How To Start a Blog

Starting a blog can be easier than you think…

Today during your coffee break we’re going to show you how to start your own blog or website!

Sometimes we fool ourselves into thinking we can’t do things because we simply “don’t know how”. Well, I’m here to tell you that many people with blogs and websites had no idea what they were doing when they started out. Never fear, we have a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the online world and claim your spot in it.

Step 1 – Domains and Hosting Services

Understanding domains and hosting services…

If you want to start your own blog or website the first step is to pick a domain name. The domain name will be your website name. This may seem like an easy task but it can be difficult finding a name that hasn’t already been claimed. We recommend not getting too attached to a name until you have verified that is available.

Where to search for and buy a domain name:

Most popular option: BlueHost, most people start here. It’s where I started out and it’s knonw for being the most popular hosting service especially for anyone new to blogging.

Our recommendation: NewBlogHosting, I was introduced to this company by a friend. Moving over to them was one of the best decisions I ever made. Their customer service and prices can’t be beat!

TIP: Before purchasing your domain name check to see if the same name is open on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even Gmail. You really want to find a name that’s open on all of these channels.

Once you have a domain name picked out and purchased you’re going to want someone to host it for you. Think of it as picking a place for your website to live in the world wide web. We recommend buying your domain and hosting it with the same company.

Most popular option: BlueHost, again this is where most people start.

Our recommendation: NewBlogHosting, looking back I wish this is where I would have started which is why I’m recommending them to you. As a new blogger or website owner, you’re going to have a lot of questions and their customer service support is top-notch.

There are so many different options for buying domains and hosting services but my goal is never to inundate you with unnecessary information. I give you enough guidance to accomplish a goal in one coffee break. Today the goal is starting a blog and these two options are all you need.

Step 2 – Setting Up WordPress

WordPress is a software that you can use as the operating system of your website.

First of all, don’t be intimidated by these steps. Even if you are not tech savy you’re going to be able to do this. WordPress is the operating system for your website, to help you understand, think of it as the backdoor to your site. Whether you choose to use BlueHost or NewBlogHosting, they’re both going to make it easy for you to install WordPress and get your site up and running.

Bluehost has an easy walkthrough guide to help you get WordPress installed and NewBlogHosting will set it up for you if you ask them to. See I told you it was easy!

Step 3 – Picking a Theme

A theme is what you see when you visit your website.

A website is like an onion, there are so many layers. The next layer is your theme. Think of WordPress as the bones of your site and the theme as the skin that covers the bones. Every website looks different and that’s because there are so many different themes to choose from. WordPress and a library full of themes to choose from. Once you have your website up and running you can always upgrade your theme but for now, choose a FREE theme and get familiar with it.

Step 4 – Watch Videos to Master WordPress

You have homework! Perhaps for your next coffee break watch these videos on setting up your WordPress site and becoming familiar with customizing your website, writing content and learning about the wonderful world of plugins!

Here is a video on setting up WordPress with Bluehost if that’s the hosting service you choose to work with.