Blogging for your business is a fantastic way to showcase your brand in your own voice. Blogs add a personal touch to your business that other outlets simply can't capture. Whether you can write like Shakespeare or simply enjoy telling stories, the following tips can help make your blog a success for your business.

Pick a Platform

Many blogging platforms exist in the blogosphere. It leaves many business owners wondering how to choose the best one. A few of the main players include WordPress, Tumblr, and Blogger. If you choose to place your blog directly on your business's website, you might be required to use certain software. Most blog platforms allow writers to use a lot of creativity to make the pages their own. Levels of computer and web know-how can really alter how your blog appears.

Blog Consistently

Consistency is key when blogging. Nothing drives away followers more than a blogger who only posts when they feel like it. Set a schedule and carefully plan the timing of your posts. Are your followers more likely to be morning people? If so, schedule posts early, so readers can check out your latest musings over their morning cup of coffee. Posting more often is always a possibility, but starting out at once or twice a week without fail will help build a strong base of followers.

Blog Your Business Buzz Words

Choose your voice and stick with it. Your blog should reflect the culture and vibe of your business. Utilize key words and phrases in your blog that connect with your branding, social media and marketing goals. In turn, this will help boost your SEO score and increase your profile in certain web searches.

Choosing Content

Write about what you know. It sounds simple, but readers follow confident writers. If you post about your passions and stay current, your blog will be on the right track. Keep your posts relevant and think of your blog as an outlet to sharing stories with customers, much like you would inside the walls of your business. Work hard to schedule posts and write early. It's always a great idea to have a backup blog written for an emergency, such as writer's block.

Build Connections

While networking over lunches or cocktails is essential in the business world, connecting in the blogosphere is equally as crucial. To gain new followers and build online relationships, it's important to seek out others. Follow other businesses who you want to follow you. Reaching out to guest bloggers is also a great practice. It shows your business values outside ideas, provides readers with another voice and could potentially expand your audience.

No matter what your company provides in terms of products or service, creating and maintaining a blog can play an important role in the successful networking and marketing of your business.