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*Disclaimer: All of my thoughts and advice are merely things I have learned in the past year of blogging and strategies that I’ve used to get to this point.
Welcome back to my Bites for Growing Your Blog series! I intended for this post to be released last week, but a website server upgrade got in the way.
In my Getting Started & Site Design post, I explained that I use Blue Host as the hosting server for my website. Just last week, I had to upgrade to Servint. A bittersweet notion, indeed, since a server upgrade means your website is doing well and your current server cannot handle the blog size and traffic. The bitter part of it? The process. It was a bit of a headache – but that is expected with a website server migration. However, thanks to the 24/7 customer support at Servint and my blog’s support team, Zesty Blog Consulting, the process was manageable and I felt supported and guided the entire time. Blue Host is a wonderful (and affordable!) server as your blog starts up, but at a certain point you may need an upgrade and I highly recommend Servint.
Moving along…
Being Present & Personable on Your Blog
Before I pressed publish for the first time on Sally’s Baking Addiction in December 2011, I followed several recipe blogs. Drawing inspiration and baking ideas from them, admiring their photography, their writing, and their courage to put themselves out there. I was the silent lurker, bouncing from blog to blog in my Google Reader. Reading recipe blogs for baking inspiration is how I would unwind at the end of the day.
I remember vividly one afternoon last year, spotting a recipe I adored and emailing the blogger with a few recipe questions, while also commending their recipe and photography. This blogger was my idol! I hoped to make the cake on their blog for a work party that weekend. Days went by… then weeks went by. Nothing. Figuring that my email may have gotten lost, I emailed the blogger again. Nothing. I felt ignored and disheartened. Is there really a person behind that blog? A robot? As a reader, am I too inferior for my questions to be answered?
When I made the decision to start Sally’s Baking Addiction, my number one priority… the most important thing that I would do… is to be present and personable with my readers. That’s pretty major. I’m not a robot!
I’m a painfully relatable person, who makes mistakes, works a 9-5 job, and has a real life. I forget about cookies in the oven, I hate to iron, my singing voice hurts ears, and I love sprinkles. (duh)
My readers are the reason for my blog and they attribute to its growth, so it is important to me that they feel invited and comfortable visiting my website. It is my readers that make it all possible, and as the blog’s author, I feel it is my duty to be available. Responding to emails, comments, tweets, and messages is a priority for me when I am not at my full time job or with my family.
Trust me, I still get just as excited when I see a new comment pop up as I did back when I had 10 blog subscribers and the only comments I got were from my mom – through a text message.
And what’s more?
When I hear that you had success with one of my recipes, I feel my own success.
It is my “blogging philosophy” to connect with my readers and here are a few ways how I do it. As always, these are things that have worked for me and may not fit your blogging style.
1) Be yourself! I inject my real personality on my blog. I write exactly how I talk. It took some time to get completely comfortable with it, but I try to write and blog as if I were talking to a real friend in real life. What are your lovable traits and individual quirks? Show them on your blog and make your readers feel as if they really know you. Of course, it is not in everyone’s blogging style to get personal, and there are some things I am extra cautious about when mentioning my home, my family, and my job.
People are curious by nature and by allowing my readers to get a glimpse of the author behind the blog, I feel as though we can all really connect. Keeping in mind that I publish a food blog, the main content on my blog is focused on food and not my personal life. See more about Sally. And, if you’re incredibly bored, 27 Random Odds and Ends about Sally.
2) Tell your readers that you love them… regularly. Honest to goodness, I love you. More giveaways ahead. 
3) Be dependable and consistent. You want your readers to count on you. Being on a regimented blogging schedule is important for my time management and for loyal readership. I typically post 4 times per week, with an occasional personal post or recipe-round up post. Four posts per week is all that my schedule can allow at this point. Consistency, I believe, is more important than frequency. My readers can depend on a certain number of posts per week and that is what matters most.
4) It’s ok to embarass yourself! On my website, over the past year, I’ve published typos, misspelled words, and shared my burnt cardboard muffin stories. Ooops. I make mistakes too.
5) Mingle! Comment on other blogs and put yourself out there. Comments are a wonderful way to stir discussions. Once I began to introduce myself to other bloggers, I noticed they visited my blog in return and conversations began. Get to know one another! Don’t hide behind your blog in hopes that one day you will be noticed. If time allows, leave valuable and heartwarming comments. Share a story relating to the material you read. But don’t overdo it – I feel that generic commenting “just to comment” is pointless. And it’s noticed.
6) Answer comments. Of course, this will not work for everyone’s schedules, full time jobs, and family lives, but if a reader has a question or something notable to say, I try to respond before I write my next blog post. Feeling ignored stinks. I’ve been ignored on the other side of a blog, and it is not fun.
7) Look at your blog through someone else’s eyes. Ask yourself, “am I being a good resource? Will this make sense in someone else’s mind?” I admit, sometimes I begin to write a post and then take a step back. Will this make sense to my readers? I know for me, I try to share recipes and methods that are approachable, because not everyone knows what spelt flour is or has time to make a 6 tier cake.
8) Social Media! Instagram, facebook, and twitter are all extensions of your personality – use them to both market your blog AND share your real life with readers. Of course, you don’t want to appear ”salesy” or bombard your readers with updates every 5 seconds. More on social media later in this series.
With so many new food blogs popping up every day, it’s important to create your own blogging identity and stick to it. What are your goals? Dreams? What do you love the most?
Be available to your readers – even if it’s a simple “thank you for reading.” Knowing a real person is on the other side of the computer screen helps them feel connected.
Being genuine goes a long way.
Stand out from other bloggers by being yourself. Share weird things about you that make you unique and different from the rest (I am seasonally challenged and take a lot of pictures of dogs).
