My monthly routine . . .
At the beginning of each month, I like to schedule, organize and map things out. Here’s a look behind the scenes at my planning process:
Schedule Tweets
Hootsuite is my go-to when it comes to planning content for Twitter. I like to schedule 5-7 tweets each day, Monday through Friday. This is the primary way I share past content that still feels relevant. I call these my ‘from the archives’ tweets. This is a great way to help Twitter followers discover posts they may have missed or rediscover old favorites.
Map Out Blog Posts in Pencil
On an oversized desk calendar, I like to pencil in blog post content for the entire month. I try to plan 2-3 posts each week–this leaves room to add in future opportunities that may arise and gives flexibility to switch things around if necessary. It also guarantees that there is new content each week for FBT readers who regularly check in.
Organize Upcoming Collaborations
This is one of the most important and most rewarding parts of blogging. I love teaming up with brands and fellow creators to bring inspiring content to life. On the back end, each collaboration includes multiple email exchanges and hours of brainstorming/content creation before even making it into a blog post draft. The first of the month is the perfect time to analyze exactly where I am in this process and solidify steps moving forward.
Schedule Photo Shoots
It’s no secret that the good photographers book up fast. After I solidify my upcoming collaborations, I make a list of blog post ideas I need photos for and schedule a professional photo shoot. Be sure to mention any looming deadlines when you meet with your photographer. You’ll both be happier in the long run if you have a clear understanding on turnaround time.
Map Out Social Media Goals
Like any other business, blogging success is tied to setting and working toward accomplishing goals. I’m currently trying to build my Instagram following so that’s the number one priority. This month, I made a few time-management goals to help build that platform: designated time toward creating content, engaging with other’s photos and responding to follower’s comments. Relationships take effort, even on Instagram.
Why Does this Matter?
Whether you’re a fellow blogger or an FBT reader, I want you to know how dedicated I am to making my site a source for inspiration. There’s a lot of work that happens behind the scenes–days spent planning, scheduling, organizing and mapping. I love every bit of it (even though sometimes it feels overwhelmingly hard). Thank you so much for reading + following along.
P.S. Here’s the link to find my gold leaf phone case.
Great tips! I need to get better about scheduling tweets. I really want to start promoting other bloggers’ content more!
Thanks, Rachel. Scheduling past content has been a game changer. It’s a great way to fill in the gaps between daily, in-the-moment tweets. Good luck!
I have a question on how you collaborate with photographers. How do you make it work for you both to leave feeling like you got something equal out of it.
Thank you!
Ashley
Hi Ashley! That’s a great question. I think communication is key. Make sure you mention what you have to bring to the table. This can be things like X amount of money and/or X amount of social media mentions. It also may be a good idea to approach someone with a similar amount of followers. You both can lean on each other to build your businesses. Hope this helps!
I believe that is takes effort *for sure*! This post is a good influence on me. I definitely need put in place some organization. And it’s always fun to get a peek behind the scenes.
It must be fun to scout photographers website and get excited for the shoot! Do you ever get a little shy during a shoot, or not at all? : )
Hi Melinda–yes, I’ve found that organization is definitely key! And when it comes to outfit photos, I always feel a bit silly. I’ve been lucky to work with good photographers who I can do a lot of laughing with. It makes it a little bit easier and way more fun.
Love these tips! I will definitely need to save these for when hopefully, one day, my blog grows!!
Xo,
Amanda
Thanks, Amanda. It’s never too soon to start implementing a few things here and there. Good luck!
Great tips mentioned in your article, especially as it’s concise and gives a very good idea to the reader about the hard work that actually exists behind making a blog like this one a success.