5 Indispensable Tools for Bloggers

Blogging started off as a way for internet users to publish their own content. In the beginning, bloggers were individuals who just wanted their own online journal so they can have a platform to pour their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while sharing them with their readers.

However, as search engine marketing has definitely become cutthroat, blogging has evolved as a potent business tool. A company blog can really help you gain traffic for your website. It is also one of the most effective ways to gain a loyal following and improve your page ranking.

However, there is a caveat to attain these benefits: you must be able to provide meaningful and unique content, your blog should be easy to navigate, and it should be designed to allow timely communication (although this will be often one-way) between you and the readers. With these in mind, here are five indispensable tools for bloggers:

WordPress – There are some who may argue that WordPress is not necessarily indispensable, given that there are other blogging platforms like Blogger or Tumblr. However, WordPress or WP remains to be the easiest to use, especially for those who would rather do away with coding and FTPs. With every new version that comes out, WordPress use becomes increasingly intuitive. Plus, the various plug-ins makes SEO almost automatic.

Facebook – Facebook is actually a social media platform, we know. But these days, company blogs without a corresponding Facebook page will eventually die a lonely death. Facebook is where a lot of people go to socialize and digitally unwind. It can be a powerful way to stay in the loop, once you have gained a good number of page Likes.

Twitter – another social media platform, but an even more dynamic one compared to Facebook. Users connect to Twitter on the go, plus it can allow a business to target specific individuals by using software than can identify certain keywords and hashtags. Like Facebook, you can actually connect your blog account to your Twitter account.

AddThis – given the importance of social media, you want to use AddThis on your blog so that readers can help spread the word about your content. The AddThis widget lets readers share across various networks, bookmark their favorite content, and provide you with analytic data so you can see how your content is being shared by your readers.

Google Keyword Tool – allows you to search for keyterms that readers are looking for, so that you can more effectively tailor your content according to your niche. The Google Keyword tool is a fundamental instrument for SEO.

   Eric Pratum

About the Guest Author:

Eric Pratum and Empower.me help teens improve their grades, get into the college they want, find careers they love, and learn life skills. Empower your learning today.