So you’re not great at writing—and maybe not even crazy about writing—but you know how important a blog would be in your online marketing strategy. If you’re at a crossroads deciding what to do, here’s my advice: make your blog work for you.
Here are 5 tips for the not-so-fabulous writer:
1. Make a video: Blog posts don’t always have to be primarily comprised of the written word. Rather, engage your readers through visuals to tell your story. Whether you post a video (vlog—a video post on a blog) that you’ve created or embedded a video from YouTube, videos are not only engaging, but they’re also a great medium to illustrate tips and advice through visuals. Not to mention, making a video of yourself is the ultimate way to personify your brand and connect with viewers.
When creating a business vlog, keep in mind that your video should reinforce your brand image, not hinder it. Be mindful of the audio quality, lighting, set design, and your position on camera.
I suggest creating an outline of what you want to cover in your video and discuss each point in chronological order. Don’t simply read from a script—this isn’t conversational and often makes the video subject appear stiff and not personable. And don’t be discouraged if you have to take a few different videos to get it perfect—you’ll get better as you vlog more.
And just like any other blog post, a video must provide viewers with information they can use and implement.
2. Recruit guest bloggers: For the most part, bloggers enjoy guest blogging because it enables them to reach a new market and build a relationship with readers and bloggers outside of their usual readership. Don’t be afraid to email bloggers who would provide beneficial information to your readers and request that they participate in an interview or write a post for your blog.
There isn’t much writing required on your part with a guest post. The only writing you’ll have to do is a brief introduction of the guest and interview questions—if you want the post in a Q&A format.
3. Ask for help: If you work with other individuals, ask if they would contribute 2 – 3 posts per month—this is a great way to reduce your writing load and add a more dynamic tone to the blog.
Or, if you know of others in your industry who could offer a beneficial contribution, ask if they would write a 1 – 2 page article. We’ve found that most individuals love to gain exposure for themselves and share their expertise. Don’t be afraid to ask.
4. Create a photo story: Similar to a video, a photo story adds an engaging element to a blog that grabs the reader’s attention differently than copy does. Some individuals absorb and remember information easier when they can visualize it—whether the illustration is in the form of videos, photos, or slideshows.
When you create a photo story, write a brief 1 – 2 sentence, personalized blurb on what is illustrated in the photo and how the photo relates to your readers.
5. Sleep on it: Whether I’m writing web copy, a blog post, marketing copy, or an ezine, I always like to have time to sleep on it or at least come back to it later in the day. No one is ever on his or her A-game 24 / 7, because let’s face it, no one is perfect—not even the best bloggers. Whenever I let my mind rest after writing, everything from improper phrasing to grammatical errors pop out that I never noticed initially.
Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know what you think in our comments section.
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