Many people think of blogging as merely a hobby. However, it can be more than just a way to express what’s going on in your life, or how you’re feeling. Blogging can be an incredibly profitable business if you know what you’re doing.  Some of the most successful blogs bring in as many as millions a year. Sound impossible? It’s not!

The first thing you need to know is that it won’t be an easy road. It will require a lot of dedication and hard work in order to gain a following. However, if you’re committed, it’s entirely possible to quit your day job forever and focus on blogging. You can get some quick tips on how to do this from the business writers at Brand Stories.

Here are some of the most effective ways to make money from starting a blog.

Create Interesting Content

The first thing you’ll need to start gaining attention is to create exciting content.  What will draw people to your blog, and what can you offer that no one else can? Make sure that you’re posting relevant content that people can relate to.  In order to keep your reader’s attention, you’ll need to keep them interested.

Make sure that your content is consistent and full of high-quality, colorful images. If you’re an expert on something, why not use that as your niche? People love to go to blogs to learn more about subjects they’re interested in. 

Enable Ads

To make money on your blog at first, you’ll need to start at square one, which is enabling an ad space.  To monetize off with your blog, you’ll need to sell an advertising space where businesses can promote their products. The more popular that your blog gets, the more that you’ll get paid for an advertising space.

In some cases, they may even ask you to promote their product in a blog post, in which case you can charge even more.

Offer Consulting

Consulting can be an incredibly profitable niche.  If you’re someone who specializes in just about anything, you can charge for your expertise.  You can offer everything from phone calls to Skype video chats, or even email consultations. 

Join an Affiliate Program

There are many products out there looking for people to join their affiliate program.  Many bloggers find great success with affiliate sales. Look for affiliate products that have higher prices to make it worth your time. 

Have a Giveaway

Let’s face it; people love a good deal!  Having a giveaway or contest on your blog is a great way to draw people to your page.  The best way to do this is to find a business related to your blog’s niche and offer to have a giveaway for their product on your page.  Both you and the company can benefit from gaining followers off of the giveaway. More followers mean more money!