn how you can speed up your blog.
  • Choose a better coded theme, preferably a premium theme for your blog.
  • Declutter your theme and make good use of the white space. Have minimum number of plugins and widgets on the blog.
  • Use navigational buttons and options throughout your blog on all the pages and posts, so it is easy to move from one page or post to another.
  • Adopt a color scheme that makes your blog look good – but don’t overdo it!
  • Make your blog mobile-friendly so that the mobile visitors can easily access and view your blog on their Smartphone and iphones.

We, at Aha!NOW, provide blog services to fasten your WordPress blog and make it mobile-friendly.

DO READ: 11 Powerful Blogging Tips To Help You Become A Successful Blogger

Quotation on blog by Brian Clark

Blogging Basics For Beginners

I hope you liked and understood the CRUX of blogging. It is content, relationships, and user experience – you should imprint that in your heart and mind.

The blogging basics are simple indeed – create helpful and meaningful content, and indulge in mutually beneficial reciprocal relationships for a successful blog.

Blogging for beginners is no bed of roses.

Initially, you may face many blogging problems, however, at The ABC, you can discuss them with other fellow bloggers and find solutions too.

Don’t worry about your blog’s Alexa rank, just implement the CRUX of blogging on your blog and you are good to go.

Sooner or later, you are bound to get a good Alexa rank even if you do not indulge in link building.

If you want to be a professional blogger, then you should read this post that has golden advice directly from the probloggers.

If you wish to learn from my personal blogging experience, I’ve laid it all out in this post.

It’s only when you have cleared the basic stage that you should think of making money by blogging. But start creating your list from day one. I learnt this very late, but never too late to start!

Over To You –

What are the basics of blogging that you have personally experienced? What blogging tips and strategy would you suggest to the new bloggers? Share in the comments.

Photo Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.Net

154 comments
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  1. if you’re leaving comments on other blogs make sure they are worth reading. Leaving long and thoughtful comments always help you and no one likes to delete them or mark as spam. Other best thing with long comments is that you get replies and also attention from other people including the blog owners which opens up door for you to guest post on their sites in the long run.

  2. after the content, you mentioned relationship building that is some great advice and you are an example of it.
    you just not write it for the sake of it you mean it.
    how do I know?
    the comment section shows it.

  3. Thanks mam for sharing this article, I am beginner blogger, and this post is really helpful for beginner.

  4. Hi, Harleena. I myself is a newbie blogger and I second everything mentioned here. Beautifully done. Thanks for sharing.

  5. Hi, my name is Vishal. I’ve been blogging for more than eight years and love every moment of it. Blogging helped me find my first job and earn money on the side.

    When I was learning how to create a blog back in 2010, it took me some time to find all the right information online, and I had to look for it on different websites. That’s why I’ve created this free step-by-step blog tutorial to teach beginners how to make a blog fast and easy. It’s not as complicated as many people think.

  6. hi harleena ji,
    Thank you for sharing such an informative content, this is very helpful.
    I also think that blogging is all about making relations not only with readers but other blogs too.

  7. New bloggers don’t understand the power of content. They are more into making money right from the start. It’s very important to concentrate on writing great content for users. Try to solve their problems. Then think about other things.

  8. Thanks for this post. Its really helpful and makes me wanna start blogging. In fact, I will be starting it soon(though its a bit late since 2018 is near lol). But thanks for you post. Its superly encourage me to start soon.

  9. Writing good articles for website content is not necessarily a problem of inspiration; it is a problem of research, structure and quality of information that is transmitted. It is nothing abnormal to write and article in 2-3 hours, although the goal of a ghostwriter is to write as fast as possible.

  10. Hi Harleena,

    Good article for beginners. I would like to share a question :
    Will my website traffic get impacted if I am going with premium theme i.e will it increased compare to normal free version theme ?

  11. Woow Awesome post. This is really helpfull for me. You made my day. I just loved this article. You helped me alot so I just wanna say thanks to you.
    Thank you…!!

  12. Hello Harleena,
    Good Day
    Thanks for share your complete guideline with us. AS well, i am newcomer Blogger i am always searching for Blogging Guideline that will make a good carer for me as a Blogger. To be honest, By reading your this article, learn a lot’s of points.
    With best Regards,
    Shivam

  13. Harleena,

    Thanks for the reminder to keep things simple. I tend to overthink and complicate the process when I should really be focusing on the fundamentals.

  14. Hello Harleena Ma’am!

    Everything you expressed in this article is absolutely right. The “C”, i.e., Content is the king. It is 100 per cent true. I am experiencing the power of Content from Last two years.

    I realized the power of “R”, i.e., Relations with other bloggers after joining Kingged.com. There, i connected with many bloggers who are doing better than me. After connecting with many of them, i experienced the true power of relations in blogging.

    I am yet to experience about the UX”. I always use Premium WordPress themes according to the Niche of my websites. Till now, i never faced engagement issue on my blogs. (Thanks to these themes).

    Reading this post made me fresh to work on my blog with more energy.

    Thanks for this post!

    Have a Nice Day Ahead!

  15. Nice Article Harleena Singh. Very Helpful and informative. As a blogger what i can suggest to new bloggers is that work hard don’t run for money. Work for Quality content, Update daily, build good links, don’t do spam, Learn SEO and other stuffs from the good sites and implement the ideas, SEO is nothing but just a experiment. So keep experimenting and keep learning and never think that you are king of blogging…
    Thanks
    Regards
    Sumesh Dhar

  16. Hi Mam,
    Awesome Post indeed! Actually nice to see your process that you are taking blogging to next lever and now yo have been started a great community on this blog.
    Blogging is working on interest if you are ready with lot of interest with focus then yo will surely become successful.
    Thanks for this guide 🙂

    1. Hi Siddharth,

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it. 🙂

      The ABC has been on the blog for a while now, but yes, I’d soon be starting off with my new blog, so stay tuned!

      That is true, as bloggers, we need to follow our interests as we can only excel if we write about things we like, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

  17. Hey Harleena,
    Thanks for sharing with us beginners step to make successful blog in all time.
    If we want to do successful in blogging career then we must have to know all the basic factors regarding with the blogging. Thanks Harleena for sharing these factors with us.

    Cheers,
    Rahul

    1. Welcome to the blog Rahul! 🙂

      You are most welcome, and I am glad the post could help out in some ways. That is true – and these are the basic factors that bloggers need to follow, especially newbies.

      Of course there is lots more to blogging than meets the eye, but one needs to start with these CRUX factors and take it up from there.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

  18. Your blogging tips are sensible and refreshing. Too many pro-bloggers and product promoters set unreachable goals for new bloggers. It makes you wonder if they truly mean to help, or if their real goal is scaring off potential competition!

    Lovely Post!

    1. Welcome to the blog Valerie! 🙂

      Thank you for your kind words, and I am glad you liked them. 🙂

      I agree with you there and perhaps that is what new bloggers keep in mind when they start their journey, which disheartens them midway – making them give up their goal.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      BTW – Do add your Gravatar so that we can see who we are talking to – just a friendly suggestion. 🙂

  19. Thanks for the post. This is very helpful for me for my blog. I am saving this page for reference. Keep posting.

    1. Welcome to the blog Swapnil! 🙂

      Glad you liked the post, and I am sure it would help you in many ways. If I can help you with anything, do let me know.

      Thanks for stopping by.:)

    1. Welcome to the blog Rohit! 🙂

      You are most welcome, and I am sure this post would help you in more ways than one, especially as you are new to blogging. If I can help you with anything, do let me know.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

  20. Enjoy your break, and I can’t wait to see your new blog! Exciting times!
    Love the CRUX acronym, I’ve not seen that one before and it’s very apt, thanks for sharing it with us, it will be really useful to new bloggers.

    1. Hi Sarah,

      Thanks so much – and I did have a great time, though have been working behind the scenes on some new projects simultaneously, so things took longer than usual. 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it – yes, it’s just been made for this post itself!

      Thanks for stopping by, and shall see you soon as well 🙂

  21. Yet a great post. Well many new blogger’s think the blogging helps to fill their pocket well that’s not at all true. For that you should have consistency to you blog aprart from having CRUX though new blogger’s hardly know why but this post will surely let them make aware about the advantages of Content Relationships more important and User Experience which is yet another thing to take care of, especially to learn from experiences.

    I’m trying hard to maintain CRuX though things are working slowly but surely helping me out 🙂 And support from such a good community well not to doubt about my first community aha-now 🙂

    Regards
    Apoorv

    1. Hi Apoorv,

      Thank you for your kind words – glad you liked it and could relate to it. 🙂

      I agree with you there, as blogging is not a quick way to make money or get rich overnight. Things take time, just as in any business you start and it’s the same with blogging. So, new bloggers especially need to keep the faith, be patient and persistent with their efforts, which pay off eventually.

      Even if things take time and seem slow initially, as long as there is gradual progress, you are on the right path, so keep going. Yes indeed, the community support is what keeps us all going as well – and stay tuned for new things that would be coming up for the ABC soon as well.

      Thanks for stopping by 🙂

  22. New bloggers don’t understand the power of content. They are more into making money right from the start. It’s very important to concentrate on writing great conente for users. Try to solve their problems. Then think about other things.

    1. Welcome to the blog Karan! 🙂

      Absolutely! New bloggers mostly start blogging with the sole aim of making money or making it big right away, without giving things a thought, especially the content, which should be nothing but quality, besides other things.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      BTW – Do add your gravatar or profile picture so that we can see who we are talking too – just a friendly suggestion. 🙂

  23. Hi Harleena,

    I hope you enjoyed your blogging break if it’s over, and if not, I hope you’re having a good time.

