How to Start Selling Digital Products as a Blogger

Blogging is a fantastic way to share your knowledge and interests with the world. But did you know that you can also make money from your blog by selling digital products? Digital products are content that can be downloaded or accessed online, like ebooks, courses, videos, and more. They are popular among online consumers because they are convenient, affordable, and easy to access. So, how can you start selling digital products as a blogger?

Digital products are any type of content that can be downloaded or accessed online, such as ebooks, courses, podcasts, videos, software, etc. They are popular among online consumers because they are convenient, affordable, and easy to access. But how do you create and sell digital products as a blogger? What are the best types of digital products for your niche? How do you market and deliver them to your audience?

In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more. We will show you how to start selling digital products as a blogger in six simple steps. By following this guide, you will be able to turn your blog into a profitable online business.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Digital Product for Your Blog

The first step to selling digital products as a blogger is to choose the right type of product for your blog. You want to create something that is relevant to your niche, valuable to your audience, and easy to produce.

There are many types of digital products that you can create and sell as a blogger, such as:

Ebooks:

Ebooks are one of the most common and popular types of digital products. They are easy to create using tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. You can write an ebook on any topic that relates to your blog, such as a how-to guide, a case study, a collection of tips, etc. You can sell your ebooks on platforms like Amazon Kindle, Gumroad, or your own website.

Courses:

Courses are another popular type of digital product that can help you establish yourself as an authority in your niche. You can create courses on any topic that teaches your audience something new or helps them solve a problem. You can use tools like Teachable, Udemy, or Podia to create and host your courses. You can also use video platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to create video lessons.

Podcasts:

Podcasts are audio files that can be streamed or downloaded by your audience. They are great for building a loyal fan base and engaging with your audience on a deeper level. You can create podcasts on any topic that interests you and your audience, such as interviews, stories, opinions, etc. You can use tools like Anchor, SoundCloud, or Buzzsprout to record and distribute your podcasts.

Videos:

Videos are another type of digital product that can help you showcase your personality and expertise. You can create videos on any topic that relates to your blog, such as tutorials, reviews, demonstrations, etc. You can use tools like Camtasia, ScreenFlow, or Loom to record and edit your videos. You can also use platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to host and monetize your videos.

Software:

Software is any type of application or program that can be used by your audience. It can be anything from a simple calculator to a complex game. Software is one of the most challenging types of digital products to create, but it can also be one of the most rewarding and profitable. You can use tools like WordPress, Shopify, or Appy Pie to create and sell your software.

These are just some examples of the types of digital products that you can create and sell as a blogger. You can also mix and match different types of products to create bundles or memberships for your audience.

The key is to choose a type of product that suits your skills, interests, and goals. You also want to make sure that there is enough demand for your product in your niche and that it solves a specific problem or need for your audience.

Step 2: Create Your Digital Product

The next step to selling digital products as a blogger is to create your product. This is the most time-consuming and creative part of the process, but it is also the most fun and rewarding.

Depending on the type of product you choose, you will need different tools and resources to create it. For example, if you want to create an ebook, you will need a word processor, an ebook cover designer, and an ebook formatter. If you want to create a course, you will need a course platform, a video recorder, and a microphone.

Here are some general tips to help you create your digital product:

Plan ahead:

Before you start creating your product, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with it. What is the purpose of your product? Who is your target audience? What is the main benefit or value proposition of your product? What are the main features or components of your product? How will you structure and organize your product? Having a clear plan will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time and resources.

Do your research:

Before you start creating your product, you should also do some research on your niche and your audience. What are the current trends and challenges in your niche? What are the common questions and problems that your audience faces? What are the existing solutions and alternatives that your audience uses? How can you make your product stand out from the competition? Doing your research will help you create a product that is relevant, useful, and unique.

Use quality tools and resources:

When you create your product, you should use quality tools and resources that will help you produce a professional and polished product. You should use tools that are easy to use, reliable, and compatible with your needs. You should also use resources that are legal, ethical, and original. You should avoid using tools or resources that are outdated, buggy, or pirated. You should also avoid copying or plagiarizing content from other sources. Using quality tools and resources will help you create a product that is high-quality, original, and trustworthy.

