You have a blog, and you need content. As we so often hear, “Content is king.” Bloggers know that quality content – the kind of content readers want to return to and the type that will be shared across social media platforms – has enormous value. However, content is never easy, especially when time and resources are limited. There goes that light bulb over your head: what about guest bloggers? Today, we will discuss the good, the bad, and even the ugly when hosting them on your site.
The Good
Using a guest blogger typically means free, interesting blog content in exchange for that blogger having some needed exposure via your platforms and readership. If you find one who is a good fit for your blog, some benefits include:
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More content, of course.
A new, unique voice for your blog.
Further expertise in your field.
Crossover readership. Your guest blogger might bring new readers to your site.
Further credibility. Reader loyalty is built since that guest blogger stands by your message, niche, or brand.
The Bad
Notice we mentioned earlier that the benefits are worth it when the guest blogger is a “good fit” for your blog. The blogger needs to be an expert in your niche and genuinely enthusiastic about the topic. If you find that, then the blogger needs to provide consistent content. This is not as easy as it sounds. Here are some disadvantages to having one: Inconsistency.
No matter how enthusiastic a guest blogger might start, don’t expect regular or consistent content over time without compensation (we’ll get to that later). Promised linkbacks aren’t always enough to woo a guest blogger to guest blog on your site. Linkbacks may be to your disadvantage. Did you know that links to blogs with a low SEO ranking or links to blogs that are suddenly inactive or banned could also negatively affect your blog’s SEO ranking? It’s something to think about.
Too many links can distract from your message. Ensure that your guest blogger doesn’t end up driving readers away from your page and onto theirs. Don’t lose your voice. Make sure guest bloggers do not make up the majority of your posts. It’s your blog, and your readers want to hear from you. The Ugly It’s time to bring up the elephant in the room. Should your guest blogger be paid? WinePress of Wordsspells out the bottom line here:
If your guest post is a one-time deal or only occasional, you probably don’t need to pay the guest blogger. If the guest writer appears regularly, they have become a scheduled contributor to your blog and should be paid. Don’t expect consistency or a long-term obligation to post if you decide not to spend your guest posters. Also, don’t be disappointed if the writing quality isn’t always there.
If you decide to pay for guest posters, be sure to list them as regular contributors to the blog and set up a blog post schedule. Ultimately, deciding if managing outside posts is worth it is up to you. Be clear about your expectations with any guest bloggers, and ensure that your needs and theirs are met. They are guests on your blog, after all. Welcome them, invite them to stay but don’t take advantage, either.