    I know I haven’t been here in a while, but never forgotten bout you 🙂 I was on a break myself this past week while in Spain.

    You certainly have written a very complete information here for anyone wanting to learn all the trick of blogging.

    I’ll be sure to share.

    Take care 🙂

    `Sylviane

    1. Hi Sylviane,

      We sure had a nice time, though it was all work with some quality time spent with the family, so made it all worth the while. The break ends tomorrow, so stay tuned for our return. 🙂

      Yes, I know you were travelling and visiting so many places – good to have you back as well.

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it.

      Thanks for stopping by, and shall see you soon. 🙂

  24. Hi Harleena,

    Congratulations on launching HarleenaSingh.com.

    With all you have on your plate, it is amazing that you are now
    creating another blog.

    I also had no idea that the CRUX is Content, Relationships and User Experience. Such a useful reminder of what we as bloggers or wanna be bloggers should be doing!

    Miss anyone of these three and stare failure or a long hard road to success in the face.

    Makes me recall a comment you made to someone….website design, grammar and spelling may not be perfect,
    but if the content is appealing and your relationship with your readers is there, then they will return because of their experience with your blog is desirable.

    CRUX says it all.

    Cararta

    1. Hi Cararta,

      Thank you for your kind wishes. 🙂

      You are absolutely right there, but we gave things a deep thought and felt that it was time to move ahead and start HarleenaSingh.com to separate things between both the blogs. However, things have taken longer than usual as we are working simultaneously on a few other projects – which you’d get to know of soon.

      That’s right – we need to keep them all in mind to move ahead in our blogging journey as they are all the main essentials for bloggers.

      Kind of you to have remembered those lines, and yes – it’s all about the relationships we build with our fellow bloggers and readers that really counts at the end of the day.

      Thanks for stopping by, and sorry for replying this late – but glad I made it finally. 🙂

  25. Thanks for sharing the experience of your blogging journey.This is really mini guide to blogging for beginner. Every newbie blogger must read it.previously i just know about king of seo,But With the help of your blog I find out the queen of seo. Thanks for sharing great knowledge of seo.

    1. Welcome to the blog, Sanjeev 🙂

      You are most welcome, and I am glad you liked this post on the basics of blogging, especially for beginners. Yes indeed, the King and Queen – both are needed to rule effectively, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      BTW – Do add your Gravatar so that we know who we are talking to – just a friendly suggestion. 🙂

  26. Thank you for sharing such straight forward advice Harleena

    And your CRUX formula is extremely easy to remember and implement!I still have no idea how you consistently find the time to balance it all!

    Congratulations on the start of your new blog!And I’m sure none of us can wait!So glad you decided to focus on blogging!

    And I will definitely be studying there!And I’m definitely looking forward to it!Enjoy your time off, you’ve definitely deserve it!

    1. Hi Mark,

      Glad you liked the blogging tips shared in this post. 🙂

      Yes, the CRUX formula works for all bloggers, if they learn the way to go about it. It’s not easy, but if one’s committed, then dividing and devoting times for things that matter is possible.

      I appreciate your kind wishes for the new blog, and though the blogging niche does well on this blog, but I felt it was time to make a special place for it and for bloggers who wish to learn more.

      Thanks for stopping by. Yes, time off, though busy working during this break! Have a nice rest of the week 🙂

  27. Hello Harleena Ma’am
    Thanks for these tips for remain in blogging job.
    There are many bloggers who start and quite blogging. But Your tips may help them to keep strong with blogging job.
    Thanks

    1. Welcome to the blog, Jeeshan 🙂

      Glad you liked these blogging basic tips and could relate to them. Yes, many bloggers start blogging but they call it quits for various reasons. Hope this post helps them in more ways than one.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

    1. Welcome to the blog, Ayietim 🙂

      Glad you liked the tips and hope they help you in more ways than one.

      Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      BTW – Do add your Gravatar so that we know who we are talking to – just a friendly suggestion. 🙂

  28. Hi Harleena!

    Took me a while to get back 🙁

    I’ve been pretty swamped lately and juggling family time is hard…so I look forward to being able to do breaks like you are doing now 😀

    Great tips for bloggers! A lot of people in the community will really find this super useful

    User experience is something that’s hard to explain to newer bloggers but you did it perfectly. It’s really great subject to dive into and testing is very important to verify it vs just assuming something.

    Anyway, a new project, awesome! I’ll have to check that out!

    1. Hi Dennis,

      Not to worry at all, you know you’re welcome anytime 🙂

      I can well understand how it can all get, especially with your bundle of joy! I’m sure you’d be enjoying the moments, but it does get tough with a little one around to concentrate.

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it, and yes, mainly to help those bloggers who just started off or need little guidance. I agree with you about user experience, and perhaps it all starts falling into shape once you are in the blogosphere for a while.

      Yes indeed, getting all geared up to start a new blog now, especially for bloggers, and this break is mainly to work on it, besides a little break, if I can manage one!

      Thanks for stopping by, and meet you once I’m back to the blogosphere now. Till then, enjoy your break too 🙂

  29. Hi Harleena,

    Your post hit the nail on the head. To succeed in blgging the blogger must first concentrate on creating quality-content, building strong relationships and providing a wonderful user-experience. THis all must come first before any thought about money or monetising the blog. Many newbie bloggers get this al wrong. They start a blog with the intention of monetising it immediately, without any consideration for the CRUX of blogging.

    Thanks for sharing these golden nuggets. I did not hesitate to share the link with someone who is having problems blogging.

    1. Welcome to the blog and the ABC, Chioma 🙂

      Absolutely! Content has to be written in such a way that provides quality to your readers, and that’s what makes them keep coming back for more. Without building relationships I don’t think a blogger can carry on long enough in the blogosphere.

      Once we follow the basics of blogging, as mentioned, the money or monetizing of the blog comes in sooner or later. New bloggers are in a rush nowadays, whether it’s ranking their sites or making money from their blogs. They need to realize that anything new takes time to establish, and it’s the same with their new blogs.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us, and for sharing this post further – hope it helps him/her. Have a nice week ahead, and see you once I’m back now 🙂

  30. Wow what a great post on blogging! I particularly like your CRUX acronym and how you’ve used it to spell out, well the crux of blogging, lol

    Enjoy your break

    Kind Regards
    Paul

    1. Welcome to the blog, Paul 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and yes, if a blogger follows these CRUX of blogging, I’m sure there is only growth ahead for them.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views. Yes, a ‘work-break’, but trying to enjoy a little too!

      BTW – Do add your Gravatar, so that we can all see you, as I see you have a nice picture on your blog – just a friendly suggestion. 🙂

  31. Blogs Homepage and site layout is very well designed. A reader interest increases with site design.

    which theme used on this site?

    1. Welcome to the blog, Knevs 🙂

      I’m glad you like the blog design. I agree that the site design and user experience is very important to keep the user interested and come back for more.

      I use the “maxmag” theme by themeforest on my blog. You can find its link at the bottom of this post.

      Thanks for stopping by, and have a nice week ahead 🙂

  32. A nice writing indeed.
    Very happy to come here again.
    I read it before but forgot to write about this super awesome one.

    Indeed this CRUX is the essence of blogging.None can disagree.
    And UX part is the part which i like the most.
    Thanks a lot for these tips.
    I will implement these in my blogs.
    Thanks again.
    Have a nice Day mam
    Vashishtha

    1. Hi Vashishtha,

      Glad you liked the post, and yes, the CRUX of blogging is the real crux in blogging, so we need to follow it to help us become successful. I’m sure after you implement these blogging basics, you’d see fruitful results on your blog too.

      Thanks for stopping by, and we meet on your blog once I’m back to the blogosphere now 🙂

  33. Hi Harleena Mam,

    First of all congratualtion and best wishes for your new project, harleenasingh.com. I am very sure that you will make a record in very less amount of time.

    Awesome guide for newbie bloggers, a great post indeed.

    I want to wish a happy blogging break to you, hope you will enjoy alot and after break we will look forward for great post by you.

    Enjoy! 🙂

    1. Hi Nisha,

      Thank you for your kind wishes 🙂

      I hope to achieve a lot with the new blog, which would specifically be for blogging and bloggers, with lots more that I am planning.

      Glad you liked the post, and thank you for stopping by. Perhaps you too are on a little break, as I saw some lovely family pictures on FB, so have fun. Yes, I am working alongside the little time off I’ve got not, and we meet once I’m back now. Till then, take care 🙂

  34. Hi Harleena,

    This is a well written and thought out post. I know for many who are just now starting with their blogs that this post alone will be extremely helpful. Those of us who have been blogging for some time now know what all is involved but coming into this there really is no way you can know everything you need to be doing up front. There is just so much involved and then those who don’t consider themselves writers, well that’s really the hardest part to this process.

    It’s achievable though, look at me. I was never a writer yet I had to find my own way and figure all the ins and outs of blogging. Wish I’d had more information when I started which is why I think those who are just now starting today actually have it a heck of a lot better.

    Congratulations on the new blog and I admire you for taking on another one. I’m sure you have your reasonings and will be anxious to see it launched. Until then you enjoy your vacation and just have fun. I know you’ll be working behind the scenes still but hope you do have plenty of down time. My very short weeks vacation was wonderful but not nearly long enough.

    Take care and chat with you in another month.

