They say blogging is about adding value to the audience, and I couldn’t agree more. But, how to add value when you know nothing about the process of developing content online?
A few months back, I was scratching the surface—learning about entrepreneurship and looking for ways to integrate it with nursing. I became obsessed with the idea of building an online reputation, which could benefit me as well as my audience.
A Nursepreneur (nurse + entrepreneur) was something I was envisioning for myself. However, I couldn’t figure out a way to implement my idea on the ground.
And this is precisely what happens with most of us. There’s no doubt that “start” is the most difficult thing to do. However, once you’re in that zone where you can figure out the way, you’ll know what to do next.
To contribute to your endeavors for getting into that zone, I’d like to share my journey as a nurse who has made blogging a priority.
I started learning about nurse blogging from some great personalities out there.
For bringing an idea to the ground, you need access to resources. Likewise, for learning something that you’re oblivious to, you need guidance from experts. That’s what I sought, and that’s what I got when I started reading blogs on The Nerdy Nurse and The Inspiration Nurse.
While the former is a blog that is run by Britteny Wilson—BSN, RN, the latter is a website owned by Donna Cardillo—RN, MA, CSP, FAAN. Both of them have been pioneers of nurse blogging. I won’t go into much detail because then I’ll keep appreciating. That’s my nature, fortunately; 😀
When I became a consistent reader of their posts, I recognized that there’s a lot we, as nurses, ignore. That “lot” is brand building on the Internet. Why can’t nurses build their reputation online? Why can’t they turn their ideas into a profitable business?
To keep everything afresh, I started noting questions like the above. They motivated me from time to time to do something unique.
Then came Entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship is a common word; however, most of us don’t comprehend the entirety of its meaning. A few months back, entrepreneurship seemed alien to me, but as I read along about successful entrepreneurs and their characteristics, my interest grew.
On a fine Thursday in February, an idea struck my mind. I thought of integrating the concepts “of entrepreneurship” and “nursing.” Nursing and midwife had been my niche domains, and therefore, this made all the sense in the world.
The next thing I did was list down the facets associated with the life of a nurse entrepreneur. What followed was not only a list but an entire document (a comprehensive one) about the field of nursing and midwife and how these professions aligned with the business.
When I completed writing my ideas, I observed that there’s so much we, as nurse entrepreneurs, can achieve. That’s when I decided to finally start my own blog, for I wanted everyone to understand the potential a nurse and midwife possesses.
So, what do you need to become a blogger?
First off, you need a vision that suits your field and aligns with the resources at your disposal in the present. Trust me; you’d want to constrain yourself and save your resources in the beginning.
Second, you need to have a strategy about what you want to post and how you want to go about it.
Third, you must know your audience because only audience-centered content has the ability to add value to the people who read your article or watch your video.
Fourth, you must have sound grammar if you’re writing, good editing skills if you’re into making videos or sound designing skills if you want to go for infographics.
But, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be an expert. Just have the basics at your disposal, and you’re good to go.
Finally, should you become a blogger?
That depends on how you foresee your career. Let’s say you’re into research; then, there’s no sense in spending your time on the blog unless you have something specific to share.
Starting a blog means taking responsibility for yourself and paving the way in the digital world. Believe me, a person with an excellent online presence can do wonders if his or her content is worthwhile.
Besides, blogging allows you to share your experiences, associate with more people, and justify yourself and your skills. Nurse blogging is at its helm these days, and that’s due to a reason—a good brand reputation.
In simple words, blogging supports you in your personal branding.
Also, if you become a good blogger, you’ll have a way to earn. Some of the nurse bloggers that I have come in contact with make their living by blogging about their field.
I hope the information provided above helped you in your decision about blogging. If you want to have a discussion about the same, I’m all ears. Reach out to me on Nursingpreneur.
Stay healthy and stay safe.