Jan Barley

Blogging strategies to hook your readers? What’s that all about, and how do you do it?

After hopping out of his rusty old VW Polo, my fiancé’s first words to me when we met were, “I’ve bought you six giant-sized packets of M&Ms.”

Well, he got my attention!

What is it about some people that just draw you in the second they *speak*? Great writers know how to entice us to read more right from the first sentence, so shouldn’t we all aspire to that?

I must be honest and admit I’ve found getting my quirky personality into my writing challenging. Skilfully blending topical authority with humour has always evaded me, though I keep trying.

I’ve written this post about blogging strategies as much for me as for you because I have determined to master the art of crafting compelling opening lines.

11 Effective Blogging Strategies for Hooking Your Readers

We bloggers know the need for an alluring title, but how about the first sentence or two? Doesn’t that set the theme for our readers? Moreover, how do we know what matters to them?

Let’s find out.

Tip #1: Identify a Need

Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void with your blog posts? *Cricket noises* Yeah, we’ve all been there.

Here’s the secret for blogging strategies that’ll transform your writing from “meh” to “must-read”: Hook your readers by gently poking at their pain points right from the get-go. You know that annoying problem that keeps them up at night, scrolling through Google at 2 AM. (We’ve all been there too, right?)

All my research suggested this “identify and solve” approach flat-out works.

You don’t need to spill all the beans in your opening line. Letting readers know you’ve got the cure to their headache keeps them glued to your post like a cat to a sunbeam. And trust me, they’ll stick around for the solution.

Read: 7 Types of Blog Content That Google Loves

Tip #2:  Ask a One-Answer Question

Get people thinking by asking a question on your blog posts

Want to know the secret sauce that makes readers nod along with every word you write? Let me introduce you to the mighty “Yes Question” – it’s like a Jedi mind trick for bloggers, minus the hand-waving.

Suppose you’re scrolling through your feed, half-awake, when suddenly a post asks, “Ever stayed up way too late binge-watching make money online videos?” BAM! You’re nodding before you even realise it.

Here’s why this little psychological nugget is pure gold: Not only are you telepathically telling readers, “Hey, I’ve got what you’re looking for!” but you’re also getting them to high-five you mentally.

When someone thinks “Yes!” to your opening question, they’ve signed an invisible contract saying, “Tell me more!” It’s like getting them to admit they need your solution before you even offer it.

But wait, there’s more! These yes-inducing questions aren’t just one-hit wonders. Sprinkle them throughout your post like breadcrumbs, and you’ll lead your readers to your call-to-action like a trail of cookie crumbs leading to… well, cookies. And who doesn’t follow a cookie trail, right? Or M&Ms for me 😊

Tip #3: Ask an Intriguing Question

Your blog posts should make people think and provide answers. One of the best blogging strategies is to spark curiosity, making people eager to know the answer.

Questions like:

“How many M&Ms are in a giant-sized packet?”

“Can you genuinely make money from blogging?”

“Is the Law of attraction real or a pile of poop?”

“What makes your dog howl?”

Make sure the question is relative to your audience.

Tip #4: Become a Pattern Breaker

Surprise your readers and it will wake them up out of the automated state they’re usually in when reading

You could read 48 blog posts on the same subject (why?) and collapse with boredom because of unrelenting repetitiveness. To stop the monotony, sprinkle a few surprising personal anecdotes or unexpected facts that can help your content feel more relatable.

It’s called pattern breaking. When we do it, people get a little spark of adrenaline, possibly dopamine, if it’s highly relatable or funny or anything that causes a shift in a reader’s emotional state.

Read: 7 Ways to Monetise Your Blog for Passive Income

Tip #5: Tell Stories or Share an Analogy

Ever notice how your ears perk up when someone says, “Let me tell you a story”? We’re hardwired to love storytelling, like our love for pizza, M&Ms and our tendency to procrastinate.

Stories are the secret sauce that transforms bland blog posts into mouth-watering content feasts. When you sandwich your expertise between two slices of storytelling, something magical happens: complex ideas suddenly become digestible, and boring statistics transform into edge-of-your-seat drama.

It’s like My childhood science teacher, Mrs Clement-Jones. She was a 4’ 5” ball of energy, and I adored her. She was the coolest teacher who explained photosynthesis using a zombie apocalypse scenario.

Analogies, meanwhile, are your blogging superhero. They swoop in when concepts get tough and carry your readers safely over the canyon of confusion. Think of them as a form of translation to convert industry jargon into everyday language.

