1. Cover topics that require attention
Every niche has particular questions that are frequently asked, but rarely have conclusive answers. Whereas this recommendation can be helpful for most content based sites, it is particularly applicable with blogs. Invest the effort and time to research, compile and deliver, and you are guaranteed linkable content that will draw new subscribers and visitors.
2. Pay attention to analytics
Visitor tracking software can show you which posts your visitors like best, which ones are not viewed and how search engines are directing traffic. You can use these clues to act and improve your tactics. Feedburner is ideal for RSS. Action tracking can also be a great addition to your blog. This will enable you to see which sources of traffic are attracting the best quality visitors (in terms of number of page views, time spent on the site etc.).
3. Use a human voice
Charisma is a vital quality, both offline and online. In a blog, it is mainly judged by the voice presented to users. People like compassion, empathy, honesty and authority. Keep these in mind when writing and you are very likely to succeed. It is also vital that you remain humble in your blogging. When users begin feeling that a blog is losing its unique characteristics, they begin seeking new sources of content. Be careful to control not just what you say, but also how you say it.
4. Use smart URLs
Blog URLs should be as short as possible, and still contain enough clues for one to make a guess about the content likely to be found on the page. Having a short and relevant URL will significantly improve traffic to a blog.
5. Reveal as much as possible
In the blogosphere, you should feel free to share what might normally be considered private information. If you offer information that is usually private – pricing, trade secrets, contract issues or even harmless rumors, your blog can benefit greatly. Decide what is off-limits and see how far you can go within the limits. Your community will repay you with traffic and links.
6. Create expectations and fulfill them
When you are writing for your target audience, your post timing and area of focus will become linked with your individual style. If you deviate from that style, you run the risk of alienating readers who have been relying on you for particular data. Therefore, if your blog presents you as an analytical expert in your niche, you will need to deliver according to your readers expectations. This also applies to post frequency. If your blog usually publishes two posts per day, reducing this to two posts per week will have an adverse effect on traffic.
7. Build a brand
One of the most vital elements in blogging is brand building. A great brand is one which people are proud to associate themselves with. Insider jokes, exclusivity and emails with regulars may put off new readers, but can be great for sharing common brand experiences with loyal readers. Once you establish a brand that works for you, stick with it. Breaking the mould will result in severe repercussions.