Whether you’re getting ready for a job interview or a first date, the person you’re about to meet is likely to search for you on the internet first. What they find can either help you or hurt you before you even meet them. This is why it’s so important to manage an online reputation. Other than removing negative items about yourself from the search results, you can also add positive items. One way to do this is guest blogging. However, having a strategy is the key to making this tactic work for you.
What is Guest Blogging?
Guest blogging means writing content (typically a blog post) published on someone else’s site but with your own name attached. Monetary compensation is possible, but not frequent. Instead, you will likely be compensated with a link back to your own website or simply access to an expanded audience. This can help grow your own business by reaching new people who may not have heard of you before.
Finding Blogs to Write For
The first step to successful guest blogging is to find a blog that you want to write for. Take a look at the blogs in your industry that you already read frequently and see if they accept guest posts. You can also reach out to your existing audience on social media to see what related blogs they like to read. If you don’t see information about guest blogging on their website, don’t be afraid to search for the appropriate contact and send an email asking if they are looking for submissions.
Write What You Know
Although there’s a time and place to be a maverick, guest blogging is not it. Stick to writing topics in your niche to showcase your expertise. Just because you have an opinion doesn’t mean you need to share it. Especially for opinions on controversial topics such as politics and legal matters … unless, of course, that’s your industry! By staying in your own lane, you develop credibility and avoid alienating anyone in your audience who would otherwise be happy to do business with you.
Follow Up
Once your blog is published on the site, make sure to be active in the comments section. More than just answering questions, also thank people for reading your post. Share the link on your social media channels to encourage additional views. If other bloggers or industry professionals leave a comment for you, visit their blogs and leave comments for them, as well. This helps increase brand affinity and can potentially get you more guest blogging opportunities.
Stay On Top of Your Online Presence
The amount of information online can be overwhelming. If you’re struggling to clear your internet presence, consider online reputation management services that can do the heavy lifting for you. Here at Reputation Sciences, our three-step program of reputation solutions can help you show off your best self online. Contact us today to learn more.