Test and refine your product:

Before you launch your product, you should test and refine it to make sure that it works properly and meets your expectations. You should test your product on different devices, browsers, and platforms to ensure that it is compatible and accessible. You should also test your product on different users, such as friends, family, or beta testers, to get feedback and suggestions. You should use the feedback to improve and optimize your product. Testing and refining your product will help you create a product that is functional, user-friendly, and satisfying.

Step 3: Set Up Your Payment System

The third step to selling digital products as a blogger is to set up your payment system. This is the part where you decide how you will accept payments from your customers and how you will deliver your product to them.

There are many options for setting up your payment system, such as:

Using a third-party platform:

This is the easiest and most convenient option for selling digital products as a blogger. You can use a third-party platform that will handle everything for you, such as processing payments, hosting and delivering your product, managing refunds, etc. Some examples of third-party platforms are Gumroad, Teachable, Udemy, Podia, etc. The main advantage of using a third-party platform is that you don’t have to worry about the technical aspects of selling digital products. The main disadvantage is that you have to pay a fee or commission to the platform for using their service.

Using a self-hosted platform:

This is the more advanced and flexible option for selling digital products as a blogger. You can use a self-hosted platform that will allow you to have more control over your payment system, such as customizing your checkout page, setting your own prices, offering discounts or coupons, etc. Some examples of self-hosted platforms are WooCommerce, Easy Digital Downloads, Shopify, etc. The main advantage of using a self-hosted platform is that you can keep more of your profits and have more freedom over your payment system. The main disadvantage is that you have to deal with the technical aspects of selling digital products, such as setting up a payment gateway, securing your website, updating your software, etc.

Using a hybrid approach:

This is the best of both worlds option for selling digital products as a blogger. You can use a hybrid approach that will allow you to combine the benefits of both third-party and self-hosted platforms. For example, you can use a third-party platform to host and deliver your product, but use a self-hosted platform to process payments and manage refunds. Or vice versa. The main advantage of using a hybrid approach is that you can optimize your payment system according to your needs and preferences. The main disadvantage is that you have to integrate both platforms and ensure that they work well together.

The option you choose for setting up your payment system depends on your budget, skills, goals, and preferences. You should choose the option that suits you best and makes it easy for you and your customers to buy and sell digital products.

Step 4: Launch Your Digital Product

In the fourth step of selling digital products as a blogger, it’s time to unveil your product to the world and kickstart the sales process. This can be an exciting but also demanding phase, as you want to ensure a successful launch that attracts customers and generates revenue.

Here are essential tips to guide you through this step:

Create a Landing Page:

Develop a dedicated web page showcasing your product and persuading visitors to make a purchase. This page serves as the initial impression potential customers have of your product. Key components of your landing page include:

– A compelling headline summarizing the primary benefit or value of your product.

– A subheadline that provides further details.

– Engaging images or videos demonstrating your product.

– A list of features or benefits highlighting the advantages.

– A clear and persuasive call to action (CTA) instructing visitors on what to do next, such as “buy now” or “sign up.”

– Social proof, like testimonials and reviews.

– A FAQ section addressing common questions or concerns.

– A guarantee, such as a refund policy, to reduce hesitation.

Create a Pre-Launch Campaign:

Before your product’s official launch, build excitement and anticipation among your audience through a pre-launch campaign. This is an effective way to create buzz, attract leads, and validate your product. Consider these strategies:

– Utilize email marketing to send newsletters, updates, teasers, or invitations to your email list.

– Engage in social media marketing by sharing snippets, previews, behind-the-scenes content, and countdowns.

– Write blog posts related to your product’s topic, sharing tips, tutorials, case studies, and your product’s development journey.

– Collaborate with influencers in your niche to promote your product, provide reviews, or offer discounts to their followers.

Create a Launch Day Plan:

Carefully plan the day of your product’s launch to ensure a smooth and successful introduction. Key elements of your launch day plan include:

– Selecting an optimal launch time convenient for both you and your audience.

– Preparing a launch announcement to send to your email list and post on your website and social media. This announcement should cover:

– Product name and description.

– Primary benefit or value proposition.

– Price and payment options.

– Special offers or bonuses available for a limited time.

– A compelling call to action guiding people on how to purchase your product.

– Assembling a launch support team to handle potential issues or questions during the launch. Team members can include friends, family, colleagues, or assistants, each assigned specific responsibilities.

– Celebrate your product’s launch by rewarding yourself and thanking your team for their support. This celebration can be a party, dinner, gift, or any enjoyable activity of your choice.