Instead of saying, “Market volatility creates investment uncertainty,” you might say, “The stock market is like a roller coaster – thrilling for some, terrifying for others, but everyone needs to stay strapped in for the ride.”

But here’s the kicker: your stories and analogies must resonate with your audience’s reality. Comparing database management to juggling flaming chainsaws might be vivid, but if your readers are small business owners, they might connect better with an analogy about organising a messy garage.

The goal isn’t to show off your creative writing chops – it’s to build bridges between complex ideas and your readers’ everyday experiences.

Remember, though, that these narrative tools are like spices – use just a sprinkle to spice up your prose. Too many stories can turn your informative post into a meandering memoir, and cramming in forced analogies is like putting ketchup on ice cream.

The sweet spot is using just enough to make your points stick while keeping your content moving forward like a well-paced thriller.

Tip #6: Make the Occasional Bold Claim

Don’t be afraid to make a few bold claims – as long as they are true to you

Want to grab your readers by the eyeballs from word one? Sometimes, you need to make a bold declaration that stops the scroll.

Picture yourself as the friend who bursts into the room with, “You’ll never believe what just happened!” – except instead of gossip, you’re promising life-changing solutions.

Lines like “Today, I’ll show you how to make $10k a month from your blog” or “Get ready to learn how to create 30 blog posts in 2 hours” pack the same punch as a double espresso – they wake people up and demand attention.

But here’s the juicy part – you can also drop a truth bomb about your success. It’s like showing up to a poker game and laying down a royal flush.

I shared on LinkedIn that “this blog post ranked on page one in 4 hours” – that post spread like wildfire because it wasn’t just bragging. It was proof that the impossible is possible.

Remember that if you’re going to make big promises, you better deliver the goods. Nothing turns readers into angry villagers with pitchforks faster than empty hype.

Tip #7: Don’t be Afraid to Be Controversial

Have you ever noticed that people with strong opinions get notably more attention than fence-sitters?

Some social media influencers master the art of throwing out a controversial opinion because they know it will gain massive attention from supporters and those with conflicting views.

Want to light a fire under your readers’ scrolling thumbs? Drop a spicy opinion bomb like “Apple’s latest iPhone is a glorified paperweight” or “Remote work is killing creativity“, – and watch your comment section explode faster than a microwave burrito with the wrapper still on.

Just remember that controversy is like wasabi – a little goes a long way, and while it certainly gets attention, you want your readers fired up about your ideas, not reaching for digital pitchforks.

Tip #8: Show, Don’t Tell: Paint Vivid Pictures

Painting vivid pictures creates an emotional connection – people feel more connected to your content

Observe how your heart races when someone says, “Picture this…” and then they describe your worst nightmare or wildest dream. It’s like having a mental movie projector that brings ideas to life, making your palms sweat or your smile widen.

Let me show you how to be the Steven Spielberg of blogging: Paint a scene that hits home. Maybe you write, “Imagine waking up to your first $1000 day from passive income” or “Picture yourself staring at an empty savings account the day your car breaks down.”

Both scenes punch straight in the gut, don’t they?

When you get readers to fire up their mental green screens, you’re not just writing – you’re directing a personalised blockbuster in their minds. You can make them feel the triumph of crushing their goals or the cold sweat of potential failure.

A writer who can tap into emotions is highly successful. There’s no argument there.

Tip #9: Quote Some Surprising Statistics

Want to make your readers’ jaws drop faster than a skydiver without a parachute? Try hitting them with a stat that stops their scroll. Here are a few examples:

• “90% of startup founders burn out before their first profitable year”
• “95% of people quit digital marketing in the first few months
• “The average person spends more time choosing Netflix shows than planning their retirement.”
• “Only 2% of LinkedIn posts get any engagement”

Tip #10: Sprinkle in Powerful Quotes

Add a few relevent spicy quotes to blog posts

Let’s talk about quote power – but forget those tired Gandhi and Einstein lines. The key is picking quotes that feel like a bucket of cold water to the face – unexpected enough to wake people up but relevant enough to make them think. Here are a few examples:

“The cemetery is full of people who thought the world couldn’t go on without them.”– Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

(Perfect for a post about work-life balance or letting go of perfectionism)

“Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” – Winston Churchill

(Great for a post about entrepreneurship or resilience)

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

(Ideal for a post about leadership or motivation)

Tip #11: Lead with an Impactful Image

I was guilty of not adding enough images to my blog posts. I’m gradually updating aged posts and adding more.

Why?

Firstly, we’re visual creatures. We respond more to a colourful or exciting graphic than a text block.

