A WordPress blog is free and easy to set up for someone interested in having a personal or business blog. I remember when I would hear about people making money with their blogs, and I would think, “how do they do that”?

Someone asked recently if they should start off with a free WordPress blog or a paid hosted version. Eventually  everyone should have paid hosting, you will then own your blog and all its content. Industry standard is to use WordPress, it’s very user-friendly and intuitive…but yes there is a small learning curve. You can always pay someone to set up the foundation, and then you can learn how to add your posts.

It is highly recommended to set up your first WordPress blog by using the instructions below. There are other options like Blogger.com if you want something super simple with less functionality and choices for design and creativity.

First you want to get the web hosting taken care of so people can find your blog on the Internet.

I suggest using HostGator, they’re recommended in the industry, very reliable, offer great and fast customer support, are professional, and economical.

Pass on all the product offers… just purchase the hosting.

Log into: HostGator Control Panel.

Go To: Left bottom side of panel, look for account information, write down or copy the IP Address, it will look like this: 123.45.678.111

Next you will want to buy a domain. Think of a something that has longevity and that people will know what you are offering – a niche, a product, a program, description of business… specific enough that you’re “branding” yourself and/or your business. People should have a general idea of what you offer.

My favorite provider is www.1and1.com ($6.99 .com domains, first year). You can also use GoDaddy.com or Name.com, it’s a personal preference.

Get the basic package, you can upgrade later, unless you know you need more than one emailaccount. You don’t need the other .net, .org, .info – unless you know why you’d want them, such as – extra business websites, blog, training site, etc.

Pass on all the product offers… just purchase the domain.

Next step is: Email Setup and DNS Redirect - wait approximately 15 minutes for your domain to be registered. You will want to forward the domain name to HostGator’s IP Address.

Log into your chosen domain account and find the DNS settings and add the IP Address that you got from HostGator.

Next, log into: HostGator Control Panel again, known as the C-Panel.

Go To: Software/Services 

Click: Fantastico De Luxe - this will automatically install WordPress so it’s live on the Internet. It powers the connection of your domain name to your hosting and puts it on the platform, creating a WordPress Blog!

Important: You will not receive an email with the WordPress blog login information UNLESS you email yourself.

Once you’re inside, you will want to choose a WordPress blog theme. You will find this setting under Appearance in the left panel.

Look for a design you are attracted to. Keep in mind if you will have a lot of photos or more information. The themes tend to vary. You can preview all of them. If you want to be real serious and pay for a theme, you can look at http://wordpressthemes.com for premium designs. (On the right side, they suggest the top 10).

That should get you started with your first WordPress blog. It seems like a lot at first, but if you follow the steps,you’ll be on your way to publishing your first post and sharing it with your friends. Enjoy!

For more detailed instructions, click here.

Always in service and prosperity,

Carey Rapier

P.S.  If you want a K.I.S.S step-by-step system to build a business, generate leads online weekly, learn online marketing like a pro, and make money based on a proven method, click here. (You’ll need to authorize the app to watch the presentation.)