Step 5: Market Your Digital Product

The fifth step to selling digital products as a blogger is to market your product. This is the part where you spread the word about your product and attract more customers and sales.

Marketing your digital product is an ongoing process that requires consistent and strategic efforts. You should not stop marketing your product after you launch it. You should continue to promote it and grow it over time.

Here are some tips to help you market your digital product:

Use content marketing:

Content marketing is one of the most effective ways to market your digital product as a blogger. Content marketing is the process of creating and distributing valuable and relevant content that attracts and educates your audience. You can use content marketing to showcase your expertise, build trust, generate leads, and drive sales. You can use various types of content to market your digital product, such as blog posts, podcasts, videos, ebooks, courses, etc.

Use email marketing:

Email marketing is another powerful way to market your digital product as a blogger. Email marketing is the process of sending emails to your subscribers that inform them about your product, inform them about your product, persuade them to buy it, or follow up with them after they buy it. You can use email marketing to build a relationship with your subscribers, provide value, offer discounts or bonuses, or launch new products. You can use tools like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or AWeber to create and send your emails.

Use social media marketing:

Social media marketing is another effective way to market your digital product as a blogger. Social media marketing is the process of using social media platforms to connect with your audience, share your content, and promote your product. You can use social media marketing to increase your brand awareness, grow your followers, drive traffic, and generate sales. You can use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, etc. to market your digital product.

Use SEO:

SEO stands for search engine optimization. SEO is the process of optimizing your website and content to rank higher on search engines like Google or Bing. SEO can help you increase your organic traffic, reach more potential customers, and boost your sales. You can use SEO to improve your site speed, user experience, keywords, titles, descriptions, links, etc. You can use tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, or Moz to monitor and improve your SEO.

Use paid advertising:

Paid advertising is another way to market your digital product as a blogger. Paid advertising is the process of paying for ads that appear on search engines, social media platforms, websites, or apps. Paid advertising can help you reach a larger and more targeted audience, generate more leads, and increase your sales. You can use platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads, etc. to create and run your ads.

Step 6: Evaluate and Improve Your Digital Product

The sixth and final step to selling digital products as a blogger is to evaluate and improve your product. This is the part where you measure the performance and feedback of your product and make changes accordingly.

Evaluating and improving your digital product is an important step that will help you maintain and grow your online business. You should not be satisfied with the initial results of your product launch. You should always look for ways to improve your product quality, customer satisfaction, and sales.

Here are some tips to help you evaluate and improve your digital product:

Track and analyze your metrics:

You should track and analyze the key metrics that indicate the success of your product, such as traffic, conversions, revenue, retention, etc. You should use tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, or Hotjar to collect and visualize your data. You should also set goals and benchmarks for each metric and compare them with your actual results. You should identify the strengths and weaknesses of your product performance and look for opportunities and threats in your market.

Collect and respond to feedback:

You should collect and respond to feedback from your customers and prospects. Feedback is valuable information that can help you understand what your customers think and feel about your product. You can use various methods to collect feedback, such as surveys, reviews, ratings, comments, emails, etc. You should also respond to feedback in a timely and respectful manner. You should thank your customers for their feedback, acknowledge their opinions or concerns, and offer solutions or improvements if needed.

Test and optimize your product:

You should test and optimize your product to make sure that it meets the needs and expectations of your customers. Testing is the process of experimenting with different versions or variations of your product to see which one performs better. Optimizing is the process of implementing the best version or variation of your product based on the test results. You can use tools like Google Optimize or Optimizely to conduct A/B testing or multivariate testing on your product.

Update and innovate your product:

You should update and innovate your product to keep it fresh and relevant in the market. Updating is the process of adding new features or fixing bugs in your product to enhance its functionality or usability. Innovating is the process of creating new products or improving existing products to offer more value or solve new problems for your customers. You can use tools like Trello or Asana to manage your product development process.

Conclusion

If you’ve been tossing around the idea of selling digital products in an online store, today is your day. Do it!

Selling digital products as a blogger is a great way to monetize your blog and turn it into a profitable online business. By following these six steps, you will be able to create and sell digital products that are relevant to your niche, valuable to your audience, and easy to produce.

You will also be able to market and deliver your products effectively and efficiently. By selling digital products as a blogger, you will not only make money from your blog but also share your knowledge, passion, and expertise with the world.