Blogging, just like those outdated fashioned forms of communication called books and newspapers, need to be reader friendly. But while those other two media have had centuries to figure things out, blogs are relatively within the pass 10 years. However, the basics still hold true: compelling content (or, as an old editor of mine used to put it: “Tell me something I don’t already know.”), make it easy on the eyes and be clear.
That being said, there are many aspects unique to blogging, and especially to blogging about your own business (We call it as business blogging). Here, then, is a list of what to do and what to avoid for creating a successful business blog.
Here have 15 Best Practice & Tips for Business Blogging
- Plan your blog. Keep in mind your company’s mission statement and business plan.
- Have a rational idea of what outcome you want to achieve. Such as increased revenue? or expanding your customer base?
- Define who your ideal reader is and then write posts to appeal to him or her. To the quote from Wakeman: “If you make dog food, don’t talk about dog food. Talk about dogs.”
- Write up a list of keywords and phrases that describe your business. Test them out on Google’s free Keyword tool and then be sure to use them in your writing. But do it without using jargon.
- Newspapers run photos of their columnists to build relationships with their readers. Do the same and attach the author’s name. Photo worth thousand word.
- Find a posting schedule you can live with and try to stick to it. The biggest reason people read newspapers is habit. For example, you want your blog readers to develop the habit of expecting something from you every Wednesday at 2:30 p.m.
- But, if you have nothing to post, skip it. Don’t for the sake of posting a blog post, you post junk just to stay on schedule.
- Just like an entire newspaper page of nothing but text scares readers away, keep your posts short. If they run long, break it up into brief paragraphs, use bullet points, insert photos or videos, etc.
- Blog on your own site. Yes, free ones exist but someone going to “Blog.MyBusiness.Com” isn’t helping traffic (or business) at “MyBusiness.com”.
- Blogging is also considered a form of social media networking, so give your readers the ability to network. Install sharing plug-ins and widgets so your fans can tweet, post your content to Facebook, recommend it on LinkedIn and so on.
- Offer an email list so people can get your posts sent right to their inbox. Not only is it convenient, but it also builds up your customer database.
- Along with setting aside time to write and post your blog, make sure you take the time to market it through your own social media assets.
- Take time to respond to comments and questions. Unlike the Letters to the Editor page, social media is a two-way street, and letting your readers know that you, in turn, read and value their comments, will help cement your relationships.
- If you run out of ideas, ask your readers.
- Give it time! Just like in life, it takes a while to build real, strong relationships.
Well, hope the above 15 business blogging best practice will able to help you plan ahead on your blog.
