In the ever-changing world of blogging, niche bloggers who rely on Google for their income have been hit hard by recent updates. These updates have caused a significant decrease in traffic, leading to a loss in ad income. Many bloggers are feeling hopeless and wondering if they should quit. However, there are still strategies that can be implemented to thrive in this new Google reality.
Strategy 1: Recognize your zone of genius
Every blogger has unique strengths that they should focus on within their business to achieve lasting success. It’s important to understand your strengths and delegate tasks that are not within your zone of genius. This allows you to invest your time and energy into areas where you excel. By doing this, you can maximize your efforts and move your niche blogging forward.
Strategy 2: Concentrate on social and non-Google traffic sources
Diversifying traffic sources is crucial for bloggers. While Google may be the top source of traffic, relying solely on it can be risky. Instead, focus on other viable traffic sources such as Microsoft Bing, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and YouTube. Investing time and energy into these channels can result in solid returns and provide alternative sources of traffic.
Strategy 3: Build up that email list
Email lists are an underrated asset for bloggers. Building a quality email list takes time, but the subscribers tend to be loyal fans who stay for the long term. Besides increased traffic benefits, email lists also help build brand identity and awareness, drive sales and downloads, boost other channels, and collect valuable data on your existing audience. Investing in building a quality email list can have a high ROI.
Strategy 4: Get an SEO or technical audit
While Google may claim that there is no fix for a site negatively impacted by updates, seeking out a professional audit can be beneficial. A quality SEO or technical audit can diagnose issues that negatively impact how Google perceives a site. It’s important to fully assess your content and make sure it is helpful, reliable, and people-first. Investing in a second opinion from a qualified professional can provide valuable insights and help improve your site’s performance.
Strategy 5: Build up your personal brand
Your personal brand plays a significant role in your online success. Conduct a personal inventory of your strengths and weaknesses and focus on what sets you apart from others. Build your brand identity and promote it across your owned media, social interactions, and earned media. By projecting awesomeness in everything you do, you can establish yourself as a trusted authority in your niche.
Blogging is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to persevere through setbacks and learn from failures. While the recent Google updates may have been devastating for niche bloggers, there is still hope and alternative traffic-building opportunities to pursue. Run your own race and do what is best for you and your blog. Remember, the only real mistake you can make is not trying. Good luck!