I will never forget an email I received about a month ago from a reader who said that she never comments on blogs or contacts bloggers. She had a question about a recipe and ended the email thanking me for my approachable recipes and relatable personality. She said, “It just feels like I know you.” My goal with each and every post.
Let’s chat.
How do you feel about getting personal on your blog?
What is your #1 priority on your blog?
Check out more posts from this series:
Year One: How I did It
Getting Started & Site Design
Food Photography Basics
{ 133 comments… read them below or add one }
Sally, you are just too cute! And I am loving this series you’re doing!
Chung-Ah | Damn Delicious recently posted..Monkey Bread Cupcakes #ChristmasWeek
thank you miss chung-ah, for everything! the tweets and sweet comments – mean a lot!
I don’t mind getting person to a degree, but it’s my personality to be very private and reserved. That’s how I am in real life- I don’t like to talk about myself much and am very shy. But I try to be more “outgoing” and transparent on my blog – little by little! Thanks for all the great tips!
Ashley @ Wishes and Dishes recently posted..Classic Green Bean Casserole
Hi Ashley! I agree with you – getting personal to the level you are comfortable at is key! I don’t feel comfortable sharing certain things and it’s YOUR blog and you can share as little or as much as you like! Little by little, I am sure you are getting more comfortable to put yourself out there! Blogging has helped bring me out of my shell, and I’m forever grateful.
Sally, we’ve only emailed each other once, but in that one email I can attest that you are the real deal. Thanks for putting your sweet self out there for the rest of us to get to know and love. And of course your recipes are so fun! Way to go – you’re doing great!
Karee recently posted..Lean Christmas Could be a Blessing
I owe you an email Karee!! And thank you for the SUPER sweet kind words, you are wonderful. I appreciate your support
LOVE these insights Sally! Thanks for putting so much thought into helping us future bloggers lay a solid foundation! Have a wonderful evening
Of course, Rachel – I am ALWAYS glad to help.
let me now if you ever need more advice!
Love the post and glad the server migration is behind you…whoa, what a week. BTDT and it’s like the worst thing ever but hopefully you’re good to go and the nice thing about Servint is they will happily take your money for the bigger plans, and there’s literally 10 seconds of downtime, if that, with subsequent migrations. Don’t ask me how I know this.
And yes, you are totally relatable, personable, and just chipper skipper and it shows
You are bubbly and energetic and I love that. And that you reply to comments and if I ever get a question from someone about a very specific recipe question, I couldnt imagine not replying!? You and I are the same that way.
Congrats on all you’ve accomplished in 1 year!
Averie @ Averie Cooks recently posted..Peanut Chewy Payday Bars
thank you for everything Averie. gosh knows if i could get through a day without emailing you! i’ve been a longtime reader of averie cooks/LV&Y and it’s so wonderful to me that you still take the time to respond to practically all of your readers – and in good timing, too. It shows you put your reders first and I try to do the same!
This post is a proof why this blog has grown so big so fast. You are so REAL and so ADORABLE!! Your personality comes out with each post and from the first time I read your blog I felt like you are my baking buddy.
Thank you for your posts, answering my comments, visiting my blog and leaving comments. You ROCK! xoxo
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet recently posted..Triple Chocolate Molasses Bundt Cake + GIVEAWAY!!!
Anna, you are the most genuinely sweet blogger ever, and thank you so much for taking the time to always leave meaningful comments – so glad we are baking buds and I learn so much from your posts and photography. You are very talented!
I think these are all such important points for bloggers. The tip that resonated most with me is being present and engaged. I, too, try to acknowledge every tweet, comment and Facebook post. When people take the time to connect with you — many people we probably haven’t met and may never meet — it is important and FUN to get to know others who share our same interests and look to us for thoughts, ideas, and sometimes advice. A few words or a few sentences can really mean a lot. And I often learn more from those who comment and interact than from anywhere else. Great series, and congrats on needing to upgrade due to all your success
Jesica @rUnladylike recently posted..3 Running Things
Hi Jesica! Thank you so much for saying hi and talk about so many good points – yes, i think it’s important to be present on the front end of the blog so readers can feel conencted to you- I like getting to know bloggers behind the computer screen! And I agree, it’s so fun to learn about other bloggers in teh community who are strinkingly similar to me. I appreciate this all so much, so thank you! and thank you for the congrats!!
I love you roomie! I can say myself that Sally loves and puts so much energy into this blog! She loves baking and her readers!! xoxoxox
OMG Erin. I love you!! Hello from the other side of the wall.
I, too am a lurker. I enjoy reading your posts, as well as those of others. I have no intention of ever tuning blogger myself. Personally, I enjoy it most when you ladies tell me about your product choices in your recipes. For example, what chocolate brand and cocao content? Skim or whole fat ricotta? The more info in your recipes, the better. Thank all of you for the posts. They make my day.
Leslie, it means a lot to me that you left a comment here! Thank you! I will keep that in mind – which products I prefer over others and why! I appreciate your feedback and I am so glad you follow along and enjoy my recipes.
Thanks for the tips, Sally! I have to say, yours is one of the most personable and relateable food blogs I visit, which I absolutely love! Yes, I visit blogs to get new recipes and drool over food (who doesn’t?!) but I also love the little stories and anecdotes that are shared with them. That’s the whole fun of it!
But thanks for the other tips as well…hope I can grow my blog by following these too!
Ikhlas recently posted..Recipe: Caramel Swirled Brownies
Thank you and I am so glad you are a follower. Your comments means a lot to me… and yes, i drool over food blogs as well. I usually can’t read them before dinnertime.
I hope I can be helpful to you and that these posts are resourceful as your grow your blog as well. 
Loved this post, Sally!
Thank you, thank you, thank you Sally for doing these posts! I’m find them so helpful and informative.
Alyssa @ Kitchen Cures recently posted..Chocolate Chip Cookie Smiley Faces
good! I am so glad to hear that these are helpful for you Alyssa!
