Well, I never thought when I started blogging in 1999 that it would be anything but a hobby to keep people on track with my various movements in foreign lands. But since that time, blogging has become a business and I’m happy to say that it is also my business now. And how did I get to be so successful? What is the secret?
There are lots of secrets. But I don’t have a “how to blog” mastermind program, so… you know… the best thing I can say is that it’s work. It is. It’s a lot of work. You have to stay focused. And learn how to write every day.
How can you blog for your nonprofit, blog consistently, providing value, telling stories, and helping people give to you and connect with your mission?
Tip 1: Read the post out loud. Whether it’s a post about your annual event, your staff transitions, or welcoming a new board member, or even about your programs, you need to read it out loud. Look it over again and again. You’ll be surprised at how many mistakes you had. I always am.
Tip 2: If you can’t think of anything to write about, then go interview program staff. Make a series of posts about your programs. Focus on ONE story. Problem to Solution. Start to Finish. If they have nothing for you, then go interview one of your volunteers. Add a link to start volunteering at the bottom of the post.
Tip 3: Add a picture! If you need to protect your clients or confidentiality, then definitely check out my Free Tips page, where there are three links to get free stock photos!
Tip 4: Are you taking advantage of every opportunity to get people to take action? Make sure the donation button is above the fold on your nonprofit blog. That way, every time you blog, they are reminded that they can also give. If you want a special gold star, you can also add a call to action at the end of the post. First, ask for a donation. If they can’t do that, ask them to sign a petition or take a survey instead. Ask them to tweet about you, or blog about you, and then make it easy for them to do it.
Tip 5: Add a link to getting onto your newsletter at the bottom of your blog post. The more people you have on your newsletter, the better chance you’ll have to engage them to sign your petition, become volunteers, or even give to you!
Like these tips?
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