Growing a blog. There are hundreds of ideas out there on how to grow your blog. This post is only 7 of our favorite ways to grow your blog, engage customers, and expand your business. Let’s get to it.
1) Get a handle on S.E.O.
Most blogs will not see direct growth from S.E.O. (search engine optimization) right away. But without good S.E.O. you will have no chance of growing in the future. By starting with S.E.O. first, each article you write will find a home. Also by starting with S.E.O. first, the topic is more likely to show to those searching for it. It only takes a minute of forethought to start off right.
2) Analyze your site load time
The big search engines and most social media have a thing for fast loading sites. Adding tons of plugins or extras slows your site. Check your site on a regular basis to ensure the best load times. The tool we use to check this all the time is GTMetrix. Go over the results and adjust your site to keep it loading fast.
3) Use photos to enhance posts and keep attention
People respond to photos. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. A picture is also a good way to keep attention and break up the text. While unique photos are always best, stock photos can also work as well. Make sure the photo fits the context and content. Nobody cares about your dog or cat on your business blog unless you’re a vet. A great resource for free stock photos is Pexels.
4) Spelling & Grammar checks MATTER
It always amazes us with how many people will post something without reading it. Or for that matter doing even a simple spell-check. There is not a single one of us that is perfect. I am sure if you read enough of our blog, you will find mistakes. But always make the effort to correct everything that you can. We use a combination of Microsoft Word and an online tool called the Hemingway Editor. Check it out and give it a try.
5) Pick one: Quality or Quantity
Most people can only do one thing well. So you need to ask yourself an important question. Do you want tons of OK posts or a few great blog posts? Pick a schedule that works best for you. If you choose quality, put the time and effort in. If you choose to make a large quantity, make sure you pick topics that are interesting and easy to write about.
6) Consistency is key
We discussed picking quantity vs quality. Another key factor is consistency. If you are not going to keep up with your posts on a regular schedule, why have a blog at all? You need to pick a schedule and hold yourself to it. If it becomes hard to keep up, make it easier. But post on a regular schedule.
7) Connect and network with other businesses/bloggers
Despite what you may be thinking, not every business is your competition. Most small businesses generally service local clients. This makes remote businesses in your field, not your enemy. In fact, they can be very helpful in bouncing ideas off of. Other bloggers can give you things to help move your blog up in the world. Things such as guest blogging opportunities and links to your site. And you can do the same for them. Having someone guest blog for you can be an excellent way to have the time to take a vacation. Life is not all about competition.
And there you have it. Our 7 tips for growing your business blog. There is no overnight fix. But with a little blood, sweat, and odds are many tears, your blog will grow. And in turn, your business will grow through that exchange.
Bonus Tip) Give them something useful
Always make your posts useful. People are always drawn to free stuff. Don’t lock all your useful information behind a door. If you want to grow your blog, answer questions your clients have. Then give away that information. Always give more than you get. You will reap the returns 10+ fold.
