The topic for Social Media for Business in Corvallis today is: So You Have a Blog. Now What? Here are some of our notes, ideas and a list of post topics (in case you are wondering what to write about).
NOTES FROM SOCIAL MEDIA FOR BUSINESS TODAY:
“Merit credibility” and “Invite feedback” where the two most selected reasons for a business to blog.
“Make someone say ‘Wow’” and “Grow online presence” where the next most selected reasons.
There was some discussion on tribes, communities and audiences. I personally dislike the concept of an audience for blogs. As an audience member, I have fallen asleep too many times. I think a tribe or community infers more investment and interaction from members.
Addressing questions asked by customers came up a few times as a good source for blog post topics.
Here is the handout from todays Social Media for Business session.
Wondering what to write about in your blog? Here are 13 Blog Post Topic Ideas.
1. Explain how a recent news event will affect your industry.
2. List essential resources related to your industry and summarize why.
3. List and debunk the most common myths in your industry.
4. Promptly deliver a report from an industry related event.
5. Compare something complex or misunderstood to something simple or commonly understood.
6. Deliver timely advice or news relevant to an upcoming holiday or event.
7. Share a list of changes you are considering for your business.
8. Make a list of valuable products or services that are complimentary to your business/industry.
9. Share a list of your favorite replies on Blog, Twitter and/or Facebook.
10. Share a list of your favorite photos or videos related to your business/industry.
11. Answer a list of the most commonly asked questions you receive.
12. Create simple step-by-step directions how to do something.
13. Invite someone interesting to write a post.
What do you think of the list? Please share any additions your have with us here.
As you point out Loyan, considering your readers as more than an audience is critically important. When you write, write to build a community.
The class hit on some important reasons to blog, but there was one missing. And it’s important. Blogs (and social media generally) create a channel of personal relationship with your brand. As the conversation of a blog progresses, readers, if you do it right, become more personally entwined with the compelling story of your idea.
Only if that connection is made will the rest, the “wow,” the “presence,” the “credibility,” follow. Do you agree?
I think blogs should be more informal and definitely give a window into your company, brand, thinking process, personality, knowledge, etc as a company or organization. Each person can have a different feel ans flair without diluting the brand. Hopefully that does what you mentioned in creating a compelling story and pulling people in to build a community.
A blog community can be a great thing.
I enabled comments on my blogger page but it only shows the comments link, and when it’s clicked, a new page opens to show the comments. Is there a way to just have the comments show on my main page right underneath the blog, I don’t want just a link to the comments page..