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Why a Blog Challenge is Great for a Blogger

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Blog Challenge

Blogging is rapidly emerging in two directions.  Firstly as an add-on for an existing business, to boost their reputation, show their expertise, and drive organic traffic to their business website.  And secondly, as a career option in its own right, with bloggers selling their own products, affiliate products, and selling advertising on their own blogs.

Blogging in theory looks fairly easy.  To “blog” or write a web-log, seems like a simple concept.  You share your ideas in the form of an online journal, presented in a way that makes the information helpful and easy to read.  But in practice, to be a successful blogger, is much more than theory, and more like a learned skill.  To accomplish your blogging goals requires careful planning and strategy, selective use of keywords to best represent your blogging brand, and a little bit of skill in writing on the side.

Bloggers need all the help they can get.  And this is where a Blog Challenge can provide that help.

But what is a Blog Challenge?

A Blog Challenge is basically an event or contest, in which many bloggers participate, watched over by a moderator, in which bloggers must achieve a certain outcome by the end of the challenge.

A Blog Challenge is beneficial to bloggers for the following reasons:

  • You get to network and make friends with other bloggers, striving to build their blogs, just like you.
  • You are pushed to develop blogging discipline, to develop good blogging habits, and set some basic standards.
  • You get support and feedback on your blog from other bloggers, which can point you in the right direction to improve your blog.
  • You can get excellent exposure, and higher levels of traffic.
  • You understand the pressure to achieve a blogging goal.

Of course, it’s important to remember, that you only get from the challenge what you personally put in.  If you want support, you must take the time to give support.  If you want comments and feedback on your blog, you also must provide comments and feedback to other bloggers.

A Blog Challenge is a big commitment, and you should only join if you are willing to go the distance.  This means making an effort to set aside time to work on your blog and support fellow bloggers along the way.  But if you are dedicated, the results can be better than you expected, and will last long after the challenge has ended.

Happy blogging!

About

I'm a Marketing Media Consultant for Abnormal Marketing, helping small service-focussed businesses with marketing planning, marketing strategy, websites, social media strategy and blogging. We offer outcome-based coaching packs, to help you achieve your most immediate goals. We also provide custom WordPress website design and Facebook Business Pages.

