Garden centers, rev up your blogs!

I’ve heard from some retailers who want to start a blog, but aren’t quite sure where to begin. Starting one is relatively easy. You can sign up for a free Blogger account or buy a yearly subscription to a service like TypePad, which offers more bells and whistles. Both packages take you through the initial process step-by-step.

The tough part isn’t setting it up. Maintaining the site is the challenge. Here is some of what our blog team has learned since we launched Open Register:

The team approach is best. The more contributors you have, the easier it is to keep timely, relevant information flowing in. It’s fine if the blog has one main author. But don’t limit yourself. Invite your employees or local master gardeners to be guest bloggers.

Schedules are crucial. Deadlines are the only reasons anything gets accomplished. Designate which days you’ll create a new post. Also schedule in dedicated guest blogger slots. Contact guest bloggers well in advance so you’ll have content ready to go.

Frequent updates are a must! Try to post at least twice a week. (Yeah, it’s a lot. That’s why a team approach is best. Don’t take it all on yourself.)

Topic lists stave off writer’s block. Keep a running list of possible blog topics. File interesting Web sites in a folder and use them for inspiration when the well is running dry.

Cross-promotion drives traffic. Make sure your regular Web site and any e-mail promotions you send out link to your blog. And be sure your blog has a link to your Web site and the latest edition of your e-newsletter, if possible.

-- Sarah

Comments

[Susan Harris]

As a team blogger myself on GardenRant, I can echo these excellent recommendations. Susan

[Susan Harris]

As a team blogger myself on GardenRant, I can echo these excellent recommendations. Susan