Secondly, it breaks up the text, which makes it easier to read.

Thirdly, use relevant alt images and titles for your images. That can help them show up in Google SERPs.

Remember to save images as JPG, not PNG, as the latter can slow page loading,

Conclusion

So, there you have it—11 blogging strategies to give your posts a bit more bite. I will practice like crazy, and I hope you find these blogging strategies will increase your readership.

Start as you mean to go on as a blogger and avoid these 17 mistakes bloggers make

Mistakes that bloggers make can put your website back by months, if not years.

Are you a budding blogger eager to get your new site off the ground? Or perhaps you’ve recently started your first blog and want to ensure you’re on the right track?

I made most of the mistakes bloggers make, and I can honestly say I lost motivation for years because my blog didn’t experience growth or create an income.

I started getting it *right* in April 2024, and my blog is now growing exponentially.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll unveil the pitfalls hindering your blog’s growth and profitability and provide you with the practical solutions I use to overcome them.

Whether you’re a novice or an established writer, this post will be your roadmap to building a successful blog.

The Common Mistakes New Bloggers Make

I made 75% of the following mistakes, so there’s no reason for you to make the same errors with your blog.

Let’s jump in.

#1: Not Choosing A Niche For Your Blog

I’ve listed niche selection first because it is crucial to clarify what you plan to *talk* about and to who. The narrower you can niche down, the better. It will help you choose a target audience and create a customer avatar.

I used generative AI to help me outline a customer avatar, so have a read of that post and use the free prompt.

#2: Opting for Free Hosting

Professional hosting isn’t expensive. I pay £7.20 monthly for WordPress hosting. Opting for free hosting suggests you aren’t serious about building your blog. You likely also have a free domain name, which, quite frankly, looks pants if you’re sharing it on social media.

Professional hosting ensures you get an SSL certificate, fast and secure loading and support if something goes wrong. You can back up your site and trust that you’re presenting a professional blog presence.

Two established hosting companies I recommend are A2 Hosting and Bluehost.

Disclaimer: If you purchase hosting, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

#3: Failing to Use SEO

An SEO blogging strategy is essential to drive traffic to your blog

The lifeblood of your blog is traffic. It’s challenging to get enough traffic from social media. You’re at the whim of the algorithms, which can limit your reach.

In late April 2024, my blog had 1,000 impressions monthly and 20 clicks. Seven months later, I have 26k impressions weekly, 600 ranking organic keywords, and 235+ clicks.

Learn simple SEO (search engine optimisation). I did the free HubSpot SEO certification in 2020, which enabled me to make a full-time income as an SEO writer.

#4: Choosing a Poor Domain Name

Choose your domain name carefully because once you have built traffic with ranking content, you’re kinda stuck with the name. I love the name Wolfheart, and I can’t change it now as I have hundreds of top-ranking keywords.

Avoid domain names with digits, such as bloggin4you. It’s tacky, and Google doesn’t like domain names like that.

#5: Failing to Set Permalink Structure Correctly

This mistake was one I made earlier on my journey. If you’re using WordPress for your blog, the permalink structure may look like www.myblog/2024/12/11/mistakes-bloggers-make.

It’s best to simplify the permalink to www.myblog/mistakes-bloggers-make

Here’s how to quickly change permalinks in WordPress:

• Go to dashboard and *settings* (left column)
• Click on *settings* and *permalinks*
• Choose *post name*
• Click on *save*

If you have existing posts with the *day and name* permalink setting, when you change to *post name*, those posts will show as a 404 error. The only solution to that is to create redirects.

#6: Choosing A Free WordPress Theme

Professional WordPress themes are typically fast-loading and mobile-friendly. Some free themes are clunky and not as effective as a paid theme.

After paying for a theme, you should automatically receive free updates for life.

#7: Not Having A Content Strategy

A well-crafted content strategy can make growing your blog much easier

Randomly writing blog content is a poor strategy. Before writing a single word, plan a content strategy based on your niche.

Pick a pillar post and multiple content clusters. Link them together and keep a spreadsheet to keep track of internal linking when you create similar content for the pillar post.

#8: Failing to Publish Content Consistently

With generative AI, there’s no excuse for writing and publishing content consistently. You don’t need to write 4,000-word articles. Mix in-depth, long-form content with 1,000 to 1,500 words to avoid blogging burnout.

I use Claude AI and ChatGPT for outlines, competitor research and more. I’m putting together a digital product with the AI prompts I use, so stay tuned.