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{ 57 Responses }

  1. Essien says:
    I like your post so much. Blogging challenge will really encourage visitors participation and thus encouraging commenting, engagement, and most of all traffic to your site. Nice one dear
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Thank you Essien for your comment. I think people really like a challenge in general, as it pushes us out of our comfort zone, and this usually makes us perform better. I'm keeping my eyes open for the next blog challenge I see. They really are worth it.
  2. Anastasia says:
    Nice idea. But its hard to run such a challenge. Hovewer, I would like to be a participant and develop my skills.
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi Anastasia, Thank you for your comment. Yes, you should definitely try a blog challenge. It boosts your writing skills like you wouldn't believe! Best of luck. Fiona. :)
  3. Ali says:
    yeahhh thats allright blogging challenge is great for blogger, and that's very fun for me. I like blogging challenge i want to be a good competitor, great post!!! Really nice article
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Thanks for your comment Ali! I'm happy to hear you enjoy blog challenges. They are meant to test you, but at the same time, you are meant to have fun :) Good luck with your blogging. Best Regards, Fiona
  4. Daniel Mihai Popescu says:
    Plenty of friends, here, I'm glad of passing by, :) Ileane and Fiona, hello. Excellent advice. I have a somehow technical blog and there are few in the industry, but being new, I'm learning all the way, :).
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi Daniel Thanks for your comment. Bloggers especially are always learning, always trying to blog better, promote ourselves better, and draw in our target market to engage with us. I'm glad to hear you found the advice helpful, and good luck on your next blog challenge :) Best Regards, Fiona
  5. Mark says:
    Running a blog contest is a big commitment Fiona. You're definitely right about that. I would like to run one at my blog, but I haven't quite built up to that yet. I really like the multi-blogger platform as this is what all of the most successful blogs ultimately seem to be doing. FamousBloggers has so far been one of the best if not THE best that I have seen. I'm definitely learning a lot. Great article on "The Mobile Advertising Marketing Boom" BTW. I believe that is the future of IM...:) Mark
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi Mark That's great to hear you are thinking of running a blogging contest. There are a few around now, so the contest needs to be pretty exceptional to get bloggers motivated to participate. And thank you for your feedback on my "Mobile Marketing" article. Yes, this is the way marketing is heading with the boom in smartphones, tablets, ebook readers, and laptops being SO affordable now. Cheers Fiona
  6. Dheeraj says:
    One more thing which I want to add Here is That Quality Content matters a lot for a Blogger If he wants success in the field of blogging ! anyways Fiona Thanks For awesome post!!!!
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for your addition. You are absolutely correct. The quality of blog content is paramount, especially in a blog challenge. There's no point participating if you are just producing lowsy, regurgitated content. It's got to be unique! And it's got to be helpful and valuable.
  7. Fran Aslam the Onlinewriter says:
    Hi Fiona: Good post about blogging challenge. But still it is not for everyone. Only influential and gutsy people do the challenge and join the challenge. The rest of the blogging community take care of the blogging challenge by their own activity. Fiona it is well written post, challenges help people. Fran A
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi FranYes, you are absolutely right! A blog challenge is NOT for everyone. It's for bloggers who: 1. Have the time, or will make the time, to do it 2. Have a purpose for doing it 3. Want to push their writing/ blogging comfort zone.Still, I believe every blogger should do at least 1 challenge in their blogging life. The effort and hassle are easily overridden by what you learn about yourself, the boost to your blog, and the people you meet. :)
  8. Rae says:
    Nice. it really explains the benefits of blogging challenge. and for some reason, I think blogging challenge is awesome.
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi RaeThanks for your feedback. I'm glad the article really explains about blog challenges. They can be awesome, but I would suggest, if you are planning to do one, that you work out what you would like to achieve from the challenge first. And be precise. Setting a goal for a blog challenge, can really help.
  9. Corri says:
    Crikeys Fiona, I'm struggling to find time to write blogs, let alone enter challenges! Where do you fit it all in.
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi CorriI see you've stumbled onto my post on famous bloggers. :) I have found that discipline is really key when it comes to social media, and it really is a full-time job, to do all the steps correctly to give back, and keep giving back to the community.The more you get into blogging and social media, the more you will see ;)
      • Corri says:
        Yep, but if this is secondary to your role then truly investing time is nigh on impossible. Running an online business relies on web presence, obviously including blogging - but wow it is a full time role! I almost need to employ a staff member just to manage our online presence. Can see a future job ad "Wanted Online Brand Manager" social media and blogging skills essential ... what a cool job that will be!
        • Fiona McEachran says:
