Beat the Blog Blahs: Blog Post Ideas to Keep Your Content Fresh
A blog can be a great place to share knowledge, which can boost your credibility in the eyes of potential customers so you’re viewed as a thought leader. But, if you only post at random or if your content is too bland, you may send the opposite signal.
The two keys to making your blog an effective marketing tool are:
Include a call to action in each post. What should readers do with the information you share in each post?
Explain why the content matters to your reader. What are the implications for them, and why should they care?
To create a blog that’s robust and engaging, publish posts in a variety of styles. Some of our favorites:
How-Tos
What’s a common question from your customers? Answer it in the form of a blog post. Don’t worry about giving away too much information for “free.” Remember that building a stronger website where engaging content is shared will only enhance your reputation in their minds. Plus, your call to action can encourage them to call you or download your lead generator to learn more. *wink*
A good how-to post includes:
Actionable steps
Links to any relevant third-party websites (ex: the online store where they can buy equipment needed to complete the task you’re describing)
A video demonstration if the how-to topic is particularly hands-on
Enough detail, but not so much that it’s overly technical and a drag to read
Examples:
Keep the Cold Out! Learn How to Insulate Your Windows
Applying to Lots of Jobs but Not Getting an Interview?
Listicles
Expand your readers’ knowledge base of a certain subject with lists pertinent to your industry (Hint: this post itself is a listicle!) These might be lists of must-read industry-specific books, pitfalls to avoid, or professionals from your field they should follow on social media.
A good listicle post includes:
An introduction – don’t go straight to the list! Tee it up and explain why this list is useful.
Links to any third-party websites relevant (ex: if it’s a list of social media influencers, link to their accounts)
Examples:
10 Targets to Know if Your ADHD Medication is Working
5 Requirements for Leading Collaborative Teams
Case Studies
Case studies are an excellent way to enhance credibility, send a shout-out to an existing customer, and show how your company actually works. This is your opportunity to showcase a client success story.
A good case study post includes:
A link to the featured client’s website
A synopsis of the client’s problem
A description of the solution you created
Data: use numbers to explain the success
Plenty of quotes from the customer
Images: show the customer thriving and remember they are the hero
Example: Stratejm Trusts RingCentral to Deliver Exceptional Customer Service to its Cybersecurity Clients
Infographic
Share industry stats, survey results or other relevant data in a visually appealing way with a brief description, opposed to lengthy paragraphs of text.
A good infographic post includes:
A well-designed infographic! Don’t lose credibility by posting something that doesn’t look professional
Insight. The infographic shouldn’t be the entire article. Include your commentary in accompanying paragraphs above or below it.
Examples:
Cheat Sheet: Graphic Design Words Everyone Should Know
Composting for Beginners at Home
News Relevant to Your Industry
Always keep a pulse on changes to technology, leadership, trends, and other big stories happening in your sector. Set up a google search alert to automate this process! Then share any current events with your readers. Paraphrasing with a link to the original article is A-OK.
A good news post should include:
A link to an original source/article
How you can help them with any pivoting or action steps this news requires
Examples:
Link Between Grain-Free Dog Food & DCM Debunked
Farmers Required Fewer Loans in 2020’s Fourth Quarter
Personal Story
If something happened in your personal life that relates to your work and would benefit your readers, share it on your blog. For example, if you sell insurance, your post title might be “What Adopting a Dog Taught Me About Insurance.” Tying in personal stories, when appropriate, can create empathy among your customers.
A good personal story post should include:
Not too much personal information! Your business blog is not a place to rant or air dirty laundry. Limit your sharing to the details that are essential to the story.
A lesson: what did you learn from this experience?
Examples:
What I Learned After Losing $20K in a Day
What Being a Mom Has Taught Me About Running a Business
If you’d like help framing your blog or drafting posts, give us a call! We love helping clients strategize.