#9: Leaving Monetisation Until You Have a Lot of Content

Start monetising your blog from day one, or at least once you have a dozen or so articles. It can be challenging to get affiliate approval if you have limited traffic, so pick merchants that automatically approve. Choose affiliate programs or join an affiliate network to find instant approval merchants.

Consider creating a digital product and sales page to promote them.

#10: Not Updating Content Regularly

Updating aged content can be as powerful for SEO as publishing new content. I use the WordPress plugin *WP Last Modified Info*. It shows the publishing date and adds an updated date when you add new content.

From an SEO perspective, that helps Google bots identify fresh content.

Also consider adding a Table of Contents plugin as that’s another helpful SEO tip.

#11: Failing to Use Strategic H Tags

Your blog posts should have multiple headings to break up the text. You can use keyword synonyms within those headings.

Try to plan a H2 heading with 2-3 H3 subheadings then move to the next H2 and H3’s. It makes it easier for browsers and Google bots to read.

For listicles, add an H2 introduction to the list and follow with an H2 conclusion. Always number listicles (as I have in this post) because Google loves lists! For each item on the list, use H3 subheadings.

#12: Not Considering User Experience

Here are examples of a poor user experience:

• White writing on a pale background
• Dark writing on a dark background
• Not understanding colour psychology – some colours create a subconscious response, such as too much yellow makes people feel nauseous, and too much red makes people feel agitated. Use bold colours sparingly and do a Google search on colour wheels for psychology.
• Not considering visual flow: Huge blocks of text are annoying. Have no more than 3-4 sentences per paragraph. People scan content for what’s relevant to them.
• Forgetting to check for auditory rhythm – ALWAYS read your final draft out loud. You will hear *sticky* sentences. I use Microsoft Word *read aloud*
• Not varying sentence length. Sentences should be no more than 24 words. Use short and long sentence lengths to keep the reader interested.
• Writing too formally: Use protractions and write conversationally, as if you’re talking with a friend.

#13: Not Using Internal & External Links

For SEO, you need internal and external links on all posts. Use relevant anchor text so the link is appropriate to the conversation.

Spread links throughout the content so they’re not all bunched up in a few paragraphs.

#14: Not Using an SEO Plugin

An SEO plugin is essential to ensure your content is optimised for Google SERPs and readability. I use the free version of *Yoast*.

The plugin gives you feedback on how to optimise a post correctly. It advises how often to mention the primary keyword and tells you when you’ve done a good job.

#15: Not Curating Your Blog Content

Curating your blog content is a quick and easy way to get more traffic. You can create social media posts, reels, TikTok videos, etc.

Social media marketing can become exhausting. I advise focusing on search engine marketing using the following platforms:

• Pinterest: Pinterest is a search engine grossly overlooked by most bloggers. It’s a slow burn, but you can promote your blog content on your pins and drive traffic to your articles. Read my articles on the best Pinterest courses and the best Pinterest pin design course. Both helped me with my Pinterest marketing and I now create and sell Pinterest pin templates.
• YouTube: OK, I know it’s time-consuming to create video content, and I am guilty of procrastinating on curating YouTube, but don’t be me!

#16: Not Setting up Google Console & Google Analytics

Monitor your analytics from day one so you can measure your blog’s progress

When starting a blog, measuring progress is essential, which is impossible to do without analysing growth.

Since Google Analytics switched to G4, I admit it’s a bit tricky to understand. I use Google Console most days to assess traffic and clicks. It shows which pages are performing so you can write more content and add internal links to and from that post.

#17: Not Setting Up An Email List

I am guilty as hell with this mistake bloggers make. I keep putting it off, and I’m ashamed to admit it. I’ve built capture pages for digital products I sell and am a certified sales funnel builder, so I have no excuse for my tardiness.

You can set up a free email campaign with Systeme, which is relatively easy for beginners and free for life. Read my review on Systeme for beginners.

Use ChatGPT to help you create an email sequence. It gives you a framework to work from.

 Conclusion

The mistakes bloggers make can go into the dozens, but the above are vital to getting it right from the start. Blogging can take a few years to gain sufficient traction to create a passive income, so monetising from day one is essential.

Slow down and plan a solid content strategy. Use generative AI to shorten the process and continually monitor your progress. If you don’t want to set up Google Analytics, Ubersuggest’s free version gives a pretty good breakdown, including an SEO audit, number or organic keywords ranking and more.

If you want to make additional income whilst building your blog, have a read of 38 websites that pay bloggers to write.

Finding websites that pay bloggers to write can be tricky. You don’t want to get caught up working with a low-paying content mill. It’s best to write for websites with a good reputation.

