You built your blog. You picked the name, found your hosting, and even created your first mock posts or a few “ready” posts.
That’s a huge milestone, so take a second to celebrate. But now what? What happens after the content is up?
This is the part most beginner bloggers don’t talk about, the in-between stage where your blog exists, but no one really knows about it yet.
I already walked through how to create a blog step-by-step in my post, [From Zero to Blog: Beginner’s Blueprint to Launch Your First Website], and in my monetized focused post for building a website [How to Build a Blog That Grows into a Digital Empire]. They cover similar information.
Now what happens after it’s built? Here’s what to focus on next, once your blog is built and you’re ready with a few posts.
And remember, content is the heart of your blog. The more helpful and engaging it is, the more your readers will stick around. So, let’s go over what every great post should have.
Yes, you can start promoting your blog with just a few posts, but the more quality content you have, the more credible and trustworthy your website will appear.

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1. Polish Your Existing Content
Before shouting your blog from the rooftops, go back and refine what you’ve already created with fresh eyes.
Add internal links between related posts
Insert affiliate links where they naturally fit
Optimize headings and structure
- Check your post through Grammarly
Create (or improve) your featured images
Add a call to action at the end of each post
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read, reread, and edited each one of my posts. At one point, I even gave some of them new titles, then had to go back and fix all the links.
It was a lot of work, but I really wanted titles that were SEO-friendly. Now, I try to think about SEO from the start so I don’t have to go back and change them later.
When you’re just starting out, it can be hard to get into the right mindset for each post. But with a little practice, it doesn’t take long to understand what each one really needs to feel complete and polished.
You’ll start thinking in terms of structure, like having a strong intro, a clear body, a thoughtful exit, a meta description, and of course, some basic SEO elements.
It might feel overwhelming at first, but it quickly becomes second nature once you get into the rhythm.
Blog Post Formatting Guide
(A simple framework for writing posts that are easy to read and enjoyable)
1. Title
Keep it clear and catchy.
Make the reader want to click, but also tell them exactly what the post is about.
Example: Instead of “Plants for Cat Owners”, use “8 Indoor Plants That Are Safe (and 8 That Are Not Safe) for Cats”.
2. Introduction (Hook)
2–4 sentences to grab attention.
Share a relatable question, short story, or surprising fact.
Briefly tell the reader what they’ll get out of the post.
3. Main Content (Organized with Headings)
Break the main body into sections using H2 headings (and H3s for sub-points).
Each section should:
Start with a clear heading.
Contain 1–4 short paragraphs.
Use bullet points or numbered lists when possible for easy reading.
Include images or examples when relevant.
The same concept applies when you’re creating long-form content, it’s just more of everything: more detail, more examples, and more value for your readers.
More on Images:
Choose Relevant Images
Pick photos, graphics, or screenshots that clearly match the topic or section.
Avoid overly generic stock photos unless they truly fit your brand.
Use High-Quality, Clear Images
Crisp, well-lit images look more professional.
Avoid blurry, pixelated, or stretched pictures.
Format for Web
Keep file sizes small (under 200KB when possible) so your page loads quickly.
Use
.jpg
for photos and.png
for transparent or text-based graphics.
Add Alt Text for Accessibility & SEO
Alt text is a short description of the image for screen readers and search engines.
Be descriptive but natural. Example: “Gray tabby cat lounging on a windowsill” instead of “cat picture”.
Use Captions Sparingly
Only add captions when the image needs extra context or you want to highlight something specific.
Placement Matters
Space images throughout your post to break up long text sections.
Make sure each image relates to the text directly above or below it.
Stay Consistent with Style
Use similar filters, framing, or color tones to create a cohesive brand feel.
If you use Canva or another design tool, save templates for blog graphics so they match your overall look.
4. Tips for Readability
Keep paragraphs 2–4 sentences long.
Use bold text for important points.
Avoid long blocks of text – add spacing between ideas.
If the topic fits, include a personal touch or story.