Great post, Sally! The only reason I had the confidence to start my blog and keep it going was because I got such personable and supportive feedback from other bloggers that I was following. I just recently found yours and I’m sooo happy that I did, you have some awesome recipes that I cannot wait to try!
Shaina recently posted..Holiday Baking
Hi Shaina! I am SO glad that you’ve grown the confidence the begin a blog – it’s so exciting! Trust me, I still get scared to post some recipes and type some sentences, but let your personality shine as much as you are comfortable with! It’s YOUR blog and you can do and say what you want! I’m happy you found my blog as well and let me know any recipes you try!
Your personality is what I love about you Sally. Oh, and your love of sprinkles.
I try to be as good as I can about replying to comments and emails. I think it’s SO important too!
Dorothy @ Crazy for Crust recently posted..Triple White Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms
sprinkles… are a necessity.
Thanks for your comments, ALWAYS Dorothy – you’ve been reading for a long time and I always appreciate that!!
Sally, you are absolutely the cutest girl ever! I constantly feel the love from you on my blog and I love to come and visit your blog and see what you’ve been up to! You have accomplished so much in a year. You constantly inspire me. You are so good at replying back to people. I am always so impressed! Love this Series!
Nikki! the beautiful cookie queen. Ahh! I love reading comments from you. And I love looking at all your beautiful photos and seeing them develop overtime – you seriously have gotten SUCH a huge grasp on your photography since we emailed earlier this summer. It’s amazing. With each photoshoot, I feel like I am improving and I’m sure you feel the same. Thank you so much for your support, always! And for letting me link up to Tuesday Talents Shows and your christmas cookie week.
Lots of traffic from Chef in Training!!
Great post, Sally!!! I definitely love your philosophy & try to live by the same
I was completely flattered when you commented on my Halloween Fudge awhile back & was flabbergasted you took the time to write to little ol’ me. From that day on, I developed an idol in you & that comment sits in the back of my head when I return my comment responses. Thank you for being kind & true to yourself…it mattered to me 
:)
xx m
Melissa @ mamamiss recently posted..holiday: Advent Calendar Tree {free printable}
Hi Melissa! Wow, an idol.. oh my goodness, that means more to me than you’ll ever know. THANK you so much. This comment means the world to me and I won’t ever, ever forget it. Thank you so much and I am glad we are blogging friends.
I LOVE this series, Sally. You are definitely the real deal, and it shows. I love your recipes, your photography, and most of all, your personality. You are sweet and kind and approachable, and I appreciate that so much about you.
Gosh…my #1 blog goal. First, it was just to get comments from someone other than my mom.
Now, my main focus is improving my photography and finding my writing voice. I’m still working on it all!
Ashley @ Kitchen Meets Girl recently posted..Shabby Apple Giveaway {and What’s In Your Kitchen Wednesday}
your comments always mean the world to me Ashley! you’re so thoughtful and I know how hard you work on Kitchen Meets Girl! I’m still trying to “find my voice” too! I feel like it changes all the time. But that’s why this is so fun, we grow and develop our blogs. Your photography is vastly improving, I’ve been noticing! Woohoo! Hard work pays off.
Thanks so much for doing this series, Sally! I’m really working on taking my blog to the next level so I’ve been patiently awaiting this 2nd post of the series haha! Your blog has so much personality and I love it! Looking forward to the next posts for sure
P.S. I was eating one of the Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal bars from your recipe that I made this weekend. They have been an awesome healthy dessert/snack to have on hand during the week!
Katie (The Hungry Runner) recently posted..Whole Wheat Sweet Potato Cranberry Muffins
My dearest Katie – the reason for my HUGE spike in Skinny Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies traffic.
I am SO glad you are finding these posts semi-helpful. I feel like I am just preaching when tht is not at all what I am trying to do! So glad you enjoy those peanut butter banana oatmeal bars – i make them quite often! And guess what? I’m making the skinny pb swirl brownies as i type this. 
I’ve been looking for your second installment on your “Bites for Growing Your Blog” series for TWO weeks now. Loved the first one and this one is just as good!
I totally agree with you about writing as you speak, but a lot of times I come home from work and have major writer’s block. It’s so hard to think of an opening sentence for me.
Absolutely AWESOME advice, every word of it. Thank you so much for giving back to the blogging community. You’re such a generous lady to always be thinking of others.
Laura (Got Chocolate) recently posted..RECIPE: Mexican Hot Chocolate
Laura, knowing that I can help YOU means a lot to me! I look up to you and Got Chocolate! And I know what you mean about writer’s block. At times, I have to just walk away for an hour or two and clear my head and then get back to it. Writing is tough sometimes, especially after a long workday. But I plan to write more about well… writing.. in my next post of the series! Thank you for following these posts, it means the world to me Laura!
Wow! Thank you so much! You just made my day, Sally! Seriously!
I’ll have you know I’ve been sucky at being present and personable stuff. But not anymore, thanks to you. You absolutely motivated me when you said you felt ignored by that blogger you emailed and rec’d no response. Wow, that struck a cord with me big time. I can’t wait to read your writing post when you get the chance to post it. Yay, yay, yay!!! 
GO, SALLY!!!
Laura (Got Chocolate) recently posted..RECIPE: Mexican Hot Chocolate
THANKS LAURA!!!! And go laura!! And go chocolate.
I am new to your site and I have to tell you, I love it! I am new to blogging and your advice is so much appreciated! I can’t wait to try your many yummy looking recipes! Love it!
Thanks for being so helpful and honest !
Susan recently posted..Weekend (by iPhone)
Hi Susan! THANK YOU so much for saying hi! And I am SO glad to be helpful to you and your new blog. I am always here for advice! Let me know if you make any of my recipes!
