Website visitors are a finicky bunch. They want information quickly. So quickly in fact, that 55% spend fewer than 15 seconds on your website. So, if you invest your time in writing helpful content, you also have to convince them to stick around. The purpose of this post is to do just that.
The following are 3 questions to consider when writing your next blog post:
Question #1 - Is this relevant to my potential guests?
Every innkeeper should understand who their ideal guest is. Are they married? Are they wine lovers? Are they interested in a particular local event? By doing this, you are developing your ideal guest persona. The dynamics of your ideal guest may change throughout the year. Seasonality, local events, or activities are all things to consider. Your job is to craft content that is relevant to your target audience.
If you need help figuring this out, download our handy Guest Persona Template.
Pro tip: Address your target audience within your blog post title or intro paragraph. Notice how I accomplished this in this post?
Question #2 - Are you speaking their language?
Writing blog posts with the correct tone and rhythm is difficult. Yet, it pays dividends.
Let's tackle tone first. Based on your ideal potential guest, you should have some insight into what type of language to use. For example, should your copy be formal or informal? That all depends on who your ideal customer is. Are they visiting for a punk rock concert, a collectible car auction, or a yoga retreat?
Next up, consider the rhythm of your content. For some reason, we humans like things in threes. Can you count how many times I have used this tactic in this post? When writing your next article, consider using the rule of three. It will help attract, engage, and convert your website visitors.
Pro tip: There are several useful writing applications. One of our favorites is Hemingway App. In fact, I wrote this article using it. It's free, easy to use, and helpful.
Question #3 - Is reading this worth it to them?
Every piece of content on your website should serve a purpose. This is especially true with blog posts. As an innkeeper, benefits include search engine visibility, conveying your property's brand, and reservations. Yet, your website visitors have a different view. They want access to local information, details about an event, or to review relevant packages. Whatever the case may be, you must make your content valuable for them.
Also consider shareability. Are your readers sharing your post on social networks like Facebook or Twitter? Social media posts, likes, and mentions are a great way to introduce your property to new audiences directly related to your readers.
Pro tip: Don't be shy about conveying why your post is worth reading. You can be very direct by adding a clear statement to your intro paragraph.
Make Every Second Count
As your craft your next post for your inn, bed & breakfast, or small hotel, be mindful of these three questions. Your readers and your pocketbook will thank you.