If you are unsure how and where to start making money with your blog, writing content for others is a great place to start.

There are many ways to monetise your blog, such as ad revenue and affiliate marketing, but if you want a fast way to make money online from blogging, here are 40 platforms that can help you get started.

Writing blog content is not passive income, but it’s money in the bank doing what you love: blogging.

I began my writing journey as a ghostwriter, writing blog posts for various clients and made a full-time income writing blog content for 2-4 clients.

I still write blog content for clients, some as authored content and others ghostwritten

Writing Blog Content for Beginners

You don’t need to be a highly experienced writer to start getting writing gigs. You can start making money as a freelance writer straight out of the gate. Moreover, websites that pay bloggers need quality writers and many of them pay exceptionally well.

Whether you’re a mom who enjoys writing and wants extra income or an experienced blogger seeking part-time writing work, you can get hired.

Most writing gigs are freelance, meaning you can choose your work hours.

Imagine getting paid $700 per blog post. One post a week would net you $3k monthly. What a difference that would make to your life.

OK, they’re not all well-paid gigs, but even the lower-paid blog writing jobs start adding up when you’ve published a few.

38 Sites That Pay Bloggers To Write

I’ve checked all of the following publications (November 2024) but I advise double checking and thoroughly reading submission guidlines for these websites that pay bloggers to write .

#1: American Gardener

First on the list of websites that pay bloggers to write is American Gardener.

If you’re an amateur gardener, the 64-page, bi-monthly American Gardeners seeks applications for articles covering a wide range of gardening topics, from high-end garden design to gardening history.

Publication Pays: Up to $600
Link: American Gardener

#2: Anxiety Foundation

The Anxiety Foundation is a publication that supports those experiencing anxiety. Articles must be 550 words and above and demonstrate expertise and evidential research.

Supported images must be copyrighted free, and you can add backlinks to your website.

Publication Pays: A one-off $50 after publishing
Link: Anxiety Foundation

#3:  List Apart

If you love writing listicles about web design and associated subjects, A List Apart is the perfect platform. They accept submissions from 600 – 2500 words (average is 1500 words).

You can submit a pitch, rough, or final draft following their style guidelines.

Publication Pays: From $50 to $200 per featured article
Link: A List Apart

#4: Bible Advocate Online

If you love writing Christian content, Bible Advocate Online pays up to $65 per post

There’s a demand for Christian bloggers, and the Bible Advocate Online is always looking for good writers focusing on the ministry of reconciliation.

As a Christian blogger, you can grow your brand and audience by posting guest content on faith-based sites. The Bible Advocate Online is one such place.

It’s not the best-paid publication, but every little helps, right?

Publication Pays: Up to $65
Link: Bible Advocate Online

#5: B Michelle Pippin

B Michelle Pippin is a site that helps women in business make money and become profitable. The editors are looking for experts who can share unique perspectives on business and career.

Publication Pays: $50 to $150 per article.
Link: B Michele Pippin

#6: Backcountry

Backcountry is a publication focusing on skiing and snowboarding and everything associated with snow sports.

They want original, well-researched and newsworthy stories featuring characters in the sport, mountain skills, destinations, current events, etc.

Publication Pays: $0.35 per word
Link: Backcountry

#7: BuzzFeed

Buzzfeed is a digital media platform that features news articles, humorous listicles, quizzes, and content that has the potential to go viral.

There’s scope to write on various topics, including food, entertainment and lifestyle. Topic requirements change, so always check submission requirements before pitching.

Their content is primarily entertaining listicles.

Publication Pays: Various depending on your expertise, subject matter, etc., but it won’t be chicken feed rates.
Link: BuzzFeed

#8: Carve Magazine

Carve magazine pays for short stories, non-fiction, and poetry if you enjoy creative writing.

Publication Pays: $100 (submissions currently show as closed due to backlog)
Link: Carve Magazine

#9: Clarkesworld

Earn $0.10 per word writing fiction and no-fiction stories for Clarkes World

For you sci-fi buffs, Clarkes World invites submissions for fiction and non-fiction science-fiction pieces.

This award-winning monthly sci-fi and fantasy magazine publishes articles, short stories, audio fiction and interviews.

Publication Pays: $0.10 per word
Link: ClarkesWorld

#10: Communication Arts

This magazine focuses on advertising, photography, illustrations, design, and typography. It suits photography bloggers or web designers and is an excellent publication for submitting guest posts.

Communication arts want topical features on emerging trends, tools, and social issues within the design community.