I have totally felt ignored by other bloggers and it is the world’s worst feeling. I love that I never feel ignored by you, Sally
. I have posted so many typos even though I read posts over and over again luckily my mon always saves the day and catches them. Other than being responsive as you say, being myself is the most important part of blogging for me. I’m always going to be the girl who roasts her own pumpkin, whips up a batch of homemade almond paste and is hopelessly in love with her candy thermometer. I hope people will find and love my blog because they are passionate about the same things as me.
Laura Dembowski recently posted..Snickerdoodle Cupcakes and Giveaway!
Exactly laura – feeling ignored and inferior completely stinks. I remember the feeling! I am so glad that we’ve bcome friends and yes… i am thankful for my friend Erin who always catches my mistakes! We must overlook our typos. I know I get tired of the computer screen sometimes so I’m sure I just glance over them. Your recipes are unique and you don’t have to draw people in with chocolate – you use caramel, fruits, candy, butterscotch, and pumpkin – all such wonderful flavors that shine in your recipes and make you, YOU! Keep it up Laura! I need to roast my own pumpkin sometime!
Yayyy blog friends
Kayle (The Cooking Actress) recently posted..Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter Truffle Swirled Cookies and KRISTINA & KAYLE’S CHRISTMAS COOKIE EXCHANGE!
blog besties
Thank you for for putting this out there, I love your honesty. When I think of the blogs I follow they are always the ones where I feel like I know the people. I struggle to get personal I think its because I’m worried I will go off on a tangent and bore everyone to death. I laughed at your mums comment – by text, my mum emails me saying she likes my posts. lol. My #1 goal is to show people that you can make gluten free food without it being boring or super healthy. Coeliacs deserve and indulgent treat too. Gluten free food gets a bad wrap, usually because its gluten, dairy, egg, sugar, nut and everything else free too.
Sally – only gluten free baking recently posted..Chocolate Macarons – Naturally Gluten Free
You are so right about this. I comment on a ton of blogs but am really bad at replying to comments on my own blog. It’s such a great habit to have, and you are so good at it!
Cassie | Bake Your Day recently posted..Wednesday Ramblings | November in Photos
i think commenting and mingling on other blogs is important and you are SO good at that Cassie! I feel like I always need to catch up on my google reader!
You are one of the most personable boggers out there! I always appreciate your comments!
luv what you do recently posted..Dinner Tonight-Turkey Taco Meatloaf
Love your positive attitude and can’t get enough of the dreamy pictures… which have that voice as well. Go sprinkles!
Laura recently posted..Rosemary Lemon-dunk Cake
go sprinkles! haha i love it! Thank you so much laura… for saying hi AND for being so supportive. I really appreciate it. The compliment on my photos means a lot to me, that is the hardest part for me and has taken a lot of practice and work!
Another great post, great information! I definitely am seasonally challenged as well! Here in So. California we walk around in flip flops in the rain. And when I visit England in the summers I bring my California winter clothes with me! LOL
Elizabeth @ Confessions of a Baking Queen recently posted..Andes Chocolate Chip Cookies
flip flops in the rain? yeah i’ve done that! i’ve worn scarves with flip flops and wedges before. i’ve worn sweatshirts in july! i’m strange!
I have such mixed emotions about getting personal. I have a fashion blog where I like to give tips and advice as well as post about things I like. I want to get more personable Sally but it’s so hard because the thought of being rejected. I also feel like I wont be good at it, how much is too much. But I’m slowly working on it and reveling parts of myself on my blog/Facebook page. Thanks so much for this post, I really enjoyed it. Can’t wait for the next one.
Tea Todd
Tea Todd recently posted..THE GOOD GIRL
Hi Tea Todd – I feel that one should only get personal to where they are comfortable. Perhaps you will be more comfortable with it down the road, but don’t force yourself. It took me time to get personal and while my blog isn’t about my personal life, I do post a few pictures every now and then from my real life – I was so nervous to do that because, like you, I was afraid people would reject me! So yes, it does take time and you dont’ ever HAVE to get personal, it was just something I became comfortable with doing. People may judge you, but that just comes with the territory. Let me know if you ever need any advice on the matter. Thank you so much!
Hi Sally,
I just wanted to sincerely thank you for releasing this blog series. I released my blog about a week ago and I obviously still have a lot to learn. I have learned quite a lot of tips and tricks just from these posts alone (and visiting your blog non-stop – total lurker!)
I have great admiration for your work and your blog has become my inspiration. I could only dream to achieve this level of success!
I have taken your suggestion and added my own personality and humor to my posts and thus far I have received positive feedback from family and friends (the extent of who reads my blog). I personally would not have it any other way!
Cheyanne Smart @ Touristathomeblog recently posted..Chocolate Pumpkin Pie Brownies
Hi Cheyanne, thank you so much for the heartfelt comment. I really, really appreciate it – you have no idea! Welcome to the blogworld and might I add that your blog is FABULOUS for being so young! Wow. Those chocolate pumpkin brownies had me hungry when I saw them earlier this morning. Let me just tell you that growing a blog can be a lot of fun, but it also takes a lot of work. And I know you are determined enough to get there. Trust me, I have big goals for my blgo and it will take a lot of work to get there! So, I am right there with ya. I can’t wait to read more on your blog and all the amazing recipes you come up with. Thank you for your support!
The peppermint puppy chow worked – no melted powdered sugar
and it’s boxed up and ready to be given as gifts. Thanks for the awesome recipe and reply yesterday!
I am SO glad to hear that Caroline! Woo hoo! I’m making this puppy chow again this weekend to send to a few friends. They will love it!
You are awesome, Sally
I keep coming back to your blog each day because of your fabulous recipes and your fabulous self! Your blog is such a joy to read!
Colleen @ What’s Baking in the Barbershop?! recently posted..Homemade Chocolate Covered Sea Salt Caramels
So is yours, Colleen! I’m glad we can follow & draw inspiration from each other. Thank you for all your support!
