What is a Blog?
A blog is a frequently updated online journal, diary, or series of written posts. A blog can be a platform for your personal thoughts and ideas or a blog can be used as a tool to share information about your business. Or, a blog can be used as both! There are endless opportunities for a blog and really, it can be anything you want it to be. There are many different websites that you can use to write your blog so it’s important to take some time to do some research and find the one that works best for you. Some examples of blogging platforms include:
To view more platforms and learn more about these blogging platforms, visit http://thenextweb.com/apps/2013/08/16/best-blogging-services/
Why should I have a blog?
Blogging is a great (and cheap!) way to share user-friendly, up-to-date information about your business. It’s also an easy tool for you to use to give your business a presence online and bring in new local and visiting customers.
With a blog, you can introduce and show the products and services that your business offers. Take pictures and write casually – be engaging and give your business a voice! For more information on blogging for your business, visit any of the following websites listed below.
Why Blogging Matters to Business
4 Reasons Why Blogging is Important for your Business
- Drive traffic to your website
- Increase your SEO/ SERP
- Position your brand as an industry leader
- Develop better customer relationships
19 Reasons Why Your Business Should Be Writing a Blog
Blogging Tips
Good content is key.
Write content that you would want to read. Try to capture your reader with entertaining and engaging content throughout your post. Be creative and find new ways to talk about your topic. You want your blog to stand out with informative, helpful, inspiring content. The better your content, the more likely it will show up in search results.
Use pictures.
Photos are a crucial element to a great blog. Not only do you want to capture your readers with good content, you want to show them. If you are blogging for a business, include photos of items you are trying to promote or sell. If you are restaurant, include photos of your food specials or your dining atmosphere. This is your opportunity to show your reader why they should be interested in your blog.
Write like you talk.
Let your personality show when you are writing your blog. By writing like you speak, your posts will end up being more engaging and easier to read. Let your readers build a connection with you while they read your content.
Use your blog as a free marketing tool.
If your blog relates to your business–something you sell, serve or advocate for, by all means, reference your business name! This is a great marketing opportunity and a way to bring visitors to your website. Include call-to-action links for readers to sign up for your email list, like you on Facebook or visit your business. Not only are you marketing your business, you will also increase the number of your return visitors.
Give stuff away!
If you want people to start following your blogs or your business, or subscribe to your email list, give them some incentive. Host a raffle with your email subscriber list or with your Facebook followers.
