As a critical part of any digital marketing strategy, business blogs can build some serious buzz for your brand. They have revolutionized the way brands connect with customers and are extremely important for search engine optimization. But if you use them the wrong way and end up on the wrong side of the blogosphere, you risk failing to connect with potential customers and even getting penalized by Google.
Find out what could go wrong and you have a better chance of avoiding those mistakes; here are six “no nos” to avoid at all costs (number five is vital).
Avoid These 6 Business Blog Mistakes (At All Costs)
1. Don’t Be a Control Freak
The number-one mistake is to over-sanitize. Business blogs are about sharing information—a way to offer more to your customers. Do that, and in exchange you’ll earn their loyalty. Lose sight of that, and your over-controlled content will be left dull and lifeless. Besides, no one will tell their friends to go visit a boring blog.
We’re not saying you have to spill all of your trade secrets, you just need to be real. Have a little fun and write with your customers’ needs in mind.
2. Don’t Just Wing It
Yes, we just told you not to be a control freak, but there is one thing you must adhere to: a plan.
To ensure your blog is useful to readers, adopt a set of professional copywriting standards and create a strategic editorial calendar…then stick to it. Constantly coming up with new content can be challenging, but if you vow to always offer accurate information with reliable resources and adhere to a consistent posting schedule, your customers will notice. Go M.I.A. and they’ll notice that, too.
3. Don’t Get Too Greedy
Sure, you can pitch your own products or services on your business blog, but it must be done in a way that demonstrates how you’ll solve your customers’ problems. Get too pushy and you’ll lose readers—and the sale. Your best bet is to mix in your sale subtly by offering useful and informative content that allows customers to see the value in what you’re offering. Include a call-to-action and the rest will come naturally.
4. Don’t Be Scared to Network
Links are a huge part of networking for digital marketing. Whether on your blog or on social media sites like Facebook, sharing links to other news sites and industry resources will add value and earn you points with your readers. Don’t be afraid to send readers to other websites; if you’re doing your job right, they’ll come back to your site (and buy).
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Venture Out
Things starting to feel a little stale? Try something new and you’ll generate attention and start some conversations. From redesigning your website to starting an interesting series on your blog, don’t be afraid to breathe new life into your content. Start thinking of every possible way that your business, brand or product touches people, from what they watch to their hobbies, to conversation starters.
Imagine you’re a local hardware shop, for example. You’re mistaken if all you see are the tools and paint. Your customers see their dream renovation, their kids’ treehouse, a new backyard garden or a finally finished honey-do list. They see their problems solved (and their closet space doubled).
In other words, don’t box yourself in; give them the inspiration they’re looking for.
6. Don’t Forget to Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The professionals at CMDS have helped clients across many industries, so we know what works and what doesn’t. Let us help you create a simple blogging strategy that will generate a positive response from your audience.
Contact CMDS at info@cmdsonline.com or call 732-706-5555 to find out more.