Then you can start to figure out how you're going to "package" this content. What I mean by that, is how are you going to present the information - what type of blog are you going to have?
Although blogs are as individualistic as each business is, there are 5 common types of blogs that businesses use:
1. consultant blog
- usually is one person sharing their opinions, observations and advice
- a way to highlight your expertise in a specific area and build an active readership who trust you to guide them
- used by service-based businesses such as professional organizers, marketers, coaches, financial planners and so on
2. specialty blog
- written by one or more contributors who focus on a subject of shared interest (i.e. weight loss, spiritual practices, golf, animal lovers, car collectors)
- builds an online community and encourages connection and interactivity
- used by businesses that service that particular common interest in some way
3. feature blog
- showcases creative type of business
- can have lots of pictures of recent projects, video clips, audio clips of songs/music, links to an online store, information and sign up for events
- used by artists, designers, musicians, performers, illustrators, authors, speakers, custom furniture makers, auto builders
4. industry blog
- usually are companies that specialize in a very narrow area of their industry and often sell to other businesses
- provides information on anything that impacts the industry: trade shows, materials, new product lines, equipment innovations, industry news and shipping news
- used by manufacturers, engineering, construction, insurance, machinists and so on
5. tourist blog
- features the local area with lots of pictures and information showcasing the area
- a way to provide information for people visiting, such as: updates on upcoming events, local weather, favorite places to visit, FAQs and so on
- used by tourist attractions, water-sport companies, fishing guides, ski hills, art, music and film festivals, bed and breakfasts, and many other similar types of businesses
Take some time to figure out which type of blog would serve the information needs of your target group and the needs of your business the best.
But don't forget to make sure it's also something that you connect with and feel comfortable promoting and doing on a regular basis - as a blog is definitely a commitment for you!
