Yes, You Can Write a Blog Post

As I’m asking the people I work with to step outside of their comfort zones and write a blog post, I figured it was time for me to create one of my own. There are several types of blogs, and this one is shaping up to be a “how to” hopefully with some encouragement along the way.

Content of blog:

Everyone’s an expert about some aspect of their job. All you really do is write about what you already know. If you unsure about where to start, there’s a simple process you can follow.

1. Decide on a topic (your job, no one knows this better than you).
2. Create a list of 3 or more points you want to make, such as things a customer (internal or external) can provide to improve outcomes. If you have enough points you want to make that don’t require explanation, a list can work fine on its own.
3. Fill in the details for each point on the list.
4. Go back to the beginning and write an introduction.
5. Go to the end and write a conclusion or summarize all the points and describe how they work together.
6. Go back and read what you wrote then make corrections, especially the spelling.
7. Give it to someone else to read, then re-edit.

There are also many resources on-line to help you write a blog, just type “blog writing” into the search bar. How long does it need to be? Here’s a list of what it can look like (I love lists).

Length of blog:

• Anywhere from 300 to 2500 words
• Micro: 75 – 300 words (discussion generation)
• Short: 300 – 600 words (standard length?)
• News article: 750 words (industry trends)
• Mid-form: 1000 – 1500 words (more social media shares)
• Long-form: 2500 + words (highest ranked on google)

Basically, write about whatever you want for as long as you want and don’t be afraid to put it out there. Everyone has something interesting to say. Microsoft will count the number of words for you and check your spelling and grammar.

You might also be wondering why blog posts are good to have on our website. Two reasons: It helps people (customers, and potential employees) find us by improving our SEO (Search Engine Optimization). It also improves our credibility by showcasing the expertise and the knowledge inside our walls. People will want to work with us inside and out, by giving them a clue about who we are. Isn’t that why we have a web site to begin with?

You can write a blog post.