One: Let them know you're there



This one may seem overly simple, but it's a step many people overlook. Tell your friends and family that you have a blog. Send them the url and periodically remind them when you update it. Don't send notices too often, but it's perfectly okay to send an occasional e-mail to let your friends, and acquaintances, know what you're doing.

You should also register with blog aggregators and sites that track blog postings. Most blog software enables you to do this by default.

Two: Participate on Similar Blogs

People who want to read your blog are probably already reading other blogs. Those blogs are likely very much like yours. Most sites will offer an option to list your own url as a part of your profile information. By commenting on others' sites, you help those bloggers and increase the chance that someone will try out your blog in the process.

One word of caution concerning this technique: You should spend time on the blog and participate in a meaningful way. If you're a frequent commenter, then the site host is more likely to go out of his or her way to help you promote your own site. Posting a single comment that you have a blog too is poor etiquette and will probably result in your comment getting deleted entirely. Treat the blogger as you want to be treated when your traffic is booming.

Three: Add your link to your signature

You may already use an e-mail signature, so why not add your blog's url to it? Every time you send a note to a friend or forward your children's latest school pictures, you'll also be including your blog link. It's a simple and easy way to get it out there.

Four: Post, Post, Post

No matter how much you advertise, unless there's something new to read, you won't generate traffic. You don't have to post daily, but in most cases you should post a few times a week. The more you post, the more motivation readers have to come back and see what you're up to now.

Any old post won't do, either. Your readers want to know who you are and what you're doing. A few lines or a post thrown together before bed won't cut it. There are too many other blogs out there; give your readers something they really want to read. If they feel that you've taken time for them, they'll take time to come back for you.

If you plan to be away for a while, then let your readers know that you won't be posting for that time. Announce when you'll return, and be sure to post on that day. Even better, schedule a few posts to come out while you're away. Most blogging software allows you to schedule when posts will appear on your site. Whichever route you choose, don't just leave the blog idle. You don't want your hard-earned readership to go elsewhere because they think you've abandoned your blog.

Five: Get your readers involved

If there's anything blog readers love more than reading your blog, it's getting to participate in your blog. Host a contest to select a guest blogger for a day. Give away a small prize to the person who brings in the most new readers. Ask your readers what they'd like to see on your blog, and take their suggestions seriously.

With a little creativity and patience, you'll soon see your traffic growing. These simple steps will allow you to attract and retain your readers as your blog develops.