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BLOGS
by Susan Palmquist
You’ve probably heard the buzz about blogs. Maybe there’s a blog you visit daily or just read occasionally. But have you thought about creating your own blog? If so, there are some points to consider before you start ‘blogging’.
- Will your blog be entirely related to your business? If it’s intended to promote a service or product, make sure your Web site has a link to your blog and vice versa. Look at it as an opportunity to generate some cross traffic.
- Pay close attention to your content. While blogs are meant to be more personal entries than other forms of communication on the Internet, don’t be tempted to ramble on about just anything. Potential and current customers will be reading it and will form an opinion about you. Always offer them something worthwhile and a reason to read your next blog entry.
- How often will you blog? People like consistency, don’t start a blog, make a few entries and then disappear. Make sure it’s something you can commit to, even if it’s just once a week.
- How are your writing, editing and proofreading skills? Writing and posting a blog means you’re basically your own Editor in Chief. If you can, try and find someone who will give your entry a quick check before you post it on the Internet.
- Don’t use your blog as a soapbox. Don’t complain and definately don’t badmouth your competition. Use your blog to professionally showcase you and your business.
- Check out other people’s blogs. Which ones do you like, which ones would you never visit again? What made the difference? What caught your attention and what encouraged you to return to read the next blog? Also, be sure to check out your competitor’s blogs.
- Give away something free. No, not the store, but maybe some tips and hints for your customers. For example, if you run a catering business, maybe a recipe or a tip about a cooking shortcut.
- You’ve probably heard lots of stories about bloggers making $50,000 or more a year selling ad space on their blogs. While these are the exception, once established, and with a regular following, it’s certainly possible to sell some ad space and use your blog as a source of additional income for your business.
Lots of Web sites offer you free blog space, here are some popular sites to check out-
www.blogger.com
www.blogwise.com
www.typepad.com
www.blog.com
www.blogspot.com
Examples of blogs on Blogspot
http://sharonhr.blogspot.com/
http://cookingwithamy.blogspot.com/
http://gardenobsession.blogspot.com/
Susan Palmquist is a freelance writer who specializes in food, health, and money saving topics. Prior to writing she worked in public relations and was a publicist for three years. She currently writes two columns, Eating Well on a Budget www.gardenandhearth.com/EatingWellonaBudget.htm and Budget Smart. She can be reached at themediatrainer@yahoo.com.
© Cataluña 1999