I say constantly that local business is about the people. It is perhaps the biggest advantage we have: having a real connection. The data backs this up, with 79% of shoppers saying they feel more valued as customers at local businesses.
More than ever, people want to connect with a human being when they shop. Everyone knows that good customer service means happy customers, but did you know it also boosts customer loyalty and advocacy? That’s why it’s important to show your personality through your branding.
But how do you communicate that connection online? and how do blogs help?
The problem with being faceless
Let’s start with an example. Everyone has had an experience with a big company’s support line. Having to talk to an AI agent or uninterested and overworked help desk employee can be frustrating on so many levels.
Big companies often get described as “faceless”, and for good reason. They often exist as a brand name and even those with a well-known face at the helm (think Zuckerberg or Musk) still feel disconnected.
It’s not just the Apples and Googles of this world that have this problem.
Websites can lose your personality too. Lots of websites miss the chance to show that there is a person behind that business. There are plenty of reasons that you need a website, but without careful consideration, your website won’t reflect you as a person or team.
When I design a website, I want to make sure this isn’t the case. One of my favourite ways of doing this is through blogging.
Why blogs make a difference
Blogs help solve the issue by giving you a chance to show who you are and introduce some of your personality to a reader.
Most people have a unique writing style (hopefully you can get an impression of mine from this) and this is what makes you stand out. You don’t need to get too personal. You don’t need to write a lecture. Most importantly, you don’t need to be perfect. In fact, a few imperfections only make your blogs better. This is also why I recommend not using AI to write a blog. You can still use it to proofread and offer advice without it writing anything for you.
Just show you, your values and if you can, link it back to an opportunity to promote your products/services.
Why I have a blog
This blog is me putting all of that in practice. It’s here to show you what I value, who I am and maybe to give you some inspiration at the same time. Plus there’s another reason I both have and recommend having one - blogs add value to your brand. It’s just another way for you to show your experience and value. Having good content on your blog also helps people find you online.
All of this should show you why I love blogs and why I include one in so many of my website designs.
If you are looking for a website that represents your business, get in touch.
Thanks for reading,
Cameron
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