On my long running blog, Janine’s Confessions of A Mommyaholic, I have been asked how I keep up with not only posting 5-7 days a week, but with reading and commenting, too. Also, since I started up J9 Designs, I have been asked for my advice on specifically increasing viewership/readership so that one’s blog stats will increase. So, I thought I would indeed share my thoughts on this here.
I must admit that when I began in the beginning I followed bloggers on many different social networks. Even though, I blogged primarily on WordPress, only used Blogger for a few short weeks and never officially signed up with Google Friend Connect (GFC), I did follow many blogs this way and used even Feedburner to subscribe to these blogs. However, I didn’t find it extremely helpful, because as I said I was a WordPress Blogger. Plus, Google has now announced that they are doing away with the GFC.
But quickly learned that subscribing to blogs got to be a mess that got created in my e-mail inbox and had trouble sorting through tons of e-mails daily. Nothing irks me more then seeing my inbox overflowing and having too many e-mails to sort through.
I also followed blogs on Facebook, but that too got to be quite lengthy and as Facebook began to get greedy by charging most fan pages advertising fees to get their Facebook pages promoted to be allowed in their followers feed, I began to suspect I was missing a lot on this forum. So that wasn’t really in my eyes working either.
I also followed many on Twitter and as much as I like Twitter, I find it does mover pretty quickly, which most do know, but sometimes just too quick for me to actually catch all the new blog updates that could come in daily. Again another social network that wasn’t help to keep me updated.
However, in order to have others want to come read and share on my blog, I realized very early on that I had to make an effort to be reciprocal in this medium by going to read and comment on other blogs that made the effort to visit me daily or even a few times a week.
But like I mentioned above, how exactly can I do that and not miss a beat? I have already proved that most of the ways I followed weren’t helping me stay abreast of new blog submissions.
And then it happened! I found it!
BlogLovin was the solution I was searching for and truly became my best friend very quickly on a daily basis. See, I am able to check updates a few times a day and never miss new posts by my favorites.
Bloggers can truly follow as many as you want on BlogLlovin and you can even group blogs as well.
For those, who are new to blogging or even those who have been doing this for some time, I highly recommend and suggest signing up with BlogLovin. As well as making sure that you claim your blog (to learn more about how to do this click here or look below), so that not only can you follow other blogs, but that these blog can return the favor and follow you back.
BlogLovin is so simple to use and in my opinion the best Blog Reader out there for bloggers. So my humble advice for all is try it out, if you aren’t already. I don’t think you will be disappointed and will probably find that not only is it a godsend as fair as reading blogs go, but will also truly help to increase your current blog stats.
Lisa @ Golden Spoons says
Thanks for the advice. I have recently started following a LOT of new blogs, but I am getting overwhelmed by Facebook and I simply cannot keep up with Twitter. I am using bloglovin, but perhaps I need to rely on it more!
J9 Designs says
Lisa, totally my pleasure and I knew that feeling well. I was truly having so much trouble keeping up and BlogLovin really has helped me a ton with that. Grouping blogs on BlogLovin also makes it easier, too!!
ourhomeonderanged says
I was pondering the other day how you kept up with all the reading, because I just get overwhelmed by my inbox. Then I realized – you're on BlogLovin'. 🙂
One question – do you think it's better to encourage readers to follow you via email or via BlogLovin? Not sure there's a right answer, but just curious.
J9 Designs says
Melissa, I too was having the same feelings with my inbox and seriously couldn't handle the damn alerts all day long. I have low blood pressure, but was making me feel like it was going through the roof, lol!! But seriously, I think it is a personal preference, but that said I feel for me, as well as others who seem similar to me (and you sound like you have had a lot of the same feelings on this as I did) this really could help elevate the mail clutter and keeps the updates all in one place. Hope that makes sense 🙂
ourhomeonderanged says
I think I'm going to try pushing BlogLovin' more. I don't really do that on the site, just on my other social media, so maybe I'll try refocusing and see where it gets me.
My recent post Jamming out with Wagner and Bon Jovi
J9 Designs says
Oh let me know if you do that and what you think, because I have to say it has helped me out tons and would love to get others input on how they feel, too!! 🙂
neucarol says
Personally use Bloglovin to follow blogs and eliminate email posts.
However, as a blogger, want to get a subscriber list for newsletters–subscriptions don’t happen with Bloglovin followers.
How do I reconcile Bloglovin followers (a good thing) with getting subscribers to my newsletter (also a good thing)?
Or is this not an issue as a follower is a follower?
