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I like to think of blogging like going out on a date or inviting someone into your home. First impressions mean everything to our human species. We make fast judgments on other people we see and come to conclusions of who they might be or what they will act like. These same first time impressions are happening when you get traffic to your blog. People are judging you just in case you didn’t know.
What’s your style? What are people saying about your blog? Guest what? You will never know because they say it behind your back. When I visit your blog I have minimum expectations with regards to overall appearance and design. Like in real life I have more respect for a business person that wears a suit and hey; if you clean your house before I visit perhaps I’ll come again. Image Source: Flickr-Purple Tie
I wear a tie to work and I don’t see any of my customers or projects. I do it because it makes me feel more powerful and it puts me in the mindset of a professional. I treat my blogs the same; I dress to impress! I have theme memberships with both Elegant Themes and Simply Fresh Themes. All my blogs have premium themes because like in real like it sets the stage for professionalism and success.
Don’t take my word for it! Go out and buy yourself a new theme. I promise you it’s going to be the best investment you have ever made for you blog. Then go ahead and take your blog for a night out on the town. Treat yourself to some Tweets and Facebook likes but remember don’t socially drink and drive!
Respect your readers by respecting your own blog. Create a nice relaxing and enjoyable environment for your visitors and you will be surprised how may continue to visit and engage. So as my analogy would go, make sure to shower, shave and brush your teeth before meeting that someone special.
On a closing not I always like to suggest a reevaluation of the overall experience using your blog. Is it a pleasant experience? Do you have too many ads? Is your blog hard to navigate for what your giving to your readers? Take a moment and ask yourself. Would I visit my own blog if I didn’t own it? You might be surprised with the answer you get.
About bbrian017
I agree with you on first impressions. How you’re blog looks is critical if you want to keep people on your site for more than 5 seconds. If it looks too complicated or too messy, they’ll be gone without thinking about it.
Hi Robert, thanks for stopping by and posting a comment. It always amazes me how many people let their blog go but woudl never do it if they new the implications.