Finding readers for your business blog

You've started a blog to help promote your business but a quick check of your site visitor counter shows that worst possible fate. No visitors!



What do you do?



Well, it's time to start promoting your new business blog everywhere you can.



Blog promotional expert Trudy W. Schuett has some simple and no cost ways to get your blog noticed.



She starts with the obvious, and often overlooked idea of just telling everyone you know, and then some.



"Once you've got your blog up and running, and ready for viewing you tell everybody you know. That includes not only customers, past subscribers to any e-mail list you may have had, and business associates, but also friends, relatives, and even your local newspaper." said Trudy W. Schuett, in her widely read article "Blog Promotion For Newbies"

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Trudy continues, "Make sure your blog's URL appears on every piece of paper that leaves your office!"



Trudy is very correct in her assessment. Everything that leaves your office should have a link to your web site, and to your business blog. Be sure to include a signature line on your e-mail as well. Many clients and customers will click on the link to read your blog; so will friends, acquaintances, and family members.



Trudy also recommends getting reciprocal links from other blogs in your area of business. You need not go to competitors for links either. For example, if you are selling bridal gowns, your natural linking partners would be florists, jewellers, and gift shops, to name just a few.



"Make a point of looking around for blogs that complement yours. Ask the blog publisher for a reciprocal link." said Trudy.



One of my favourite promotional ideas is participation at various message boards and forums relating to your area of interest. Be sure to be helpful and not blatantly pushing your product. Answer questions fully and politely and freely provide solid information. Develop a reputation for being knowledgeable and helpful, and you will be regarded as an expert in your field.



Don't forget to place a link back to your site in your signature line. Most forums encourage the use of signature lines. They often provide space for some additional information on your site as well. You will be pleasantly surprised at how many people will click on your sig line link.



Trudy agrees, and offers some further advice as well.



She says, "Find forums and discussion groups on the subject of blogging, such as the Blogger Talk Forum, and participate. Don't just show up one day, announce yourself, and figure that's enough. You're looking for name recognition here, so even if you're very new to all this, you can still ask questions."



As you can see, getting more visitors to your blog need not be expensive and time consuming. In fact, it can be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience, as you meet new friends and potential customers online.



I'll offer some additional free and low cost promotional ideas in future columns. In the meantime, start with these ideas and watch your readership grow!