04.15.08

How Stuff Works: Relationship Maintenance

Posted in Uncategorized at 7:29 pm by Administrator

I gotta say it…but there is an interview about me posted here. Check it out, and get to know me.

Maintaining relationships your readers is difficult. Gaining those relationships is even more difficult.

According to an article on “Relationship Selling,” we will work 5 times harder to attract new readers than to keep those same readers. An astounding figure.

But realistic nevertheless.

Think about it, when we blog, we do so in hopes that readers respond, and that we gain new ones. Sort of like being a singer or rapper. When you drop a new CD, you want your old fans to like it and you also want to attract new fans.

However, cultivating those relationships means making time for their comments or reader stumble upon requests. The relationship building techniques used to gain trust should not end once you gain a reader, it should intensify. That reader needs to feel important and valued.

If I could, I’d pack my blog full of coupons with free stuff just to show my readers I appreciate them, but unfortunately I am not a daily newspaper, darn!

One of the ways I try to cultivate relationships with my readers is by being accessible.

Usually my Twitter updates are posted, as well as invitations to join me on other social networks. For me these little things will result in major kudos. I apply the following 3 things to my networking:

1. Provide Engaging Content
2. Focus On Relevant Information
3. Keep Your Content Fresh

For instance, yesterday I posted information about affiliate programs I am involved with. Not just the regular commission junction or pepperjam network info, but home based business programs that I get paid from. A couple of people responded and thanked me for the information. I figured it was the least I could do, since Yahoo Answers is full of people searching for this very information.

But more importantly, as we make full use of Web 2.0, we should treat it like a friend. As if I were to meet you on the street or at Starbucks. If we click, then we end up hanging out together, if not, well that’s ok too. Just remember the Six Apart Relationship Theory.

My advice is to take full advantage of your relationships. Relationship Maintenance is easy, once you get the hang of it.


Posted by Teasa’s Tips

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