by guest blogger Rodney Page
Last month I wrote on the importance of developing a blog
strategy. I hope you found the comments helpful, and thanks to you who provided
feedback.
Several of you requested additional information regarding
the “how’s” of creating awareness for your blog. I’ll share some ideas that that
have been effective for me. But remember, your blogging objective, target
audience and desired actions of your readers are unique.
Following is a recap of the major elements of a blog
strategy for a non-fiction writer. Today we’re focusing on the third question.
- What is your objective? It will likely focus on establishing your expertise.
- Who do you want to read your blog?
- How do you make them aware of your blog?
- What do you want the readers to think or do after they’ve read your blog?
First, develop a
comprehensive list of appropriate publications, websites and other related
blogs
When blogging to promote a non-fiction work, this task isn’t
quite as daunting as it may seem. You are likely already familiar with many of
the specialty or trade publications and websites appropriate for your topic. To
identify other bloggers, start with these blog list websites (…and there are
many others):
- http://www.blogher.com/network
- http://www.searchenginejournal.com/20-essential-blog-directories-to-submit-your-blog-to/5998/
- http://blogsitelist.com/dir/
- http://www.bloglisting.net/
Now, get creative with your Google search terms. Below are a
few generic terms, applicable to almost any subject, to add to your topic
search:
- Marketing
- Customers
- Media
- Articles
- Comment
- Editorial
- PR
- News
- Recent articles
- Experts
- Readers
- Books
Second, communicate
with a person, not a blog, website,
or publication
For the targeted blogs, websites, or publications you choose
to target, identify the names and email addresses of living, breathing human
beings. It sounds simple, but it seems to be getting more difficult as the
‘humans’ hide themselves behind website pre-formatted email templates…and when
you fill out one of those, it’s the same as addressing a letter ‘To Whom it May
Concern.’ If you’ve searched and searched and can’t find a name or email
address, here’s a little trick: in the Google search window type @the
organization’s website URL. You’ll be surprised how often names and email
addresses turn up.
Third, learn something about the blogs,
websites, or publications you will contact
For goodness sake, read a couple of blogs, scan recent press
releases on the website, review the last couple issues of the magazine. Weaving
a few pertinent facts into your message will work wonders. Doing so
demonstrates you are familiar with and taken the interest and time to learn
about them.
Lastly, realize that
in order to get, you must also give
If you want another blogger to re-post your blog, will you
reciprocate? If it would be a boon should a regional publication mention your
blog, are you willing to highlight the magazine in your blog before you ask for their help? If a
brief mention of you and your expertise on a prominent website would boost your
book sales, will you take the time to contribute to the site’s online forum?
I hope you find these additional thoughts useful and, happy
blogging!
___________________________________________________
Rodney Page is the author of the upcoming novel Powers Not Delegated.
A
native of Georgia, Rodney's business career includes a variety of
senior management positions and consulting engagements in a broad range
of industries, from startups to Fortune 500 firms. In 2005 Rodney
co-authored Leading Your Business to the Next Level...the Six Core Disciplines of Sustained Profitable Growth. He lives in Atlanta. His passions include hiking, photography, reading, and, of course, University of Georgia football.
Website: www.powersnotdelegated.com
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