          Yes, it is a cool job. If u need extra help just let me know ;)
  10. hatim says:
    hi thanks for such a good article. I really liked it and I am also starting a small contest on my blog (somewhat like a blog challenge). This article was really helpful thanks
    • Fiona McEachran says:
      Hi HatimThanks for your comment, and I'm glad to hear you liked the article and found it helpful. Good luck with your contest :)
  11. Evelyn Roberts Brooks says:
    I'm approaching the finish line of the 4th blog challenge I've entered. I find that it helps me get in the habit of blogging daily, and making sure that I have interesting topics that my fellow challengers will want to retweet or give me comments. Thanks for the helpful summary - I bet it will encourage those who have not tried a challenge yet! Evelyn blogboost
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Evelyn Thanks so much for sharing your feedback from the Blog Challenge. It's great to hear the challenge helped you develop good blogging habits. From just 2 blog challenges I've met such amazing and supportive people that I hope will be friends for a long time. Rallying around a certain goal, like writing 31 posts in 31 days, can really unite bloggers. Best of luck for crossing that finish line. It looks like I'll be running along side you. :)
  12. Latief says:
    Always make a new challenge for my blog, get better rank, get my blog on Google for some keywords, etc. That's make my blogging journey always have the energy and challenge from a contest is another way to having fun and enjoy the energy around the challenge. Thanks sister for this awesome article :)
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Latief Yes, you are right! Even though it can be hard work, a blog challenge is great fun, and it can give you and your blog a boost of energy. Thanks for your comment. :)
      • Latief says:
        That's why I love blogging so much Fiona, having fun and meet new friend like you. Success for you sister.
  13. TJ McDowell says:
    Do you find that even after several blog challenges that you continue to see positive changes in your own blogging habits when you participate? It seems like doing a blog challenge would have the result of teaching you to blog a lot in a short term. Do you think it helps the long term habits too?
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi TJ, That's a very good question. For me personally, after the first challenge I did, it really made me realise how good blogging every day is, and that it really does drive traffic. But in practice - I was exhausted. I was relieved the challenge was over, and I dropped back to once a week. But with this month's challenge, I'm actually starting to enjoy blogging every day, and from my previous experience, I'm managing my schedule a lot better too, so it doesn't affect my other work. For most bloggers, I think after a blog challenge, and the lessons they learn, they find a happy medium that suits them. But with building any habit, you really need to commit to a certain schedule that will be long term. I think any successful blogger will agree with that.
  14. Alex Dumitru says:
    I'm also running a challenge on my blog and I really love it :)
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Alex Thanks for your comment. What kind of blog challenge are you running?
  15. Angelika Davey says:
    I totally agree. I've joined a blog challenge this month and am surprised that I managed to find things to write each day. I am now struggling with finding the time to read and comment on other blogs - but I'm working on it :-)
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Angelika Thank you for sharing your blog challenge experience. In the blog challenge I did in June, I really started to struggle half way through. But I did it, and I learned so much. So when the October challenge started, I signed up. This time though, I was more prepared. I did a draft plan, and wrote down 100 ideas I could think of that matched to the spirit of my blog. And now it's halfway, and I still have tonnes of ideas, and I make the time to comment too. It's tough, and I really understand why it's called a challenge ;) I'm sure you will be great :)
  16. Tinh says:
    Challenge is always what I want and blog challenge is great opportunity for bloggers to challenge themselves too :-)
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Tinh Thanks for your comment. That's great to hear that you are always looking for a challenge. Regularly pushing yourself to improve and be a better blog, only creates benefits for your blog.
  17. Kimi says:
    Hey Fiona, Nice to read your post. I love blog challenge, it is somehow a big motivator to me. Especially when we can convert traffic to earning LOL.. Thanks for sharing this amazing post.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Kimi Thanks for your kind feedback. Great to hear that you support blog challenges :) Yes, they are great for full-time bloggers and bloggers making money from their blogs.
  18. Andreas says:
    A blog challenge is a great way for bloggers to get new motivation and also valuable feedback from the blog challenge organizer who is usually an expert in the field.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Andreas Yes, you are correct. A Blog Challenge is not just for new bloggers, but also more experienced or existing bloggers who are looking to give their blog a boost, and also increase their own motivation. And it's a good point you made about the Organizer. They do tend to be experts, and a great asset to a challenge. They provide guidance, extra support, and even hold tutorials and/ or webinars, so that participants can learn new tricks, or ask any questions. Thanks for commenting. :)
  19. Pritam says:
    Yes, its really a blog challenge. Good to read the 7 days blog challenge as many bloggers will get help to come in the front and they will get a chance to show their skills.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Pritam Thanks for your comment. I'm not really familiar with the "7 days blog challenge"... Is this a contest? Or an e-book? Or a blog?
  20. Chadrack says:
    Hi Fiona, Just reading your post gave me the feeling that I really need to join one of these challenges. At least to push me a little. Who knows that may help me do more. But truly I love the idea of the challenge. Just setting some "to do" list and committing yourself to do those things will not only help now but build in you some resilience that will be of help in the future. Thanks for sharing.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Chadrack Wow, I'm so pleased the post has inspired you to join a challenge. I'm yet to meet someone who has completed a challenge, and they say they regret it. Everyone is usually tired, but really proud and satisfied that they made it, and they can usually see the big difference in their blog. Blogging can really feel a bit lonely sometimes, and the challenges usually rally a great community spirit. I'll make sure I tweet about it, when I know the next one is coming up :) Thanks for your comment.
  21. Karan Labra says:
    Well I totally agree with you. Blogging is a big challenge and the ones who are able to accomplish it do stand out of the crowd. Thanks for such an informative post.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Karan, Yes, being a good blogger is a big challenge, and it can be really disheartening to be writing and publishing, especially in the early days, and not be getting much traffic. That's why a blog challenge can really help. And you're right, if you can complete it, and you've totally engaged, and done your best, you will stand out and see great results. Thanks for commenting.
      • Karan Labra says:
        Nice to see that our thoughts match!.. :)
  22. Ben Johnson says:
    Cheerz Fiona! Very informative post, I have just started taking guest posts at my blog and I am also planning to start a blogging contest as well. Hope it will go better.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Ben I'm glad you found the post informative. I think a lot of bloggers are wary about getting involved in blog challenges. So I'm hoping this clears things up a little. That's a great idea to start taking guest posts. I think the more bloggers engage and encourage other bloggers, the better it is for their own blog and reputation. Good luck :) And thanks for your comment.
  23. Patricia says:
    Hi Fiona I had an experienced blogger encourage me to join in a blogging challenge and my reply to her was what is the point as the big bloggers are going to win with their thousands of supporters. However, she pointed out to me the things you have shared here so will have to give it more thought. Thanks for a really informative post. Patricia Perth Australia
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Patricia Yes, there are some blogging challenges where the winner is the one with the most votes. Of course if you a new blogger you're screwed because as you said, if you are competing with other more experienced bloggers, with tonnes of followers, there really is no competition. But there are other challenges around like (ultimateblogchallenge.com) where the only aim is to write a blog every day for 1 month. And everybody who manages to do this - wins. And I much prefer challenges like this. Because everyone in the challenge, is trying to help everyone win. So you can get a huge about of support for your blog - retweets, comments, and feedback from fellow bloggers in the same situation. Also, suddenly you have turned your blog into a huge resource of information. I'm sure the other challenges have their place too, and they seem to strangely fit into the crazy blogging world. Thanks for your comment Patricia.
  24. samuel says:
    Awesome post! Yeah i agree with you. blogging challenge will help increase the skill at the same time put you on tension!!!!!!! thanks a lot for the comment.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Samuel Thank you for your feedback. You are correct about the tension, but I think sometimes we really need to push ourselves when we are blogging, and it can help for others to be pushing (supporting) us too. This might keep us always looking for new ideas, or looking for ways to write better and more engaging posts.
  25. Ileane says:
    Hi Fiona, Blog challenges should be fun but a lot of bloggers feel more tension about being involved in them than they should. I think it's also a time when you can build up your confidence because hopefully you can get some good feedback on what you are doing right. On the other hand others will be more candid with you about what you are doing wrong and which will give you a chance to learn and grow. Thanks for the encouragement Fiona. Have a great day.
    • Fiona Bosticky says:
      Hi Ileane You are spot on - there is no escaping the fact that blog challenges can be tough, but they also can be a lot of fun. Confidence is very important in blogging, because it lets your real personality shine through, and you relax, and type as you would talk. And this is the point when people REALLY listen to you. Bloggers get worried, that they must do this, and they must do that, and next they are counting their keywords.... and the blog can become a bit cold. But in a blog challenge you have support from your peers, who you can talk to, and get real advice from. You can learn, and help others learn. There really is no downside if you join with the right attitude. Thanks so much for your comment Ileane. You're a top blogger!