Well, you definitely do a great job with all aspects of this blog, including being personable. I comment occasionally on other blogs, but I definitely ramble to you the most!
Your enthusiasm is just so evident and impossible to ignore. It’s so nice of you to always respond…I’m sure it encourages people to comment more, so then everyone wins! You get acknowledged for your hard work, and your readers get acknowledged for taking the time to notice. Keep up the great work! 
Caley, that means a lot to me! Thank you for all your kind words. I’m glad I encourage conversations to begin, that is why I love blogging. And to talk about recipes and baking, of course. I appreciate each and EVERY SINGLE comment you leave, trust me. You’ve been so supportive!! I’m so happy you follow along.
I’ve been blogging since I was around 14 years old and it’s always sort of just been blogging abstractly about my life, so it’s had to be personable. I’ve found my niche is tumblr, personally. Anyway, I love when people are personal on their blogs- I love knowing things about their lives. It just makes reading the blog more enjoyable.
Also, this series you’re doing has inspired me to start my own baking blog!
Hi Faith! I am so glad to read all that – I don’t use tumblr and never have. you could teach me a few tricks. I like to knwo more about the blogger behind the computer screen as well. Is your baking blog the URL you typed in with your name when you left the comment? I’d love to visit it!
Yes, that is my baking blog! Although only 1 out of 4 posts so far is actually about food… the others are mostly me procrastinating studying for finals. But eventually I’ll actually post food on there!
Good luck on finals Faith!
Thank you for writing this. When you personally responded to my comment last week via email I commented to my boyfriend on how impressed I was. I follow a decent amount of baking blogs, and when I have a recipe question, before I even bother asking it, I stop and look at which blog I’m on. Sadly, there are certain bloggers whom I know will never answer. Recently, after having a question about how many items a recipe would yield (side note – I wish EVERY blogger would indicate what a recipe yields, and how best to store it/how long it can stay), I noticed that another blogger had a similar recipe posted, and thought, “good, I can ask her the question, instead – she responds to comments.” Anyway – keep up the good work. Your recipes are excellent, your pictures are fun, and your interaction makes me come back and send other people over here.
Hi Dana! I am SO glad to read this AND that you took the time to write to me. I used to be a reader like you and have been ignored by other bloggers. Perhaps it was a mistake, my questions were overlooked or accidentally deleted, but it still aggrivated me. I know what you mean about a recipe’s quantity – it always helps to know if a cookie recipe will make 2 dozen or 4 dozen – usually it’s easy to tell by the ingredients but sometimes it is not! Two dozen cupcakes or 24? I agree, it’s important to know that before one begins to make the recipe. I’m glad that I was able to respond to you and please, do not hesitate to ask any recipe questions! Thank you for the comment on my photography – the photos are the hardest part about this! I’m glad they are fun to look at. And thank you for referring your frieneds to my blog as well, that truly means a lot to me.
Hey Sally,
Just wanted to say I love your blog and I love your style. You are SO relate-able and so open. It’s really great. Have to say, it blows me away that you’ve only been blogging for a year – as someone who has spent quite a few years now exploring blogs and the social media space, I can say you appear so much more seasoned than most at a year. Just looking at the level of engagement on your posts is phenomenal and you’ve done an amazing job building an awesome community here.
Congrats for sure…but I do have ONE question: What do you DO with all this baking? There is no way I could make so much – I knooow I would want to eat it all!
Hi Kerri – thank you SO much for taking the time to write to me. I’m glad I am relatable and not… a robot.
It’s been quite the year and there are sitll SO many things I want to work on and improve over the next year. I’m glad you are following along. Thank you so much for all the kind words. Oh and all my baking?? Thankfully I have friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to take the leftovers from me. If I’m invited to a party, you better believe I bring a treat along with me. The healthier items I keep around the apartment, but the desserts and such – after I have my fill of them, I send off the leftovers. I’m currently looking into a non-profit to which I may donate baked goods as well. Thank you so much Kerri!
I used to be the reader who never commented either. Your blog was one of the first that I began commenting on. And with how available and open you were/are, you not only inspired me to comment on other blogs, but you also inspired me to start my blog! So major thanks for that.
And I’m pretty sure I can speak for all of your regular readers when I say that we so greatly appreciate how open, helpful, available, and genuine you are. Such great advice!
Elaine @ Cooking to Perfection recently posted..Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies
Elaine, that means a lot to me – knowing that I was an inspiration for you. Reading baking blogs is what inspired me to start one as well. I’m FLATTERED beyond belief, so thank you. And I appreciate each and every comment you leave me and each and every recipe of your own that you post on Cooking to Perfection. Have you looked into a new camera yet? I’m looking into buying a new lens for mine, but I have to save up first!
I’m keeping my eyes open for a new camera. I’ve talked to a lot of people who have bought cameras around this time of year and have found great deals. Fingers crossed!
Elaine @ Cooking to Perfection recently posted..Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies
good! keep me posted. i love talking cameras!
Sally – your blog is great! Keep up the good work. I am a lot like you:) A food blogger who is only in my first year of blogging. I think interaction and personal response are key. I am working on weaving more personal posts into my mix of cooking, baking and products that I love! Would love for you to follow us too! Happy Thursday! Katherine
Hi Katherine! Thanks so much for the support and sweet comment. We do have a lot in common. Heading to your blog now! Have a great day
I completely, 100% agree with this. I remember stalking/lurking food blogs before I even started my own and being in complete and utter AWE of these people and their recipes. They sounded so friendly and fun and I feel like I was transported back to elementary school, just wanting so badly to be their friend. I reached out to them, thinking the somewhat anonymity of a computer may be banished because certainly, they were just as relatable and awesome in real life, right? But like you, I was quickly disheartened and sad to find out I never got responses. Or when I did, my name was spelled incorrectly, I got some generic, insipid comment back, like they didn’t care or my email was almost a burden to respond to. How irritating! I, too, vowed when I began blogging, that I’d be a present blogger. One who connects with my readers on social media by asking fun questions on Facebook, or who responds or retweets on Twitter, and who appreciates every single follower and comment left on my blog! I’m seriously amazed at the outpouring of love we receive each day from people who could easily bypass our blogs or choose not to read, but who loyally do so anyway! I’m, quite frankly, AMAZED. And thankful. And I hope I NEVER EVER turn out to be a robot!!
