It’s a new year and you are inspired to try new things to boost your online business. One way to do that is through posting authority-driven content, well written and full of original concepts and fresh perspective. It will get you links and more. Are you interested in trying your hand at content creation for 2010? If you’re not sure yet, consider the following:

 

Creating content, whether in the form of articles or blog posts, provides the perfect opportunity for you to crystallize a focused sense of your business presence. And it’s a great way to build on the holiday momentum you have going.

 

Posted content brings links. When a link (URL address) to your website is posted on another website, that’s a vote in the eyes of search engines, which is great for fortifying your rankings. You submit an article to an article directory (ezinearticles.com, hubpages.com, squidoo.com, scribd.com, etc.). You set up links directly from your article publication to your website, either in the body of the article or in the bio or profile box.

 

When you post high-value content, you’re inviting anyone to come along and scoop it up and put it on their website or blog. Voila! Another inbound link, great for search engine page rankings.

 

Not sure what to focus on in your area of expertise? Review topics of interest to see what’s already been said. Browse some blogs and article directories and find out what others in your industry are chatting about.

 

Some points to remember:

 

1)      Unless you are in a very narrow market and you are highly specialized, you will probably be repeating at least some concepts. That’s okay. If you are an authority in your field, what you say will naturally have more value. Even if you write about a topic that’s already been covered, your article may be easier to understand or may present new, critical data.

 

2)      It’s good for your online rep. When someone searches your name, company or domain, they’ll see that you’ve contributed valuable content and can infer that you care about making your industry better. This builds customer confidence and industry regard.

 

3)      If you are already setting aside time to regularly check out what your industry peers and competitors are talking about in blogs, articles, twitter, etc., you’ll have a good idea of what topics will capture the interest of your readers. However, many with small businesses have limited time or just haven’t yet tapped into this free exchange. If this is you, take an “online temperature.” Explore some blogs, industry journals, etc. See what your competitors are saying.

 

4)      Finally, know your audience. It held true for eighth grade speech class and it holds true today. Before you write, know whom you’re addressing. Anyone can read your article once it’s out there, but whom do you want to read it? Are you hoping others in your industry will pick it up and post in on their websites? If so, you may want to create content of interest to them. Are you hoping someone will find the article and click on the link to your website and then move into purchase mode? If so, address your articles to your ideal customer and showcase solutions to their pain points.

 

If you are running a small business, you may not have the time or resources to handle all online marketing efforts. But writing articles or blog posts on topics you’re passionate about may actually be rejuvenating, especially when you see your intended audience respond. Other online marketing techniques might be better left to professionals. Consider an online marketing company like Network Solutions®, with PPC and SEO experts who can complement your content creation with affordable behind-the-scenes maneuvers designed to push you ahead of the crowd.