BLOGGING: A BOOST FOR YOUR CAREER

Photo: Prabir Das

Many of us tend to think that the world of blogging is a realm only limited to the so-called creative professionals - writers, photographers, artists, chefs, et al. Blogging is also perceived to be a medium reserved for intellectual and political figures to voice their opinions.
But beyond that, blogging is a marketing tool for many businesses, who use it as a powerful platform to promote and sell their products. In fact, blogging has something for everyone. You, too, regardless of you what do for a living, can blog and benefit from it.
Whether you are a banker or an HR professional or an entrepreneur, blogging, if done right, can enormously help your career.

What do I blog about, and why?
The theme and topics of your website will depend on the work you do. So, for example, if you are in the advertising industry, you might write about the promotional campaigns you have supervised, tips on selling ideas to clients, vintage ads, etc. If you are a school teacher, you might open a blog to share your experience with parents and children, to provide insights about bullying, parenting or learning.
A blog gives you a platform to express your opinions and experiences. And if you are passionate about the work you do, you surely have a lot of stories to tell about it.
Other than that, blogging is a great way to brand yourself. A successful blog will provide you immense exposure in the corporate world, it can become an effective networking tool, and, in the long run, help you become an authority in your field.
Yes, there're people who earn money out of blogging, but let's not get into that fantasy yet! First, aim to launch a blog and attract readers.

How do I start?
Opening a blog is very simple. You can commence your blog in less than fifteen minutes! Opening an account, selecting a name, theme and layout and uploading your picture is very easy and convenient. But of course put more thought into your blog. Define your area of expertise, and understand whom you are writing for.
Build your blog over time. Don't be derailed when you see insignificant traffic in the first few months or so. Keep posting regularly. You don't need to post daily, though; maintain a regularity.
Indeed, there are small technicalities like Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), which comprises of tactics by which you can bring more visitors to your website, by ensuring that your blog comes out among the top results produced by a search engine.
Don't get bogged down by such technicalities - which at first impression may seem very hard to deal with but in reality are quite simple to execute. Rather, focus on building quality content.  Instead of relying just on writing, include photos and videos (of corporate events, ads, interviews, etc) as well.
 
A word of caution
You are what you blog! In other words, your blog reflects who you are - as an individual and as a professional. Therefore, be careful about what you post.
Refrain from writing anything that will upset your colleagues or the management - unless of course, you feel that you must report a wrongdoing. Keep company information confidential and avoid personal attacks on competitors and other stakeholders.
Let blogging boost your career, not destroy it!