When we engage with a new client, one of first content strategies we recommend, regardless of online objectives, is implementing a blog.

In the wise words of my best friend, “Why wouldn’t ya?”. If you have reasons you think would prohibit you from starting a blog, leave me a comment and I’ll see if we can dispel your fear.

Top 10 Reasons & Strategies for Starting a Blog:

1.
Reason
It is the easiest way to publish content.

Strategy
Use WordPress to host your blog (or blogger, or typepad) Inexpensive or free tools.

2.
Reason
Its the easiest way to communicate one on one with your customers.

Strategy
Create a mission statement for your blog so you have a purpose.

3.
Reason
If youre content is good, your content will go viral.

Strategy
Get involved with your online community so its easier to make your content viral

4
Reason
Its great to be known in your online community as an expert.

Strategy
Spend time on other blogs within your online community so youre known for being a respectful, contributing member.

5
Reason
It’s a great way to understand your customers’ needs.

Strategy
Read all comments and incorporate feedback into your business goals.

6
Reason
It’s a great link development strategy.

Strategy
Create an interesting, entertaining or funny blog that will generate buzz for your blog (and brand).

7
Reason
It’s a smart way to get your team involved in your brand.

Strategy
Have a regular post where other authors can contribute. (SEOmoz does Whiteboard Friday, great video content that I watch religeously).

8
Reason
It’s a great way to syndicate your content.

Strategy
Optimize and publicize your content with Feedburner (use the email subscriptions widget for folks who aren’t comfortable with RSS readers).

9
Reason
It’s a great way to grow your house list.

Strategy
Once visitors have signed up for your blog, ask them if they’d like to receive other content (newsletters, white papers, etc). Just be sure you do it at the right time and after you’ve created value for them.

10
Reason
It’s a lot of fun!

Strategy
Have fun and be creative when you’re writing your blog posts, your enthusiasm and love for your brand will be contagious;)

Speaking of enthusiasm and love for blogging, read this great post 17 Habits of Highly Popular Bloggers.