Since I started my blog Faded Spring in 2015, there has been a rise and fall in social media channels and an increased number of blogging channels being ‘set up’ creating a saturated blogging market. With over 152 million ‘recorded’ blogs in the bloggersphere, bloggers are finding it harder to set themselves apart from their competitors, which has led to an increase of blogs turned into magazines, a shift towards ‘vlog-led content’ and even using ‘Instagram’ as a ‘primary blog channel’. While remarkable changes in blog formating, auditory content and ‘transformative marketing strategies’ has allowed new bloggers to find new ways to ‘create inspiring content’ for a mass audience, the future of blogging still remains as inconclusive as it did five years ago. The truth is with the increased augmentation of ‘digital technologies’ it can be hard to predict what the future holds for bloggers but by analyzing patterns in audience consumption emerging ‘digital trends’ can be found.
The future of blogging is therefore a contentious topic to discuss but nevertheless an ‘important one’ at that. As bloggers it is imperative that we ensure our content remains ‘valid’ and ‘current’, whether it be ‘evergreen’ or personal and it is important that we establish how the future of blogging may pan out in order to remain ‘relevant’. Part of remaining relevant is through diversifying our income, so that we are not putting all our eggs in one basket. Instead of focusing on just blogging as a ‘side hustle’, we should work out how we can stay ahead of the game. You might create your own influencer marketing agency, lease out co-working spaces, or even start your own clothing line. Ippei has a great future business idea list, that can help you stay relevant as a Blogger.
Instagram Will Become A Primary ‘Blog Channel’
Already in 2017, I have seen fellow bloggers focus on targeting their ‘Instagram’ as a primary ‘blog channel’, because its mix of ‘visual’ and brief ‘read-write content’ has meant that it is a smart platform to monetize content. Critics have determined that we are moving away from long-term content i.e Blogs in favour of ‘temporary visuals’ as seen on Instagram because although it does not drive substantial traffic, it is a cohesive tool to make a substantial income. Of course the concept of following in ratio to sponsorship is one that I question, since many people can buy their following but it makes sense that we are using Instagram to purchase-whether that be through affiliate links or sponsorship ads- because our ‘favourite bloggers’ are promoting products on there. Some might argue that Instagram makes ‘product purchasing’ more readily available than blogs, which I disagree with but nevertheless I have seen many bloggers shift their focus away from their blogs to make an ‘Instagram Blog’.
Take Sarah Ashcroft; Having started ‘The Pommie Girl’ in September 2013, Ashcroft re-configured her approach to marketing and decided to focus on amassing a following on Instagram instead, because -and I quote- ‘we live in a lazy culture’ where people cannot be bothered to click on ‘blog links’. Naturally as someone who is a blogger, I have an issue with that statement-although it is not as bad as the article which makes it sound as though bloggers just get free clothes, setting a bad example to the young boys and girls who want to start a blog- but I do believe that more bloggers will follow in her footsteps and monetize their Instagram rather than blog content.
There Will Be A Focus On Vlog Led Content
Youtube has become a global phenomenon since it was founded in 2005 and has made household names like SMOSH, Jefree Star and more a sizeable annual income. While Youtubers initially started as ‘channels’, there has been an increase in ‘daily vlogs’ and vlogging diaries that has made Youtube an attractive source for bloggers, new and old. Many bloggers, like the ‘reformative blogger-to Instagram’ switch, have streamlined their blog content and embedded Youtube videos in their posts, while others have jumped ship entirely and set up Youtube channels which they have found have offered them more lucrative opportunities than their blogs did. Take Youtuber Imogenation, a fashion and beauty blogger who also shares endearing life stories. After re-branding as ‘Imogenation’ (previously Fashion Imogenation) , she amassed 65 K followers on her Youtube and 45 K on her Instagram channel, after re-focusing on ‘vlogs’ and ‘Instagram photos’ as her primary audience led content.
While I admire Youtubers for their ability to film, edit and record visual content, I still believe that blogs will remain just as relevant even in 10 years time. I predict that the Youtube ‘vlogging market’ will become as saturated as blogging is now, meaning that it will become even more difficult to gain an authentic and committed following than it is now. With the expansion of digital technologies, critics have determined that although text-led content still remains an important pillar of information, auditory and visual content appeals to a mass audience because we live in a ‘visual culture’. This is largely due to our lifestyle choices, where we work long hours and crave escapism from the real world. That being said as a certified ‘read-write’ learner I believe that people will still turn to blogs as they are a recognized source of ‘memorabillia’, ‘information’ and ‘permenance’. In other words blogs have the benefit of being ‘content rich’ which will make individual pages and posts rank well on Google, meaning blogs make it easier to obtain information and opinions as opposed to blogs.
