While blogs are often used to share industry or company information, build credibility, and create a community, they aren’t often thought of as a sales tool, when, in fact, they are a great way to generate leads and increase sales. Marcus Sheridan recently shared 4 clever ideas for using your blog as a sales tool in a fantastic article on Social Media Examiner. Here are the takeaways from that article:
Success Stories
When you blog about your successful projects with clients or within your own business, don’t just toot your own horn. Share the important lessons you learned or tips on products, services, or trade secrets you used to achieve success. By doing so, you will demonstrate your expertise in two ways – and inspire others to work with you.
Video
Yes, a video is a great way to engage your audience and share information – and you know why? Because people like to interact with other people, and video is the best way to do that virtually. A short video in your blog is an effective way for your potential customers to get to know you and for you to build trust with them.
Call to Action
If a major change occurs within your industry – for example, a new law or regulation or revolutionary product – don’t just blog about it; offer to help your customers learn more about that impending change and successfully integrate it into their business operations. You could offer a free consultation, webinar, or new service or product with a temporary discount.
Comparisons
People love to comparison shop, whether it’s for a car, an airline ticket or a plumber. Take advantage of that natural tendency by writing blog posts that compare your product or service to others’. When someone types in a search term comparing the two, your blog post should pop up in the search results.
Have you successfully used your blog to sell your product or service? What works best for you? Share your story below!
Image courtesy of ScientificAmerican.com
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Tags: blog posts, blogging, call-to-action, Marketing, sales, success stories, video
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