Today I have an interesting question for all of the blog owners out there. It might seem like a silly question, but after we go through some of the different factors that make a book a success, you might not have the same answer you were originally thinking. So my question for you is…
If Your Blog was a Book… Would Anyone Read It?
Let's look at some of the different features that make a book a success and make people want to read it.
- The concept or story line
- The book cover
- The author
- Reader response and feedback
Now let's talk about how each of these can be the same or different based on whether you had a successful book or a blog.
The Concept or Story Line
This one is kind of a no brainer… the majority of people out there reading your blog, read it because they are interested in what you have to say. The same can be said about books in a book store. If someone is in the “cooking” section, they are likely looking for books on cooking… but as we move on from the concept process, let's get into the next thinking process, which is what makes them pick your book to read, out of all the other hundreds of books on the selves.
The Book Cover
What makes a book sell? The cover of course! It's silly, but at the end of the day the book cover is what is likely driving most of the sales. It is visual marketing at it's best. Just like books have covers to grab the readers attention, blogs have site designs and attractive WordPress themes. Just as important as it is to have a killer book cover design, your blog should also leave a lasting impression and make people want to visit and stay at your site. I know you heard the expression “don't judge a book by it's cover”, well the truth of the matter is if people don't like a book cover, most likely they will never pick it up and read it.
The Author
The book cover is what draws people in, but the author is what keeps people coming back for more. Once you've established yourself as a quality and well known author, there is a good chance that your readers will be buying any books you come out with in the future. The same can be said for becoming an authority blogger and voice within your niche. There are millions of blogs out there competing against you and once you become an authority in your niche, your following will only continue to grow and your voice will be heard. Your unique point of view will resonate with people and they will be more open to read your opinions and understand your perspectives on the issues.
Response and Feedback From People Who Read It
Lastly we can incorporate the real value in your book or blog, and that is how other people find value in it. The recommendation from a friend or family member is more than all of the advertising dollars and marketing in the world. It's real, it's personable and it's authentic. If you have a loyal following and customer base who are sharing your content and recommending it to friends, you have truly created a quality product that people will love to read and endorse.
Is Your Blog a Best Selling Title or a Paper Weight?
At the end of the day, we put a lot of work into our blogs and we want them to succeed. However all of us won't find success. Make sure that you aren't spreading yourself too thin with multiple blogs and are taking the time to produce quality content that makes people want to stick around and read more of it. If you find yourself drifting away from your original blog goals, be sure to think about the books on the shelves and what you need to do to make sure your cover stands out, people remember your name and that others recommend you to their friends.
I've been blogging for over five years now and I personally go through these concepts and ideas all the time. My new book “Blogging Tips: Confessions from a Six Figure Blogger” just went live on Amazon.com this week and I would love to get your feedback on the article and the book if you find the time!