There Will Be An Increase In Workshops and Courses To Help Bloggers
When I first started blogging in 2015, I had to learn how to change my writing style, edit photos and content, co-ordinate locations, identify a niche and learn about SEO strategies, all without attending a workshop. At the beginning of my blogging journey, resources seemed to be limited and workshops rare, especially in the UK. However now there is an increased number of Facebook groups that are dedicated to ‘digital workshops’ that help bloggers such as Boost Your Blog, as well as actual ‘paid workshops’ like Traverse that help you improve on your ‘blogging know how’. The expansion of workshops created will be split into two categories ‘paid’ (Locational) vs ‘unpaid’ (Digital/Remote), with different benefits for each. Locational workshops and courses are usually ‘free’ although some bloggers may offer paid courses, and have the benefits of being completed at home whereas paid conferences, workshops and courses often have the chance to interact with other bloggers creating greater networking opportunities.
Bloggers Will Be Paid More For Sponsorships Regardless Of Location
From data I have analyzed by talking to other bloggers, I have determined that there is a clear divide between what bloggers are paid in the US and the rest of the world. While the conversion rate does make their income seem higher, it is also true that US bloggers are often paid more than their international counterparts which could be in part due to ‘blogging’ being a more recognized occupation. In other words blogging is still relatively new in some countries and in the UK, though there are many sponsorship schemes many of them are not well paid and you often have to write a lot of posts to generate any sort of income. In the next 10 years however I can see that the rate of pay will level among the entire blogging community and while much of it will still be based on your DA and following, rates will increase creating a ‘higher’ blogging wage average.
For example although I have a DA of 38, have a high source of traffic and an even higher source of engagement, the average I am paid is £75, although according to my statistics I should be charging £140 + per sponsored post. This is however an increase in sponsorship, as last year I was getting an average of £50 per post so already I can see an increase in blogging wage.
Organic Reach Will Decrease But Social Reach Will Increase
A struggle among the blogging community is gaining organic reach due to a heavily saturated blogging market but fear not because social reach is just as important. Pinterest, Stumbleupon and Twitter are excellent drivers of traffic and I predict that more people will utilze those three platforms to drive traffic directly to their blogs. While some may gain good ‘organic reach’ through word of mouth or excellent SEO ranking, many people use social media to find inspiration and read articles, meaning that the importance of social reach will become increasingly prevelant. Nevertheless it is still important to find ways to generate good SEO rich content to increase organic reach but focusing on cross-promoting your pages on different social channels will be just as effective.
Page views and potential reach will matter less; engagement will matter more.
I know that from a personal point of view, following is not everything and in fact micro-influencers are more likely to have a deeper connection to their audience than celebrities. This is because micro-influencers have ‘excellent engagement’ and as I stated in How To Get More Followers On Instagram, following or views is not everything. After all you could have 100 K followers on Instagram or 40,000 views on your blog but only a small percentage is engaging with your content, meaning less income for you or the brands you are working with. Having good engagement is so important and I predict that brands will focus on your engagement ratio more than following in years to come. I definitely believe that it is a ‘fairer’ way to attract sponsorships, although kudos to bloggers who have an amazing following because they have clearly worked extremely hard to obtain that level of following.
More Bloggers Will Create Product Lines, E-Courses and Blogging Services
As bloggers we have an extensive skill set, that can encompass far more than what we are paid for. Naturally the increase of bloggers creating their own fashion lines, offering VA services like social media promotion or offering paid courses is already prevelant but I fortell that more people will turn blogs into a business, instead of a side hustle. For me personally I would like to be blogging full time by the end of the year thus it would make sense for me to create a course or offer services, although I have not given it much thought just yet. My point being is that there are so many different marketing strategies that bloggers are employing to become successful and this will only diversify over time.
What Do You Think The Future Holds For Blogging?
*Disclosure
I’ve written this as part of Innovation Company’s study on what bloggers see as the future of blogging.
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Actually I have just started my blog, just 6 months ago and I don’t know what the future holds. It is still sort of a hobby for me, although Ive begun to work with some companies, I haven’t made any money yet. Its interesting cause I am afraid of growing, I don’t want to just become an engine of consumerism. I try to help women feel good and empowered without pushing a product. It is a delicate balance, people want visual content and I want to push the written word with meaning and substance..Im learning.
This was such an eye opener. I’ve kind of seen how blogging has become since this is my 6th year blogging. It has grown so big and I think a lot of your predictions and point are true and they will be delve t in the future. Even I’ve been vlogging a lot see the outcome of it. Love the blog post and it’s really cool seeing everything evolve.
What a great concept. I can’t picture what using Instagram as my main forum would even look like. I feel like I’m not prepared for that.
I totally agree with what you believe will happen – especially Instagram and vlogs. They are already getting so big, it only makes sense they grow even more
This is really interesting and true in many ways. I agree with you regarding Instagram and blog courses. Kaz
I have not fully explored all the different avenues to monetize my blog yet. The only source of income from my blog is google Adsense. Hopefully, the blogosphere is not too saturated when I really decided to monetize my blog. Thanks for providing the stats by the way.