Like using newsletter as always include links, tips, tidbits of relevant niche info that isn’t blogged about.
J9 Designs says
I agree about BlogLovin being a help in following other blogs, as well as eliminating e-mails. But as far as newsletters and subscribers, you also have to remember on the flip side that many feel the same way about getting excessive emails, such as newsletters. But if you are trying to grow your email subscribers, I would suggest using Opt-Ins, such as I explained here: https://j9designs.net/2015/03/20/5-ways-more-e-mail-subscribers/. With Opt-Ins, you can even offer incentives for people to subscribe like getting something such as a printable or more content that only a subscriber would get, as well.
Brigid O'Malley says
Thank you for this. I'll be signing up for bloglovin later today.
P.s. I just found your blog the other day and I love it!
Brigid http://www.thepinkrollercoaster.com/
J9 Designs says
Oh thank you so much for saying that Brigid and have followed you on FB right now, but will check back a bit later and definitely add your blog on BlogLovin, too once you do subscribe!! 🙂
Susan Brahs says
I also use the BlogLovin's Facebook app, which posts directly to my FB fan page. I like it better than Twitterfeed.
My recent post Inside Mama's Bag – Tuesday's Treasure
J9 Designs says
Totally going to have to look into this Susan and thank you for sharing that here with me!! 🙂
dawn says
I like BlogLovin, too!
J9 Designs says
It is truly awesome and so easy to use!! Glad it isn't just me!! 🙂
Roshni says
Wow! I didn't know you had this website too! Awesome! I use Bloglovin' too! It truly is very helpful for keeping up with favorite blogs!
J9 Designs says
Oh thanks so much Roshni and just started this site and servicing about a month ago. I couldn't agree with you more about BlogLovin!! 🙂
christyb says
Okay awesome! I'm going to see about suing BlogLovin' too – it would likely help my poor Inbox!
J9 Designs says
I hope you do use it and trust my your poor inbox will thank you tons!! 🙂
katbiggie says
Now I know your secret on how you do it! I especially like that they send me a daily email with all the updated blogs that day, so I don't have to go through the whole list!
My recent post Pin It! Tuesday! {Pinterest Link Up!}
J9 Designs says
You found me out Alexa, lol!! But seriously, love BlogLovin and so with you ont hat one daily e-mail. It really is a godsend!! 🙂
Domesticated Breakdown says
Thank you 🙂
J9 Designs says
My pleasure and thank you, too!! 🙂
Karen says
I used other sites after news that Google reader was shutting down. I think I used news blur and I forget the other name, but I loved that they had pic previews to go with the posts. for some reason I was reluctant to go with bloglovin…but I finally did and I LOVE IT…
It has pic previews BECAUSE I AM A TOTAL VISUAL LEARNER and is easy to follow other blogs and read blogs.
J9 Designs says
I am totally a visual learner and process information this way better. And so with you on loving that they have pictures to go along with the posts. And now you can choose between large and small graphics, too. Thanks Karen and happy to hear that others feel similar to me on this one, too!! 🙂
ScienceOfParenthood says
Perfect instructions! I claimed my blog on BlogLovin'! I'm so not tech savvy this calls for a celebration! Chocolate?
My recent post Follow The Blog On BlogLovin
J9 Designs says
Oh so glad you the instructions helped and I just followed your blog on BlogLovin. So awesome for sure!! 🙂 🙂
Rosey says
I like Bloglovin'. Everything's nice and neat in one spot, and like you said, no clutter in the mailbox.
My inbox, however, is so inundated that there is no hope for recovery. Wish I'd have started Bloglovin' long ago!
Great post.
My recent post Thursday's Favorite Things
J9 Designs says
Oh thanks so much Rosey and so hated the inundated mailbox, this really is a lifesaver at least for me, too 🙂
Ana -The Lost Apron says
I just found you from Katherine's Corner. This is very useful information. I currently use Google Reader which is going away. I like that you can sort blogs also. Will definitely join in. What about my subscribers? How do I get them over?
My recent post Summer Sewing Camp: Ready to Begin
J9 Designs says
Ana, thanks so much. To have others follow you on my BlogLovin, you could write a post once you sign up directing your viewers over there to follow. You can also link up to Blog Hops for this specifically. On that is running today is over at Peacoats and Plaid, here http://www.peacoatsandplaid.blogspot.com/2013/05/…. But you did give me another idea to share here. So thanks for that and stay tuned!! 🙂
Val says
Nice post, thanks
My recent post Homeschool Myth No. 1…I Can't Afford It!