    ~Adrienne

    1. Hi Adrienne,

      Thanks for the compliment and I’m glad you liked the post. 🙂

      I agree that practical experience and the exposure are the best ways to learn anything, including the crux of blogging. When you practice and do the things yourself, you face many new circumstances, facts, and problems that bring to light many new aspects that you didn’t read or learn before. But any head-ups in any ways are always helpful.

      I totally agree with you that inspite of the growing competitiveness in blogging these days, the new bloggers have the luxury of more information, tips, and role models to follow than what we had when we started blogging. I was a writer but not a blogger and I realized that it isn’t the same- blogging is a lot tougher.

      I had to start a new blog and you’ll know all about it’s purpose and reason when it is launched. I’ll take my own sweet time in getting it ready so you might have to wait a bit longer.

      Yes, I’m working behind the scenes and I wish I really had a work-less break. But there is so much to do that I fear taking a total break might abrupt my flow of work. It’s good you had a complete break and I loved those pictures you shared on FB. Doesn’t matter even if it was a short one, but I’m sure you are rejuvenated and full of gusto to make a difference in your blogging efforts.

      Thanks for stopping by, and yes, we meet once I’m back to the blogosphere now, ,if not earlier. Till then, take care and be well my friend 🙂

      1. Thank you Mam, I actually a new blogger in this arena. So from here I getting an idea how to manage a blog in step by step.I am starting blogging just 3 months ago, where i found many hurdle to overcome. But when I go through this topic thoroughly its giving some awesome idea. But still I have a query , how to introduce myself to make a connection to other people.Thank you mam once again and I also congratulate you for your new site.

        1. Welcome to the blog and ABC, Sourav! 🙂

          Good to know more about you and your blog. I am sure you’d gain lot of exposure now that you are among lots of bloggers!

          To answer your question – firstly, you need to have a proper profile picture called a Gravatar, so get yourself one because people connect with those they can see and that’s how you build connections. Thereafter, introduce yourself to others by visiting their blogs, reading and commenting on their posts, and interacting with them on the various social media platforms.

          Hope this helps! Thank you for your kind wishes as well 🙂

  35. Its an amazing post . I visited this post by looking at the title “CRUX of blogging ” and really found the crux in blogging field. The way you explained was very vivid , you have depicted so beautifully the whole blogging as a kingdom with content as king , relationship as queen , user experience as palace. I’m also a novice blogger and scouring for this type of great motivating ideas. Thank you very much for sharing and helping newbies with your posts…

    1. Welcome to the blog, Basharath 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it. Yes indeed, by following the CRUX of blogging, as mentioned in this post, you can grow to succeed as a blogger. I am sure if you implement these basic blogging tips, you’d see good results.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views. If there is anything I can help you with, as you are new to blogging, do let me know. Have a nice week ahead 🙂

  36. Hey Harleena,

    Great post here.

    Relationships and user experience are truly key because you have to maintain good relationships if you want to grow and succeed. And you have to make sure that the user experience is good … that’s what makes them keep coming back.

    Excellent post. And nice to hear about the break. We all need time off from time to time to recharge. No problem with that. Looking forward to the new blog too.

    – Andrew

    1. Hi Andrew,

      Thank you, and glad you liked it 🙂

      Absolutely! I’d say relationships building in the online world is so essential, especially for bloggers. Wonder where we’d be had we not got our blogging friend’s around us – I think they are our biggest supporters, isn’t it?

      I agree about the break, and though it’s supposed to be a little time off for me, but I am right here everyday, working a little on the new blog and this one as well. But one does manage a little time off to be with the family.

      Thanks for stopping by, and many congratulations for your wedding too! Shall see you on your blog, once I’m back to blogging now 🙂

  37. Thank you so much for this great article.

    I just started out with my blogging phase and I needed to clear my head of all the details.

    Now I know that I need to start with the CRUX of my blog.

    Will start by creating content and the work on the relationship.

    Thanks!!!

    1. Welcome to the blog and ABC as well, Vivek 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it, especially as you too are a new blogger, who’s just started off. Absolutely! The CRUX of blogging is what needs to be followed, and I’m sure you’d achieve your goals very soon if you take this path.

      Thanks for stopping by, and if you have any problems about starting off with your new blog, do let us know, as we are here to help 🙂

  38. So many things to say here. The crux of blogging. You mentioned it and it is one of my pet peeves. All the time that ‘s involved in posting, i.e. “It’s true that blogging is a combination of tasks and it is not just writing. Blogging mainly includes researching, formatting, making it visually appealing (creating specific images related to the post), optimizing it for the search engines, and then post promotion.” Your words and the bane of my existence. It takes me forever to write a post and you’ve listed everything above as the reason why. It is not easy blogging and then providing good content on top of all this.

    You’ve described it all – the crux of blogging which keeps it from being easy. Some valuable info here for newbies and for experienced bloggers alike. And because it is so time consuming and detailed, it is important to take a break. That mental break helps me and I no longer feel as guilty about it as I used too. 🙂

    Enjoy your time/break and as always look forward to more enlightening and great info.

    Enjoy,
    Barbara

    1. Hi Barbara,

      Not just yours – I think it’s for a lot of bloggers, and so glad you could relate to all that’s written here as well 🙂

      Blogging certainly isn’t easy, not for those of us who take it as a profession, as there is a lot that goes into creating a quality post that adds value, something that your readers would like. Yes, the process is never ending and the real work starts after you publish the post! Whether it’s sharing it on the various social networks or replying to comments on your blog and visiting other blogs, one always falls short of time, isn’t it? And if we get hooked up on one of the tasks, the others suffer – unless we learn the fine art of time management.

      I hope these blogging basics would help new bloggers and others too, as these are the main ones – the foundation on which it all stands.

      Oh yes – we all need to take breaks, and it rejuvenates us once we are back. I am no longer guilty once I started taking them last year onward (without taking work with me), though this year it is just to work on the new blog and this one too.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. It’s a work with pleasure kind of a break, but any break for a while is always good. See you once I’m back to the blogosphere now. Till then, take care and be well 🙂

  39. Hi Harleena,

    I had no idea what CRUX was, and it took me some time to figure out what your headline was about. It was funny, and I reading your post I just thought, aha now I get it, and it’s perfect. It’s easy to remember and it’s absolutely true.

    One thing I’m currently testing that you might not agree upon, is to blog without comments. I have a Norwegian blog that I have closed the comments on. I closed it because I just don’t have the time to follow up any feedback. So, I did it because I think it’s better to not have any comments than to get comments I can’t answer. What’s your thoughts on that?

    Congratulations on your new blog. I can’t wait to read what you come up with. And, have an awesome vacation. I’ll take some time off as well, probably be living in a tent for 4 weeks with my wife and kids.

    1. Hi Jens,

      I understand what you mean – I guess I made you put on your thinking cap! 🙂

      Ah..the never ending debate about whether to allow comments on our blogs or not, and you surely aren’t the only one to think on these lines. You might like to go through a wonderful discussion started by our ABC member, Rohan, and the replies that followed thereafter about the very same topic. Check it out – aha-now.com/topic/should-i-close-the-comments-at-my-blog/

      As it’s a Norwegian blog, one can still think about closing comments, but I wonder if you’d do the same with your blog. I don’t think so. You are right, if coping with the comments becomes tough, it’s better to close the comments, but it might make your blog look so empty!

      Alternatively, choosing to comment a little smaller than our usual style of replying to comments might be an option. I’d personally opt for it myself, though it’s tough for me to comment or thank the commenter in 2-3 lines, but it’s better than not replying at all. I don’t think I’d close the comments ever, Jens. This blog has reached where it is today, thanks to my commenters and my return visits, the overall commenting that works in the blogosphere, and of course social media presence. So, if we can find a balance, we are good to go.

      Thanks so much for your kind wishes, and though am on a blogging break, but it’s more of ‘break for work’ for me presently. Nevertheless, one does manage to find a little time off with the kids too. Wow! Living in a tent would be such a lovely experience, and hope you have a great time with your family too. Take care, and I’d see you once I’m back to the blogopshere now 🙂

  40. Hi Harleena,

    Congratulations on your new blog! How exciting to start this new adventure. I will be signing up.

    Your title drew me i. This is definitely a must read – not only for beginner’s – but for seasoned bloggers as well. I love how this mini guide to blogging to become a successful blogger is filled with so many important tips.

    I hope you enjoy your summer blogging break!

    ~ Robin

    1. Welcome to the blog, Robin – so good to see you here 🙂

      Thank you for your kind wishes, and yes, it IS so exciting to start things all over again.

      Glad you liked the post and little tips shared within, which would help most bloggers, especially the new ones. Learning never ends, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by and you’d be notified as soon as the blog launches, if you signed up. Yes, though it’s a blogging break, but I’m all geared up to do the new blog now. Shall see you soon on your blog as well. 🙂

  41. Hello mam.
    This is the first article which I read here on you fabulous blog. Its a great help for beginners. Good and exciting post indeed. Thank you for sharing.

    Happy Blogging!
    -Naman Kumar
    Blogging Easier

    1. Welcome to the blog, Naman – good to have you over 🙂

      Glad you liked the post, and yes, it’s especially written for new bloggers, though useful for every blogger as well.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views 🙂

  42. Hi Harleena

    Nice to read you’re starting a new blog, that something good. I too will be starting another blog hopefully in few weeks coming. It is on WordPress themes and am zero in on my audience as the blog topic would focus on a particular WordPress themes brand.

    I wish you success in your adventure and hope to be part of it by contributing to its growth in any way I can. Thanks for sharing.