I have noticed a shift to vlogging – I need to up my game here. Instagram seems to be getting more popular too. I need to work on talking to people more on instagram. It’s all very new to me but I’m getting there. Thanks for this i find these posts helpful as they help me to look at where to increase my focus x
This is all fascinating to me. I agree that blogging is not going anywhere anytime soon. My husband is from London but we are both new bloggers here in the US where we both currently reside. The difference in income is surprising. I’m thinking of offering services myself.
And yeah – it seems brands want a much more engaged audience now almost regardless of the numbers. It’ll be interesting to see how that evolves.
Great predictions, I think some of these are already in effect especially the last one!
I thought the point you made about the differences in location was especially interesting as I didn’t realise the perception of bloggers in the US was different to elsewhere. Would be great to see it even out though!
Sinéad xo Fabuleuse Du Jour
I definitely agree that micro-blogging on Instagram is on the up! I love your dress, the ombre is beautiful <3
I love that the blogging market is saturated. Outreach to other bloggers is something that I love. I love sharing ideas on my own blogs/websites. I write for search engines, yes, and I do well at this, but the social aspect of blogging is really something that helps with not only ranking but staying up on the latest in the blogosphere.
And I love building friendships online. I don’t typically sell to my friends. My blog is just “there.” If my friends want to visit it, then I really hope that I’m helping them. If a friend needs help with a homework problem, I’ll write an article on how to solve that kind of problem. I think a lot of traffic can be gained from helping each other and talking to each other.
Great post, can’t agree more! I do agree that engagement on social media means more than the number of followers, well written, thanks for sharing!!
This is really interesting. I wonder everyday if I could make a living from blogging. I’m just not sure.
Also..your dress is GORGEOUS
Interesting read, I agree it is kind of hard to predict bit also important to look ahead. I am also taking part in this study so was literally just finishing my own post on this subject when I read this lol!
this is so beyond real and I feel like we don’t talk a lot about this, how much blogging will be changing and how much engagement means and it doesn’t revolve around just followers and page views.
I totally agree with all you’ve said in this post, Ana. Blogging has changed in so many ways since I started back in 2012, yet it’s also the same in many ways. I think there will always be a market for us, no matter what happens, but you’ve got to be prepared to move with the times as well, like having a go at something outside of your comfort zone (vlogging perhaps) 🙂
Louise x
I love your insightful look into what the future of blogging holds. Also Dorothy Perkins is lovely. It looks good on you!
I will be very interested to see what happens in the future of blogging. I haven’t been doing it for long, but even in the short space of a year, I feel like I have seen changes. Instagram, for example, as a medium for directing traffic to your website! I didn’t even use instagram when I first started, and now I get more traffic from there than I do twitter, even though I have less followers on instagram than twitter. I think, like you say, it doesn’t necessarily come down to numbers, but engagement.
This is really interesting and I must say that I definitely agree that blogs are here to stay. Although people love Instagram and Youtube, people still want to visit blogs for further information on important topics. Also, I truly do hope that more brands start paying (especially here in the U.S.) because unfortunately there’s a lot of brands out there that take advantage of bloggers because some will work for free product or free, which is unfortunate.
This is a very interesting post. I am new to the blogging world so it’s nice to read about the future of blogging. Thanks for sharing!
This was a really interesting read. I’ve been wondering what’s going to happen to the blogging universe in the future, as you’re right, it is SO saturated now! I agree with the the statement that bloggers will start offering there own products and blogging tips, I see a lot of that already. xo, B| http://www.theblistblog.com
this is super interesting. I have thought about this and come up with some similar conclusions. I am not going to start vlogging becasue it pays …as that’s not something I want to do… there is a high saturation of blogs and it is getting harder but I agree we need to stay relevant and do our best. I like instagram and am building my audience but I want my blog to be the main place where people come to see and read my content.
These are some great predictions, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s amazing how much blogging has changed over the years, and I’m curious to see where it goes. Great post!
This is a very futuristic article and a great one indeed. I agree the way things are shaping, instagram will become more and more important.
A thought provoking post, this. I believe blogging definitely has its uses for the media, market and consumers and it will continue to morph and evolve. It’s important to go with the flow, I reckon. 🙂 PS. I think you should be charging way more!
We live in a technology era and this won`t change any soon. We are connecting since the early morning hours throughout the night. And bloggers/ YouTubers/ vloggers are active at all time because they enjoy the online community. As long as the community is there, the bloggers will be there too. I do believe and see this change from blog post to Instagram posts which I personally prefer too.
I was trying that dress a few days ago. Could you believe in it? That dress suits you well. I love the combination of colours. Love that post – very informative and a lot of wisdom!
Another amazingly helpful post! It has really opened my eyes to things I hadn’t even considered but I’ll be looking into and keeping an eye on for sure.
I personally think that some bloggers have focused too much on sponsored content. Don’t get me wrong, it is a good source of income and also views but what happens is that they lose touch of their voice. I have read a lot of blogs that are filled with PRs and sponsored posts that I question who they are as a blogger, what they’re unique POV is. I think some bloggers will go back to basics to firstly establish who they are. Next, they can tackle vlogging and other short format storytelling.