If you are a photography blogger or offer website design, you could guest post for this magazine.

Publication Pays: Negotiable when you pitch your ideas
Link: Communication Arts

#11: Cracked

Cracked wants *good* writers but doesn’t define what that means. You can write about various topics, including movies and pop culture.

It’s somewhat disappointing that the submission guidelines page is outdated, talking about 2020.

Publication Pays: $250 per article
Link: Cracked

Get paid to write by registering for paid online writing jobs

#12: Daily Science Fiction

Daily Science Fiction published short stories for speculative fiction fans. Word count varies from 100 to 1500, which is a weird range. Additionally, the magazine considers flash series submissions with a minimum of three.

They don’t invite erotica or horror but welcome fantasy, science fiction, and slipstream.

Publication Pays: $0.08 per word
Link: Daily Science Fiction

#13: DAME Magazine

This women-led media company publishes insightful, edgy content on current events, culture, politics, etc., focusing on embracing human-centric, thoughtful, but diverse perspectives and unique voices, leading with storytelling.

Publication Pays: $350 to $750
Link: DAME

#14: Doctor of Credit

Doctors of Credit invites submissions of over 600 words from financial bloggers who can write about personal finance, credit, making money and related topics.

Suppose you become a regular contributor. Doctor of Credit offers official writing positions with a fixed fee or revenue share per post (or a mix of both).

Publication Pays: $50
Link: Doctor of Credit

#15: Earth Island Journal

If you enjoy writing long-form content on environmental issues, you can earn $200 per post

If you enjoy writing informative and inspiring long-form articles on environmental issues, Earth Island Journal welcomes well-researched articles of up to 4k words. The most common length is just under 3000 words.

Earth Island Journal publishes features, news, reviews, essays, interviews and analyses. They will want to see evidence of published content.

Earth Island Journal combines investigative journalism and inspiring stories to highlight environmental issues and solutions.

Publication Pays: $200
Link: Earth Island Journal

#16: Elite Personal Finance

Elite Personal Finance is a site that helps readers understand and improve their finances. They share credit advice, financial tips and money management strategies.

If you’re a whiz with finances and can demonstrate your experience, Elite Personal Finance invites high-quality content that is helpful with a unique spin. That might be in-depth guides, listicles, and top tips on personal finances. The minimum word count is 1000 words.

Publication Pays: $300
Link: Elite Personal Finance

#17: Freelance Mom

Freelance Mom is a community of moms who share their experiences running a freelance business, notably balancing work life with family time.

Freelance Mom wants content that shares practical and actionable advice based on personal experience. Word count is from 900 to 1500 words.

Publication Pays: $75 – $150 (potential $150 bonus if your article has the most monthly shares)
Link: FreelanceMom

#18: Funds for Writers

Funds for Writers is a site that helps writers learn how to make a living from writing. The platform wants “no fluff” succinct content from 550 to 600 words.

Share resources, advice and tips for writers, such as freelance opportunities (you could share some of these websites), resources, tools, grants, etc.

Publication Pays: $100 for original articles & $25 for 90 day+ reprints.
Link: FundsforWriters

#19: Go World Travel

Write about travel and earn up to $40

Go World Travel publishes articles about world travel, such as tips, guides, travel stories, cultural insights and more. The objective is to inspire its readers.

The website accepts travel articles from 850 to 1600 words and up to eight photographs.

Go World Travel does not accept guest posts.

Publication Pays: $30-$40
Link: Go World Travel

#20: Her View From Home

This lifestyle magazine wants heartfelt stories, parenting and family advice, and tips on relationships, grief, and faith. Articles may be topical or general. Her View From Home invites submissions of 600 – 800 words.

Publication Pays: $10 to $100 (payment based on views)
Link: Her View From Home

#21: Horse Network

If you adore horses, write for Horse Network. They invite submissions of 500 to 750 well-researched words.

Your content can be funny, satirical list stories, opinion pieces, barn hacks and more.

Publication Pays: $50 per post. There’s a bonus of $100 if your content gets shared over 1000 times on social media.
Link: Horse Network

#22: IncomeDiary

IncomeDiary is an established publication (2009) that provides strategies and insights for entrepreneurs, bloggers, and marketers who want to build an online business. You can write about SEO, traffic generation, websites, content creation and making money online.

Publication Pays: Up to $200. If you can provide evidence of writing similar high-quality content, you can submit a quote of $150 to $300.
Link: Income Diary

#23: International Living

If you’re an expat living overseas, earm extra income writing for International Living about your experience

International Living is all about affordably retiring abroad and living a comfortable life. Subject matter includes investing overseas, retiring, living abroad, etc.

