5 Awesome Ways Homeschool Bloggers Can Connect & Grow

 

 

Homeschool bloggers are such a special group. We are often homeschool mommas who find ourselves juggling numerous balls at any given time. Despite our overflowing schedules, we have felt called in some way to share our thoughts, experiences, and resources with others.

With so many responsibilities and to-do list, how do homeschool bloggers do it all? As I recently learned at the 2016  2:1 Conference (for Christian homeschool bloggers and entrepreneurs) held at Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky, Ohio, we don't. I left out a huge sigh of relief and felt a weight life off my shoulders as I discovered that homeschool bloggers do not have to do it all-yet can continue to grow professionally and personally.

How do they do grow?  Blogging connections and friends.

Disclaimer:  I received a free ticket to this 2:1 Conference in exchange for a review.
All opinions are 100% my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

I have been blogging for almost eighteen months. When I started, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing and knew no one in the blogging world. I felt so completely overwhelmed that I almost gave up several times. I had no idea where to turn to ask blogging questions in my niche, homeschooling.

My stubborn streak overcame my feeling of drowning in a sea of SEO, share threads, and social media. I kept praying on what to do and how to do it. Every time, God led me to resources and people who took me in and showed me the way.

My #1 Resource For Homeschool Blogging Growth

As I look back on my homeschool blogging experiences, I realize that there was no way that I could have done any of it without my blogging friends. These ladies lift me up and brush away the tears. They fill me with inspiration, motivation, and encouragement. My homeschool blogging buddies share their insights and connections.

My friendships with homeschool bloggers are critical to my professional and personal growth. Sure, blogging articles and courses have helped shape my blogging knowledge and approach. But, these ladies are the ultimate resources in terms of feedback, blog analysis, and a virtual shoulder to cry on when tech issues arise.

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How did I find these homeschool bloggers who care enough about others to take the time to get to know you and listen to your needs?  You may be surprised at how simple it truly is to develop working relationships and friendships with other homeschool bloggers.

5 Awesome Ways Homeschool Bloggers Can Connect & Grow

1. Facebook Groups

Do a search on Facebook for homeschool bloggers and similar keywords. See if they are open to new members and take the plunge. Read the group rules and give an introduction where appropriate.

Sit back and read about what others are sharing. What type of questions do they ask? What type of posts (and when) do they share? Take the time to go to their sites and see if you have similar backgrounds or topics. Send a brief email or message and establish a connection.

2. Voxer

Have you heard of this incredible free walkie-talkie app? Voxer has been a game changer for me! Such an easy way for a busy mom to keep in touch with homeschool bloggers and friends! You can talk or text when you are available for up to 15 minutes at a time. (Have more wonderful ideas or stories to share? Just start a new vox!)  Your friend can listen when they are ready and respond via text or talk.

I love to use Voxer to share new ideas or inspiration that I have for my blog or my friends' blogs. Group voxes make it possible to have more than one person in a conversation-perfect for team building and feedback!

3. Video Chat

When you need to connect in real time, a video chat with Facebook messenger or Skype is a great way to interact and talk all things homeschool blogging. This option is fantastic for discussing in real time your goals, dreams, and strategies for your blog or project.

4. Social Media

It can be super scary to put yourself out there as a blogger. Hitting the publish button on a post can be both exhilarating and frightening. Social media platforms, like Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter, can be intimidating, especially when you are just starting out as a homeschool blogger.

Don't let your blogging fears interfere with connecting with other homeschool bloggers!  Do not worry about your stats or number of followers. They do not define you. All bloggers had to start somewhere. Be yourself and reach out to other homeschool bloggers.  Give a short intro (we are all busy!) and how you would love to connect.

Research similar homeschool bloggers in your niche and start following them on all social media. Interact on their site and social media platforms. Develop a relationship with them by getting to know them. Don't just go over and hit them up for help or with a million questions. Think about how you would like to be approached and follow your heart.

5. Conferences

I recently attended my first blogging conference and learned what a game changer it can be! I do not feel that I can adequately put in words how much this specific conference impacted my life both professionally and personally.The 2:1 Conference exceeded my expectations at all levels.

In general, I learned that attending a blogging conference, especially for your niche, is a fantastic way to connect with other bloggers. To be honest, I was nervous that it would be ultra competitive and cutthroat. I was also afraid that I would be sitting in the back of the room feeling ridiculous and clueless.

At 2:1 Conference, you feel like you are with family. There was an air of inspiration, encouragement, and support. Experienced bloggers with huge stats chat with wanna-be bloggers who have the mere wisp of an idea for a blog. The founder of 2:1 Conference, Cheryl Pitt, and her amazing team do a spectacular job of making everyone feel welcome and loved.

Not only did I have the opportunity to exchange business cards and hellos with fellow bloggers, but I also had the chance to learn amazing ways to grow my blog. I have an entirely new perspective on how to grow my email list after absorbing the wisdom of Heather Bowen's (Life of A Homeschool Mom) session. Alexis Matthews of Premier Executive Media shared how a virtual assistant can help my blog flourish. Colleen Kessler (Raising Lifelong Learners) brought me out of my shell in her break-out session about finding your focus. So much juicy goodness in one weekend!

Between sessions with amazingly talented presenters and keynote speakers, I had the chance to actually talk to real homeschool bloggers. Women with similar goals and callings. Great gals who want to share from the heart and bless other homeschoolers.

Among these women, I found my focus. I found my tribe. I found my people. Best of all, I grew.

An introvert (INFP all the way!), I put myself out there. I took a chance. I felt comfortable being myself, accepted for who I am and all my goofiness. I discovered a new family, my homeschool blogging family.

I also gained so much confidence. I have been rather shy about putting my posts and resources out there. My eyes were opened! My message and God-given gifts are not to be hidden away but to be brought to light to bless those who need them.

Another incredible aspect of blogging conferences is interaction with sponsors and vendors! I had the chance to meet representatives and owners of companies with products and resources that will bless both my family and my readers. I am so excited about these new relationships and hope to share more from companies like BJU Press, Apologia, 7Sisters Homeschool, Stridepost, Notgrass, A Journey Through Learning Lapbooks, and more!

Want to find out more about 2017 2:1 Conference and beyond?
Make sure to follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Periscope.
Get updates and discover ways that you can become a part of this fellowship of homeschool bloggers.

If you are a Christian homeschool blogger and want to take your blog to the next level, I highly encourage you to check out 2:1 Conference. Let me know if you have any questions and I can't wait to see you in Washington, D.C. for 2017!

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