Two words: Speak up!
Being humble is overrated. Too many small business owners don’t give themselves enough credit for having knowledge that others would want to learn or read about.
But if you think about it, how many times have you given advice, or given your opinion to help your customers? Probably quite often. So why not put this advice on the web?
It’s the best way to get people to listen. And listeners are more willing to buy from you than a business they have never heard of because you become more familiar.
Start with the Basics
What are some of the things you wish your customers knew when coming in to your store?
Your first few posts could be as simple as:
- 10 things to know before you buy <blank>
- Questions to ask when shopping for <blank>
- What your might not be telling you
Starting with basic information could be the building blocks to your blog’s success.
Do a quick poll around your store about questions customers often ask, or even set up a fishbowl near the register where people can submit questions or ideas.
Chances are if they are asking you, then other potential customers out there are also typing it into Google.
And that’s your chance to really build a following (and its no secret that regularly updated sites get ranked higher on Google and other search engines).
Make the Content Digestible
Once you start writing, make sure your content is easy to read, understand and put into action.
Avoid writing long elaborate essays that show how wise and all-knowing you are, but rather short and simple tips friendly advice that customers can digest. Think of it as elementary level writing.
If writing is not your strength, then perhaps a great copywriter can help.
Blogging does not have to be complicated, and it will help you gain better search results. But the best part of all of it is, when you do sell, people will be listening.
Image credit: Flickr atelierpompadour
Daisy Quaker is a Badass 