The publication requires content such as listicles, travel hacks, in-depth guides, etc. The word count is 600 to 1600 words, and they want content from expats who have personal experience travelling and retiring overseas.

Publication Pays: A one-time rate (unspecified) based on word count.
Link: International Living

#24: Listverse

I once worked for a company writing 5-10 listicles a week. I thought it would be boring, but once you get into the groove, you can write a decent listicle in an hour or so.

Listverse is a long-established organisation (2009) that invites submissions that share obscure, bizarre or fascinating lists on subjects like politics, entertainment, food, science, and history. Your lists should be a minimum of ten.

Unlike most publications, Listverse reply to every submission, even if it’s a rejection!

An example of a Listverse listicle is “10 Scientists Who Enabled Brains to Survive Bodily Death”.

It could be a fun gig.

Publication Pays: $100 per list
Link: Listverse

#25: Longreads

Longreads is what it says on the tin. The publication invites submissions for in-depth 2000 to 6000-word essays and columns. Articles must be personal and well-researched, citing sources where applicable.

Longreads also publish curated reading lists, which isn’t as simple as writing a list of books. It’s crucial to read Longreads submission guidelines.

I haven’t written for this publication as I find it a bit starchy.

Publication Pays: $350 for a reading list and $500 for an essay or column.
Link: Longreads

#26: Make a Living Writing

Make a Living Writing is a blog that provides guidance and practical advice for aspiring freelance writers. That may include writing craft, blogging, writing tools, pitching clients, improving writing skills, overcoming self-doubts and more.

You can find invites for open pitches on Make a Living Writing’s Facebook page.

However, consider that you will likely compete with hundreds of submissions from other bloggers. That said, the page shares helpful resources, such as other publications for writing opportunities.

Publication Pays: $150 – $230
Link: Make a Living Writing

#27: Metro Parent

Work from home by getting paid to write about your parenting for parents in southeast Michigan

Metro Parent is a parenting magazine that provides insights for parents in southeast Michigan. The magazine invites submissions for the following:

• Features: 1200 to 2500 words with pieced or traditional narrative featuring local sources
• Pulse: 150-400 words on places, people, tips and trends
• Why: 600 words on child development for children of all ages
• Voice: 600 words – a personal perspective from a parent
• Profiles: 800+ words on a local parent
• My Obsession: 50 words on something loved by your family (toy, website, product, etc)
• Tips & Tricks: 50 words on a helpful idea, product or hack

Publication Pays: From $25 to $200
Link: Metro Parent

#28: Money Pantry

Money Pantry is all about making and saving money. They prefer content from 1000 to 2000 words and welcome new writers. Their writing style is conversational, which is great for bloggers.

Share real-life examples and focus on writing content that helps readers understand how to grow their finances.

Publication Pays: Up to $150
Link: Money Pantry

#29: Motherly

Motherly is a website for parenting stories with a fresh perspective for mothers. Submit stories from 700 to 900 words. The website aims to help mothers feel less alone and more understood.

Publication Pays: $50
Link: Motherly

#30: PTO Today

This quarterly magazine provides essential resources for parent group leaders (parent-teacher organisations) across the United States.

Your content should be 600 to 1500 words, focusing on helping parent group leaders become better organised and more efficient to support their schools more effectively.

Publication Pays: $150 to $500 (Potentially more for high-impact stories)
Link: PTO Today

#31: Sail Magazine

Earn from $200 to $800 writing about sailing

For sailing lovers, Sail Magazine invites submissions of 1500 to 3000 words, such as features, “how to” technical guides, sailing news, sailing memories and voice of experience.

Publication Pays: $200 – $800
Link: Sail Magazine

#32: Serious Eats

Do you love writing about food? If so, Serious Eats invites submissions of 800 to 2000 words on food-related content. They’re not keen on receiving recipes as they do that in-house, but anything else on food, cooking and eating goes.

Publication Pays: $100
Link: Serious Eats

#33: The Revelator

The Revelator is an environmental magazine covering climate change, pollution, conservation, wildlife, etc. The publication reaches many thought leaders and those engaged in environmental issues, primarily in the United States.

The guidelines don’t specify a word count requirement, so look at existing content.

Publication Pays: $300 for new contributors and $350 for returning contributors.
Link: The Revelator

#34: Vox

Vox is a generalised publication that publishes content on various topics, including science, politics, health, technology, culture, etc.