Hayley @ The Domestic Rebel recently posted..Peppermint Bark Ice Cream
Hayley, I could not agree and attest more to what you wrote. “Or when I did, my name was spelled incorrectly, I got some generic, insipid comment back, like they didn’t care or my email was almost a burden to respond to.” – YES! Exactly. I actually still sometimes write to bloggers and get a generic response back. I understand jobs, family, and blogs get in the way but apart of the blog is to be available for readers – you wouldn’t have a blog without READERS! I’m glad that The Domestic Rebel cherishes readers and other bloggers because we are all a community – not competition! I adore your facebook questions – they are so fun! I don’t always get to participate, but I do appreciate them! I am amazed everyday at the love and dedication from readers and I enjoy giving back to them. As always, thank you so much for your heartfelt comment – I appreciate each and every one you leave! Wearing my orange scarf today!!!!
Sally!!
So there’s several things I absolutely have to say… a) it made me absolutely laugh out loud when you said most of your comments were through your mom’s texts. Um can I attest to that!! My mom doesn’t text but she emails… She just asked me this past weekend if people commented and to my reply she said she was still trying to figure the whole thing out. b) I’m so glad that you’re doing these posts. I started blogging a year ago too but I’ve been in the deciding how much of a time and commitment to it that I was willing to make. These are definitely inspiring and a go to for me making up my mind and making decisions! and finally c) I absolutely adore your blog!
Thanks again for all your tried and true tips!!
Emily
Emily {Pink Tiger in the Kitchen} recently posted..peppermint white chocolate frosted brownie bites
Hahahaha Emily, I’m so glad you can relate to me on that. My mom still texts me about my blog posts too. Moms are so caring and so funny sometimes.
I’m glad you’re finding these “blogging posts” helpful! I am afraid that I go on and on and on and sound like I am preaching, so I am glad you appreciate my tips/suggestions. Thank you for following my blog along – that means a lot! off to go check out your killer-sounding peppermint white chocolate brownies!
Sally I love how genuine you are!! I love that you give your readers a response (even if they weren’t asking a question) just to let them know you heard them, and thank them!
You rock and so does your blog!!
Thanks Kristy – that means a lot to me that you notice that. I appreciate it! And I adore Sweet Treats & More and have been a reader even before I began blogging, so thank you!
what a great post Sally…you have been so wonderful to not only follow but “get to know” you are such a kind kind food blogger!!! and that picture of you and your pup is super cute.
Angela @ AnotherBitePlease recently posted..maple balsamic brussels sprouts
Thanks Angela, you’re blog is so fun to follow as well. We like a lot of the same things!
So I tried really hard to come up with a funny robot comment and it didn’t happen. I wanted to say something a little more creative than “YES YOU ARE THE BOMB!!!” because you know I think that anyway, but, well…there that is. Maybe you can come up with something funny about having Rosie from the Jetsons in your kitchen. That’s where this was trying to go
Ari @ Ari’s Menu recently posted..Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies
hahahaha Ari, omg you CRACK me up. other than trying to dancing like a robot, i know nothing about being one and your comment had me laughing all day at work today lol.
Such a great post Sally, it describes you to a T. You are definitely personable and present in your blog, and it’s true, it makes me want to try your recipes before someone else’s, because I feel like you’ll appreciate it more! Your oatmeal raisin cookie granola is still one of my go-to recipes, and I’m dying to try a bunch more that I’ve pinned once I have time
Meghan @ After the Ivy League recently posted..Thankful Thursday #2: One Down, Two to Go!
Hey miss Meghan! Thanks so much for all the kind words and actually – for ALL the comments you leave. They are heartfelt and engaging and I truly appreciate them, as well as stopping over to After The Ivy League. I’m so glad you find the blog and I both approachable. That is my goal!! That oatmeal raisin cookie granola… holy smokes… I can NEVER stop popping that into my mouth. It’s dangerously amazing.
Thank you so much and let me know what else you make!
Thank you for the great info again! I am waiting to hear from Cory and I’m excited to see what he’s come up for my new blog design!
Haley recently posted..Crinkle Cookies
YAY!! Let me know how it all goes with Cory! I can’t wait to hear more about it Haley!
Thank you for the fantastic advice Sally, you have been an inspiration to me as I have started my blog
Looking forward to the post on photography, as that’s the main thing I want to develop at the moment (asking for nothing but amazon vouchers for Christmas so I can get my prime lens!!)
Joy @ Baking-Joy recently posted..Gingerbread bundt cake
Wow, thank you so much Joy! That truly means a lot – I plan to finish up the series in the next few weeks with a few more posts including the one about my photography! Hooray for a lens!
You nailed it, Sally!!
Two of the things I love most about your blog are YOU and the photography. Notice which one I listed first!
At first, your awesome photography caught my eye, and you made it seem so easy to make these wonderful things, so I started pinning. Then, I couldn’t help myself, I started commenting, and I have been charmed and flattered every time you answer one of my comments!
Spot-on advice!
Hey Val!! Thanks so much girl, it’s always SO nice to hear from you. I appreciate each and every one of your comments and insights, so thank you! The photography – that all means SO much to me because I truly struggle with photos the most… I only picked up my first fancy camera last March! I am learning more and more every day and I am so happy that my readers like the photography. All your kind words – THANK YOU!!
