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BLOGS TO PROMOTE YOUR MEETINGS
Now a mainstream way to publish and receive information, blogs can play a role in any promotions plan.

Return to the Social Media Toolkit home page or download the full Social Media Guide (PDF document). WHAT IT IS Blogs are regularly updated Web sites made up of posts or entries. The posts themselves often contain links, photos, video, podcasts and comments. WHY IT MATTERS The blogosphere rivals traditional media in terms of its impact and influence on readers. According to Technorati's State of the Blogosphere 2008, 77% of active Internet users read blogs. That includes over 77 million Americans.

Blogs are now a mainstream way to publish and receive information. Plus, they offer readers an easy way to be updated via RSS feeds. HOW TO USE IT TO PROMOTE YOUR MEETINGS 1. Share Experience Columbus' blog with your attendees so they can begin to learn about dining, playing and shopping in Columbus. On the blog, attendees can read about Columbus experiences shared by the people who've been here or live here.

2. Start your own blog for your association or event. If you take the leap, keep in mind that among other things, a good blog is constantly updated, provides unique information and it stays true to a particular focus or topic.

It's also important to remember that blogs allow your audience to have some level of control because readers can comment on what you post. This can certainly seem like a risk, but it's also incredibly powerful for sharing information and building engagement with your audience. By encouraging conversation, you can create an active online community made up of your attendees and members.

It's probably wise to extend your blog beyond your meeting, and use it as a tool for engagement year-round. Before you start a blog, consider that it will take a fair amount of time and effort to do it right.

Wondering what you'd post? Sit in your audience's shoes and consider things that would be of interest. A few ideas:
  • News and updates relevant to your organization/meeting
  • Reminders about registration deadlines or hotel reservations
  • Information about Columbus, including things to do, where to eat, etc.
  • News relevant to your group's interests or mission
  • Interviews with attendees or members
  • Information about conference session topics, interviews with speakers, etc.
  • Requests for feedback about your event

3. Participate on other blogs, particularly those that are read by your attendees. If there are specific blogs relevant to the topic and focus of your meeting or association, you'll likely find value in responding to posts and participating in the conversation. If appropriate, you can also reach out to blog authors with information about your meeting. If the information is relevant or interesting to their readers, you might find it featured in a post. FEEDBACK Contact us with your questions, tips or success stories on using social media to build attendance.