The old adage of “if you build it, they will come” was something which previously applied only to locations in the physical world (this probably hasn’t been a truism in quite some time, if it ever really was). It is most certainly even less true online, especially for bloggers, marketers, online retailers, etc.
Why? Because there are so many others creating similar destinations in this space with the same aim of building an audience, spreading ideas, translating readers into revenue or market to readers. The problem is there’s so many people doing the exact same thing you’re trying to do to reach those exact same people. In a world of scores of sites vying for mass audience and general appeal eyeballs, the reality is that only a small percentage will succeed.
There is a silver lining, however, because there is a massive influx of new users to the web everyday, and while they all of course have that general interest appeal, they all have unique, specific interests too.
If you build it, they certainly can come, but will they? Not if you’re just like 1000 other places offering the exact same content or offers, and dulling your content down for mass appeal. You need to be exceptional, unique, compelling, yet simple, effective and clear.
Whether the aim of your web page or blog is attracting readers, subscribers, clicks for ad revenue, etc. you need to fit into a niche. Ideally, this is a niche you have a passion for and can write compellingly about. This will work even better if you can drill down and write about something really specific within that niche.
You’re never going to be all things to all people in this space; the web is far too big for that. Choosing a niche, sticking with it, and becoming the source on that niche will be the most successful way to achieve the “if you build it, they will come” effect. It’s also one of the secrets to getting to the top of Google for natural SEO and getting tons of search traffic. Your page needs to set the standard for your niche.