5. Conclusion / Wrap-Up
Summarize the main takeaways.
End with a friendly final thought, encouragement, or call-to-action.
Examples of CTAs:
“Let me know in the comments which one is your favorite!”
“Share this with a friend who needs it!”
“Click here to download the free checklist.”
6. Optional Add-Ons
Related Links – Link to other helpful posts.
Product Suggestions – Include relevant affiliate links or recommendations.
Printable / Download – Give readers a bonus resource they can save.
Instead of making one Printable/Download for every post, create a single version that works for multiple topics and link to it in your other posts. That way, readers are more likely to explore more of your content.
Quick Example Flow:
Title → Intro hook → H2 section 1 → H2 section 2 → Conclusion & CTA
You may need to go back and make some edits, but from here on out, you’ll have a clear idea of the format most posts follow.
When you think about it, writing a blog post is kind of like writing those papers back in school, same basic structure, just way more fun.
2. Create a Freebie (or Two)
Now’s a good time to offer something useful to your readers. A reason for them to “click”.
Think checklists, quick-start guides, templates, or mini workbooks
Make sure it relates to your existing blog content
Design it in Canva or use templates that match your blog aesthetic
The post should stand on its own without needing the freebie. Avoid putting a freebie on every single post, you want them to feel special.
Each type of freebie has its own “feel” and purpose. Knowing the intent helps you build it better.
Freebie Type | Best For | Format Tips |
---|---|---|
✅ Checklist | Quick wins, to-dos, action steps | Keep it short, use bullet points, checkboxes or columns |
📘 Guide | Teaching or explaining a process | Use sections, headers, clear steps, and visuals if possible |
🧠 Worksheet | Reflection, planning, or brainstorming | Include prompts, fill-in-the-blank, journaling space |
📊 Template | Done-for-you frameworks | Make editable in Canva, Google Docs, or PDF |
🧩 Quiz or Tracker | Interactive/self-discovery | Use tables, boxes, or icons to make it fun and engaging |
🖼️ Printable Decor or Art | Just-for-fun value | Use higher-quality images, minimalist designs |
🎯 Mini Email Course | Drip learning & trust-building | Break into 3–5 emails, each with 1 clear lesson or takeaway |
You don’t want readers to feel like you’re trying to sell them something or pressure them into signing up. If your content is genuinely helpful, they’ll want the freebie because it adds value and supports what they just read.
That being said… go ahead and download all my freebies. Just kidding! (Well… kind of.) Honestly, I made them to actually help, not to collect email addresses. So if something sounds useful, grab it, no pressure, just good vibes and free stuff.
Get a FREE copy of [The Freebie Builder Blueprint].
This guide will give you examples of many popular types of freebies. Steps on how to create those Freebies. Helpful tips and a planning worksheet.
3. Connect Your Freebies to Your Posts
Don’t just make a freebie, attach it where it makes sense.
Add opt-ins in your post body and at the end
Use pop-ups or sticky bars if you’d like
Mention the freebie in related posts to boost signups
After you’ve written a few posts, you’ll start to get a feel for where your freebies naturally fit, and when it makes sense to mention others you’ve already created.
Sometimes a freebie from a past post complements your new one perfectly, and linking to it not only adds value but also encourages your reader to explore more of your content.
You may be like me, I read my posts over and over trying to figure out just how to make it flow. I’m still not sure if I’ve accomplished that.
It’s all about making their experience smoother while gently guiding them through your blog.
4. Set Up Your Email Platform
Even if you don’t have a ton of traffic yet, start collecting emails now. Your email list is one of your most valuable tools, start early.
Everyone lists this at the top of the list, but I think it is best to get your website to slightly functioning before advertising yourself.
Create your content and freebies first, then sign up for your email service. Once you’re set up, you’ll use your email platform to deliver those freebies through pop-ups, sign-up forms, and email campaigns.
Honestly, I don’t think you need to sign up for email until you reach this stage. I’ve done my best to keep costs low in the early days, especially since my blog wasn’t making money yet.
