5 Tips to Dramatically Increase Blog Readership

5 Tips to Dramatically Increase Bog Readership

One thing your Web Developer and I have in common is that we’re constantly harping on you to blog more often. I know, I know, you’re thinking, “Why write it if they’re not going to read it?” To quote those classic words, “If you build it, they will come.” Employing a consistent, directed effort is the best way to bring on new readers. It will also improve your connections with your audience, allowing you to:

• Build your brand
• Position yourself as an expert
• Positively impact your organic SEO

But you hate blogs, you say. No, you don’t. You love information. In fact, you’re reading a business blog post right now. You probably just don’t like what “blogging” connotes, which is the image of a rambling narcissist with a chocolate martini in one hand who’s going on and on about significant others, coupons, and what they ate for lunch.

Business blogging is an entirely different matter. It’s:

• Helpful information for people who sought you out
• A genuine connection with readers who want to know what you have to say
• A meeting of serious, like-minded people interested in your expertise

Sure, blog posts about what you ate for lunch can be interesting depending on your level of culinary skills. But business blogging is always useful and never a waste of time. When it comes to creating content online, value is everything. By writing useful business blogs with helpful information, you’ll establish yourself as a respected leader in your industry.

Below are 5 tips to help you dramatically increase your blog readership:

Tip 1: Keep Your Word Count Low

The blog attention span lasts for 450 to 650 words. Go over 650 words and you’re going to lose your blog readers. Most people who read posts are taking a short break to research a topic and learn something new, then they’re getting back to work. Not only is this length enough to effectively cover a simple idea, it’s also easy to write. If you have a more in-depth subject, cover one idea per blog and link the posts (more on that below).

Tip 2: Consider the Visual Appeal

You don’t have a lot of words to work with. So, throw a photo, graphic, or picture in there. It’s worth a thousand words. Also, readers expect some art with their posts. Then, visually break up your text into bite-sized chunks or bullet points to make it easy for readers to scan. If you don’t conform to the typical look of the blog, you’ll lose readers right off the bat. Trust me on this.

Tip 3: Inform Don’t Sell

You think since you have an audience’s attention that you need to pitch them. Always be closing, right? Not in your blog though. This is a safe place where you get to just talk and be the wise, insightful expert that you are. People who read blogs are information seekers. If you sell to business blog readers, you break the contract. So, give them what they want—substance.

Tip 4: Spread the Word

If you don’t promote your posts, who will? You could be the best writer in the world, but if you don’t put yourself out there, no one will ever know. Your stunning ideas, revelations, and stories that capture the imagination will go unread. So, reach out with social media, email, and any other tools you have to engage with your audience. Then be consistent with your posts. A prolonged silence will cost you loyal readers.

Tip 5: Give Them More with Links

Include at least one link to your own writing to give your reader more information. Let’s face it, sometimes we’re not done taking a quick break after 450 words. Maximize your audience by linking them to something else to read … or they’re gone. A link at the top of the post and one toward the bottom will cater to both the reader who isn’t interested in your post from the start and the reader who wants more from you at the end.

Gain a Loyal Blog Following

It’s time to pick up the pen (or rather, open up the laptop) and get to writing. You’ll also want to promote your posts, making sure they’re short, informative, and peppered with internal links. And don’t forget to make them visually appealing! The more you write, the more you’ll find your voice. Keep checking out other business blogs (like the one you’re currently reading) to get even more tips or advice. They won’t come overnight, but if you’re consistent, you’ll soon find that you’ve built an audience of loyal followers who hang on your every word.