Should Your Small Business Have A Blog?

Should your small business have a blog? That’s a big question. At one time it seemed like everyone was starting a blog. The only problem is, many do not stick with it for very long. I think the question of whether you should blog, or not blog depends on the business you’re in.

Here are some examples of business models that would benefit from a blog.

• If you have a business where showing off your past work would benefit you, a blog is a nice way to build an online portfolio for your customers to check out. Some businesses that may benefit from a blog to showcase their work include: cake decorators, writers, web designers, photographers,  and wedding planners.
• If you can share pointers and tips with your customers that will help them use your services, or products. Small businesses that sell crafting, or scrapbook supplies are great examples.
• If you’re an expert at something and you can share some of that knowledge to help your readers.

These are just a few examples, many businesses would benefit from a blog, but there are several things you have to think about before you dive in. There are also several alternatives to blogging that may benefit your small business just as much.

Before you decide to start a blog you need to think about whether you will be writing the blog yourself, or will you hire someone to write the blog for you? Once you start a blog you need to update it on a regular basis, so it is an ongoing commitment.

If you decide to hire someone to write for you there are several blog job boards where you can post your requirements, including Problogger, Media Bistro,  and Freelance Writing Jobs just to name a few.

There are also many things you can do these days to promote your business and your brand without starting a blog. Tweet your ideas on Twitter, offer to do guest posts on established blogs related to your business, write helpful or how to articles to submit to online newspapers and magazines.

Starting a blog for your small business is a huge decision, just make sure you’re ready to follow through with the commitment before you jump in with both feet.