Great advice Sally!
I love that we get to know people behind the blogs and that pretty much no matter where you are in the world, every blogger is going through the same thing
On a totally random topic,I LOOOVE BAILEY!! Sooooo cute!
shirley@bells-bakery recently posted..Rainbow Cake
Thanks Shirley!! Bailey is my sister’s dog and they don’t live around me, so I only get to see him sometimes. he is so stinkin’ cute! I love getting to know other bloggers and readers – no matter where we all are in the world! Good point
Another great post, Sal! In case you didn’t know…YOU are MY blogging idol. You are amazing, chica. I agree 100% with all you said here and I strive for that with every post. It took me a while to figure out my “voice” because at first I was thinking, “I’m a dietitian. People are going to expect knowledge, tips, know-how, sage nutrition advice, etc. Don’t talk about bacon. Or chocolate chips. Or cereal for dinner.” But I figured out pretty quickly that I can’t blog if I’m not being me!! I’m more off a Registered Not-a-titian LOL!!
I’ll just be me. And u keep being u, and I will just admire and learn
Julie recently posted..Buffalo Chicken Salad with Half-Fat Bleu Cheese Dressing
That means a TON to me. Totally makes my rainy Friday morning that much brighter – thank you for ALL the support, ALL the time! I miss our Tuesday night workshops together! Being true and honest on the blog is key for me. I eat buttercream from the bowl, I eat a TON of healthy granola-type things, I love to run, and I’m obsessed with dogs. Registered Not-A-titian… love it! Hey, eating in moderation is what is healthy, right? Thank YOU for being YOU Julie
It seems the Mutual Admiration Society is in good shape, then
I miss Tuesday night workshops too! If for no other reason to hear about all that I SHOULD be doing. Big things coming soon 
Happy Friday — it isn’t raining here in Boston but it is C-C-C-COLD!
P.S. Buttercream from the bowl yesyesyes, and peanut butter from the jar. I love to Spin almost as much as the other two, so it works out.
Julie recently posted..Buffalo Chicken Salad with Half-Fat Bleu Cheese Dressing
PB + spoon in jar. All about that.
Love this post, lots of great advice!
I’m a Swedish blogger and I don’t visit a lot of american blogs, but yours is one I always love to visit. I think it’s amazing that you actually answer comments, with the amount of comments you get..! I’ve had the experience too of e-mailing someone I look up to in the blog world, and not getting an answer, even though it would have taken the person 2 minutes to answer. It makes such a difference if you take that time to be personable and friendly with your readers, you’re so right about that!
Thanks for a great blog AND great recipes!
Hey Kristin! Thank you so much for all the kind words – hearing that you follow my blog from all the way over in Sweden, wow that’s incredible. I can’t thank you enough. “and not getting an answer, even though it would have taken the person 2 minutes to answer” – exactly. it’s happened to me and it is frustrating! I admire bloggers who are real people and who are present on their blgos for their readers. I agree, it makes SUCH a huge difference. Thank you so much for everything Kristin, means a lot.
This is such a great post in the series!! I think you bring up a lot of good points and I agree with that last reader–you do such a good job of letting your voice shine through on your blog that I feel like I know you!
Funny–you asked “How do you feel about getting personal on your blog?” and I was just thinking about that when I was editing my “about me” the other day. I’m always fascinated when people spill their whole life story, but that’s not quite me. I have been trying to tell more personal stories with each post, but sometimes it’s just easy to lapse into being like, “OMG THIS IS SO GOOD” which is sadly…not as helpful
My #1 priority on my blog…probably to get quality content on my site and make sure each recipe represents my lifestyle. I originally started my blog for me, but now that it’s public, I’ve found that networking is SO valuable and rewarding! And like you said, I think being present and personable is so important and I SO admire you for not only balancing this amazing blog but also responding to every single one of your readers so thoughtfully!
Erika recently posted..Pancake Fridays: Vegan Cookies ‘n Cream Pancakes
Hey Erika! I just realized I didn’t answer you yet – so sorry about that! I’m so glad you appreciate these posts and that we have the same blogging priorities. Networking is certainly SO valuable to my blog and I adore meeting and connecting with new bloggers and readers. It makes me happy, so yes it is very rewarding to me. I am semi-personal on my blog, but since it is about food and recipes – I don’t share too too much in each post about my own life. But, I try to be personABLE and present in each post and I am glad that you agree it’s important. Thank you so much for your heartfelt comments and all the support.
Hi Sally,
I really appreciated this post. As an up and coming blogger myself it was nice to hear your thoughts and perspective. Your recipes and photos are amazing, keep up the incredible work.
Jen recently posted..Calling All Bloggers!
Hi Jen! Thank you so much for the sincere comment. It is SO nice to hear from new bloggers and I have to go check out your blog now. Thank you for the sweet compliments about my recipes and photos as well.
I might slack on comment replies from time to time, but never on emails! I totally agree with you on all of this, especially the being personable/yourself, which you do so well!
Liz (Little Bitty Bakes) recently posted..Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola
Thank you Liz! And I most certainly did not want to call out bloggers by not replying to comments, everyone has their own style of blogging! But yes, answering emails – especially if there is a recipe question – is important and I couldn’t imagine ignoring one you know? So glad we’ve become blogging buddies Liz, your comments mean the world to me! and we enjoy a lot of the same treats/tastes/goodies.
This is awesome! I love reading your blog, and I do feel like I’m getting to know you through it!
My #1 priority so far is helping out new people like myself, and answering any questions they have. I’m only 8 months in and really enjoying it, and am still a little scared to share everything about myself… I’m not too sure if anyone really cares yet.
Thanks for this post. You’re an inspiration (and adorable btw)!!