    1. Hi Shamsudeen – good to see you after long,

      Thanks for your kind words 🙂

      Congratulations to you too for your new blog as well, which sounds interesting as it would be fully focused on WordPress.

      Thanks for stopping by and I do hope to see you a lot more on the new blog as well. Have a nice week ahead, and see you once I’m back to blogging now 🙂

  43. Hi Harleena,

    First, congratulations on your new blog! I am sure it is going to be packed with great resources for all blogger. As we both know, there is always something new to learn about blogging.

    Thank you for taking the time to put this together. You’ve shared a lot of valuable information here. I like your CRUX acronym for blogging success, they are definitely three points for us to remember as they all go hand in hand.

    The most important one is building relationships. That is going to be around for a long time so for those who haven’t warmed up to this idea, it would be a great time to start :).

    What I would share with new bloggers is to blog in their own voice and be genuine. It’s okay to want to be like our favorite bloggers but we have to make sure we blog with our own voice and style.

    As always, a great post Harleena! I hope your week started off great!

    Talk to you soon my dear.

    Cori

    1. Hi Corina,

      Thank you for your kind wishes, and yes, there is always something new to learn from each other where blogging is concerned 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it so well. I agree with you there, nothing works better than building relationships with fellow bloggers, and these turn out to be such wonderful friendships over time, just like ours, isn’t it?

      You are absolutely right about what you mentioned, though it takes a while for some new bloggers to start blogging in their own voice, but once they do, they certainly start seeing the results. I guess we should just try to pick up the good points and learn from our favorite bloggers, but the rest has to be our own.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views. Have a nice week ahead, and we’d meet once I’m back, if not earlier 🙂

  44. Hi Harleena,

    Congratulations both on your decision to start a new blog and take a summer break…I wish you the very best!

    Regarding blogging basics for beginners (the post in question), I must appreciate your thoroughness and state that your points are well in order. Aside the points you noted however, my experience has been that many bloggers jump out of blogging simply because they do not have a definite focus or niche. This is dangerous as this reality ensures that disillusion soon sets in.

    What do you think?

    Enjoy the day!

    Always,
    Akaahan Terungwa

    1. Hi Akaahan – good to have you back 🙂

      Thank you so much for your kind wishes. Glad you liked the post and could relate to it.

      You’re absolutely right about your observation, and I also feel they need to be more patient as things take time, whether it’s a business you start or your blog, or anything new. If they plan out things well and remain focused, they can surely achieve a lot.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views. See you at your blog, once I’m back to blogging. Till then, take care and be well 🙂

  45. Nice post Harleena. Really appreciate your thoughts on reciprocation. It is a central key in the whole relationships equation. I’m still baffled by how many bloggers expect the world to just naturally engage with their content when in fact they themselves never engage with anyone else’s. Blogging like that in a vacuum just doesn’t work.

    Enjoy your break! 🙂

    1. Welcome to the blog, Gary 🙂

      Absolutely! Reciprocation is what works best in the blogosphere, and it’s the only way one can build relationship with fellow bloggers.

      True! As bloggers, we need to give more than expect to receive at first, which follows later. More so, if your content is good and you get a lot of comments, it shows you perhaps have a strong community, but it also means you need to visit the blogs of those who visit yours – that’s only being fair, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by. I wish my break had started in the real sense! Still replying to pending comments and a little work alongside. Shall soon visit your blog as well 🙂

      BTW- Do use a Gravatar, so we can all see who we are talking to- just like the one you have at your blog – just a friendly suggestion 🙂

    1. Hi Lorraine,

      You bet! Though don’t ask me about how I’m going to do it without all of you around me, my friend 🙂

      I know it’s not easy, but I think you’re managing both of them very well, beside your writing projects too.

      That’s wonderful indeed! You DO need a break as well, and hope you have a nice one.

      Thanks for stopping by, and we meet now once I’m back to blogging after my ‘work’ break 🙂

  46. Fantastic post! This was very indepth and I think you covered everything without missing any critical newbie errors.

    1. Welcome to the blog, Tom 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it. There’s a lot more that could be written on the basics of blogging for new bloggers, but it would have become a long guide instead, though I tried to cover it all in this one.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  47. Hi Harleena

    Congratulations Harleena for the new blog and I see that you used your name as the domain name. What a great way to build your reputation as a pro blogger.

    What an excellent post and you are right that successful bloggers go beyond the basics of blogging.

    Love the CRUZ concept and it clearly explain how to be a successful blogger. Also all the points you have raised are spot on.

    Ah! I did remember the blogging break you had last time and it is great to recharge and feel energised. Have fun and take all the rest you need.

    Thanks for sharing this wonderful post. Take Care.

    1. Hi Ikechi,

      Thank you for your kind wishes 🙂

      As a blogger, I think the ultimate identity is having the domain in your name. That is one step forward to being a problogger, however, being a problogger may mean different to different people. I’ve a post on this topic on Aha!NOW, and the general association with problogger is the ability to make money from blogging as well as being a consistent and regular blogger. So, I feel I’m still in the making of a problogger. 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and the CRUX of blogging, especially for new bloggers, and the rest of the points.

      I take a little summer break each year, though last time it was all without any work. This time it’s a break just for working on the ABC, this blog as well as the new one, besides other smaller things, though a little family time is on the cards too. Yes, I certainly need to rest and rejuvenate during this period as well.

      Thanks for stopping by, and I’d see you on your blog once I’m back to the blogosphere now. Take care too 🙂

  48. Hi Harleena,

    That is awesome news! Congratulations! You are indeed a role model for blogging. I wish you great success in this venture. It is SO obvious from your efforts that you have immense potential to unleash new vistas that are waiting at the horizon. When the leader is such, sky ceases to be the limit.

    As always this post is inspirational as well as informative. You have the ability to compress all the significant info into a single post! What amazes me is the new acronyms you keep coining. Yes, CRUX sums up all about blogging. Content is the most important part because if it is not upto the mark, most of the readers get demotivated and quit the blog in a few days. Good relationships is the stepping stone to the next level and keeps us connected forever.

    Yes, it is the warmth and the response that keeps us going, which is the hallmark of Aha-now. Thanks for providing all that is essential for a rewarding experience. Enjoy your break and we look forward to your return. Have a blessed time!

    1. Hi Balroop,

      Thank you so much for your wishes and kind words of appreciation 🙂

      You know I’d need you and all my blogging friend’s beside me on this new venture too!

      I tried to make this post as short as possible or else it would have become a real long guide, had I carried on into greater details. Lol…glad you liked the new acronym. Yes, most bloggers give up too soon, not realizing that blogging is a process, a journey that they need to enjoy more than anything else.

      Nothing works better than providing value to your readers by writing quality content, which you too are so good at. True – good connections with each other helps us to build better relationships, especially online, and that happens only when we visit each others blogs, which are like our homes where commenters are our guests, isn’t it?

      Thank you for stopping by, and I’d hop over once I’m back to the blogosphere after my little break, though more for work than anything else this time. Take care and be well 🙂

  49. Who else can write better than you about blogging Harleena? I am eagerly looking forward to it.

    1. Hi Rangan,

      Ah…thank you for saying that, though the blogosphere is now full of so many smart and talented bloggers! If you’ve subscribed to the blog, you’d soon be notified about it.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views 🙂

  50. Hello Harleena Ma’am

    Thank You So Much for your lovely post.It has inspired me a lot and you have pointed out very important points which is required for a new blogger like me.

    It has given me all the necessary information which is very important and making money which should be considered later on is the most important thing to remember.

    Thank You Again for your help and support!!!!!

    1. Hi Yash,

      Good to have you back, commenting on the blog after long, though you are part of the ABC 🙂

      Glad you liked the post, which is mainly for new bloggers as they need guidance initially. Making money comes in much later – initially, one needs to focus on providing quality content and build relationships with fellow bloggers, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by, and hope to see you around more often now 🙂

  51. Hello Harleena,

    With all due respect, you are a blogging Guru. Wow! This is massive and just what I needed. This is a great guide post. There are tons of information out there for new and experienced bloggers but compared to those what you wrote here is simple and easy to uunderstand. Lots of take aways for me, especially the inner links which I will be going through shortly. SEO has been and still is my biggest challenge.

    I agree when you say blogging is not a bed of roses. Sure it isn’t. I never knew what I was getting into. I started writing for the love of it and help people. I wasn’t even aware one could make money blogging. Regardless I think these are brilliant points as I would like to improve on my blog and all the tidbits involved.

    I’ll seize this opportunity to congratulate you on creating blog for bloggers. Who better than you? I am definitely on the lookout to be guided in this regards. So much to learn and I am very keen on improving.

    I also wish you and Vinay and the kids a lovely vacation.
    Take care. Enjoy:)

    1. Hi Hema,

      Oh my! I certainly don’t deserve to be called a Guru, though thanks so much for saying it, certainly made me feel good. 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it, and yes, I like keeping things simple and easy to read so that everyone can understand it well. I can understand what you mean by SEO being challenging…lol…it’s still for me because it’s forever changing. So, just doing the basics is good enough I’d say, unless you know the finer details.

      Blogging certainly isn’t easy, especially if you want to become a professional blogger. I’d say the same when I started off initially, but as one learns and gains knowledge, and as we implement it on our blog, we progress from one stage to another. That’s just the way I’ve done it all these years, slowly but surely.

      You’re surely doing well with your blog, and don’t worry about the making money aspect, as that follows up with time, if one’s interested in it at all.

