This is a guest post from blogger Lucy Thorpe
When I click on your blog, read the first sentence, and decide to stay for the ride – that’s an important moment.
You have my attention, which is dynamite.
So what are you going to do with it? Go in hard and sell to me while you have the chance?
I think this would be a mistake, often seen with new bloggers and comes from looking at your blog as another platform for your sales pitch, rather than as a conversation.
A blog can be a very personal place. It feels more intimate than other forms of business copy. This is because it’s where customers get to know a little more about you. When you write about your ideas, future business plans, or comment on relevant industry news, you are giving something of yourself away.
In return you hope to build trust, get your customers’ honest opinions and create a bond of loyalty, all of which are incredibly valuable.
Your customer will respond well to being treated as an individual. They have valid opinions on your products and services so ask for feedback in your blog and respond in the comments section using their name.
I.e. @Lucy I really appreciated your views about the new menu, we’re still tweaking the final version and will certainly be looking at your great suggestions.
There might even be occasions when you can use such engaged individuals to test products in more detail; maybe Lucy would like to come for a free tasting of the new menu and report back?
I think the best bloggers today treat their customers as intelligent partners who are not afraid to give a little bit of themselves away.
Play it for the long haul, don’t pitch and run.
Having said that, once you have shared something valuable and interesting all bloggers are allowed one free shot on goal, so here’s mine:-
Lucy Thorpe is an experienced blogger with a background in journalism and broadcasting at the BBC. She offers blog coaching and writing services atLucy.Thorpe@btconnect.com
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