Last month, we contributed a post asking if guest blogging is really a necessary element to a good blog. The answer was a pretty resounding “yes.” In light of that, I thought I should elaborate on a few tips for how to be a good guest blogger.
First, reciprocal guest blogging can be a great opportunity for all. It helps bring new readers to each blog that is involved.
Set standards/boundaries – make sure that before you begin a guest blogging relationship, that all parties involved know what is expected of them. Setting standards for things like post length, how often the swap will occur, and how much editing the host blogger can do is important. If you are used to posting 350-400 word posts, but the blog you will be guest posting for has an average of 800 words per post, it’s important to decide which standard you will adhere to for guest posts.
Guest blogging isn’t for sales – usually guest blogging relationships are NOT geared towards direct sales. While there can be exceptions to this rule, it’s a good idea to assume that you are not using someone else’s blog as a forum to pitch your products. This is something that you and the host blogger should discuss before you begin a relationship – how much of a sales feel would they like for your posts to have (or not have)?
Be flexible – most of the time, bloggers are busy people, just like everyone else in the world. While you may agree on a certain date or time of the month to swap blogs, it’s important to be flexible. If things come up and your post has to be pushed back a week or even a month, it’s necessary just to take it in stride. Do reconsider the relationship, however, if you have agreed on a weekly or monthly post and you are being put off over and over.
Be willing to compromise – don’t be a stickler for your own standards when it comes to guest blogging. As I mentioned earlier, your expectations and those of the blog that you will be contributing to may be different. It’s a good idea to keep an open line of communication when it comes to guest blogging. Be receptive to constructive criticism, also.
Guest blogging can be a great help to all parties involved and can extend your content’s reach. Just make sure that everyone is in agreement so that things will continue on smoothly!
Megan Totka is the Chief Editor for ChamberofCommerce.com. She specializes on the topic of small business tips and resources. ChamberofCommerce.com helps small businesses grow their business on the web and facilitates connectivity between local businesses and more than 7,000 Chambers of Commerce worldwide.
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