Choose a free platform (like MailerLite or ConvertKit)
Create a simple welcome sequence or at least a confirmation message
Make sure your freebie is downloadable through your email system
I chose MailerLite after a lot of research because they were the only platform I found that offered a genuine free plan. It’s beginner-friendly, and while the free version doesn’t have everything, it includes all the essentials you’ll need when starting out.
5. Add SEO & Analytics Basics
Now’s the time to lay the foundation for growth. Install and get everything ready to start tracking. In the beginning, you might have zero traffic so there will be nothing to track, don’t let this discourage you. They will come in time.
Install Google Analytics: Track traffic, page views, and user behavior
Set up Google Search Console: Monitor indexing and search appearance
Add SEO plugins (I use Rank Math, Yoast is popular too)
Do basic keyword research for each post going forward
Write SEO-friendly titles and meta descriptions
Submit your sitemap to Google through Search Console
You don’t need to master SEO overnight, just get your tools in place and start building awareness of what works.
Essential SEO Checklist for Every Post
Keyword Research
Choose 1-2 main keywords relevant to your topic.
Optimized Title Tag
Include your main keyword naturally in the post title.
Meta Description
Write a brief, compelling summary with your keyword to improve click-throughs.
Headings Structure (H1, H2, H3)
Use headings to organize content and include keywords where appropriate.
URL Slug
Keep it short, descriptive, and include the main keyword.
Alt Text on Images
Add descriptive alt text for all images using keywords when relevant.
Internal Linking
Link to other relevant posts or pages on your site to boost SEO and user experience.
External Linking
Link out to reputable sources to add credibility.
Content Quality & Length
Provide valuable, well-written content that answers readers’ questions.
Mobile-Friendly Design
Ensure your post looks good and loads well on phones and tablets.
Fast Page Load Speed
Optimize images and minimize scripts for quicker loading.
Use of Keywords Naturally
Sprinkle keywords throughout content without keyword stuffing.
Following this SEO checklist will give your blog a strong start. SEO helps your blog get found in search engines, but that’s just the beginning. Now that your site has some solid content, it’s time to attract readers and start casting a wider net.
6. Get Your Blog in Front of People
Now it’s time to attract readers. Now that your site has some substance, it’s time to go fishing.
Which ever way you decide to bring traffic, your site is ready.
Design Pinterest pins for each post
Join niche forums, Reddit threads, or FB groups
Answer questions on Quora and link to relevant posts
Create a soft-launch strategy to slowly promote without burning out
Whether you’re designing eye-catching Pinterest pins, joining niche forums, answering questions on Quora, or slowly rolling out a soft-launch strategy, your site is ready for traffic.
7. Keep Publishing (and Stay Patient)
Focus on long-term consistency, not perfection.
Add new blog posts weekly or biweekly
Refresh older posts as you learn
Be realistic with your time and energy
Don’t quit just because you don’t see results right away
Don’t forget to have some fun along the way! If all the fuss about perfecting your website starts to feel overwhelming, switch gears, write some content or create a freebie instead. It’s easy to get bored or frustrated with all the technical stuff.
Do what feels enjoyable to you. (I had to remind myself to stop creating new content sometimes and focus on polishing what I already had. I had way too many drafts just sitting there!) But honestly, it’s okay, those drafts are just ideas waiting for their time. You’ll get to them when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Starting and growing a blog can feel like a lot at first, from creating content to learning SEO and figuring out how to get traffic. But remember, every expert was once a beginner.
Focus on creating valuable content, mastering the basics step by step, and finding joy in the process. Your unique voice and perspective are what will keep readers coming back.
Take your time, be patient with yourself, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Most importantly, have fun with it! Your blog journey is yours to shape, and I’m excited to see where it takes you.
Don’t miss the Ultimate Freebie Guide! It’s your step-by-step blueprint for creating freebies that attract readers and grow your blog from day one. [The Freebie Builder Blueprint]
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