Casa de herrero, cuchillo de palo. [1]
Welcome to the Indra’s Net blog. We know what you are thinking: “A blog? How 2007 of you. Shouldn’t you be out tweeting or doing something facebook-y?” Well, we are. Besides, Facebook is *so* last year (the number of Facebook users over 35 doubled in the first three months of 2009) and while Twitter’s star may still be on the rise, it jumped the shark when Oprah started tweeting.
Don’t get me wrong, we all need a little cool now and then. It’s great to be able to see what Neil Gaiman had for breakfast. But the real the question is “How do these tools help my business?”
Whether you are selling goods or promoting your business the Internet connects you with customers. A basic brochure site is a start, but you need to really make a connection with your audience via frequent updates and two way communication. Regular updates keep you in your customers’ minds and keep them returning to your site.
There are lots of ways to make that connection, but the most common are:
- Blogs. Since blogs are part of your site, they are the best way to bring people to your site. In addition, the most important thing to a search engine is the text it finds on the site. A well-written, topical blog with improve your search ranking.
- Twitter. This is a great tool if you have frequent small updates, special offers, or just interesting tidbits and pearls of wisdom. It’s a good way to create excitement and is a great way for shops and restaurants to say “Come on down and see what’s happening today!”
- Facebook. A Facebook fan page is a great way to show the world how your customers feel about you.
All of these can be combined. There is software to announce your latest blog posts on your Twitter feed and Facebook page, and software to insert your tweets into your blog. Or, keep it simple and just tweet, “Check our new blog post about XYZ…” The more places you post, the more output you generate, the more people you will reach.
What to write about? Anything. Go with what you know. Helpful tips, how-tos, today’s special, an interesting/funny article/blog post/video. Write about what you know and be genuine. Make that connection with your customer that keeps them interested and engaged with you. Start simple. Twitter’s limitation of 140 characters can seem like a restriction, but, at the same time, it means you don’t have to say much. If writing doesn’t come naturally, consider some professional help. For example, the Boulder Writers Alliance can connect you with writers along the Front Range.
If you’d like a blog for your site, Twitter integration for your blog, or, for that matter, a web site, we’re more than happy to help. In the meantime, follow us on Twitter, become our fan on Facebook, and watch this space for more.
[1] In the blacksmith’s home, knives are carved out of wood.