      Thank you for stopping by and your well wishes for the new blog. You know I’d need all my well-wishers with me there too, and if you’ve subscribed already, you’d be notified on it’s launch, as one of the early birds! Yes, it’s more of a work vacation this time for us, but that’s ok I guess, as long as one can have a few moments of family time alongside too, isn’t it? See you on your blog, once I’m back to the blogosphere now. Till then, be well and take care 🙂

  52. Hi Harleena,

    I really like the way you define CRUX. Initially I did not really understand what you mean about CRUX and I nodded my head when I learned the true meaning of it. 🙂

    I had no idea that the CRUX is Content, Relationships and User Experience. It’s a brilliant idea.

    I could not agree more with the content. Content is the core and I thought, I do not have too many things I need to talk about this..hehe

    And about the relationship, I strongly agree with you. Content on my blog, I have to admit that it does not really have a touch of SEO in it. I’m still learning to deepen about it. But, I helped because my relationships with other bloggers. As you said, it makes my blog alive, although without a touch of SEO. 🙂

    As you suggest, I will make my first round up post. I will publish it soon. I put one of your articles in it. I’m glad I could finally write a round up post on my blog. 😀

    Thanks for sharing, Harleena.
    I hope you can enjoy your break and get some quality time with your family. 🙂

    ~Nanda

    1. Hi Nanda,

      Glad you liked the CRUX of blogging, as mentioned here 🙂

      Yes, just thought of something different to relate to what bloggers really need to do, and making meaningful acronyms is always fun, isn’t it?

      Content is the most powerful of the lot and that is what makes your readers visit your blog, isn’t it? We are all learners here, and like you, I don’t know very much about SEO myself as it is forever changing. But the basics we can all follow so that we land up in the search engines and that helps gain traffic to our site.

      Nothing works better than the relationships built with fellow bloggers, and the circle of blogging friend’s just keeps getting larger by the day.

      That would be wonderful, and thanks in advance for adding one from this blog too.

      Thanks for stopping by, and though on a vacation, but this time it’s mainly to work on the new blog, once I take a little time off after ending these comments. See you on your blog, once I’m back to blogging now. 🙂

  53. Outstanding thoughtful post Harleena. Blogging is not an easy venture. I learned a long time ago online marketing in any field is diffcult. I have no doubt your new blog will become a success. Your writing and expertise shines through with ever post you publish.

    I am also pondering about starting a new blog. One that is not in the IM field as it is rife with outdated material.

    1. Welcome to the blog, Paul 🙂

      Glad you liked the post, and yes, blogging isn’t easy! That’s true, marketing or any business for that matter is tough, till you get the hang of it or the general know how, which takes time.

      Thank you for stopping by, and your kind words of appreciation. I am sure you’d do well with your new blog as well, as you already know the basics, which take time learning for a newbie especially. Wishing you the best with it, and let me know if I can help you with anything. 🙂

  54. Wow, really love the post and have gained something new from this. The only part I think am lacking is the pagespeed of my blog would check out the post you linked to. Thanks for sharing.

    1. Hi Hadharm,

      Good to have you back after long 🙂

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it. Page speed is essential for a blog, and you’d find Vinay’s post about it very useful. Let me know if you face any problems so that we can help you, if required.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views 🙂

  55. Hi Harleena,

    What great news…Congratulations on your new blog. I just signed up for it and cannot wait to follow you there too.

    Blogging is surely a lot of parts to the whole. The crux of it is to write for your readers. Whatever knowledge we possess we need to share it with readers and if even one person takes action upon what we give them, we can say we are successful! There is no better feeling than that!

    So content is very important and we need to make sure we check it before pushing that publish button.

    Our readers are the beginning of making wonderful relationships. As they comment, we answer them and thereby go to their blogs …read it, comment and share. Without this kind of method we would have a blog standing alone in space.

    Making relationships is like being our own Google. This is all we really need when it comes down to it. Look at what you have done with AHAnow! You have not only built a pro blog, but also built a community.

    I’m looking forward to your new blog and enjoy your vacation.

    -Donna

    1. Hi Donna,

      Surprise! Isn’t it? 🙂

      Thank you for your wishes and for subscribing to the new blog. I look forward to welcoming you there as well, and appreciate you for being a part.

      Absolutely! It’s our readers who matter most and we must write for them, such that it would help them in more ways than one. Of course, if we can tweak the posts for the search engines alongside, nothing like it!

      I agree with you there – the content we publish has to be checked for errors, well formatted, and optimized before it’s published. This is another point that new bloggers need to take care of as they are many who are always in a rush to complete and publish the post, without correcting the errors. Overall, it leaves a bad impression, nor does Google like it.

      Nothing works better than building relationships in the blogosphere, irrespective of your niche I’d add, as few bloggers have reservations about commenting on niche related blog posts only. I think the blogosphere is so wide and holds so much of information that there’s always something for each one of us to take away when we visit each other’s blog, isn’t it? I know so many such blogging relationships that have turned to beautiful friendships, and I am sure you’d agree with me here 🙂

      Thank you for your kind words, and my blogging journey wouldn’t have been what it is had it not been for wonderful friends like you. Our community rocks! I needed this break, though more for sitting to work than anything else. Shall see you once I’m back now. Till then, take care 🙂

  56. Hi Harleena, What a great post full of golden tips and links! Thank you. I agree with the CRUX and that’s what I strive for on my blog. I think one the mistakes a new blogger might make is starting a blog solely to make money. Those rarely last because the motive of the blogger becomes very clear and isn’t very genuine. So, that said having a topic or genre that the writer is passionate about really makes a difference and helps to maintain longevity. Congrats on your new upcoming blog, Harleena! I’m so excited to find out all about it. Now, I must read all the comments here as everyone has something valuable to say here at aha.now 🙂

    1. Hi Lisa,

      Glad you liked the post and could relate to it 🙂

      You’re right about that – most new bloggers start blogging and leave their permanent jobs because they see others make money, without realizing that it takes time to reach that stage. Foremost, they need to start giving in terms of quality content and add value to their posts, and then think of earning from their blogs, if at all.

      Absolutely! Being passionate about your niche or topic helps a great deal, as you can relate to the readers through the comments and posts in a better way.

      Thank you for your kind wishes and taking the time to stop by here to share your thoughts with us. Oh yes – every comment here is so precious. See you once I’m back now 🙂

  57. Hi Harleena, Congratulations on your new blog! I signed up as a subscriber for sure! Blogging advice from you would be greatly appreciated. I predict great success!

    I was just thinking that you took a break last year from your blog and was wondering if you’d be doing that again this year. I tried last year but it didn’t happen. This may be the summer that happens!

    Your advice is perfect. Yes, it is the CRUX, which all have to do with the reader. The better experience you give the readers the happier they will be. And happy readers is what we want, right?

    Best wishes on your break, Harleena. I’ll miss you but I’m excited about what the future holds. You wowed us last year and I know great things are ahead this year too!

    1. Hi Carolyn,

      Thanks so much for your kind wishes and subscribing as well. You know I need all my friend’s with me on that blog too 🙂

      I don’t know about success, but I do know that I’d be giving it my best, just as I gave my all to Aha!NOW, though that blog would be more focused on blogging.

      Yes, I take one each year as you already know, but last year’s break was a break in the ‘real’ sense, when I didn’t carry any work with me and had a lovely time. This year it’s more of a ‘work’ break, though we’d take out a little family time in-between too. I’m sure you’d love your summer break too!

      True! Readers are who matter the most, and if we can give them what they want, they’d keep coming back asking for more. I know it always works, as it has for me.

      I’ll miss you too, but I’d hop in off and on if possible. I’m excited too, though I’d need all of your support and good wishes on this new endeavor as well.

      Thanks for stopping by, and take care will we meet again. Enjoy your Summer’s too 🙂

  58. Hi Harleena

    Well, that’s a post I wish I’d read a few years ago – instead of the rubbish that led me astray! Never mind, I found you and all my other mentors eventually.

    I look forward to reading your new blog, because even though I’ve been blogging a while now, there’s always something new to learn.

    Enjoy your blogging break, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon. No doubt it will fly by, but have a great time with your family.

    Happy summer and catch up again soon! Joy

    1. Hi Joy,

      I wish the same! But I guess we learnt things the hard way as it was a slow, self learning curve, unlike the bloggers nowadays who have every information they need, right in-front of them. Sweet of you to say that 🙂

      I look forward to sharing many things on the new blog too, and if you subscribed, you’d be notified when it starts off. Yes, there is so much to learn from each other, isn’t it?

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. Yes, time is flying and I’ve yet to actually start with my break…lol…still catching up with the post comments before I take it a little easy. Meet you now once I’m back to the blogosphere 🙂

  59. Hello Harleena,

    So many congratulations for your new blog! And happy holidays in advance, just enjoy it well! 🙂

    I so agree with everything you said. True that this is the mini guide not just for new bloggers but for every blogger at any level of their blogging journey.

    Content is no doubt the heart of one’s blog. And frequently updating the blog with new content is the best of the best thing in blogging.- It does help to make yourself keep noticed in blogosphere.

    As for blogging basics, the thing is to keep going and learning. Just don’t stop. Always improve the frequency and do best to reply to every single comments you receive. It makes the bond of relationship to strengthen.

    Good luck to you, Harleena! So excited to see your new blog! 🙂

    Enjoy best!

    See you!

    ~ Adeel

    1. Hi Adeel,

      Thank you so much, and yes, work with pleasure kind of holidays 🙂

      I agree with you there, though mainly focusing on new bloggers as they are the ones who find it the toughest when they start blogging. Having gone through that phase ourselves, we can understand, isn’t it?

