DEAR FIRST TIME BLOGGER..

When I started my blog in 2010 I didn't know anybody who could advise me on the most suitable platform, the best way to launch, or 'drive' my posts, so, I had to learn on my own - I've made more than a ton of mistakes but, many valuable lessons later, I'm now running a Top Rated blog! With that in mind, I'd like to share with you the following tips:

TIP 1
I've found that a lot of photo bloggers seem to use Tumblr [officially launched in 2007] while Wordpress [released in 2003] has better features for support including help with audience growth/engagement. Blogger [created in 1999, which is what I use] is uncomplicated and very easy to use. Grab a cuppa and prepare to spend a substantial amount of time having a look around before you make a firm choice about which one to use. NB: The difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com

TIP 2
Not all free blogging platforms allow creative freedom so, before you sign up, navigate your way around the site to find out just how much control it will give you over the design of your blog etc.

TIP 3
There are an absurd amount of 'blogging community' pages across all social media platforms and some of them have the most insane 'sign up' rules such as, NO SHARING OF YOUR BLOG POST LINKS. Yep, ridiculous!! What's the point of joining if you cannot do the obvious and most necessary thing to have your work be seen/read? Again, ensure you are fully aware of the requirements of these so-called 'communities' before you decide to register, join etc.

TIP 4
You've got to develop a super thick skin and be very bold when it comes to promoting your posts! Share on every applicable platform on which you have a profile/account but, try to do so in a way that's interesting, to the point, friendly, and without any pressure. Yes, you want people to "check out" your work, however, you want them to feel that they have a choice because, well, they do! Research your target audience and plan your marketing strategies.

TIP 5
It's a saturated industry and, to some degree, has become very dog-eat-dog! Some [again, some] bloggers will never support you, they will never help you, they will never give you/your blog a shout out and they will never even 'notice' you unless you are considered successful as deemed by one of the most 'influential'/'elite' bloggers who usually receive their titles from the equally regarded platforms who dish out the awards for 'best bloggers'.

TIP 6
You may struggle if you do not cover Photography, Beauty, Hair, Fashion, Make-Up, Food, Lifestyle [rich lifestyle] or Travel! For whatever reason, the majority of the world cannot get enough of bloggers and vloggers whose content falls into those categories despite just how many websites and YouTube channels now share guides, tutorials, hauls, etc., within these fields. 

TIP 7
Although they may not offer any support, share your work with family and friends. Ask them to also forward your posts on to their contacts whom they think might be interested or could benefit! 

TIP 8
Do not start a blog if you have already begun second guessing whether it's something you "actually want to do", or not. Chances are, it's not something you will commit to long term. In the same tone, starting a blog to make money is also a silly thing to do. Most bloggers will tell you that it can take a good 3-4 years of having to establish yourself and your blog long before you're given any sort of recognition that may potentially lead to monetary opportunities. That said, I do not believe in being money driven. The drive should be your passion, interests and hobbies etc.

I couldn't possibly cover everything however, I hope this is helpful to you. 

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.

FREELANCER TIPS

The bottom line is, you need the most amount of willpower, to be super resilient, immensely dedicated, ridiculously consistent, insanely patient and you must be hugely passionate about what you're doing. 

There are those who assume that blogging [for example] is easy, lots of fun, glamorous and "not a 'real' job". In reality, it's flipping hard [loads of planning, research, preparation, drafts, edits, photography and the rest], it can be incredibly frustrating [mostly the lack of support], there's very little to no glam however, it is definitely something many have made a fab career of.

• Identify what fuels your passion - what do you want to give, or share and why?
• Understand exactly what it will take to commit - not just time, personal sacrifices too!
• Assess your skills and capabilities - do you need to study, learn, etc.?
• Ensure you are aware of [and have] the resources you need to begin - from Internet access to funds - you've got to be willing and able to invest in yourself 
• Be realistic about what is required versus what you can actually do - e.g. who is your target audience and what do they need/want from your service [s]?
• Make sure you have a strong enough database - no contacts/network = no audience
• Start with what you have and, if currently working, stay in your job! - you'll need the money and your colleagues may potentially become your buyers/clients etc.
• Prepare for and accept that you will have to prove yourself - unpaid work to establish yourself, building your database and references is once again the way to go
• Clean up your online presence - you want to be taken seriously and have your services hired
• WORK on your brand - you, your products, your services, your website/Facebook page/Instagram etc.
• Have a plan of action - what, when, how and why are you going to do whatever it is you are wanting to do? How much will you charge? How will you secure clients and retain them?
• Where possible, attend relevant talks, seminars or workshops about going freelance and also anything beneficial relating to your chosen field. [Beware those who may try to sell you follow-up 'courses' - do not allow yourself to be pressured into buying anything. Do your research first!].
• Pay attention to others in your field - what are they doing and how? Where are they finding their clients? What events are they attending? Who are they reaching out to?
• Look for a mentor - could prove to be a big plus and you'll also have an immediate support system

The struggle can be so disgustingly real at times and you may want to quit before you've officially started, or soon after you go freelance, so, always draw strength and inspiration from your passion. Remember why you made the decision to go freelance and make sure you regularly weigh up the pro's and con's. You don't want to walk away from what you love so easily! Be patient.

FYI: I don't believe it's possible to freelance and have a full-time job long term - I mean, headache and stress much...? - However, it's defo possible to do so alongside a part-time contract. That said, be mindful of the fact that it isn't easy and freelancing is not likely to be lucrative for a while if at all. Also, you'll want to create a positive, encouraging working environment for yourself and a strict schedule!

Visit Eventbrite and book anything that you believe will be valuable and is cost effective. Also search Google for more tips and additional freelancer support. 

The world of happiness comes from being able to successfully do your own thing and earn from it too but, it can be so dread at times! Isn't something to step into on a whim, that's for sure!!

Thank you for reading. 

I hope this post was helpful in some way. 

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.

YOU ARE ADORED

Do you know that "YOU ARE ENOUGH"? I hope you answer, "yes, I do" because, you are and, while it would be super lovely, you don't need for anyone to say it for you to know and believe it which is exactly what I Am Adored [affirmation jewellery brand] represents!

Founded by award-winning social entrepreneur and Marketing Executive Caroline Odogwu, this stand out collection of jewellery is a nod to female empowerment and aims to remind women everywhere that they are each uniquely made and adored.

Prior to my interview with Caroline for Real Talk with Charley Jai on Shoreditch Radio [Wednesday 5th April 2017], I did a photoshoot wearing some of the gorgeous pieces from I Am Adored around London's trendy Notting Hill.

It was a day of laughter and reminders for all involved that we are adored and deserve to be!

Photography: Caroline Odogwu

Make-up: Sam Simon

Thanks for reading. 

Always remember that you truly are amazing and are more than enough, God bless x

Written by Charley Jai - @charleyjaiuk

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.