Many bloggers use guest bloggingas a temporary relationship, involving a quick trade-off between the blog and the guest writer. The blog benefits from a quality post, while the guest writer gains exposure, backlinks, and an audience. But once the deal has been made, both parties just go on their way.The power of networking is common knowledge, and there’s no reason why networking cannot exist within the blogosphere. Guest blogging can be an opportunity in disguise, allowing bloggers to connect with writers, editors and thought leaders around the world. Don’t let guest blogging become a one-time affair; use networking to create, nurture and cultivate relationships.
Why is Networking Important?
Networking provides an endless amount of opportunities for both the blog and the guest blogger. By establishing a network of guest bloggers, the blog is able to create a directory of qualified writers that provide quality content. Bloggers can also use their network of writers in order to find new talent, one that exactly matches the theme of their blog.
Networking is also critical for the guest blogger, who contributes posts to a variety of blogs. By creating a network of bloggers, editors and writers, the guest blogger is able to develop recommendations and job opportunities. Another key benefit of networking is readership: the guest blogger is able to amass an influential audience, tied directly to his or her name. Finally, networking allows the guest blogger to gain exposure, as their name becomes spread throughout different blogs and connections.
Tips for Networking in the Guest Blogging World
The excuses to avoid networking are common among bloggers, ranging from “I’m too busy” or “It’s not worth it.” But don’t let these hold you back from expanding your network. The following are examples of easy ways to keep in touch with guest bloggers:
Follow on LinkedIn and Twitter
Social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter are a great, easy way to maintain a network of contacts. Many bloggers maintain a Twitter account, keeping followers updated with new articles and interesting content. By joining a blog or writer’s follower base, the guest blogger can stay in touch and maintain relations.
LinkedIn, as a business-related, networking site, is a popular tool for bloggers to create professional relationships. After writing a guest post for a blog, the writer should send a LinkedIn invitation to their contact. By forming a connection, writers and bloggers can take advantage of the various features of LinkedIn, such as introductions and job listings. In addition, relationships can connect writers with other through a mutual contact, allowing for more guest writing opportunities.
Delegate Time to Organize
It may be difficult to keep track of contacts and email conversations, especially for the prolific guest writer. However, taking some time to organize your contact list can help relationship management in the long run. One common organization tip is to label email conversations with editors and writers, making them easier to filter in your inbox. Another is to mark certain conversations to give notifications, allowing the writer to maintain constant contact.
Keep Communications Open
Burning bridges is a foolish option, as it closes off the individual from future opportunities. Instead, writers should do all they can in order to stay on good terms with their contacts. By keeping contact and maintaining relations, the individual leaves the door open for future guest writing gigs, recommendations or even employment.
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