Francesca Di MeglioThese days it seems that every brand has a blog. From baby products to food delivery, there is no type of service or product too small or too niche that is excluded from the blogging bandwagon. But for small businesses–who often have limited resources, time, or marketing budgets–is the monthly upkeep of a blog worth the all the hype?
According to these statistics, 60% of businesses who blog acquire more customers. Moreover, blogging is a quick, easy, and cost-effective platform to speak to your customers, build brand awareness, and establish credibility. Still not convinced? Read below for reasons why your small business should consider maintaining a blog, and check out our small business blogging tips here.
Maximize SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) refers to any efforts intended to help your website rise in the ranks on search engines, such as Google and Yahoo. To give your company a boost, you should be visible on numerous online platforms, including your own website and social media and review sites. Search engines favor sites that are constantly featuring new content, which means a frequently updated blog can help you gain traction on results pages.
Share Your Expertise
A well-written blog is an opportunity for you to share your skills and knowledge of your industry with potential and current customers, but also competitors and colleagues. Setting yourself apart as an expert in the field can help build trust and respect. This will overflow to your brand and could potentially help you convert more sales.
Build Brand Awareness & Promotion
Naturally, you’ll discuss your products and services in the blog. You can write (or talk in a video you post to the blog, also known as a vlog) about what makes your brand stand out from others. If you’re hosting an event or sale, you can share it with readers of the blog. You can even create contests and coupons just for those who are hanging on your written word.
Connect with Customers
Today people expect businesses to create dialogs with them and even get personal. They want to know you care about them as much as the sale. The blog can give them insight into who you are and what your company is about. Usually, it also provides another opportunity for customers to post comments and start a conversation with you. Yes, you’ll have to respond to comments on your blog, too. But you will also get more feedback that can help improve your business.
Since blogs are relatively inexpensive and don’t have to be that long, they can be an easy way to promote your business and stay in touch with customers. The rewards could make up for the time it takes to churn out original posts. It just depends on your desire and schedule.
Are you blogging? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.
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