I have read dozens of 'blog tips' in articles from multiple well-known bloggers and some not so well-known. One of the most common tips or suggestions in getting more readers is to provide a blog that targets a specific topic, or a niche. A niche refers to a tightly focused blog on a specific subject. This philosophy is everywhere.
First of all, I don't have a niche. I am not trying to sell a product, only my words. I have always wanted this blog to be a mental dump and not a place to drum up multiple ideas on the same tightly focused topic. I wanted it to be a hub or home base, if you will, for all my other writing. I also wanted to maintain flexibility. So, how could I possibly come up with a niche?
Second, it always seemed counter intuitive to me that having a niche would generate a wider audience. It didn't make sense that having a narrowly targeted audience would create a large following.
After reading Leo Babauta's Write to Done's latest post, I felt a sigh of relief. First, I want to mention here that he also has a very successful blog, called Zen Habits which is a huge help to me because there is no real true niche, yet his posts are inspirational. His latest post addresses the idea that it is possible to have a successful blog without having a niche.
I know there are other bloggers that must feel this same way who find it frustrating to attempt to manufacture a niche among the endless number of blogs in cyberspace. I am not implying a blog should not have any focus. While a blog should not be random haphazard thoughts, it should appeal to a a wide range of people.
So, yes, my blog has a broad focus on my thoughts and inspirations surrounding writing and my goal is to appeal to writers of all niches: freelance, blogs, fiction, editorial, etc. This is exactly how I want my blog to be and now I know it is possible.
I think if you can create a blog filled with something you are passionate about, you will get readers. I do not have a large following yet, but I am hoping to get there just by writing from my heart. Maybe my niche is just me.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Julie,
I stumbled on your blog from Felicia's and the topic instantly hit home… I started a blog last month, and this is exactly what I envision. A little bit of everything, sharing everything with passion and hoping that the passion is reflected through my words.
Nice meeting you!
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It's been a while you posted this but it still makes an interesting read. I wonder if you still feel the same or you have since found a niche.
Eleonora,
Actually I do feel I have a niche here, I have focused more on the writing process and inspiration on this blog. I think it does help to have a niche, but "funny stories" can be a niche, too. I have enjoyed blogs like that. I think what is most important is that you find something you love to write about and go with it, than trying to 'force' a niche into something you do not enjoy! Thanks for the comment!
hi there! thanks for the post, it is really very helpful to me. since my blog is new, i am in a dilemma of the niche thing. anyways, thanks to this post!