      Absolutely! Not only the readers of our blogs, but even the search engines love new, original, and quality content. So, makes sense to keep updating your blogs often.

      Yes indeed, blogging is a process, a journey that you need to enjoy. Learning never ends, and I think every blogger needs to keep sharpening their blogging skills by gaining knowledge from wherever possible. No two ways about building relationships with fellow bloggers, because that always helps in the blogosphere.

      I’m excited too, Adeel, and you’d soon know when it’s up. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views. See you now, once I’m back:)

  60. Harleena, even though I’ve been blogging for four years I didn’t know about the Google webmaster’s site. It has valuable information and will be helpful because I’m seriously working on building my list. This site is a wonderful service and you’ve earned a well deserved break. Thanks for all of your hard work.

    1. Welcome to the blog, Skywalker 🙂

      Even though you joined the ABC earlier, it’s your first comment here, so the welcome – good to have you over 🙂

      That’s no surprise because you’ve been so busy writing, and it’s tough to understand all the blogging details, unless we take out time to study about them. Glad you found the information shared here, useful.

      Yes, list building would always help, especially once your book is through and even otherwise.

      Thanks for stopping by and your kind words. True, though mainly to work on my new blog and this one, and have a little family time with my loved ones too. See you once I’m back now 🙂

  61. I hope you and your family enjoy your summer break. I’ve already subscribed to your new site and look forward to learning and sharing info. I have a feeling your new launch is going to be explosive!

    I’ll miss you!

    1. Hi Bren,

      Thanks so much, and we hope so too for the little time we’d be together before the kid’s finish their vacations, though you know we’d be also working alongside.

      Ah…always appreciate your support my friend. You know I need you all beside me for this one as well. Thanks for being a part 🙂

      I’d miss you too, but would hop in off and on, whenever I take a break from work. Take care till we meet again 🙂

  62. Hey Harleena Mam,
    Good luck for your new blog.Thanks for sharing an informative post about blogging for beginners like me.

    1. Hi Deep,

      Thank you for your wishes – I’d surely need them 🙂

      You are most welcome, and I am sure if you implement these blogging basics, you’d see the results very soon.

      Thanks for stopping by, and we meet once I’m back to the blogosphere now 🙂

  63. Hey Harleena,

    Every newbie blogger should read, bookmark and implement this post. I say this from my own experience and by implementing CRUX have seen a big jump in results within just the past two months.

    It is hard work, no denying that, but worth the effort. If anything, newbies should at least focus on crafting great Content and Building Relationships by following the points you made under them. And one thing I can say is that you’re not just writing about it, you’re actually putting it into practice and have been doing so consistently ever since I met you which was was 2 years ago.

    You’ve worked so hard since last year that it is definitely time for a break. I can’t wait to check out your blog on blogging. I’m sure I will gain a lot out of it. Have a great summer vacation Harleena!

    1. Hi Sherman,

      Aww…nice of you to say that, though I just shared the very basics for bloggers, especially the newbies 🙂

      I know what you mean, as you’d mentioned about the results you experienced in your recent posts. So glad you agree that these are the CRUX of blogging.

      Absolutely! Hard work always pays, even if it might take a little time, but then who said blogging was easy! I think we both know about the power of building strong relationships in the blogosphere, and that’s always worked for most of us, along with writing quality and helpful content. So, these definitely new bloggers should pay attention to.

      Agree with you there and that’s because I believe in the power of strong relationships with our blogging friend’s. They are always by our side in this online world, and so many have become good friend’s over time, isn’t it?

      You bet it is Sherman, and I really look forward to my vacations, though this time it’s less of an outdoor trip and more of work. But we always have our little fun times and getaways in-between, always need those!

      Thanks for stopping by, and I look forward to meeting you on the new blog soon too. 🙂

  64. Nice article Harleena!
    I hope you enjoy your break and come back rejuvenated! Happy holidays! 🙂

    1. Hi Ankush,

      Glad you liked it 🙂

      I hope so too, though this little break is more for working on the new blog and this blog as such. But yes, a little time away from the usual always refreshes you.

      Thanks for stopping by and your wishes 🙂

  65. Good Luck Harleena for your new start-up.
    Blogging has come up a long way and it has become a main stream profession many people. The simplest but the hardest rule of blogging is help others by sharing solution of their problems and make as many blogging friends as you can.

    1. Hi Santanu,

      Thank you for your kind wishes 🙂

      Absolutely! I think blogging is wonderful, especially for those of us who work from home. Good to know that you also have a few blogs and are liking what you do.

      Yes, agree with you there – nothing works better than making relationships with fellow bloggers and if you can help solve their problems through your blog posts, nothing like it.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us 🙂

  66. Hi Harleena Ma’am
    First of all congrats for your new blog. I have just subscribed for your updates. I am sure you are going to surprise us with more great blogging tips. Looking forward to your launch date.
    It’s great to know that you are taking one month’s break for spending quality time with your family. Ya, it’s very important to devote time for near and dear ones.
    This blog is loaded with all the CRUX elements. I have learned a lot of things from this community. Whenever I was a complete beginner, you helped me a lot. Today also, I am learning many things. Ya, blogging is not a simple task to continue. But, this blogging has improved me on a personal level. It has given the reason to try out different things in life.
    Personally, I’d suggest all the newbies to select your niche according to your interest. If you love the content, it will easier to connect with the readers. There is no harm in earning from your blog. But, always give preference to your passion.
    Every day is a learning day. You will encounter some dull days. You just need to keep faith in yourself. One day, your voice will be heard.
    I look forward to your new blog. Have a wonderful weekend

    1. Hi Yatin,

      Thank you for your wishes and for subscribing as well 🙂

      I hope so too, though it would take a while, once I seriously get down to doing up the new blog, which happens once I end these comments and a few old ones too.

      Absolutely! Round about that much time if not more, but more than spending time, it’s some peaceful time to sit and work on the new blog, other projects, the ABC, and the blog as a whole, which one cannot do when we blog consistently, isn’t it?

      Kind of you to say that, Yatin, but we all start as beginners, so one can understand what new bloggers go through, and if we can help in anyway, we’d be serving the larger purpose of blogging I feel. Yes, learning never stops – I learn so many things every single day, whenever I visit blogs too. So, just keep going, as you are doing so well for yourself. 🙂

      I agree with you there – blogging certainly isn’t easy, and it takes a lot of hard work and effort, if you go the professional way. True, it does open doors to many other options too, which perhaps we wouldn’t have tried otherwise.

      Yes, choose the niche that you can confidently write about, as that helps build your authority and you are able to convey your point and interact with your readers too. Earning comes later I feel- it has to start with passion and learning to give before receive.

      Oh yes, you need to be patient and persistent with your efforts. Just like any other business or new project you start, your blog will take time to grow, so just keep the faith and keep going.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. You’d soon be informed about the new blog, so stay tuned. Have a nice week ahead as well 🙂

  67. Plenty of sound advice there Harleena. When I first started blogging I had no idea what it really entailed. I started mine because I was told that was what I needed to have if I wanted to promote my first ebook. I did so many things wrong at the beginning but blogging has or course evolved over the years.

    I have started other blogs over the years but decided in the end to stick to one as that is enough work!

    I’ll look forward to reading your new blog. Enjoy your time with your kids.

    1. Hi Sandy,

      Glad you liked all that’s written here 🙂

      I think we all started off like that, with not much of an idea about how to blog or how to go about it. At least I learnt about it all much later, once I started connecting with other bloggers, which wasn’t easy for me as I came from a totally different background of freelancers and writers.

      You’re right, a lot has changed about blogging, and things are easily available nowadays, as compared to what it was four years ago when I started, especially the several blogs that can help, and if you are a good networker, then blogging friend’s, courses, ebooks etc.

      I can understand how overwhelming it can get, and eventually we all need to go with our passion that gives us peace of mind and happiness.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views, and I’d see you once I’m back if not earlier. Yes, a little time with the kid’s, and some kept aside for work 🙂

  68. Hi Harleena ma’am,

    The title sounds very interesting and the post is fantabulous as always. Congratulations and wishing you lots of success for your new blog. I am excited to see it live. 🙂

    Will it be right to say,”Posts at blogs are displayed on the home page in the reverse chronological order?

    The tweetables are very thoughtful. 🙂 I think content is the backbone of a blog.

    No one is self-made. So establishing and maintaining quality relationships with fellow bloggers and readers is so important. My blog’s web pages get indexed slowly with time. And till the time it starts appearing on the search engines, my friends at the ABC are quick to visit the latest posts and comment on them. ABC has been a blessing for so many bloggers.

    As you know, I wrote a post about the Aha!NOW ABC community a few months back at my blog, I was updating it yesterday and it was nice to see that new members [witnessed the rise in the total number of the ABC members] keep joining it while the old ones continue to support the discussions.

    “User experience is the Palace”. Wow what a wonderful comparison it is! 🙂

    Enjoy your holidays. Tho I know you might be working on your new blog and the ABC. I am sure the new one will be as great as the Aha!NOW is. 😀

    Thanks for sharing this exceptional post. It was a great read. There are many takeaways for me.

    ~ Rohan Chaubey.

    1. Hi Rohan,

      Glad you liked the post and the title, and thank you for your kind wishes about the new blog 🙂

      I’m excited as well and would definitely need your support, as well as all my other blogging friend’s good wishes. So glad you are all a part of my journey, truly a blessing. You can put it like this, however, it’s still chronological in order. 🙂

      Content is the backbone of a blog, it’s the basic structure on which a post stands. No two ways about it, and I’ve always believed in the power of words, in way of writing quality content. Yes, the tweetables are all Vinay’s brainwave!

