How to Create a Successful Business Blog

If you have decided to create a business blog, there are some things to keep in mind as you enter the online world of content marketing. There are thousands of business blogs, so you want to make sure your blog stands out and provides you the return you want. There are many advantages to creating a business blog, including increased SEO ranking for your website, building credibility for your business, and generating qualified leads. The following tips will help you get started.

1. Set the Foundation – Think about the topics you will concentrate on with your blog. Find something you are passionate about that relates to your business and makes your readers want to learn more. For example, if you specialize in gourmet cupcakes, you will not want to create a blog that focuses widely on baking, cooking, and grilling. Instead, write blog posts specifically related to your business such as different baking techniques, cupcakes in other cultures, and decorating cupcakes. Show your readers that you are an expert in gourmet cupcakes.
2. Identify Your Market – It is critical that you not only know who your market is, but that you understand how your market uses the content you provide. What do they want? What do they do? Why do they want to read your blog? Engage them in the conversation by asking questions, providing them an opportunity to comment, and pay attention to what they say. You can get ideas for new products, understand how your products meet their needs, and discover what kinds of things you can do to encourage them to become loyal customers.
3. Decide on a Theme – When setting up your blog, make sure your domain name and theme are relevant to your content. Make sure your theme is up to date. Review the blogs of other similar businesses and pay attention to the look and feel of their websites. Make sure the site and theme you choose is mobile-friendly, as many people use their phones or other devices to view content.
4. Set Goals – Having a blog is more than just writing some content online; it is targeting that content so it helps you reach your goals. Figure out up front why you are blogging, what goals you hope to accomplish, how often you will change the content, and how you will stay consistent. If your readers know they can expect new and useful information once a week or once a month, they will come back. Planning is key to a successful business blog.

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Janie Sullivan, MBA, MAEd, has been teaching adult learners for over 20 years. She has taught online over 15 years, specializing in writing, communications, and small business applications. Janie directs the Center for Writing Excellence where she offers writing, editing, and formatting services for writers. She has been published in several newspapers and magazines as well as multiple online sites. She teaches communication, business strategy, leadership, and management courses. Janie has published a book "Develop and Deliver an Online Class." This is the third book she has written about writing and teaching online. She also has published a novel and an anthology of short stories.