If you’re a business owner who wants to use social media to improve your bottom line, chances are you’ve done some research on blogging. You may understand the basics of setting up a blog and how to write posts, but do you have a plan for your blog? A business blogging plan is an essential element that many people do not take into consideration when adding a blog to their social media arsenal. Their blog is often treated merely as an afterthought, rather than an integral part of the overall marketing strategy. A business blogging plan is much like any business plan. It is a foundation that provides intention and goals for your blog, increasing your chances of success. Here are some things you need to know about how to develop your business blogging plan.
Research Through Imitation
They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. So why not start your blog planning by finding examples of blogs you’d like to imitate? Think of companies you respect, whether in your industry or not, and check out their blogs. Look for blogs that have been around for awhile, at least six months, and that post regularly. Throughout your research, choose three or four of your favorites and bookmark them for later use. Take notes regarding what it is that you like about these blogs, what they’re doing right and ways you can customize these aspects for your particular blog’s niche.
Define Your Blog’s Purpose
A big part of planning out your blog is to decide on its purpose. Consider your potential audience, what that audience wants to read and ways you can help your audience. In order to gain a following for your blog and your business, which is the ultimate goal, you need to be genuine in your desire to provide content that is helpful, not simply salesy. Always keep your blog’s purpose in mind and work toward providing benefit to your readers, and you’ll be well on your way toward developing a successful blog and improving your business.
Use Your Blog to Enhance Your Marketing
It’s not unusual for those new to online marketing to treat it as a completely separate venture. The truth is, however, that blogging is meant to be a part of your entire marketing strategy. Your goal is to strategize your blogging efforts in a way that works with your current marketing efforts. It’s quite possible, even, that blogging can replace some of your current marketing. The desired outcome of blogging is to utilize your blog as a means of making your overall marketing better. Ask yourself what your marketing goals are and brainstorm ways to address those goals through blogging. Writing blog posts allows you to promote your company as an industry leader, to speak directly to customers and to build customer relationships.
As you can see, there are a number of ways in which blogging can improve your marketing, as this article from PatientSites.com illustrates. Having a business blogging plan in place can help you to work smarter and to be more successful in your efforts.