There's no doubt a blog is a powerful search engine optimization tool.
A well written and engaging blog will draw in readers, encourage people to check out your website, and set you up as an industry expert.
But if you're just starting out writing blog posts you will want to avoid common mistakes most bloggers have made from time to time.
Here are some tips to get started on the right foot and create a blog that people will actually want to read and share.
Don't Write for Search Engines Not so long ago bloggers were writing for search engine bots.
These bots crawled the web looking for keywords and keyword phrases in content.
This lead to the habit of keyword stuffing; the practice of forcing keywords into content whether they made sense or not.
It didn't take long for search engine developers to figure out what was happening and change the way their bots ranked sites.
These changes in search engine algorithms have actually made it easier to write quality blog posts.
When you sit down to write a post think about what you want people to know.
Write like you are speaking to a real person since real live human beings are the ones who will be reading your posts.
Don't force keywords into the content.
You can always add the keywords in your author signature and link them to the appropriate pages on your site.
Don't be Boring or Dull Since you're writing for real people you'll need to have something interesting to say.
Don't be afraid to inject some personality into your posts.
This is your blog and it should reflect your personality, or the culture of your company.
Share facts, tips, write product reviews, share customer testimonies, and do it in a way that is interesting and engaging.
Ask for Comments Yes it is okay to ask for comments.
Ask what your readers think or ask them to share their experiences.
People like to converse with you, but they need to be asked a question.
Very few readers will just volunteer a comment out of the blue.
When you get comments, comment back.
Even if it is a quick thank you.
This shows your blog is alive and there is a real person behind it.
Post Often Once a week is the bare minimum, every day is optimal, but three times a week is a good goal.
You have to post to get readers, and you have to be consistent to have readers waiting for your new content to be posted.
If you post well written and engaging content people will look forward to your next installment and be more likely to share this content.
Use these tips as a starting point when you are thinking about starting your very own blog.
If you don't have the time or talent to write your own content consider hiring a professional writer.
A blog is a powerful search engine optimization tool if done correctly.