Does it seem like everyone else is blogging except for you?
There’s an exclusive club out there and you’re not part of it.
So what is blogging all about anyway and why are so many people doing it?
What on earth do they have to write about? What on earth would you write about? Does any one really read blogs anyway?
The answer to that last question is yes – after all, you’re reading this one!
What is a blog?
A blog is quite simply a web page that’s full of articles – known as posts. They can be on a variety of subjects from personal inane ramblings to industry specific topics.
The posts are arranged in chronological order (with the latest one appearing first) and each carries a permanent link which can be referred to by others who want to link to your post.
They are a great communication tool and give you a platform from which you can write about anything. For me, I use this blog for copywriting and marketing articles. But others can be used as tools to review new products, personal diaries…all sorts of things.
For search engine optimisation they are a great way of producing back links to your website. Just add in your keyword and use it as an anchor text link. Although it has to make sense within the context of your post.
Why you should blog
Anyone who’s tried to get something published will know how difficult it can be. But a blog will allow you to publish anything you want, when you want. And that’s pretty powerful.
There is also a lot of freedom with blogging. Most blogging software (such as WordPress) offers numerous designs and layouts and its structure makes it really simple to get it looking just the way you want.
But more than aesthetics, blogging is a great way to promote your business online. I’ve already briefly mentioned its SEO capabilities. If you write your posts with your search engine optimisation strategy in mind, you will attract readers and drive traffic to your main sales website.
Blogging software
A blog is free to set up using tools such as WordPress or Blogger. But if you want your own with your own domain name, you can get one set up and hosted for not a lot of cash.
With a very intuitive WYSIWYG editor, even the most technically challenged person would be able to use one.
All you need is a stream of ideas to get started. Whether you want to blog daily, weekly or monthly you can publish anything, link it to your website and enjoy more targeted traffic.
Why not set one up today? Who knows, you might enjoy becoming part of the blogging community.
Sally Ormond – freelance copywriter and blogger