Blog Strategies To Get You Started

A blog can be an effective component to your marketing strategy if it is used correctly. Primarily, doing it correctly means two things:

• Update it frequently
• Make sure the content helps other people

However, while most businesses start off with great intentions, their blog quickly finds itself in the “neglected” pile.

If you would like to re-ignite your blog, or just get one started, here are common roadblocks that you may run into. But then some tips and tips on how to overcome them, and ensure your blog remains a productive channel in your marketing efforts.

I don’t know what to write about…

• Write about subjects that you’re comfortable with. Are you the go-to person at your company for coming up with wording or phrases? If so, write posts about how to write effective copy in marketing efforts.
• Write about what you are interested in – new technology, new services, industry news, etc.
• Write about things that make you more productive. It could be a tool on the web, or just a strategy for managing your to-do list. That kind of advice will be appreciated by all readers, regardless of their industry.
• Subscribe to other peoples blogs – See how others write and what they are writing about.

I don’t have the time to write…

• A blog post does not need to be long! In fact, many people read multiple blogs and news sites each day. Therefore, if your posts are brief and to the point, it may increase the chances that people will read them.
• Once you start writing blog posts, you’ll be surprised how often ideas for new posts pop into your head – often at random times. Therefore, find some way to jot those down. It might be in a Word document, or it may even be in the “Notes” feature on your iPhone.
• Use pictures! Do you have a chart or some other sort of image that can help tell the story? If so, plug it in. People will appreciate it – and it will eliminate the words that you have to write.

I’m very, very busy already. My to-do list is full.

Treat your blog post like an important appointment, or an anniversary. Tell yourself “Every other Tuesday I will write my blog by the end of the day” and stick with it.

These are just a few tips and tricks that could help. Let us know if have any specific questions about ways to get your blog going!

Image credit: Annie Mole