This was really interesting. I think there will always be a future for us, but you are right Times are changing. I do like how there are more courses and resources available now, I like to improve my skills when I can.
I am 7 1/2 years into it and if anyone had told me that I would actually make money by blogging back when I first started, I never would have believed it. It’s changed completely and will keep changing I’m sure.
Hi, great article, really insightful. It sucks when you read some of the things. I still believe that the right voice will be heard if it’s unique and strong, no matter what platform that voice is using. It will be the best if there are more platforms lol 🙂
Check out my latest post if you would like
http://learninseovillage.com/2017/06/06/earn-money-blogging-advices-mary-elle/
Wow! This is so interesting – times are definitely changing!
I’ve actually been thinking about starting another blog (about overcoming my social anxiety) and have decided to use Instagram as my primary platform for it. I don’t plan on making any money from it, but I feel that it’s such a great way to reach the right people, who might be interested in what I have to say! 🙂
I’m going to go and have a look at your post now, on growing your Instagram following! Thank you so much for your tips! xxx
Agree with you. I think we should be more focused on reaching people who will value what we have to say.
I think you are spot on, the face of blogging is changing. More and more bloggers are bringing out clothing and make up lines. But I wonder if this is the end goal for most bloggers or if they just happened to have the opportunity.
Interesting thoughts here, I do wonder about the future of blogging – not that I make any money at it and probably never will but it does serve as a sort of resume for me and my freelance writing work. Instagram puzzles me as I don’t see the use for it particularly as the algorithms keep bloody changing and it seems unless you are a beautiful, young woman modelling everywhere and showing off your bikini body you don’t get any traction. Since I am none of these I just play with posting my fave pics and still gain followers but engagement is very limited and I simply can’t be bothered. As for youtube I hate videos and I hate youtube unless I am listening to my favorite singers and artists. I just don’t have the patience for it – this may all be because I am over the age of 50 lol…but apparently my generation invented MuchMusic and so on so who knows.
The amount that we should be paid always seems to differ from reality. I am pleased that my blog has turned from a hobby into a business but I doubt it will ever make me millions. 🙂
Very valid points in ur blog. Not sure about instagram as they restrict on links, but it is popular.
I am new to blogging it has opened so many windows and freedom, compared to my YouTube channel.
Thanks
As always a great read. Setting out as a blogger/vlogger/instagrammer now is a hard graft. It is indeed a saturated market, however, the cream always rises to the top and those with potential will be the big hits. There are always new blogs etc. popping up. I really dont want to be disheartened but blogging is a tough game to be in.
I totally agree that blogging as we know it will change. In just two years of blogging I have seen rather substantial swings, so it makes sense that things will move on. I do find there are a lot of people blogging about people blogging, and ways to help them, which I find a tad annoying, if I am honest! It’s one thing having an interest or skill, another to jump on the back of someone else’s! In my field, food, I already feel I am getting left behind in terms on vlogging – so definitely agree on that aspect changing substantially, too!
It’s such a rapidly changing industry, isn’t it? You are right that Insta is becoming more prevalent. It will be interesting to see how that will changes and develops as a platform. We are always on our toes responding to change in social media and technology.
Yes you are very correct!! Instagram is becoming a new blog!! I too prefer instagram more than any other social platform. But I have to watch for paid sponsorship and more money!!
I’m really excited to see what the future holds for blogging. I’m already seeing a few bloggers I follow switching to just micro blogging on social media.
Honestly, the shift to Instagram has been the most challenging one to adapt to, but aside from that I’m excited to see what the future of blogging holds!
I have recently attended a great blogging conference where a lot of these aspects have been discusses. Instagram is already a great platform that brings money but it’s hard to grow with all the recent algorithms. The video is the future, as you have also noticed and yes, you are right, it’s all about engagement. Companies care more about engagement and less about views. I’ve been working with some great companies recently and it was all about quality and engagement, not page views or DA.
I think this post is brilliant. I think services are an often overlooked factor in blogging. I think it’s a good way to monetize before your other income streams grow enough to provide full time support. Though there are all kinds of headaches that come with freelancing! Which is true of many things though 🙂
I agree, though, that blogs aren’t going anywhere!
Interesting post! I suppose I’m still very traditional in that it’s all about the writing for me (probably to do with my age!) but I have to say that I’m really loving Instagram at the moment, I just find it the most enjoyable of the Social Media platforms. And you are so right about bloggers having skillsets – it’s something I forget a lot of the time.
I’m so grateful for workshops and Ecourses. Without them, newbies like me would be more lost than we already are. Blogging is definitely a hard business to start. Glad to see what the future may hold. 🙂
Hm. Interesting to think about. I’ve been considering instagram because I stopped using it. I’ll have to start up again.
