You may have noticed that several of your favorite blogs (including this one *wink*) utilize guest posts from time to time. Guest posting is a great way to network with fellow bloggers and also bring some traffic to your blog. Yes, you can get traffic even from blogs that don’t have large readerships. Guest posting is a win-win-win situation. The blogger gets a mini break, the writer gets some new exposure, and the readers get some fresh material from a different angle. As the body of Christ we should be fully aware that we cannot be everything to everyone so by networking together we have a greater chances at reaching the multitude.
When you make the decision to be a guest blogger you have to line up an opportunity. Start with those you have previously corresponded with even if only briefly. I know I am much more likely to post guest posts if I am familiar with the person and their writing. You can also be on the lookout for bloggers who have mentioned going out of town or needing some time away. Those are good opportunities to guest post. Send the blogger an email letting them know that you would enjoy giving them a bloggy break and ask if they would they care to have a guest post from you. If you have not previously corresponded with them then be sure to tell a bit about yourself and include links to some of your best posts for reference. Just keep your heart in check. You want to network with bloggers that you feel drawn to by His spirit and not drawn to by your own selfish desires. That could backfire.
Once you have the opportunity lined up it is time to craft the blog post. I suggest starting with prayer. Ask God what He would have you write. Once you have a general idea then I suggest researching the blog that you will be posting on. What kind of readers does it have? Are they mostly moms? Are they Christians? Take note of how the blogger crafts their posts. Are they short and to the point? Do they utilize bullet points or bold font? These things are very important to some bloggers and it would benefit you to take note of it. It could mean the difference between being asked to guest post again or not.
Once your post is written set it aside for at least 24 hours then come back to review it. Check your grammar. Check your spelling. Proof it at least three times. Once you feel confident that it is ready you can send it but first, can I suggest saying a prayer for all those who will read it?
Find the rest of the series here: 31 Days to Online Ministry
Also check out:
- Missed BlissDom 2011? Get It Here. It’s just like being there!
- ? 31 Days to Build a Better Blog – Easy step by step ways to improve your blog presence!
- Simple Blogging. – Don’t have 40 hours a week to spend on blogging? This E-book helps you grow your blog with less time on the computer.
Thanks Amy for reminding me of another way to grow as a blogger! Lynn