I’ve had a number of similar conversations this summer. They always begin the same way, with an inquiry about how he/she can improve the numbers that are dwindling at an alarming rate. These worried bloggers are certain they’ve either done—or not done—something to cause the drop in views, comments and shares. And my answer is always the same.
A drop in blogging numbers is normal during the summer.
My one-sentence assurance is rarely enough to calm a blogger’s nerves. And that’s understandable from someone who’s seen consistent growth through out the first of the year. So today, I’m going to break down the normal ebb and flow of blogging numbers throughout the calendar year, to help you evaluate the health of your own site.
NOTE: Blogging is an art, not a science. I can share what’s normal and expected, but remember there are always exceptions. If your blog is new, I suggest you also read my post on Reasonable Blog Growth.
A Blogging Breakdown Month-by-Month
January: This is usually a good month. People are ready to get back into a routine after the holidays. They’re also looking for information to fuel any New Year’s Resolutions.
February: The momentum of January has leveled off just a bit. You should still see some growth, but most people are already burned out on New Year’s Resolutions and back in the daily grind. They’re keeping up some new habits, but not quite as active.
March: Usually about the same as January.
NOTE: The numbers of this first quarter are also dependent on the weather. If it’s been an unusually harsh winter, with lots of power outages, you’ll not see as much growth or interaction.
April: This month brings with it the hint of spring fever and you’ll again see a boost in numbers
May: Surprisingly this is often a tough month. It’s the end of the school year, with lots of inherent activities. These activities bring a halt to the growth and interactions you’ve been nurturing. I think of May as a plateau month.
June: This is the beginning of the summer slump. People are outside more, away from computers. Your blog numbers will probably reflect this. Add to this the fact that you’re probably not as consistent with your own posting schedule and it does make sense.
July: You’re in the height of the summer slump. Now is NOT the time to second-guess what you’ve been doing. Wait until everyone is back from summer vacation and see what happens.
August: This month should see an end to the downward spiral. And the end of the month will be better than the beginning.
September: This month will be much like January. People are focused on once again getting back on a regular schedule and meeting goals before the end of the year.
October: Again a month of upward movement. Everyone wants to meet goals before the holidays start.
November: This month is August in reverse. The beginning of the month is strong, but when Thanksgiving draws near online activity dwindles.
December: Relax and enjoy the holidays, just like all your followers. Stay consistent, but don’t kill yourself because there’s very little you can do to increase your numbers.
I’ve been at this blogging thing a long time. I want you to have reasonable expectations and not get discouraged when normal slumps hit.
Now it’s your turn. What trends have you noticed on your own site? More importantly, what trends do you see regarding when you visit other sites? Be sure to leave your thoughts below.