I could not agree with you more about all these points you made. I am constantly hearing how video/vlogs (Snapchat, Insta stories, FB Live) are the newest “thing”., but hopefully traditional blogs will stick around as well! And in an era where some influencers pay for followers, engagement and building a trusted community will become increasingly important!
-Marissa
http://www.quartzandleisure.com
Great article and funny you have just posted this, as I was just having a conversation about this at the weekend. For me engagement is key 🙂 x
I love that we have similar views (I’ve collaborated with this company too!) Definitely agree with the Instagram one.
this was a really interesting read! i personally wouldnt migrate to instagram as i like to go into detail on what i write and ig feels like it’s limited plus it’s a small space.
Wow, I had no idea that there were that many recorded blogs! It is more difficult to get committed subscribers than it was a few years ago. Hopefully the amount of traffic a blog gets on a daily bases will make up for it!
Although blogging is becoming more competitive, it is also starting to be seen as a job and as something that is not vain or a leisure. It gives more credibility to bloggers and makes them player of their industry, which is great! Instagram is the most important though! xx corinne
I think the future is bright, yes things change and outreach will be different, but I think there is a lot of worth left in blogging that will continue for many years to come.
I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing. I don’t vlog and I don’t plan to start. If people stop reading, it will stink, but I mostly write to keep sane. I do use Instagram daily at least, but my photos aren’t like works of art or anything.
I think blogger classes are a great idea for people to learn how to blog or to improve their blogs.
I do often wonder if Instagram will become the primary blog channel as i see many bloggers using it
I knew there’s a lot of blogs I didn’t realize there’s 152M of them! Man that’s a lot. I think video will be a major component of blogging whether we like it or not and blogging will depend more and more on social media. Which kinda sucks because those platforms are beyond our control and change things up without notice.
I found this really interesting to read, I think that Youtube and Instagram are becoming massive and people are earning good money via it. I agree that I think blogging will still be popular though. Good luck with your goal of becoming a fully self-employed blogger by the end of the year, I have every faith you will be as your blog is amazing x
I haven’t been blogging enough to have seen the changes, but I’ve read plenty on what it was like when people first started compared to what it is now. It will inevitably keep changing , just like any other field. I don’t know that this will ever be my occupation, but it’s certainly interesting to watch how companies have come to use social media. But no Instagram for me yet, guess I’m not very good at monetizing.
I’ve been blogging for 10 years and watched it flourish each year. More opportunities crop up. Links are valuable.
Many still prefer to read than watch, there will always be a market for blogging.
I’ll have to check out that study as soon as I have some time. It sounds like it would be very interesting. I can understand that e-courses could be very profitable. First, there are a ton of new bloggers entering the field all the time. And second, just to make it a year there is such a steep learning curve that you have to become a bit of an expert in the blogging field. This means you have a lot you can teach people, if you have the patience to do so. I just want to say how thankful I am for how much you have helped me in my journey.
You raised very valid points !! i love them !! we bloggers need to update with the passage of time !! that can only help to survive
Hey there gorgeous, I nominated your blog for The Real Net Blog Award. Check it out in my blog here: https://dreamerachiever.com/2017/06/06/the-real-neat-blog-award/
I don’t know what the future holds for blogging, but being a blogger of about 2 1/2 years, I hope it will be around for many years to come. One thing that I have started very recently, and seen many others do as well is dive into creating videos. Not the Youtube type videos that are long and instructional, but 1 minute recipe videos that show a quick tutorial without ingredient amounts in hopes people will click through to my site. So far, it has helped my Facebook and Instagram reach and interaction. It helps that I actually like creating them too.
I just agree with everything you said, was actually thinking of the subject a few says ago and came up with very similar conclusions. It feels a bit overwhelming yet super exciting and I’m truly looking forward to seeing where our journey leads in a year, two or five! Xx
Such an awesome post! I myself have spent a lot of time wondering what the future of blogging holds. I’m glad to see you think it will still be relevant even in 10 years time.
It makes me a little bit sad to realize that long form content will be valued less, although in a way I understand based upon the quick and visual culture of today. That being said, there are still people like me out there who enjoy reading posts from bloggers with a great voice. Also, I know video seems to be all the rage right now, but I have to believe that it will also become not as much over time. When it’s not the newest thing. Thanks Ana, for another great post for bloggers with lots of food for thought.
Very interesting concept with great points. Like Mary I an’t imagine what using Instagram as my main forum would look like too. Unlike fashion photography my forum is content heavy. I supposed I’m old school and better branch out beyond facebook faster. I feel like I’m not prepared for relying on instagram or twitter.
You are completely right about the trends that blogs are taking. Instagram is such a strong platform because it quick, easy and well.. pretty. It is easier now than ever to make a brand out of yourself and create a job online. The only struggle I have truly noticed from being a blogger is breaking through. So many people post online that breaking through the clutter is the challenge that many before us may not have had. Great post!
http://prettyfitfoodie.com/
I agree I think Instagram will become a huge platform. Can I just say you always look so beautifully put together!