J9 Designs says
Thank you, too and very happy to help!! 🙂
Shelley says
Great advice! I have pondered signing up for BlogLovin and have just been putting off joining one more site… but I think I will have to check it out today! Thanks!! I am visiting from THE Pin It Party!
J9 Designs says
My pleasure for linking up and hope you do sign up. It is so easy and really such a great help in blog reading!! 🙂
grok78 says
Stopping by from THE Pin-It Party. Going to pin this and I need to revamp my own BlogLovin' groups! Thanks. 🙂
J9 Designs says
Oh thank you for stopping by and glad this could help you to revamp your BlogLovin groups, too!! 🙂
Mandi Roach says
Hi there! Visiting you from the Thumpin’ Thursday Blog Hop!
I plan on hanging out here a while and getting to know who you are!
XOXO, Mandi @ All My Happy Endings
J9 Designs says
Oh thank you so much Mandy and am also following you on BlogLovin. The feeling is quite mutual!! 🙂 🙂 xoxo!!
cynthia says
new follower here from Katherine's Corner. Looking forward to your posts! Cynthia
My recent post Greek Lamb Sliders
J9 Designs says
Oh thanks so much Cynthia and happily following you back on FB and G+, too!! 🙂
Lois says
thanks for the info. fairly new to blogging and I need all the help I can get.
cabinofbows.blogspot.com
J9 Designs says
Lois, totally my pleasure and please don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions or you need help. Would love to help you!! 🙂
Lisa says
Great post. I just claimed my blog and signed up – where do I get the button like you have on your blog so others can easily sign up?
My recent post
J9 Designs says
Hi Lisa, When you are on your BlogLovin Homepage, you will see a top menu. There is a blue heart to left of the search box. If you click on the that a pull down menu will appear. It is the 4th option own that will say blog button and click on that to reveal Bloglovin Blog Buttons that will be customized for your blog. Hope that helps!! 🙂
AnnMarie says
I love Bloglovin'! I get an email with all the updates and I can read when I want too!
J9 Designs says
Thanks AnnMarie and I am so with you on this. And love that I can read when I want when I do get the daily updates!!
@VioletImperfect says
I adore bloglovin. Once I found it and started using it, reading blogs became so much easier!
Thanks for sharing your favorite post at Raising Imperfection! We feature our favorites on Friday, make sure to come back and check.
Leslie http://www.violetimperfection.com
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks Leslie and seriously same here since I have found it, too has made my blog reading that much easier. Thanks again for hosting and very happy to linkup with you!! 🙂
Lanaya says
Obviously you know about my love for Bloglovin … when I went all narcissistic on GFC in my "GFC Sucks" post!!
LOL
Thank you for linking to Raising Imperfection.
Please come back Friday to see if you were featured. 🙂
¤´¨)
¸.•*´
(¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo http://www.raising-reagan.com
My recent post Raising Imperfection Sunday Link Party Week 26
Janine Huldie says
Oh I totally do and remember. Yet, again we think alike and agree on something. Love it and us Gemini's totally stick together!! 🙂 xoxo!!
Judy Haughton-James says
Thanks a lot for sharing this information Janine. I recently joined Bloglovin' so it is good to know that I made a wise decision. My inbox is in a shocking state!:) Take care and have a wonderful week.
Janine Huldie says
My pleasure in sharing and seriously I feel your pain Judy with my mailbox having been ridiculous and just in shambles!! Thank you for hosting again and seriously have a great week!! 🙂
Sheila Simmons says
How can we move our friends from GFC to BlogLovin? Will we lose all of our followers?
Janine Huldie says
Unfortunately, you will not be able to move your followers manually, but I promise tomorrow's article that will go live at 6 am EST here will give you some ways to encourage and help previous viewers to follow you over on BlogLovin. Stay tuned 🙂 🙂
Jessica says
I love Bloglovin! You're right… it's the best way to keep up with everyone's blogs without having to go dizzy :). Thanks for sharing with us @ My Favorite Posts SHOW OFF Weekend Blog Party!
Jessica
The Wondering Brain
My recent post I LOVE My iPad Mini!
Janine Huldie says
Thank you Jessica as always for hosting and I totally agree that it really has so helped me from losing my mind and going dizzy trying to keep up with new posts!!
sineamarie says
You are so right. I was grateful to find it when Google Reader announced it was going away. One thing that frustrated me was the BlogLovin button for our sidebars. It opens in a new window. Those who are not right-clickers, will leave the page. So, I learned how to set it to open in a new window using some simple html.
