3 Easy Blog Fixes
What's your favorite reason not to blog? Mine is time restrictions! But we can all get pretty creative when it comes to things we'd rather not do. In the spirit of avoiding our blogs or hating to write, I've created three top-notch reasons why blogging really isn't worth it.
Just kidding!
We're actually going to explore three common excuses often used not to blog and in turn, some tips on making it more palatable. Why? Blogging is an essential part of your successful travel business and SEO strategy.
No. 1: I have no time!
I get it, time speeds by when our industry is humming along. We're running to catch flights, prepping for conferences and participating in FAM trips. Is that the reality right now? Probably not ... unless you work for Amazon!
Since many in our industry are on a different schedule and are working at a different pace as we move into post-pandemic recovery, how about using this time to build a content library? Make the most of these tricky times by prepping for the future and creating content.
Knuckle down and create:
1. A series of blog posts that you can drip out over time.
2. A library of video content.
3. Webinars and courses to build future sales.
4. Podcasts that inspire and educate.
5. Make the most of your time with these bonus tips.
No. 2: My email list is maxed-out.
Really? Is this even possible? Whether you have 20,000 or 100,000 names on your email list, there's always room to expand. The bigger question: Are all these people on your list bringing you business now?
Your blog can be another tool in your toolbox to grow your list, and ultimately, your bookings. Simply insert a lead magnet into each of your blog posts. You can create a graphic that links to your email collection tool and place it in the middle or at the end of each and every blog post.
Now, let's take things up a notch and make the most of your old blog posts. Go ahead and add your lead magnet graphic to older, evergreen posts and watch your email list grow. The beauty of this is that now the web crawlers will see the changes to your old content and start ranking you higher in a search. This means there's the added benefit of a boost to your SEO!
Not sure what makes a great lead magnet post-pandemic? Here's a quick guide to help you develop a lead magnet for your unique audience. Or check out this live video where we brainstorm ideas that are working now.
No. 3: My social sites drive millions to my website.
Millions every day? Right! Or perhaps you're saying you have plenty of content to post socially and can't add a thing to your posting calendar. Really?
If that happens only in your dreams, your blog may get you a bit closer to that target. Every time a new blog post goes live, ensure it rolls onto each of your social sites. Social sharing at its finest! You can automate this on the back-end of your blog platform by using a plug-in.
Alternatively, you can manually share your new blog to each social platform. Make sure you include a scroll-stopping image and comment-cultivating captions.
As tempting as it is to skip out on blogging, it really isn't worth missing out on the traffic it drives to your website and the subsequent revenue. Once you get started, it really isn't so bad—just keep the above tips in mind.
Written by Catherine Heeg, an international speaker and trainer who focuses on social media marketing strategies for the tourism and hospitality industry. Join the conversation and connect with her at www.cmsspeaking.com and socially.
Headshot courtesy of Catherine Heeg.
