How is your business being viewed by others? Do people feel like they know you? Do they trust you? Sure, you have a Facebook page and a multitude of fans, a LinkedIn account with glowing referrals, and you can Tweet with the best of them. But, do you have a blog? More importantly, do you post interesting and useful information to your blog regularly?
A blog is a window to the inner workings of your business where consumers can take a sneak peak without feeling pressured, and hopefully stop for some lively conversation if they like what they see. When done right, it can become a powerful marketing tool, without making people feel like you are marketing to them. Here are some quick tips on how to get your blog up and running, or revitalize your current blog:
- Start small. Post as frequently as you can and remain consistent in your timing.
- Create an editorial calendar. Have an idea of topics you want to cover for at least the next six months.
- Do the research. Make sure your topics have not already been covered in numerous other forums.
- Keep posts short. Use bullets or numbered lists, and experiment with bolding and underlining key phrases.
- Show off your personality. Humor is the quickest way to your followers’ hearts and minds.
- Encourage two-way communication. Ask a question your readers will feel welcome responding to or create a quick poll.
- Use a call to action. It can be as easy as offering the opportunity to sign up for your newsletter.
Think of your blog as an extension of your office or store, whether you have a brick and mortar company or you are based completely online. The conversations you would typically have face-to-face, on the telephone, or through e-mail can now be done with a much wider audience and attract even more potential customers. Those conversations build relationships and increase trust. Your blog is a valuable asset worthy of any investment you are able to put into it.
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