The Pitfalls of Guest Blogging

Hello there, lovely readers! It’s Sarah Arrow here, and today we’re diving deep into a topic that's both near and dear to my heart and rife with potential potholes: guest blogging. Oh, it promises the world—exposure, authority, connections—but it's not all unicorns and rainbows. So, grab a cuppa and let's dissect the murky waters of guest blogging pitfalls.

The Illusion of 'Exposure'

Ah, the E-word that has many a blogger drooling. But let’s get real. Posting on a blog that nobody reads won't do you any favours. Sure, the links in your post will boost your SEO, but that's all. It's like shouting into the void and expecting an echo. Do your homework and seek out blogs that not only have a good readership but also an engaged audience that comments, shares, and actually cares about the content.

Example: Contractors

For those in the contracting business, imagine guest posting on a blog that talks solely about knitting. It won’t exactly put you in front of people needing a new kitchen, will it?

Being the 'Salesy' Blogger

You know the ones; their blog posts read like a telemarketing script. Remember, you’re a guest. You wouldn’t go to a friend’s dinner party and start selling Tupperware, would you? Make your post informative, educational, or even entertaining. Just don’t make it an advertorial.

Example: Course Creators

If you're a course creator, use a guest post to solve a problem or answer a common question in your industry, not to push your '10-step course to unimaginable success.'

Ignoring the Guidelines

This one's a corker. Blog owners usually have guest post guidelines for a reason. Overlooking these is akin to going to someone’s house and putting your feet on their furniture. Read and follow the guidelines, end of story.

Example: Coaching Industry

In the coaching world, personal stories often resonate. However, if a blog's guidelines specifically ask for evidence-based content, your personal epiphanies will not be a good fit.

Ghosting After Publishing

Publishing your guest post isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning. You need to engage with the audience, respond to comments, and share the post across your social media channels. You’re part of a community now; act like it.

Example: Contractors Again

If someone asks a pertinent question about construction materials in the comments section, that’s your cue. Offer your expert advice, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll have a new client knocking at your door.

Poor Quality Posts

Submitting a poorly written, unedited blog post not only tarnishes your reputation but also that of the host blog. This is the most common reason guest posts as rejected. But, if you've a copy of the Guest Blogging Blueprint you'll increase your chances of success.

Example: Course Creators

You wouldn’t release a course full of typos and inaccuracies. Similarly, your guest blog should be polished, factual, and valuable.

Overstuffing with Links

Your guest post shouldn't resemble a Christmas tree festooned with tinsel. A link to your website in the bio and one in the content—if it adds value—are usually sufficient. Anything more can look spammy.

Forgetfulness of Audience vs. Visitors

Guest blogging can bring you an audience, not just visitors. These are folks who'll come back for more because they liked what you offered initially. However, that'll only happen if you're targeting the right blogs and delivering top-notch content.

Example: Coaching Industry

Coaches, how about offering a valuable free downloadable worksheet at the end of your guest post? It’s a fab way to turn visitors into an audience.

In a Nutshell

Guest blogging can be a great tool for building your online presence and business. However, dodging its pitfalls is crucial. Put in the effort to deliver quality, engage with the community, and most importantly, respect your host’s space.

So, go ahead, venture into the world of guest blogging, but with your eyes wide open. Got any guest blogging horror stories or wins? Share them in the Facebook group.

Sarah

P.S. Remember to pick up your copy of Guest Blogging Blueprint here: https://www.onlinevisibilityac...