      Building relationships takes time in the blogosphere, especially if you are new. But I know you are pretty good there, as I’ve seen you grow immensely within the few months you’ve been blogging, Rohan. Both your guest posts on this blog and the number of comments and shares they received are proof of that – so you are on the right track 🙂

      I agree with you there, the ABC does help a great deal, and I am glad it helps the new bloggers more so, to build those connections with other bloggers who’ve been around for a while.

      Yes indeed, as new members join the old ones – they all become a part of your community that you can relate to and connect with. I remember that wonderful post about the ABC you’d written earlier – kind of you to mention it.

      Glad you liked the Palace part, which I think matched with the King and Queen – making it easier to understand.

      Oh yes, these holidays are more for working, as one needs time away from blogging and all that goes with it, to work on new things. Once I’m through with these comments, and a few older ones, I’d be starting off with the new blog and working on this blog as well as the ABC.

      Thanks so much for your lovely comment and glad you could takeaway something from this post too. See you soon 🙂

  69. Congratulations Harleena Ma’am for this new journey of blogging with a new blog with existing name of yours.

    I hope this would surely going to help lots of new bloggers to start blogging as their serious career.

    I agree that the quality content is the king in blogosphere because if one is writing content to help others then surely it will get higher rank soon and one should concentrate just on CRUX of blogging.

    Really, I can’t wait for the day when you will launch the new blog for all bloggers to learn from the scratch.

    Thanks a lot for refining our blogging skills with this post with a positive hope that we can do a lot if you are with us and guiding on all the steps while blogging.

    Mohinder Paul Verma
    BloggingFunda – A Community of Bloggers

    1. Hi Mohinder,

      Thanks for your kind wishes, and yes, starting one with the same domain name as my name was something due, as I had it lying with me for a while now. Just glad that I’d be able to proceed ahead with it 🙂

      Absolutely! Writing quality content is the key, and if your posts help your readers – they would keep visiting it, seeking more of such information. More so, even Google loves fresh and good content, isn’t it?

      I’d soon be starting work on the new blog, and if you signed up, you’d get to know first whenever the blog is launched, which should be soon I hope. You know I’m always with my dear blogging friend’s and well wishers, and this new blog would make a separate place for special interactions with them.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us. 🙂

  70. Hey Harleena,

    Wow, haven’t you left me very busy. You have so much content in this post (thank you) that I will come back to it daily to get a new lesson. I will sign up with Commentluv tommorow – check. I just jumped into to Alexa Rank and at this point in time, I will leave it be. Five weeks into blogging and I don’t feel the ongoing expense is right just yet. I have given myself six months to be the baby blogger. What I mean by this, is I do things one step at a time. My last post, I added my first link, next post will be two links.

    Well you one of the first people I ever spoke to and who visited my blog. Very diplomatic you were about the mess of a thing it was. Still I smile. There is still a lot to do. I even have an SEO plug in now. Ohhh I am moving along. But when I tried to met its criteria, I bombed out in all areas. But I have to start to work on that. Because I know I am in it for the long haul, I now have a sense of place. At the moment I only feel overwhelmed by my own pressures. As for quality content – well I meet that criteria (most of us are, but I am my harshest critic), if it does not move me, then it wont be posted.

    I cant wait for you new blog to come out. I am about to go and boost about it on twitter and google plus for a number of reasons. You give sound advice, your support as been unwavering and you are not a product I fear will hurt my reputation. It is easy to say go see Harleena’s stuff because it is quality.

    Talk soon. Rachel.

    1. Hi Rachel,

      Lol…sorry to have overwhelmed you with so much information! But I know these links would help you and other new bloggers, so I added most of them in this one post 🙂

      Take it easy, and yes, read through one post daily to absorb and implement. Remember, blogging is a process – it takes time, though you’re already doing so well for yourself, even though you’ve just started blogging a month back! Just enjoy your blogging journey, though keep learning something new daily, as that’s how you progress.

      CommentLuv is good to get more comments on new blogs, and we had that for 3 years on this blog too, but later removed it because of the spammers it gets along. No harm trying it, though you can do that with the free version before taking the premium one, if you wish to go ahead with it later. True, just forget about Alexa for now and concentrate on writing quality content, the way you do, and the basics one needs to set right.

      You aren’t a baby any longer…or baby growing pretty fast! Yes, I noticed the first link and that adds another feather in your cap girl!

      I remember that post, and I guess I have to be as I know you’re new and it will take time finding your feet around. I can’t forget my initial days Rachel. You’re lucky to have comments coming to your blog, while I had none for a few weeks, till I learned how to go about it all.

      Don’t feel pressured if things don’t work initially, because we all have made similar mistakes, and for me, my greatest teacher was Google. Just hunt up what you don’t follow, and you’d find all solutions there, I know I did. Of course, if someone can help, nothing like it. But new bloggers don’t know many people initially, which is the saddest part of it, and with no one to help them, they feel rather lost. I’m glad you have us though, and the ABC too, so when in any doubt, just submit your query into the ‘Discussion’ option and someone would surely help you out.

      Aww…thank you for your kind words of appreciation and support, it means a lot to me, coming from a new friend.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experiences, and I’d see you on the new blog now, so glad you signed up. Happy weekend. See you around once I’m back to blogging, if not earlier 🙂

  71. Harleena, good to see you writing this post especially for the new bloggers.

    New bloggers should definitely concentrate on writing quality content and building relation with other bloggers.

    I have seen that some new bloggers don’t have patience as they want to learn many things in a short duration. They need to understand that blogging needs time and lot of learning.

    Nowadays new bloggers message me asking questions related to blogging. It’s really hard to answer all of them. They want help as they also want a well-settled blog immediately, but they don’t understand that we have put years of hard work for it.

    I hope that new bloggers will decide to read more and learn things on own. I want them to get success as that will increase the number of bloggers worldwide.

    Harleena I’ll be waiting to check out your new blog. I hope that you’ll be writing on some unique topics.

    1. Hi Mohit,

      Absolutely! I think the new bloggers need such posts the most, isn’t it? 🙂

      Nothing works better than building relationships with other bloggers by visiting their blogs, reading the posts, commenting, and sharing it further. I know it works, as I’ve always done it myself all these years. And there is no compromise where quality content is concerned, something that your readers will love to come back to read, over and over again.

      True. Blogging is a process, a journey that you need to enjoy. It’s not just a quick way to earn money, nor can you achieve overnight success! New bloggers lose patience in this process and so many of them give up blogging altogether. They need to realize, even Rome wasn’t built in a day! Just like any new business you start, even blogging will take time.

      Oh yes…I get plenty of those messages too, and it takes time replying to all of them, thus the idea to start a new blog, especially for newbies. More so, nowadays there is SO much to learn about blogging, as compared to the time when I started years back, and being new, it was and has all been a self-learning curve.

      Nothing works better than gaining knowledge on your own, as that stays with you forever, it’s a sure way of learning, though if you find some blogs or bloggers ready to help or share helpful posts, you must read and implement those tips too.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us. Yes, if you signed up for the new blog, you’d be notified as soon as its up, and I do have special plans for this one. 🙂

  72. Hi Harleena,

    Awesome and to you I say congratulations on your new website! 🙂 It is evidence that you have done one with Aha!NOW and is ready to branch out into a specific niche in this case blogging.

    Everything you have said in this post about blogging or our blogging experience is so true. I have learned a few things and that I was able to apply the knowledge and is open to learning more stuff when it comes to reaching the mark of a successful blog/blogger. I love the acronym CRUX and what it stands for – Content, Relationship and User Experience! It is exactly what the heart of the matter is about blogging. At the end of the day, even if someone’s style of blogging is different to the other, the CRUX of the matter really ought to be the same.

    From my experience blogging is about hard work, dedication, perseverance and sacrifice – especially time. You recall some of my struggles towards the end of last year and into the new year trying to find the balance between work and my blog/website/family/ABC and all that. Some things suffered but I am glad that recently I am able to rise again to do what I enjoy at best.

    I have something/plans up my sleeve as well but for now it is in the embryonic stage and as I am sure you must have been before this big announcement you were and still is very excited. Looking forward to what you have to bring to your readers. The standard I am sure is going to be even higher

    Speaking of breaks, glad to hear that you will be taking one this year again. Coincidentally, I start a five week long break from my job starting Monday June 15th. I am really looking forward to it as you can imagine. That will give me some time to do a bit of travel and to start working on my project.

    I wish you and Vinay the best. Have a wonderful vacation! 🙂

    1. Hi Yvonne,

      Thank you for your lovely wishes 🙂

      Yes indeed, I thought it was time to start off with a new blog, which was lying with me for the past 3 years, just never found the time to get down to it. I feel this time is God sent in a way, and I’m going to make best use of it now.

      Glad you liked the post and could relate so well to it. I know you’ve come such a long way too, ever since you started, as one’s known each other for a while now.

      Absolutely- the CRUX of the matter remains the same, even though we all have our different way of doing things. I feel this is the core of blogging, though there’s a lot more to it that meets the eye. Wish I could’ve written a whole guide on it, but no one would have read such a long post then…lol..

      You’re very right there, blogging certainly takes a lot of time, effort, discipline, and dedication. Yes, I remember, and that’s when we have to let go of certain things where blogging is concerned or take it slow, because we cannot compromise where our health and family is concerned. I’m glad you were back with a bang!