My current blog is 11 years old. Been blogging for more 15years in total and I must say that blogging is an ever evolving platform. And that’s what made me love it. 🙂 As bloggers we should listen to what our readers want but still making sure that we stay true to ourselves. This is a nice post.
I found this post really interesting and helpful. It kinda built some more confidence in me on what I am doing now. I started Blogging 4months ago and in my 4th month I made around 500USD (My first income) . I know nothing about instagram but you gave me a clear picture of how and why it is used . Am definitely gonna make one now . Thanks for sharing
We definitely have a bright future ahead of us, but we have to make sure that we learn how to adapt to the changes online. We rely heavily on social media and we have to take care of those sites as well. I think this is an important topic to discuss.
Instagram is becoming ‘the one’ because brands can get their products out there quickly. It has a very, very short shelf life though, which is why the following/engagement on those accounts has to be huge. That, of course, has been why there are so many ‘bots’ about and so much tension in the blogopshere. Everyone is finding out that nothing is ‘real’ any more and that everyone uses bots or does the ‘follow/unfollow’ thing.
I have noticed that the blogopshere is becoming more saturated. Specifically, full of people who want to make money straight off the bat. It’s nice to know what you want, but I feel like it almost discredits the people who have worked so hard for what they have. A lot of people don’t actually realise how HARD blogging is.
While I can see more and more bloggers focusing on Instagram – it’s not a platform that anyone can own though. Long term I think owning and building a blog will make more sense financially x
Blogging is changing so much, but I think that’s a good thing. There is definitely more of a focus on Instagram and about a quarter of my income comes from IG posts.
I have to say, I think you should be charging a lot more for a sponsored post based on the engagement you get. I would say your starting rate should be £350.
I think its exciting that there are many oppertunities for bloggers now. I’ve started to try and up my instagram game this year and have recently started doing insta stories from time to time.
Yes, Instagram! People nowadays love to use and share more in IG as a platform to find followers. Thanks for the share!
I came across this article yesterday and I read it very carefully. I really appreciate your effort to put all the struggles a blogger has to go through and at the same time some predictions for the future as well.
Your ombre dress is beautiful! You have some very good points in your post too! I see a lot of people focusing more on instagram than blogs, and I find it easier to discover new accounts and people I want to follow on instagram than on blogs – there are a lot of blogs I’ve yet to discover, yet there’s afew instagram hashtags I frequently use and brows and I feel like I know a lot of the people there. I’m not giving up my blog for instagram though – as someone once posted (I wish I could remember who!) Vine is no more yet people had massive followings and could get thousands for a single post. Instagram could go down that same route and disappear one day.
Hope you are having a lovely week! 🙂
Away From The Blue Blog
sticking it out – thats the one thing that i focus on. tech will change, mediums will change in popularity
but its the frustrated ones who literally give up because of their following numbers – if you don’t have a passion as the primary factor – then i feel it just won’t happen for that person.
so yes i do have a look at whats happening as you have shown – but i focus on the medium that i enjoy and try to be the best at it – and stay patient miss ana
Great read, Instagram is definitely a great go-to platform and vlogging is on the rise.
I agree! I am new to blogging and already can see a lot of what you have mentioned. Thanks for sharing!
Julie * http://www.hdthreviews.com
I guess there is really a future in blogging. Some advertisers and marketers are looking more into bloggers as they feel that is is now more practical to collaborate with bloggers that do some commercials.
I used to do blogging out of passion and now I am also earning.
You are right, there are so much innovation and opportunity in blogging. Blogging has become as much of a business as it is a passion to some people. Like everything else, it has grown so much over the years, and both businesses and bloggers need to understand the pace and direction that it is growing in. I dislike how some people complain about this growth – just as with anything in life, you need to adapt to survive, so if one is truly passionate about blogging they also need to grow with it!
Abbi
http://www.upraisedliving.com
Lady, you literally can do no wrong and for those reading this pst, what this space, this girl knows her stuff.
Interesting and thorough opinion. I agree that Instagram is ‘easier’ and quicker and would like to focus more on that in the future. Pinterest seems popular for generating traffic but I haven’t really got my head round it
vlogging has becoming more in demand lately and most bloggers are either venturing in such platform or either incorporating their blogs with their videos… vlogging community is starting to grow and I’m sure it will evolve into a bigger form of media in the future…. although I think it is not really for everyone especially for someone like me who do not have enough confidence to speak in front of the camera.. it might take a lot of practice to master such craft I guess
In every industry, there is always room to grow and innovate but, to do so requires stepping back from the crowd and taking stock. Blogging has been around longer than most people realize ( I published by first one in the early 1990s and abandoned it a few years later. Then started my current one in 1998), and it will remain but change skins as frequently as the world of technology produces new things to try.
