Spreading the news
There are two ways of adding ‘news’ to your website: Blogs and News. We are often asked about the differences between a News system and a Blog. The main difference is the formality of the conversation each has with the viewer. News items tend to be formal and fact-based, while blogs are more casual. News on websites is important. A blog requires more frequent updates and careful consideration before committing to it, as it needs to be updated consistently to maintain followers.
Posting updates about your company, products, orders, and customers is great for your website. It shows potential customers that you are active and helps improve your search engine ranking. For the launch of your site, we recommend populating the News section with four interesting articles. Blogs require consistent writing and an audience that wants to read them, which is why we often advise focusing on News.
What is News?
News should be structured and planned. You don’t need to post every little detail but should plan a series of posts over the next year.
Step One: Working Out Your 'Features List'
Create a 'Features List' to plan your news content. This list gives structure and discipline to plan, write, check, and publish news items. Include new products, events, orders completed, and new customers.
Step Two: Planning
Plan your news content for each month, considering the available time and resources. For example:
- January: Finished Job Feature, New Products Review
- February: Mould Removal & Repaint Feature, Painting Doors
- March: Finished Job Feature, Painting Garage Floors
This list helps ensure new news is posted regularly.
Time and Talent
Websites need constant updating. Assign someone to write the news items. Each item takes about an hour and a half to create, so plan this time into your work week. If you don’t have the time or skills, Website Angels offers a service to create and post news for you. Call us to learn more about this solution.
Proofreading
Get someone else to proofread your content before posting it online. They can provide feedback on relevance and interest, ensuring your content is error-free.
Coordinated Dual Use of Material
Use your news content in multiple places to maximise its impact. Post summaries on social media, forums, and news sites, and include them in email newsletters. This coordinated approach extends the reach of your news items.
Images
Use interesting and informative images that reinforce the message of your news items. Ensure you have the rights to use the images and prepare them correctly. Consistent use of images across news, social media, and newsletters helps reinforce your message.
Summary
Commit to planning and implementing your news system. Regular activity on your news page builds a loyal customer base and attracts potential customers. Regular updates are positive for your website and company.
Website Angels Can Help
Our skilled and experienced team, as Google Partners, can assist you in creating effective news content and managing your website updates. Contact Website Angels today to learn more about how we can support your business.