Struggling for inspiration?
Well, I used to be a card carrying member of that club too. But now we’ve got our list of 10 Essential Blog Posts for Business Bloggers close at hand, don’t forget that you’ve got another great resource nearby. Your network of contacts!
Yes, in my capacity as a part-time ghost blogger for a local school here in Stockholm I have to keep up with what’s happening there as much as possible. I make it my business to pop in at least once a week and interview people, collect some photographs. But the nature of my contract is that I don’t get there everyweek.
That’s when nurturing contacts is essential.
You won’t imagine the joy it brings to see a “Just thought this could be something for you” pop into my In-box from a student or a teacher.
This week two stories came directly from tips.
And I didn’t even have to ask!
Build a Blogging Culture
- Make it a habit to always send people a nice note to thank them if they give you a tip.
- Tell them how great it was to get that tip next time you see them.
- Do your utmost to make them feel like they really made your day when they come through for you
I firmly belive that we as business bloggers aren’t always going to be able to come up with unique, sparkling content. Just like other people in the work place we’re reliant on a bit of help now and then.
If you’re positiven and encouraging about people’s suggestions, however, you’ll find that they rise to the challenge, read and support the blog and suggest post ideas from time to time. And often when you really need it.
Of course, you won’t be able to write about every tip you get. Sometimes things just aren’t appropriate. When those situations come along, still thank them for the tip but gently point out that you unfortunately couldn’t use that one.
“But if you can give me more of X, Y or Z,” you might say to them, you’ll be taking valuable steps to building a blogging culture around you that will support you and help you deliver quality content and make your targets.
What are you doing in your workplace to help your business blog keep going? How do you nurture your network to suggest ideas to you for blog posts?
Bonus Post
Kirsten Wright had another great tip the other day if you’re struggling for hours: Ask your community on Twitter!
Image:FlickrCC
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