Why should I start a blog?
I have tried my hand at blogging a few times in the past and have always abandoned the project shortly after inception. However, as I continue to learn and grow my business I have discovered that blogs can be a powerful tool in branding, search engine optimization, lending credibility, and networking. So, instead of a blog based on my random thoughts and rants, this will be a more channeled project about web, design and social media management.
Let's get started!
This forum gives me a place to share with my clients, friends and the internet-at-large the efforts of my continuing education in web design and social media management. I have never stopped learning in this business. In fact, I started out in print and for most of my employed career I worked in newsprint. When I decided I wanted to give freelancing a try - I learned very quickly that web = survival. Print has, unfortunately, become a medium of the elite. Furthermore, print is cost prohibitive and stagnant. Most small enterprises are strapped for cash and constantly changing. They want to reach a younger audience and be able to try one thing today and completely change strategies tomorrow. The internet is the perfect platform for this approach.
Secondly, I think that it is important to join the conversation. Too often we get stuck in he dredge of the day and don't look outside of our own experiences and business. There is accountability in blogging - you have to not only discuss what is happening in your business but also in the community of your industry. The side-effect of joining this conversation is others becoming more aware of you. It proves that you have something to say that is valuable!
Is a blog right for your business?
I certainly wouldn't recommend something you don't have the time to follow-through with. So, think this decision through. First, is your industry ever changing? Web and social media is in constant flux. There is always something new to learn. By consolidating information and making it easily accessible for novices, I can prove to be a valuable asset before you ever do business with me.
Often, businesses attempt "DIY" web management. My hope is that by offering them valuable information they will be able to do the best they are capable. By gaining the trust of my audience, if they ever need further assistance and or the help of a professional they will think to turn to me. Is your business in a similar position? Will proving your knowledge help potential customers find you and instill a sense of trust?
Are your customers aware they need your service? Do you offer something cutting edge or revolutionary? Do you bring a professionality to something that is seemingly commonplace? A blog is a great way of explaining why your service is better than an "amateur" attempt. Computer repair is a great example of this. Everyone has a friend who is "good" with computers or maybe they think they are "pretty good" with computers. Computer Handyman, one of my clients, decided to start a blog for this very reason - to better educate those that want to try to do it themselves. By providing an excellent resource for these folks, they both position themselves as experts and are the go-to when things get too complicated.
If you decide that your company would benefit from a blog and need help getting started, please feel free to e-mail me. And as for this blog, I look forward to receiving your feedback! If you have any questions you would like addressed in this format - I would love to hear from you.