My recent post A Tisket, A Tasket, A Green And Yellow Basket
Janine Huldie says
Wow, I am truly impressed and love that you figured that out. Seriously I love what simple HTML coding can do sometimes!! 🙂
Scott says
Ive been using Blogloving for a while now and wanting to increase our traffic to Man of Many (http://manofmany.com) but we haven't found it that effective. Do you have any advice on ways to promote your site through this channel?
My recent post Winter Session Roll-up
Janine Huldie says
Scott, honestly try the suggestions in this article, especially writing up a post and sharing with your subscribers that you are on BlogLovin, because you would be surprised how many may just not realize until you point it out. And the BlogLovin Blog hops also are a great resource in gaining new members/readers to your site. Hope this helps and please feel free to contact me for anymore help!! 🙂
Tammy says
I love bloglovin but I've never heard of claiming my blog. Will def do that. Thank you for the great tip!
I found you on Mom's Monday Mingle. My post is a recipe for a Healthy Reese. Yum. Check it out here: http://noskinnies.com/blog/2013/6/24/a-healthy-re….
Thanks! http://www.NoSkinnies.com
My recent post A Healthy Reese? WHAAAA????
Janine Huldie says
I totally just followed you back and am so happy to. That recipe looks amazing and seriously can't thank you enough. Happy to share with you and thank you again!! 🙂
Nalin says
Great post! I completely agree Bloglovin is totally effective.
~ http://theekissoflife.blogspot.com/
My recent post Hey
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks Nalin and truly do love BlogLovin!!
karishmarawat says
Yes BlogLovin is pretty convenient. I have a blog on blogger platform and GFC is a viable option to keep up with blogs too. And Google never said GFC is shutting down, Google Reader has shut down. I guess everyone got pretty confused between the two. Thank you for this wonderful post.
My recent post November Haul
Janine Huldie says
My pleasure and I think back when this was all coming out many were completely confused, thinking that they would be shutting down both. But thanks again for sharing and truly happy to help.
Amanda says
lovely instruction…i also use bloglovin, and yes, indeed from all is by far the best… i love it so much!
My recent post Beanie hat for young women 2014
Jillian @ Babydoodah says
I was a huge Google Reader fan, but when they did away with that, it was like the saddest day ever. My husband being a techy person, did some research for me and found that Feedly was being touted as the Google Reader replacement. I joined, and used them for a good 3 or 4 months, but it got to be too much. I didn't like their layout, and I stopped reading my favorite blogs bc of that. Then I signed-up for Bloglovin' for my own blog (babydoodah.com), and saw what they offered and was totally sold. I love that they send you an email daily, letting you know which blogs have new posts too…it keeps me up to date. Plus then I can scan to see if there's anything I need to read immediately, or if it can wait.
Eitherway, great post!
My recent post What I Ate Wednesday – Binge Eating Disorder
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Jillian and I now BlogLovin truly is a such a great service for all they do offer. I also tried Feedly myself and didn't really care for it either.
Dori says
I love using Bloglovin as well to keep up with my favorite blogs. It’s so much easier than feeds and emails, or FB and Twitter. I was wondering if you had any advice or tips for increasing followers. I only have 6! Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful for those 6; but I’d really like to have a few more! I feel like I’m working hard at blogging. I follow a lot, I comment on others etc and nothing seems to be working. Any tips would be much appreciated!
Dori recently posted…Where Flowers Bloom: CASE Study 4th Anniversary Challenge
J9 Designs says
Dori, I try my best to follow all that I already read and comment, too on BlogLovin. Also, if someone new does follow me back on BlogLovin, I try my best to follow them back. If you join bloghops weekly, you should be able to connect with a few new bloggers on a weekly basis and if you follow them also on BlogLovin, most times I have found these same people do follow back. You may also want to join BlogHer and SITS Girls blogging communities, because I also got to know and follow (who followed me back, too) from these reputable blogging communities. Hope this helps a bit more, too 🙂
Dove says
I recently found you and bloglovin as well. I also came across another blog I’d like to follow but it although it lets you see the blogs it won’t let you read them. It says you have to be invited to read them. To contact the owner of the blog. Do you have any idea how one goes about being invited our contacting?
Thank you!
J9 Designs says
Dove, I admit I have never seen this on BlogLovin. I would suggest contacting BlogLovin for there help on this as it may be a glitch of sorts. Please keep me posted, if you can.
Jessica Charlotte says
I’ve just started my blog last month, and one of the first things I did was join bloglovin. Thanks for the advice.
J9 Designs says
You are so welcome and if you need any other help, please feel free to ask and would be very happy to help you, Jessica.