How-To Guide to HubPages

Last week, I wrote a blog post on "Using HubPages to Build Visibility as a Resume Writer," and I received a few emails from resume writers who wanted to know more about how to do this. So here's your "how to" guide.

HubPages are essentially free web pages. As a "Hubber," you sign up for an account and begin creating your hub pages. It's a lot like creating a blog. However there are many differences too. To be a successful hubber, there are a few keys to success.

Plan
What is your hub going to be about? Who will read your hub and why? You may need to do a bit of research at this point. The more specific your hub topic, the better. For example, a hub page on resumes is too general. However a hub page on federal resumes will probably be more successful.

The secret to attracting loyal readers and followers is to appeal to a niche topic. Become the expert on that niche topic and provide a wealth of information. (Most resume writers considering using a HubPage already understand the value of niche markets when marketing your services online, so I'm preaching to the choir a bit here.) Consider doing a bit of keyword research during the planning phase as well. Use a free online keyword tool to help you brainstorm a niche. Then use the information provided to choose a niche topic that has high demand.

Plan how you're going to monetize your hubs too. The way most hubs make money is through AdSense, so keywords can be important. They also make money with affiliate marketing or to promote products you sell on Amazon or eBay. (I covered this topic in more detail in the original post.)

Write
The foundation of a hub -- in fact, the foundation of any online website or blog -- is content. In the case of most hub pages, that means articles. Create a content plan so that each hub page you create has a specific purpose, goal, and topic. Make sure the goal and topic match your monetization choice. (Meaning: are the topics you're choosing ones that will attract advertisers interested in reaching this audience -- or, in the case of affiliate programs, are you writing content that will complement the products you're promoting?)

For example, if you're going to drive traffic to resume writing books on Amazon.com, then the topic of the hub needs to be relevant.

Inform and Entertain
Writing style is important to the success of your hub pages. You don't need to be an exceptional writer; however, your content does need to be interesting and valuable. Share your personality. Write conversationally. And use interesting headlines and subheadings to attract attention. People rate, share, and print your hub pages. The more interesting and valuable your content is, the better your hub pages will perform. (Photos and images are another way to add interest to your hub pages.)

Finally, if you have more than one hub page, link to your other hub pages to create flow. For example, if you have a hub page on KSAs, you might want to also have a hub page on how to use the USAJobs website. And another on how to analyze federal job postings for keywords. Link and group the pages for better results.

HubPages can be a good way to make money online. They're free. You can write on topics you love and know. And you can share your information with the world, building your visibility as a career industry professional at the same time.