Rather than submit a completed story, Vox prefers working with writers, helping you to shape your story to suit the publication, so don’t submit completed articles. Word count ranges from 1000 to 2500 words.

Publication Pays: Up to $0.50 to $1.00 per word (very generous!)
Link: Vox

#35: We Are Teachers

Share your stories about teaching and get paid $100 per post

We Are Teachers publishes short-form, practical, inspirational and funny stories about teaching. Guest post requirements are between 500 to 700 words.

If you’re new to blogging about teaching, join the We Are Teachers Contributors Facebook group, where you can learn more about writing for this publication.

Publication Pays: $100
Link: We Are Teachers

#36: Western Art & Architecture

Western Art & Architecture magazine is for art collectors across the United States, so you must have experience with this subject.

Browse current blog posts to get a flavour of what the magazine requires. The guidelines don’t specify word count requirements.

Publication Pays: $400 – $600
Link: Western Art & Architecture

#37: WOW! Women on Writing

WOW! Women on Writing is a digital magazine for women writers.

They advise subscribing to the Markets Newsletter and Author Marketing Newsletter to get a flavour of submission requirements.

Thoroughly familiarise yourself with WOW! Women on Writing before submitting a pitch.

Publication Pays: $50 – $75
Link: WOW! Women on Writing

#38: Writer’s Digest

The final publication on the list of websites that pay bloggers to write  is Writer’s Digest, which is over a century old! It’s the leading resource for non-fiction and fiction writers. You can submit articles of 1200 to 2500 words.

Although Writers Digest accept submissions from new writers, you stand a better chance of publishing if you have proven writing credentials, such as an active blog.

Publication Pays: $0.50 per word
Link: Writer’s Digest

How to Get Writing Submissions Published

Start building a portfoilio and focus on continually improving your writing work

We all start with no experience, but I suggest building a portfolio of writing work. That helps strengthen your writing *muscles* and shows publications you can write to their standard.

Work through this list of websites that pay bloggers to write and choose ones you feel aligned with. Bookmark them for later.

Write content on a free platform like Medium, for instance. That’s where I started. I also posted links to my blog content on Contently, which is free.

Here are a few tips I use to approach websites that pay bloggers to write and get my pitches accepted by an editor.

Focus on Writing Helpful Content For Readers

Every piece of writing SHOULD focus on the reader. Write in a conversation style (depending on the publication guidelines) to encourage the reader to continue reading the entire piece and want more of your content.

After reading, readers should feel better informed and have actionable steps if relevant.

Always Create An Outline

Your content should follow a natural progression with a beginning, middle and end.

An outline saves time and helps your brain better engage with the content you’re about to write.

I often use ChatGPT or Claude AI to suggest outlines. Generative AI doesn’t always do the best job, but I use its outlines as a starting point for building my own.

An example of an outline:

What is blogging?
Can a beginner start blogging?
What’s the best platform for hosting a blog?
How many blogs should you write?
How many words should a blog post be?
Can I use AI to help write blog posts?
Do you need SEO for blog posts?
Top tips for successful blogging?

You can build in headings and sub-headings if you start with a framework.

Write What You Know About

It’s easier to stay motivated to keep writing when you plug into topics you understand and enjoy.

Admittedly, when writing work is thin on the ground, it’s tempting to accept any writing work. I’ve done that many times and got my head around subjects I’m not especially interested in.

That said, there are enough publications to find writing work you enjoy.

Always Check Publication Guidelines & Style

Every publication has a different style guide and guidelines. Some use the Oxford comma. Some capitalise headings, but others don’t. Never assume. If you’re working with an editor, always clarify requirements. It will save hours spent editing later.

Conclusion: 38 Websites that Pay Bloggers to Write 

I hope you enjoyed reading about the 38 websites that pay bloggers to write. Some aren’t so well paid but can be an excellent entry point for new writers.

Don’t undersell yourself. Publications need writers cranking out quality content, or they have nothing to offer their readers. You can get regular work once you get in with a company and prove your worth.

My final word is this. NEVER put all your eggs in one basket. I had a sweet gig writing listicles for a few months. They had about thirty writers and a ton of work. Suddenly, overnight, they cut their writers down to ten.

Other times, editors move on, and new editors bring in their writers. Never rely on one source of income. Ideally, work with a handful of publications to keep a steady income flow regardless of any falling by the wayside.

You can find more websites that pay bloggers to write by searching google with the term “write for us + (insert topic). So, if you want to write about fashion, use “write for us + fashion”

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links on this page. If you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.