Instagram is great but it doesn’t allow for direct clickable links which is a drawback. All the other social media options have their pros and cons and my advice is to weigh your time wisely. I enjoyed reading your insights. 🙂
While I have a YouTube channel I only have two videos on it. I’m thinking about re-branding it but I’m not sure what I want to re-brand it to yet and I use it as way to try to get more readers to my blog where I feel is the heart of why I got into blogging in the first place. Instagram, though is an entirely different story. I don’t even know how to link my blog posts to my Instagram much less turn my Instagram into a blog format. That’s a bit weird for me. This information though is very helpful and while I have also been blogging since 2015 I would love to make it my full time job, I haven’t found my way there yet. Thanks so much for this information and for your perspective on this topic.
I think blogging still has a long way to go even if there’s instagram and youtube. People would always be in the look out for blogs for reviews.
Couldn’t agree more, I really need to get into using instangram more often
I don’t think you should see things as what you should be charging based on your DA and stats. Personally, I see what I earn as what I am happy with, and that’s the bit that matters. I don’t know where this ‘should be’ earning thing came from.
Blogging is a tough industry, that’s the reality! I use social media like Instagram, and also YouTube as a platform to support the existence of my blog but we are living in a fast revolving era that changing something we familiar with to a new thing is quite possible.
I agree with all your points! I think the future is that almost everyone will call themselves a blogger lol
I love your dress, it is absolutely beautiful!
Blogging has changed so much since I started. I often wonder if I have the energy to keep up! I love making videos, but they are so time consuming, so I’ve only done one or two. I totally missed the newest changes to instagram. It is so hard to keep up with everything!
You look so elegant with your dress and accessories. I really love it. By the way this is great article. I enjoy reading your blog.
Today, Instagram is one of the most popular platforms used in social media marketing because of the visual effect it does to the market.
Thank you for writing this, I have noticed that social media especially instagram is become a huge force to be reckoned with. I even find myself focusing more in instagram than my blog lately.
I agree with all of this, but I will say with your following and engagement you should be charging a lot more. Don’t sell yourself short.
Couldn’t agree more! Have you considered adding video content or starting a youtube channel?
I totally agree with you on your thoughts about Instagram and vlogging and I really hope that influencers will be paid more….we have a lot of catching up to do here in the UK!
Interesting read! I think blogging will always continue to evolve, we just have to buckle up and enjoy the ride! x
Times change and so will blogs, I am not too keen on YouTube but do love Instagram. I think the market for bloggers will improve as time goes on. x
The dress is gorgeous but that necklace. I love pairing a statement piece with a print!!
This is such a fantastic post! I have had my blog for nearly 3 years and it’s reach is still minimal, as you say; it’s a saturated blog world. It’s always interesting to know where the trends are going and even with the new instagram algorithm making organic reach really difficult, I am hopeful and I continue to try to put out great content on there as well as on my blog.
Ellie | http://www.scotchandstilettos.com
These are all interesting points. I have to agree that there will be more workshops available on how-to guides to getting started. So many of my former colleagues are looking into blogging these days.
Love the projections you’ve pointed out. I particularly relate regarding the Instagram post.. I find it very limiting and strange that some bloggers use just that avenue. Thanks for the enlightenment. Great post.
interesting read here, alot of positives to learn from here, at the end of the day, Hardwork and more work is key. thanks Ana.
This is all fascinating to me. I agree that blogging is not going anywhere anytime soon. It’s almost like the new form of citizen journalism.
Katja xxx
http://www.katnapped.com
Great thoughts Ana. I love blogging and have for over 6 years. I just wish I had turned it into a business years ago. I have turned down so much work over the years now I find it hard to get paid work. Beautiful dress. Love how the colour changes 🙂
This is very detailed Ana. I too think that blogs will prevail over vlogs bit I not so sure about instagram. I am afraid it will become a huge blogging outlet in the near future.
Btw it’s a shame that bloggers don’t get paid what they are supposed to.
I agree with you about companies in the US taking bloggers more seriously. I have worked with a number of US companies and they treat you really well and know your worth
I hope that some of your thoughts are true (pay), but I sure hope that blogging still plays a key role in our society! However, I do find myself clicking more videos lately. Bummmer.
I agree with all of these things and engagement more so. I think PRs and brands are becoming more and more aware of the numbers game and realise that engagement is key!
I see more work for bloggers, less blogs and more regulations.
I agree with all of this! I definitely think you should stay current and true to your brand. I also agree about instagram, it is my favorite tool to use. I also use blogging as a creative outlet and don’t put too much pressure on myself!
Interesting post. I think in all honestly what will become of bloggers depends very much on which niche you sit in!
I see travel and technology reviews on the rise, but overall it depends on your niche and the clients you work with. I am excited to see what blogging will look and feel like in 2 years it’s changing so much.
Loved this post.
I’m not sure I agree with you on Instagram. Part of the appeal of ‘influencers’ on Instagram in the early days was the lack of ad options for brands and then because it wasn’t easy to drive traffic from the platform. Both those key things have changed. It’s now hooked into Facebook’s powerful targeting systems and ads (not organic posts) can have buttons back to the site. Meanwhile influencers still demand big money. Bubblish, surely?
