Concise and regular weekly content makes for successful blog

Columnist Tara Weiss of Forbes Magazine explored the factors that can turn a regular, run-of-the-mill blog into a real success. A well written and widely-read blog can not only help build a small company by offering a noteworthy online presence, but—as Weiss writes—it can also help develop the author professionally. The on-going recession and rising unemployment mean that professionals must go the extra step to secure an interview if they are looking for a top-notch job, and having a well-written blog can help differentiate the candidate for other applicants.

The secret behind a successful blog is to ensure that posts are concise. As such, posts should not usually exceed 500 words and, in fact, it is often well worth making them shorter. Regular blog visitors much prefer succinct pieces, and are certainly not looking for a lengthy academic essay or novel. Each post should have either a theme or central argument, and the author should avoid getting off topic. Weiss suggests that those looking to build a blog in order to cement their professional career should avoid certain hot button issues, such a religion or partisan politics, in their posts. Professional bloggers should aim to become trusted voices in a given industry or business sector by offering blog posts that are nuanced, cleverly written, balanced and as dispassionate as possible.

In addition to being concise, bloggers should aim to post on a regular basis. Most blogosphere experts, freelancers and veteran content writers suggest at least three to four posts per week. This will ensure that visitors keep checking back for new content. One of the main goals of a blog is not only to attract new users, but to turn one-time visitors into regular readers.

Thank you to Forbes for the initial report.