Change from Blogger to WordPress, the Easy Way

So you've been blogging for awhile. You started with Blogger because it was easy and it was free.

But now, you want to expand your readership, have more flexibility, and look more professional. You've heard great things about WordPress, but you aren't sure you can handle making the leap.

Let me tell you, it's really, really easy, and here's how you can do it in just a few steps.

1. Buy a domain and hosting - There are multiple options for this. I have hosted with GoDaddy in the past, and was always pleased with them. My current host is DreamHost, and I couldn't be happier with them. They have lots of great features, including automatic installation of WordPress, with multiple templates.

Whatever host you choose, make sure that they are WordPress compatible. You will also need to have at least one database, as WordPress is MySql driven. I know that sounds complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Just ask the host if they support WordPress. Usually, it will show right on the features that they are.

Especially if you've never installed WordPress before, go with a host that offers automatic installation. GoDaddy offers it with many of their hosting packages. You just go into your Hosting Control Center, and choose the options to have it installed. DreamHost offers it with their hosting as well. And many, many other hosts offer WordPress hosting, because it's a very popular option.

2. Install WordPress - This will vary depending on your host. If you went with GoDaddy, DreamHost, or any of the other hosting companies that offer a WordPress installation option, then just follow their directions for getting it installed.

3. Choose your theme - There are so many themes to choose from with WordPress. Just do a search for "free WordPress themes" on Google, and you'll find thousands of site. DreamHost installations of WordPress come with dozens of themes ready for you to use. You can also pay to have a theme custom made to fit your needs.

4. Notify your readers - Post on your Blogger blog that you're going to be migrating to WordPress. Tell them your new domain name, and let them know that you'll be moving all posts and comments over there, and to change their feeds to follow the new blog.

5. Import your Blogger posts to WordPress - WordPress 2.7 makes this oh so easy. Once your WordPress installation is all setup (you'll get notification from your host that it's done within just a few minutes of you requesting the install), login to /wp-admin using your username and password. Go to Tools -> Import. Click on the Blogger option (or whatever your current weblog is). Just follow the directions! You'll input your blogspot blog link, and other information, and it will begin the import immediately.

6. Start posting in WordPress!

That's it! The import will copy all your posts from your Blogger blog to your new WordPress blog, including all comments that were made, and all categories that you've created for your blog. You can begin posting in WordPress, and have fun with all the wonderful themes and plugins that are out there!