      That is wonderful! Good news coming from you too – makes me all excited! I know everyone would have lots of expectations and I hope I can live up to it, though I am going to take it slow, one step at a time- as I’ve always done.

      What a coincidence! You would be blogging a lot more in your break, I can see that, while I take it a little easy. But I’d be checking in off and on, though not too regular as you know why, so bear with me my friend. I know you also need this break from your work – we all do, to relax and take it a little easy. Travel sounds interesting, and I hope you have a lovely time too.

      Thanks for stopping by, and hope you have a lovely break as well. We wish you the best with your new project too – can’t wait to hear all about it as well 🙂

  73. Hello Harleena,

    First let me say, congratulations on your new blog. and i’ll also say that, welcome to the blogging niche fully :). With your new project, i am sure you’re going to see a lot of improvement “earning wise”

    Back to the post, Lovely indeed… You have laid down the basic that will help any blogger gain success if they follow up properly and religiously.

    One of the tip that will never fade is still the blog commenting, as long as you’re doing it well, it can kill two birds at once 🙂

    Since social media is the new seo, it is also advisable to make full advantage of it.

    Thanks for dropping such post for the new bloggers.
    Have a faithfully weekend … and wishing you a blessed holiday

    1. Hi Babanature,

      Thank you for your kind wishes and the warm welcome to the ‘blogging niche’ fully 🙂

      Yes, I hope to make a headway into a little of that and perhaps try affiliate marketing and some new things too, though over time.

      I hope the post helped, which was mainly written keeping the new bloggers in mind, as they are the ones who really find it tough when they start blogging. How can we forget our time, when we started off, isn’t it?

      Absolutely! Nothing’s worked better than blog commenting for me too, and I know that’s how we met, and so many of our other friends. If you combine social media with blog commenting, you are bound to make a headway. Again, this simple formula is tried and tested, so I know it works.

      Thank for stopping by and sharing your views. I’d see you around once I am back to blogging. Take care and be well my friend 🙂

  74. Hello Harleena,

    First I’ll definitely be checking out your new blog on blogging advice as I’m in the starting phase of my blogging career :). Love all the tips you gave on how to get your blog off the ground. The metaphor of the Kind, Queen, and their Palace as a visual for CRUX shall easily be ingrained in my mind. Anyway, look forward to your further posts and have a recharged VACA. Thanks!

    Holden

    1. Hi Holden,

      You are most welcome, and I can make that out from the blog link here. 🙂

      Glad you liked the little tips shared, though there’s a lot more to blogging than meets the eye, which I’d be covering in greater detail on the new blog overtime, so I hope you sign up to stay tuned!

      Thank you for your kind wishes, and I’d surely be visiting you on your blog soon too. Also, I wonder what happened to your Gravatar image, which otherwise works well when you login to the ABC? Do check it out 🙂

      1. Thanks Harleena, you truly are something special. I believe that I’m going to be learning a great deal from you and even from your reply I’ve learned how attentive you are to buiding relationships with other bloggers. Thanks for the insight and keep it up! You’re an inspiration! 🙂

        1. Appreciate your kind words Holden 🙂

          Absolutely, we are here to share all that we learn with each other, and if I can help you in anyway, just let me know. Building relationships is how we all start in the blogosphere, and I’m sure you’re doing that too with your consistent visits to the blog, which we appreciate and value 🙂

          Thanks once again 🙂

  75. Hey Harleena,

    Excellent idea of going niche and focusing on blogging specifically on a personal domain.

    You have summed up the secrets to great content creation in 6 short bullets. Yes, it is all about information which is helpful and entertaining and formatted in an easy to consume layout.

    Networking is very important in blogging. The best ways to let others know that you are blogging is to send some shoutouts – like linking to them, commenting on their blogs etc. Agree with you about enabling comments and making sure that it is not overly difficult to make a comment like asking people to register on their blogs to make a comment.

    Thank you for the user experience tips, as nothing will help if the users aren’t happy. I guess making your blog mobile responsive is not a choice anymore – it just has to be done, like a requirement for success.

    Enjoy your break, would be looking foreword to see you back soon and blogging actively again,

    1. Welcome to the blog Shobha 🙂

      Sorry, I couldn’t welcome you earlier, as I still need to catch up with a few comments at the guest posts – but good to connect with you here 🙂

      Absolutely! I had this domain lying with me for a while now, and never had time to get started with it. I think taking this little break would be just right for moving ahead with things now. I guess there is a time for everything, isn’t it?

      That’s true, and it’s something one’s learnt over time. Any information that helps your readers would make them keep visiting your blog again, asking for more. And if you can tweak your posts and optimize them a bit, you’d even have the search engines loving your blog. A good combination of both things leads you towards success.

      Yes indeed, we cannot ignore the power of social media and networking with others. The best way to connect with each other is through comments, and that’s how relationships in the blogosphere are built. I know it’s worked for me and now I’ve such a supportive community of blogging friend’s. I agree about the point to have an easy commenting system enabled on your blog, so that each one can leave their feedback.

      True – every blogger must make their blogs mobile friendly, as that’s what Google wants now. Also, it helps to reach a wider audience, as everyone nowadays is on their mobiles!

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. Yes, a break is due, but to work on things, especially the new blog . Take care, and I’d see you soon on your blog as well 🙂

  76. Hi Harleena,

    Great News Here Again!

    Wonderful indeed!

    Yet another page from Harleena the Comment Queen! 🙂

    Coming to this post, Let me put it in this way: This post is nothing but the “ABCD of blogging” I mean everything one wants to know about blogging! I am sure this will be a great help not only to the new comers but even to the veterans! Yes, everyone can pick up some valuable tips from this post as well as the other connected inner links. I just had a visit on almost all the links mentioned in it and all those are really informative and very well connected to the main post! Though i visited some of the inner links earlier i could not post comments there, I am sure i will do that shortly! 🙂 And Ha. all these links I bookmarked it too.

    Yes, the word/letter you selected is really wonderful and meaningful yes the crux of the matter is CRUX itself! LOL

    Yes, CRUX of blogging. The Content, Relationships, and User EXperience! As you said we should imprint that in our heart and mind.

    Glad to know about your vacation plan, we all need a break from our routine activities. Nice that every year you set apart some time for the kids and family, as Summer Vacation!

    Happy Vacation and Happy Journey.

    Nice to hear that though you are on vacation you and vinay will be around here!!! 🙂

    Have a great time ahead with new projects etc…

    Best Regards.

    ~ Phil

    1. Hi Phil,

      Thank you for your kind words of appreciation, though the tag of the ‘Commenting Queen’, really gets ahead of me each time! 🙂

      Well, thanks for considering this post as the ABCD of blogging, though I feel a LOT more can be added to it, so it is just a basic snapshot version. (I tried to keep this post short, or would have made it a real guide, you know me, right!)

      I really hope and wish that this post helps all, including the new bloggers. Glad you liked the related links as well, and yes, there is a lot one can learn from them too. You are most welcome to comment on those related posts on Aha!NOW.

      Yes, the whole post is about CRUX, the abbreviated form which itself has all the meaning and essence of the post.

      You bet I need a break! Yes, I’ve always taken a few days off to be with my family, though carried work along. I feel everybody should take breaks and that really helps. These vacations are a good opportunity to bond and connect with your family, though we’d not be going anywhere but working on the blogs in the background.

      Thanks for stopping by and sharing your views with us. We’d meet once I am back to blogging, though might hop in if I find a little time 🙂

  77. Hi Harleena

    First of all congratulations on starting a new project and I am dead sure it will make new record of success in the field of blogging. This I am saying not as a formality but the way you do blogging does show how professionally you take it and how you make things happen in an impressive way.

    People start their second blog either after getting huge success of first one or they trying another niche after not making big success in first one. Obviously you are from the first category.

    One thing is rare in your case that first you made a big success in multi-niche blog and now started the single-niche blog and most amazing is that this one was the part-niche of your already running great blog. That’s quite new case study for those especially who keep exploring the unique success stories in this field.

    Once again thanks a lot for sharing such wonderful stuff for the last four years and now offering another project very focuses and obviously quite helpful for both newbie and struggling bloggers.

    1. Hi Mi Muba,

      Thank you so much for your kind wishes! A new blog on blogging was something that was long overdue, and I’m glad that it is finally going to happen. 🙂

      Ah, there are no guarantees about success in anything new you start, even if you have been successful with other things, isn’t it? Though I believe one should strive for giving our best – I guess the efforts are what matter most.

      You are right about that, and I hadn’t really thought of starting a new blog till I started connecting more with bloggers, helping them through mails and messages on social media, which made me realize that they needed a separate place where they can be helped individually. Also, I had this domain name with me for about 3 years, so I thought to make best use of it now.

      Absolutely! But you know I never started this blog thinking it to be a multi-niche one, as I just wrote because I loved to write and share my experience with everyone. It was much later, once I receiving positive feedback from people, that I started adding one niche after the other – very gradually. That’s how I added the blogging niche here as well, because it was something my readers demanded in the survey I’d conducted two years back, if you remember. So, if you go by what your readers like, I think anyone can start and manage a multi-niche blog like Aha!NOW.

      About starting a single-niche blog, well I think after learning and gaining experience as a blogger over the last four years now, I think I have a lot to contribute in many ways to help other bloggers, especially new ones. More so, I want to see how a multi-niche blog differs from a single-niche one, which most bloggers recommend. I guess I’m different there 🙂

      Thanks for being a part of the Aha!NOW community for all these years and I hope to keep receiving your support in the new projects. Thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. Have a nice week ahead 🙂

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