Jay Leno, Oprah, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon – these names resonate with millions because they know how to attract top-notch guests for their shows.
As a blogger, you aim to do something similar. By attracting guest posts, you not only enhance your content variety but also invite a new audience to your platform. Here’s how you can make your blog the go-to place for guest writers.
Table of Contents
Attracting Blog Celebrities…
1. Create an Information Page
Be Transparent and Welcoming
Having a dedicated page that outlines all the details about guest posting is essential. This page should clearly state:
- Post Requirements: Specify the length, style, and topics you’re looking for.
- Submission Guidelines: Include instructions on how to submit a post.
- Benefits for the Writer: Explain what they will get in return, such as backlinks, author bios, and social media promotion.
Creating this page serves a dual purpose. It provides potential contributors with all the necessary information upfront and reduces the number of repetitive queries you’ll receive.
Example: Visit popular blogs like HubSpot or Neil Patel to see how they structure their guest post guidelines. They have comprehensive sections detailing every aspect a guest writer would need to know, ensuring clarity and attracting serious contributors.
2. Email Your Readers
Engage Your Existing Audience
Your regular readers and top contributors are your blog’s biggest fans. Leverage this by reaching out to them with a personalized email inviting them to contribute a guest post. This approach not only makes them feel valued but also ensures high-quality content from people who understand and appreciate your blog’s style and audience.
Tips for Your Email:
- Personalize Your Message: Address them by name and mention specific comments or contributions they’ve made.
- Include a Link to Your Information Page: Make it easy for them to understand what’s expected.
- Highlight the Benefits: Explain how guest posting can benefit them, such as exposure to a new audience or SEO advantages from backlinks.
Example: Consider how Copyblogger engages with its community and frequently showcases guest contributions from loyal readers and industry experts. This not only keeps their content fresh but also builds a strong community.
3. Reward Your Guest
Offer Attractive Incentives
In exchange for their contribution, offer guest writers tangible benefits. These can include:
- Backlinks: Provide links to their own sites or social media profiles.
- Author Bio: Include a section where they can share information about themselves and their work.
- Social Media Promotion: Share their post on your social media channels, giving them additional exposure.
Clearly outline these benefits on your information page to attract high-quality contributors who are eager to gain visibility and credibility.
Example: Look at how Forbes rewards its contributors with extensive author bios and social media mentions, which enhances their professional profiles. This not only motivates contributors but also enriches the content available to readers.
The Success of Your Blog “Show”
Building a Network of Contributors
Consistently attracting guest authors is key to maintaining a dynamic and engaging blog. Once you have the initial setup and start attracting guest posts, the momentum often builds on its own. After creating a solid guest post marketing plan, you’ll likely see an increase in unsolicited submissions from enthusiastic writers.
Creating a Content Ecosystem
Just as talk show hosts build their shows around engaging guests, you can create a thriving content ecosystem by regularly featuring diverse voices. This approach not only keeps your content fresh but also fosters a sense of community around your blog.
Example: Look at the success of blogs like Medium where a wide range of guest writers contribute, bringing in diverse perspectives and audiences. Medium’s open platform allows for a broad spectrum of topics and voices, enhancing the reader experience.
Detailed Strategies for Attracting Guest Posts
Optimize Your Blog’s Appeal
Professional Design and Usability
Your blog’s design and usability are critical in attracting guest writers. A clean, professional design indicates that your blog is a serious platform worth contributing to. Make sure your site is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and mobile-friendly.
SEO and Traffic Statistics
Show potential contributors that your blog has a substantial and engaged audience. Provide data on your site’s traffic, social media following, and SEO rankings. This information can be a strong incentive for writers looking to gain exposure.
Leveraging Social Proof
Showcase Previous Guest Authors
Highlighting previous guest authors and their contributions can build credibility and attract new writers. Create a dedicated section for guest posts and share testimonials from past contributors about their positive experiences.
Example: A blog like Moz often features guest posts from industry leaders, which helps in attracting more high-quality contributions. This social proof reassures potential contributors of the blog’s reach and influence.
Engaging Through Social Media
Use Social Media to Find Contributors
Social media platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook are excellent places to find potential guest writers. Use relevant hashtags, join industry groups, and participate in discussions to identify and reach out to potential contributors.
Host Social Media Contests
Consider hosting contests or challenges on social media to encourage guest post submissions. Offer incentives such as feature highlights, backlinks, or even monetary rewards to the best contributions.
Example: Buffer effectively uses social media to engage with their community and attract guest bloggers. Their active presence and interactions make it clear that they value and support guest contributions.
Networking and Collaborations
Attend Industry Events
Participate in industry conferences, webinars, and meetups to network with potential guest authors. Building relationships in person or through virtual events can lead to guest posting opportunities.
Collaborate with Influencers
Partnering with influencers in your niche can bring high-quality guest posts to your blog. Influencers often have substantial followings and can drive significant traffic to your site through their contributions.
Example: HuffPost frequently collaborates with industry experts and influencers, bringing diverse and authoritative voices to their platform. This strategy enhances the blog’s credibility and reach.
Conclusion
Attracting guest posts is a strategic way to diversify your content and everything you’re building, and engage with a broader audience.
By creating a clear and inviting information page, engaging your readers directly, and offering valuable rewards, you can transform and turn your blog into a vibrant platform for guest contributors.
Building a successful guest post strategy involves optimizing your blog’s design, leveraging social proof, actively engaging on social media, and networking with potential contributors.
Consistently applying these strategies will ensure a steady flow of high-quality guest posts, enriching your blog and expanding its reach.
Just as the best talk shows thrive on their guest appearances, your blog can achieve new heights by incorporating diverse voices and expertise. With determination and the right strategies, your blog can become a hub for high-quality, engaging content.
How are you building your online empire? What strategies have you found most effective in driving traffic and increasing engagement?
Embrace these approaches, treat your contributors like the blogging superstars they are, and watch your blog flourish with excellent contributed content.
