I use a blog as a platform for my business. You’re reading it right now, so I guess that’s all the social proof you need, huh?
But seriously – blogging has several benefits, both in the business world and for you personally.
1. A blog is something you can call your own
How many interviews or conversations have you been in where people ask what you’re working on? Usually you answer with, “oh at work we’re working on this project.” The answer is inevitably followed up with, “and what’s your role in the project?” To which you answer, “I’m working on this specific part of the project.”
Rarely can we point to something which we have complete responsibility and control over. A blog gives you something you can call your own – something you can point to and say, “I did this. This is my work.”
Sure there are exceptions. Maybe you hired a designer or ran some guest posts, but even then, the editorial decisions are yours and yours alone.
2. A blog documents your personal growth
I look at blog posts I did years ago (which will remain unlinked..) and I can see where I’ve been at different points in my life. I how my perspectives have changed, how my life has changed, my struggles and successes. Even as I write day-to-day, posting helps me think through my thoughts and the situations and struggles in which I find myself.
3. A blog builds authority
Each post you write on a topic is like building credit in the piggy bank of authority – and authority is the currency of the online space. In an environment of increasing mistrust of internet marketers and “being sold,” who can argue with a hundred or more posts on a subject? The content you develop becomes proof of the depth and diversity of your knowledge.
4. A blog provides lasting value
Blog posts are on the web forever. They’re cached by Google and other search engines. Even though old posts may seem dated to you, they continuously hold value to your readers. Any problem you’ve addressed, any solution you’ve provided can be found by someone looking for help. Quality posts can result in a never-ending stream of readers, subscribers, and customers.
5. A blog is a place to build a community
The social web is all about connecting, engaging, adding value. Why not bring people to your blog to do the engaging? Bring them to your home base. Other forums and networking sites are great for initial connections, but there’s always the chance they change their focus, change their rules, fall out of favor, or even get shut down. It’s important to have your community in a place that you know will be around as long as you are.
So shouldn’t you start a blog?
Don’t start blogging *just* to make money
The truth is few people make money exclusively from blogging, so don’t go in with unreasonable expectations of 1000+ subscribers in 3 months or making 5 figures a month after 9 months.
Rather, make your blog an example of what you can do, build your authority and your community, make it a place people know they can find value. I think you’ll find the opportunities that grow out of your platform will be more awesome than you can imagine.
Convinced? Let me help you get going, and keep your eyes open for my review of the Beginner’s Guide to Blogging by Mike Cliffe-Jones. I’ve done some work with him, and he’s the real deal. Preview of my review? It’s great stuff.
