Release Your Blog!
Can you write? Even a little bit? Do you have something to say that is unique in the world? Then blogging is for YOU. There are lots of very good reasons to blog, and even though there only a very few (most of them lame) reasons not to blog, very few people catch on to it. But that just makes it all the more valuable!
Business Benefits
- Build credibility. You're probably already an expert in your field. But no one can appreciate that unless you tell them what you know.
- Humanize your business. Blogging puts a face on your business that people don't see otherwise. By continuing to post new, fresh entries, your blog takes on a life presence to those who see it. Even if they never read it, the headlines and pictures you post leave a lasting impression that is powerful in the aggregate.
- Better understand your customer base. Unless you're completely deaf to the world around you, the act of writing a blog invokes feedback. More than that, in order to keep blogging, you will be forced to consider what your customers really want to hear.
- Attract Internet traffic. This is usually the first reason people start blogging. Adding original content to your web site is always a great way to get Google to rank you. BUT realistically, if it's going to work, you need to do it long term, over many months and even years. That means you need more than just Google placement to keep you blogging.
- Build your brand. If you do everything right and actually write great content, then yes, you will also be building your brand. That's because your brand benefits from good quality, well refined content.
Personal Benefits
- Find real fulfillment. Traditionally blogs are written to give their authors a chance to say whatever they really feel. It gives you a chance to unlock thoughts and ideas that would be dormant otherwise.
- Chronicle your life. It's a journal that you can share. Aside from your business associates and customers, your friends and family will enjoy what you have to say. Years down the road your writings will give valuable perspective on your world and on your own personal growth.
- Publish your works. More than one blogger has gone on to greater things. Some are self-published. Others collaborate with other bloggers. Some earn income with advertising. A few become syndicated, and some actually publish books.
