This is a guest post from Julian Ranger, an angel investor since 2007, behind several diverse businesses such as Astrobotics (robots on the moon) and Tweetmeme (one of the fastest growing internet businesses in 2009). He now runs iBundle, an innovation hub for start up entrepreneurs who are looking for backing.
The blogosphere has evolved at a bewildering but exciting rate over the past decade. Whereas once it was the preserve of the few, it has finally been embraced by the majority for its simple, quick, and democratic functionality.
Blogs are increasingly influential, unearthing political scandal, and breaking the latest news before the traditional media can get a sniff; however, increasingly, it’s businesses, and start-ups in particular, that are beginning to harness the power of blogging to introduce themselves to the world.
Blogging allows start-ups to communicate not just what they do, but who they really are, what they’re interested in, the vision for their business, and what their USP is. And the great thing with blogging is, it’s free, it’s global, and it works, not only to inform, but also to attract new customers.
So here are five essential tips for any start-up seeking to make the most out of blogging:
1. Content is king
Business is about more than just making money. You’re in business to solve your clients problems, so don’t be afraid to help them for free, with advice on your blog, whether directly related to your product or service, or more generally in related areas. Useful and relevant content will position you as a thought leader and encourage more business.
2. Get regular
A regularly updated blog with plenty of links will be indexed by search engines like Google and Bing. That means your website’s SEO will benefit as a result, making your business easier to find in the online world.
3. Socialise
A good blog is a sharable blog. That means not only tweeting when a new post goes up, and sharing content on Facebook, but also enabling social commenting functions like DisQus, as well as RSS feeds for simple subscription, and a del.icio.us feed so people can see what your business is interested in.
4. It’s a democracy
A blog shouldn’t be reserved for the MD or marketing director. It’s an open and accessible platform for all members of a company to use. Remember, your staff are your biggest asset, so brief them, and use their passion and expertise as a marketing tool.
5. Be Authentic
A blog should reflect who you are as a business and as people. Don’t try and think what people might want to hear, but instead say what you feel and express your thoughts and opinions. An authentic blog will ensure people come back time and again.
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