VIP Vacations Inc.

Do you remember when it was all the rage to gain brand recognition, social media followers and more clients by having a blog?

Although blogging is no longer as popular as it once was, travel bloggers are still out there and people really do read them!

I often get lured into reading blogs via Twitter or Instagram. When I scan through my Instagram and Twitter feeds, there is always a tease of a title that interests me, along with a link to a blog story. Some of the best blogs that I retweet, share and bookmark all have certain similar attributes.

The following are considered to be the Four Golden Rules of blogging and the underlying reasons as to what successful blogs must contain:

—A blog should be used as a means to share.

—A blog is meant to connect to readers.

—A blog should create and curate.

—A blog needs to inspire.

If your motivation for blogging is to simply attract potential clients and drive your website to the top of the search engines, you still need to follow those four key principles or you will be wasting your time.

Nevertheless, the question remains, do you need a blog?

Successful travel bloggers will tell you that unless you are “all in,” your blog won’t be read and people won’t care what you’re writing about. If your blog is outdated, it is probably best if you discontinue any reference to it as it can actually detract rather than attract.

For some travel advisors, blogging has had a huge impact on their business. Their blogs have become a passion. If you are really interested in honing your blogging skills, there are dozens of blogs available on how to create a great one.

As travel professionals, we are very lucky to have beautiful travel photos at our disposal as well as a wealth of personal travel experience and knowledge to share with potential clients. Therefore, sharing and inspiring (two of the four golden rules of blogging) with a blog can easily be accomplished.

Perhaps the best advice for would-be bloggers is to follow the advice of serial entrepreneur Brian Clark: “Don’t focus on having a great blog. Focus on producing a blog that’s great for your readers.”

CTIE, is a nationally recognized travel expert specializing in Caribbean vacations, destination weddings and honeymoons. As owner and president of Pennsylvania-based VIP Vacations Inc., Jennifer was named the Most Innovative Agent of the Year at the 2016 Travvy Awards. VIP Vacations has been a top selling agency with Sandals, Beaches, Karisma, Palace, Hyatt, Hard Rock, AMResorts and RIU since 2005.

https://www.travelpulse.com/articles/travel-agents/to-blog-or-not-to-blog-5.html