Solid Foundations

This is the second in a series of posts on business blogging initiated by the blog post:
Don’t make your blog a slog!

It’s useful to understand some of the fundamentals around business blogging. These are best highlighted in answering a number of questions:
• Can it be used as a marketing tool?
• Are there any personal benefits?
• Who is my audience?
• Is it cost effective?
• What’s the difference between a website and a blog?
• What is a blog?
• Does the Google search engine like blogs?
• What are the common mistakes of business blogging?
• Any good tips?

Can it be used as a marketing tool?

Yes of course. It’s a website and you’re free to promote your goods and services. Some companies have sold their wares exclusively on their blog page. Check out: http://clip-n-seal.com/blog.htm Post content which is appreciated by your target audience and in a subtle way, promote alongside it!

Are there any personal benefits?

Yes you are promoting your personal brand with each and every post. Your posts will illustrate your ideas as a thought leader in the industry. Experiences shared will highlight occasions when you excelled in challenging situations. Your personality may shine through as you relax and write often. Buyers will gain trust in you and prospective employers will see your strengths.

Who is my audience?

Who are you writing for and why? Clearly identify the attributes of your ideal customers and business partners. Then go out and find them on social media sites. They are in LinkedIn groups, on Facebook pages and under the relevant hashtags on Twitter. Include your current clients and peers in your target audience too.

Is it cost effective?

I use Blogger and it costs nothing. That’s not a bad deal. There are lots of benefits including free promotions, new leads, sales, increased brand awareness and personal branding. Is it worth an hour of your time once a week? It should be a big boost to your visibility, credibility and revenues!

What’s the difference between a website and a blog?

A business website is you in your business suit and speaking in a very formal tone. Generally, it is broadcasting in one direction. Your blog is you wearing your smart casuals and speaking more informally. You’re more relaxed and happy for interaction to take place.

What is a blog?

Blog is short for weblog. It is a website in itself with its own web address. It includes special features such as social media links and comments from readers. It offers a great opportunity to get to know customers and partners better too. It can also be one part of a conversation in the blogosphere.

Does the Google search engine like blogs?

Google absolutely loves blogs and all activity is quickly reflected in their rankings. Together with videos on YouTube, blogs are a great way to get great exposure!

What are the common mistakes of business blogging? There are many and here are a few:
• No author bio, picture and comment section
• No social media buttons
• Broken Links
• Stealing blog content from others
• Inconsistent posting
• No personality in the writing
• Not commenting on other blogs
• Posts are too long
• Being a know-it-all

Any good tips?

Yes! Don’t make these mistakes; be interesting; write for your audience; be passionate; and, get blogging!

Next time around we’ll look at getting started as a business blogger. In the meantime check out my latest blog set up for a client: http://it-serve-gcc.blogspot.com

Would you like to be known as a thought leader in your industry?
A simple yes or no please.