How Reading and Engaging with Others' Content Helps You Build an Online Business

byJackiex4

3.2K followers

2 weeks ago

Building an online business is a huge learning curve. There’s so much to figure out—marketing, content creation, branding, social media—the list never ends! While tutorials and courses are great, one of the most underrated ways to learn is by reading other people’s web pages and posts, and leaving thoughtful comments or messages. It’s simple, effective, and, believe it or not, a lot more helpful than it seems.

Here’s why this habit can do wonders for your learning and your business growth.

Reading a blog post or browsing a website gives you real-world examples of how things are done. You get to see how someone structures their sales page, writes their blog, or markets their products. It’s like a free behind-the-scenes pass to strategies that are working right now.

When you leave a comment or ask a question, you’re not just a reader anymore—you’re a participant. Engaging forces you to process what you’ve learned, and that helps it stick.

2. You Build Relationships

Leaving thoughtful comments or messages is a great way to connect with other people in your niche. When you show genuine interest in someone’s work, it’s hard not to get noticed. Over time, this could lead to opportunities like collaborations, partnerships, or just some good advice from people who’ve been in your shoes.

Plus, who doesn’t love a little encouragement? Building relationships is about being authentic and helpful, not just self-promoting.

Of course, you don’t have to read and comment on posts within your niche. Widen the net a little and see what you can learn.

3. You Get Yourself Out There

When you engage with posts and leave insightful comments, people notice. Curious readers might check out your profile or website. Over time, this builds your presence in the community. You’re not just a random lurker anymore—you’re someone with a voice and something valuable to share.

Pro tip: Make sure your comments add value to the conversation. A “great post!” might not grab attention, but sharing a personal insight or asking a thoughtful question will. Be generous with your comments.

4. You Learn About Your Audience

If your online business focuses on serving a specific audience, engaging with content in your niche is like a cheat sheet for understanding them. What questions are people asking? What problems do they need solved? What kinds of posts get the most engagement?

Paying attention to these patterns helps you create content, products, or services that actually resonate with your audience.

5. You Get Feedback

When you share your thoughts in a comment, you’re opening the door for a conversation. Someone might reply with advice, a new perspective, or even constructive criticism. These little exchanges are super valuable—they can help you fine-tune your approach or learn something you didn’t even know you needed.

6. It Keeps You Curious

Building an online business means constant learning. By reading and engaging with others’ content, you’re keeping your mind open to new ideas. Instead of trying to figure it all out on your own, you’re learning from people who’ve already been there or on the same journey.

Final Thoughts

Engaging with other people’s content might seem like a small thing, but it’s a powerful way to grow. You’re learning, connecting, and building your presence all at once. So, next time you’re reading a blog post or scrolling through social media, take a moment to leave a thoughtful comment. Who knows where it might lead?

I have to say how wonderful it is to be back home at WA.

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