It is fair to say that there are many similarities and certainly the technology is the same. Both enable you or your company to have your own place on the web where you can present yourself or your business. However, where they differ is with focus and aims.
Planning and Structure
For both types you will need to plan and have a structure of what you want to write about, although the business blog requires even higher levels of both planning and structure. Don't just start a blog to follow a trend or if you don't know what the purpose of your blog is. For both types you will need to know who your target audience is.
Personal Blogs
A personal blog gives you the platform to voice your opinions and preceded the business blog. You can actually say whatever you want and it is usually very personal. It can take the form of a hobby with some personal bloggers having a theme whilst others write fairly randomly, seemingly as the mood takes them.
Business Blogs
Business blogs developed from Personal blogs and are very targeted in terms of their subject matter and focused towards the market they are trying to attract and their niche. They are in essence a marketing channel. It wouldn't work to give your views on the deadliest finisher in the Premiership if in fact you are a locksmith. Also venting your outrage about a particular situation will lose you more customers than you gain.
Key Points About a Business Blog
• Less freedom of subject matter
• Provide information on your product
• More emphasis on engaging copy
• More care with grammar, spelling etc.
• Subject to analysis
• Add a Call to Action
• Incorporate lead generation methods
• Avoid sensitive and controversial topics
• Write for your readers and not yourself
Conclusion
When blogging for business, your ultimate goal is to convert your readers into customers so make sure you link your sales pages within your blog posts. Encourage your readers by telling them what you can do for them and emphasise the fact that your business has a lot to offer.
If you plan to make a success of your marketing campaign, you will need engaging copy and a constant stream of content that you can share. Here at Writing and Blogging based in East Sussex, we work with you to plan and structure your blogs, so please call or email to find out how we can work together and help you reach more potential customers.