This blog started the way all great blogs start: in an attempt to explain a point to a stranger on the internet…😹 But seriously, a Twitter friend of mine questioned the value of allocating time on blogging when that time could better be spent on projects.
This is a valid question. But one that is not easily explained in one mere tweet.
In fact, I aim to write this blog to squash the myth that starting a blog is this large endeavour.
It’s really not.
I think this myth comes from 2 places, the first being that many web developers look down on the hosted version of WordPress: wordpress.com. They think this is like a child playing in a sandbox and some are not afraid to be vocal about this.
The second reason is that the software version of WordPress, wordpress.org, is indeed much more powerful, but it is also a noticeable amount more work and a significant skill jump from wordpress.com. So many people, feeling the shame of wordpress.com, attempt the hosted version, and then they get stuck, and stop, and then no blogging occurs.
I have seen this a hundred times.
End the shame of wordpress.com.
If you have no clue what I am talking about, perhaps read up on my blog, “To host or not to host, that is the question.”
Back to the point of this blog-
“what is the point of starting a blog when you could spend that time on projects.”
I happen to have a wee bit of experience in the project domain area (over 10 years in event management) and I think projects are the best reason to start a blog.
In a world where time is of the essence, managing projects efficiently has become the cornerstone of success. But what if I told you that you can supercharge your project management by investing some of that precious time in blogging? Yes, that’s right! Blogging can be a game-changer, and in this post, I’ll unravel why it’s worth the effort.
Project Documentation
The first, and arguably the most crucial benefit of blogging for project management, is project documentation. Imagine having a central hub where you can chronicle every detail of your projects, from concept to completion. Your blog becomes your project’s diary, making it a breeze to track progress and learn from past experiences. It’s your project’s personal historian. You can easily update from any of your devices and even work on drafts so that you can throw a few ideas down and get back to it later. It really doesn’t need to take long.
Improved Communication
In the realm of project management, effective communication is paramount. Blogging provides a platform to communicate project updates, ideas, and goals to your team and clients. It’s like hosting a virtual meeting room where everyone can access information at their convenience. No more endless email threads or missed calls. I have used our plumbing blog to share photos of bathroom spaces, fixture ideas, as well as explain certain things that might be unclear such as how a backwater valve is installed.
Showcasing Expertise
Blogging is an excellent way to showcase your expertise. When you share your insights, you establish yourself as an authority in your field. This can attract potential clients or collaborators, giving your projects an instant credibility boost. It’s like having a shiny trophy on your project’s mantle.
Cross-Promotion
If you’re like me and have multiple blogs covering various subjects, here’s where the magic happens. You can cross-promote your blogs, creating a web of interlinked content. This not only increases traffic but also boosts domain authority. Imagine having your blogs as a family, each one supporting the other. It’s a win-win situation. And if those blogs have subscribers, you’re easily promoting your product at the clock of a button.
Networking Opportunities
Blogging opens up doors to a world of networking opportunities. You can connect with like-minded individuals, potential clients, and industry experts. These connections can lead to new project collaborations or open doors you might not have considered. It’s like expanding your project team with experts from around the world.
Content Repurposing
Your blog content is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. You can repurpose it for other platforms like social media, newsletters, or even presentations. This means less time spent creating content from scratch and more time focusing on your projects. It’s like having a wellspring of content at your disposal.
SEO Benefits
Regular blogging can do wonders for your website’s search engine ranking. This, in turn, drives organic traffic to your blog and indirectly benefits your projects by increasing their online visibility. It’s like putting your projects on the map for the world to see.
Monetization
Over time, as your blogs gain traction, they can become a source of passive income. This extra revenue can either fund your projects or be reinvested into your blogging endeavors. It’s like having a financial backup plan to support your creative and project-related ambitions.
Creativity and Self-Expression
While managing projects is about structure and organization, blogging offers a creative outlet for self-expression. It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and connect with your audience on a personal level. Your blog is the cutting room floor of your ideas. Don’t want to show your scraps to the world? Make a private blog! Nobody needs to see it until you’re ready.
Feedback and Learning
Engaging with your blog audience can be incredibly insightful. The comments, feedback, and discussions can provide valuable insights that can help you refine your projects. It’s like having a focus group at your fingertips, offering valuable opinions and ideas that you might not have considered otherwise.
It Doesnt Need to Be Perfect!
Engaging with your blog Your blog is the perfect place to show that you are not perfect. This is the place to show that you can learn, grow, make mistakes, and still get up and carry on. Your main website should be a portfolio but your blog? Let your hair down, put your feet up, and relax. That also makes it more fun to read!
In the ever-evolving landscape of project management, blogging stands as an underrated yet powerful tool that I am constantly promoting to people around me. It doesn’t need to be about spending a bunch of time on the backend; it’s about getting your ideas out there, exploring new skills and experiences, and enhancing your project management process.
With project documentation, improved communication, showcasing expertise, cross-promotion, networking opportunities, content repurposing, SEO benefits, monetization, creativity, and feedback, blogging can be your new best friend.
If you’re passionate about your projects, let them complement each other. It’s a win-win situation that can take your endeavours to new heights.
And if you’re confused on how to get started, drop me a DM! I am keen to help!