We talk a lot about social media here at Loren’s World because I love using it, but also because it’s such a valuable business tool. And, the one platform that often gets lost in the shuffle? Blogs. Funny thing – is they’re the mainstay of social media. Blogs are the place where you can really sit down and chat, share information, showcase your thought leadership on a certain topic and even host videos, photos etc. As we look ahead to tips for improving your reach in 2017, I have some surefire blogging tips to share with you.
Blogs are a great spot for creating an online magazine for your business, showcasing anything and everything you’d like to share – and can really become a hub for information for your clients, customers and community. So, they question is: why aren’t you blogging yet? If it sounds like too much work or you’re feeling intimidated – let’s take a look at some top tips for blogging for your business.
4 Top Tips on Blogging for Your Business
#1. Not sure what information to provide on your blog? Look around the web. Peruse the internet to see exactly what your competitors are talking about. What’s interesting to you? What doesn’t seem to hold much value? Look at blogs that you find fun and entertaining and pull the points from each one that you enjoy. Take stock in what drives you back to certain blogs each day. What’s engaging about them? What keeps you entertained and interested? Form your own content based on that assessment combined with your own creativity, thought leadership and individual flair. Before you know it, you’ll have more to say than you ever imagined.
#2. Come up with a content plan. Now that you know you have something to say – figure out how you’re going to say it and when. Planning a content calendar is one of the best ways to find success when it comes to blogging – because that way you’re not simply trying to fly by the seat of your pants. You can get creative, think strategically about what your clients and customers would want to see and have a regular rotation of content in the cue.
#3. Think about design. Many of the blogs that become favorites of mine have great design. They keep me coming back again and again because they have great content, but also because they’re very visually appealing. When you’re building out your blog think about a style that suits your business and fits with whatever you sell or provide. What type of design and functionality would speak best to your customers? Should it have a classic look and feel or something more out of the box? Whatever it is, nail it down and make it your own.
#4. Build your social media calendar and plan around the blog. Remember, just because you have a great blog doesn’t mean anyone will find it. You have to drive the readers there – and that means cross promoting on all of the other social media channels you maintain. Plan content that aligns with your blog posts and links that will take your followers and fans from, let’s say – your Facebook page over to your blog. Create an easy way for new readers to find your blog – and the following will grow from there.
Have you ever thought about starting a blog related to your business? What’s stopping you?
