You’re pretty sure you have a small business blog – somewhere. You’re not entirely certain when you last updated it. But the content is still relevant, and how important can it really be anyway?
Really important, actually.
If you’re not blogging about your small business, search engines are going to have a hard time finding you – and so are your customers.
Search engine optimization (SEO) is important to your small business. But nowadays search algorithms favor regular, good quality posts over keyword-stuffed drivel. Updating your blog frequently is one of the best ways to push your company to the top of the list when people search for your products and services online.
Not sure how to start your small business blog or keep it going? Read on for some tips on blogging for small business success.
1. Find the line between frequency and frustration.
To stay on top of search rankings, you’ve got to post frequently. But posting too frequently can cost you the followers that got you to the top. If you start getting to promotional with your posts, there’ll be a mass exodus. And it won’t just affect your rankings; it’ll affect your bottom line, too.
Keep it to one to two posts a day and make sure you’re providing good content each time. Don’t recycle the same topics and use a variety of mediums — from text to infographics to video. When you want to talk to your customers, make sure you’ve got something to say.
2. Create regular features.
Coming up with weekly features for your small business blog can help build your audience and drive consistent traffic to your site. Maybe it’s a live Q&A session every Monday or a “find the secret deal code” scavenger hunt each Thursday. Whatever it is, stick to your schedule. If you’re dependable with your posts, your readers will know when to come back for more.
3. Build relationships with readers.
A small business blog is all about connection, and what’s connection without an emotional element? You need to bond with your readers on a personal level. It’s okay to share your frustrations and triumphs. It’s even okay to post a cute picture of the office mascot once in a while.
Your blog is about your small business but you are an extension of that business. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.
Social media is a great place to connect with your followers. Read what they have to say and respond to them on your blog and social pages. Too many businesses talk at people; your goal is to talk to them.
Blogging is a great way to spread the word about your small business, but you need fun, fascinating and functional content to make it effective. Need help in that department? Mischa Communications’ bloggers are some of the best in (small) business. Drop us a line, and we’ll give you a hand.