Rachael {SimplyFreshCooking} recently posted..Easy Homemade Beer Bread
This is so helpful- thank you! I am a brand-new blogger, and I learn so much from you.
Hi Joy! Thank you so much for saying “hi” – I am so glad this was helpful for you and let me know if you need any more advice, I appreciate your comment a lot!
Oh my goodness Sally, I had no idea you’ve only been blogging for a year! You’re absolutely amazing! I seriously thought you’ve been around forever.
I LOVE reading posts about having a food blog, with all of the tips and advice, because it is A LOT of work and I feel like I’m always learning something new . Thanks so much for deciding to share the advice you have! I can’t wait for the next posts in the series.
P.S. You seem very present and personable to me and I love it.
Alexandra {Bright-Eyed Baker} recently posted..Confession #96: This is how my mind works… Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint Marshmallows
You are the sweetest Alexandra, thank you so much. Blogs are truly a ton of work, I consider this a second full time job. I actually spend the most time on my blog – more than any other thing I do in life! Thank you for all the kind words and thank you even more for reading and following along. It truly means the most to me!
I’m loving these tips! Especially the one about being yourself. It’s kind of a challenge to really be yourself in writing because it’s so easy to edit and re-word what you say. But I’ve found that usually the posts that are most “me” are the ones where I’m not thinking too much!
Loretta | A Finn In The Kitchen recently posted..Chocolate Peppermint Cake Balls
Hey Loretta! “the posts that are most “me” are the ones where I’m not thinking too much!” –> exactly! You took the words right out of my mouth/… or keyboard..
Anyway, you are so right – the posts that are easiest for me are certainly the ones where I am being myself. I love that.
Such a great post! I’ve had mixed experiences emailing bloggers- with one I got in a long conversation about cameras, another, no response. You totally nailed it – interacting is definitely important! ps- LOVE the White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies. Bringing them to an office party tomorrow before they all disappear.
Molly @ Toffee Bits and Chocolate Chips recently posted..The 20 Days of Holiday Treats: Day 6 White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Hi Molly! Thank you so much for stopping in and saying hello. Those white chocolate cranberry cookies – one of my favorite cookies on this site. Hands down. You picked a good one to make! Interacting with readers is my #1 priority on my blog and I’m glad you think it is just as important too. I’m glad you found the support you wanted about cameras in an email to a blogger and so sorry you were once ignored too. It stinks.
Thank you Sally for sharing your insights and tid bits of information to help us all. I am so happy for you and your success and I am so glad that I have gotten to know you through blogging and Instagram!
Chandra@The Plaid and Paisley Kitchen recently posted..Show Me Your Plaid Monday’s #2
I am so glad too Chandra! Love connecting with you as well.
Sally, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and successes. Your blog is enjoyable
and you are easy to relate to. Thanks again!
Misty O’Brien recently posted..White Bean and Potato Soup
Hi Misty! Thank you so much – I actually plan to post another post like this later today. This comment means a lot, thank you!
I cannot wait to read your next post in the series – you have offered us SO much great information!
Heather @French Press recently posted..Peanut Butter Balls
Sally, thanks so much for sharing your blogging tips! I just started my food blog and am a little overwhelmed, so it really helps to hear what has worked for successful bloggers like you. And your recipes look so good..I’m dying for one of those cake batter cookies!!
Hi Lisa! What a lovely thing to read firs thing in the morning – thank you so much! I’m glad these posts are helpful. I can’t wait to check out your blog. If you bake those cake batter cookies, let me know how you like them
Hi Sally, thank you so much for all of your advice about starting a food blog. I’m just starting out and I love your tips and how honest you are in sharing your experiences. I feel so encouraged!
Best Wishes
Lisa
Lisa, I am so glad. Thank you SO much and congrats on starting your own blog! It’s very exciting.
Sally ! This article, I can’t find words but : it’s YOU.
A huge amount of sweetness, generosity and attention. It’s true that famous bloggers in general neglect their readers because they probably think they are too famous to take time to answer them.. You never do that and I admire you. You combined a full time job, a successful blog, a sweet life and you find time for your readers.
Please stay the same, you’re perfect !
xx
Sarah recently posted..CHOCOLATE LAYER CAKE // GATEAU A ETAGES AU CHOCOLAT
Thank you again Sarah!! For another sweet comment.
My readers MAKE my blog so how can I not reach out to them? They are the most important part! Thank YOU for reading!!!
I love your blog! Your recipes, photos and sharing ability are amazing. It’s true. I totally feel like you’re actually talking to me. Now I’m so excited to really start my blog. More power to you Sally!
Gracie recently posted..Hello world!
Thanks Gracie! How sweet of you to say hi. I’m so glad you enjoy my website and find it personable!
Hi Sally!
First of all, congratulations on your success within a year. Being in a food blogging industry, I understand how much hard work it takes to have what you have. You truly have to love it in order to do it and I can tell you do! Good for you!
#2, the same thing happened to me with being ignored. Exactly the same experience, I wonder if it’s the same blog we are talking about?!:) I found a very inspiring and related to my situation recipe/blog post on this quite popular food blog. I posted a comment, and didn’t see it published for 2 days but newer than mine comments were published. I thought odd. Then I posted a comment on another blog post of hers, nothing weird or odd, just like you asking a question and sharing my experience. The same thing happened with the 2nd comment.
So, I finally got a point I was being ignored. I got it! Don’t worry, I won’t be back. I got it, you don’t want me here. Fine.:)
So, you are right. Connecting with your audience is the key. And I just installed the Comment Notification Plugin. Thank you!
Hi Olena! Thanks so much for the sweet comment – it truly made my morning. I have a feeling we contacted the same blogger! What a disappointment it was for me. And you, I’m sure. I felt very let down. I promised to always be available for my readers. Especially if they are praising my recipe or asking a question. And yes – the comment notification plug-in is essential!