Getting to know other bloggers and PR folks on social media and at blogging conferences is practically essential if you want to increase your readership. While that may seem pretty straightforward, you probably still have some questions about the best ways to go about reaching out to others within your niche or the community at large. It’s not as intimidating as it may seem, but there are some strategies that are more effective and appreciated than others. Continue reading for some tips on best practices in networking for bloggers.
Be Specific With Requests
It’s absolutely okay to reach out personally to folks within the blogging world with whom you would like to connect, though it is a good idea to connect on social media channels first in an attempt to make yourself known. Sometimes just leaving a comment on their blog or following them on social media isn’t enough to achieve your goal. However, do take time to prepare prior to reaching out to a blogger with your request. If you want to provide a guest post on a popular blog, be sure to provide the recipient with information on how you can provide value for their readers. When contacting a PR rep, don’t go straight for the ask on that expensive product you’d like to review. Explain why you, your blog or your readership are a perfect fit for the product and in what ways your review will benefit the brand. And never, ever contact a big name blogger just to ask for general blogging advice. People take offense at being ask to give information they had to learn themselves and that you could Google on your own. Instead, ask a question about a recent post or something specific about that blogger’s journey. Do your research.
Avoid Asking for Too Much
We’re all busy with various obligations in our lives. Keep that in mind when getting in touch with fellow bloggers. Reaching out is fine. It can often show initiative and genuine interest. You don’t want to ask anyone for too much, though. Remember that your goal is to make a good impression. It’s similar to making friends in real life. People aren’t willing to commit an extensive amount of their precious time to someone they don’t know. Ease into things with a friendly introduction and the reason for your contact or a short summary of your proposal. Then leave the ball in their court to decide what and how much they’d like to provide in return.
Be Professional
Your method of contact, whether it’s face-to-face, by phone or through written correspondence, should be professional. Your blog and your brand are an extension of you. Even if you’re not currently making money or don’t wish to, you should still treat blogging as your business. Speak or write clearly and concisely. Be sure to proofread if you’re sending an email or practice your elevator speech if you plan to talk to the person. A put-together presentation speaks volumes and can increase the odds that folks will want to work with you or help you out.
These tips are the foundation of the best practices for networking as a blogger. Following them will help you to put your best foot forward when cultivating your blogging tribe.
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