This post brings up a lot of my own questions about what the future for my blog will be. I am just recently doing more and more on Instagram and I agree with you that this is going to be a big platform for bloggers. It really does cater to the short attention span that most readers have these days.
Very interesting post. I have been blogging for 5 years and the blogging scene has changed dramatically since I started. Instagram and vlogs are the way forward! 🙂
Some interesting predictions. I’ve definitely started using Instagram more in the past year.
This is such an interesting post. I already use instagram a lot more than I did when I first started my blog in 2015 as I find it easier to engage with people over there. I’m considering venturing into video, but my first instagram live was a bit of a mess, there is always so much to learn, which is one of the things I love about blogging!
Wow, such an informative piece. Only doing blogging for 2 months, it already felt that it was a saturated market. I have been trying to think of different ways to stand out. I am thinking about vlogging but I am not to sure about it.
Actually what u said make sense. I blogged more as an interest not so much of earning as a living. But I would appreciate if I’m sort of known in some ways. Lets continue to make blogging world work!
Your post is fantastic food for thought. With the continuing decline of magazine sales and millennials who aren’t as interested in watching TV compared to past generations, ad revenue will continue to shift to new online mediums and brand/blogger partnerships will continue to grow. As creatives we’ll need to remain flexible, keep our eyes and ears open, and be willing to shift with the changing times.
Great post. I’m kind of sad that we are in a world where we want just fast info and aren’t wanting to read an article. Quick fixes. As a dog trainer, I get this a lot with clients and it’s very difficult. I’m wondering if the blog world where content was king for information and research, now it’s more about buying and shopping.
I have been in the industry for seven years and seen many changes and upon returning actively to it this year it really does seem that engagement is more important than views. This is my aim, I have a couple of small niche blogs that although at the moment I am promoting to a wider audience, my intention is to hone in on my core audience and grow from their with courses and more detailed posts.
I have always wanted to learn to create my own videos but I keep putting it off. I think the time to start learning is now. Thank you for this eye-opening post.
What a wonderful post.I totally agree with you regarding instagram and vlogs.Though,I don’t fancy instagram because it limits what I write.
I really hope the focus doesnt shift to vlogging as i aint getting in front of the camera for anyone! lol
Wonderful post. The trend is definitely shifting from pictures to videos.
I think that there will be a massive shifting in the blogging world in the coming few years. The growth of Social Media is booming now and everyone is only focussing on gaining followers to attract the brands. I wish Blogging should be considered a reputable full-time profession in the coming years throughout the world and bloggers should get fair wages!
Very interesting read. I have definitely seen an uptake in Instagram sponsored posts. I haven’t made a cent from any channel so this does interest me some.
I totally agree with you and its a big reason I am trying to improve my Instagram and youtube.
This is awesome information and a great topic for all bloggers old and new. I have seen an increase in the Instagram posts with the blogs. This information I will have to keep in mind when I start my own blog. Thanks for sharing the information and your thoughts.
Great insight! And I totally agree. In addition, I do believe there will be room for everything, from vlog to blogging to even image or picture blogging like Instagram. I guess it will be called PicLog who knows. The proof is the existence of zillions of newspapers and magazine in stores today despite the insurgence of millions of online news website, digital magazines, blogs etc.
Wow this opened my eyes to a lot! Whilst I give out the impression that I am super confident, I am not yet confident enough to start vlogging. For a start what would I talk about, as my blog really can’t be pigeonholed into a category.
It worries me that my blog will become obsolete 🙁 xx
Great topic for discussion. I, too, started my blog in 2015 and it’s gone through its share of changes since then. I agree with the increase in instagram and another thing I’ve noticed is that more and more people are making mini blog posts through facebook and instagram instead of having a blog at all.
Vlogging is one thing that I want to get into… But I need to get a decent camera and a mic, and get over my stutter…
I think vlogging via youtube will become more and more popular – it is already among the young ones/teenagers. I’ve been told that the blog text should be kept mimimal and the sentences short as people want to check the page quickly and go for another one and so on, and there’s no time to read the actual post, just the headlines.
I don’t know what the future of my blogging career holds. It started off as a hobby but now I want to monetise it and possibly become a full time blogger down the road. I’m still getting used to what I need to do and thinking about approaching companies. I would love to go into vlogging when I have a child of my own but my partner has already said he wouldn’t want me to vlog, especially with our child. I’m trying to improve on my Instagram and reading up more of how to use it well with my blog
Very interesting read, lovely! It’s weird because blogging is such a new industry, no one really knows where it will go. I definitely agree with your predictions though, and I enjoyed reading your insights!
whatevawears.co.uk
I felt really calm after reading this that blogging still would be an amazing source of success. Sponsorships days are great ways to earn and workshops are absolutely helpful for budding bloggers.
Hey! I am newbie to this blogging world and it’s so overwhelming to know that we still have great scope ahead of us! Let’s see how far I am able to go here! Thank you for the post x