They say that everybody has a story to tell. Some tell winning stories, happy tales of pleasant experiences and fun times. And everyone, it seems, has that one friend or relative that tells the whoppers. You know what I mean – the great big ol “one that got away” and the five mile walk uphill both ways to get to school. Stories began no doubt around the campfire, as a way of passing the cold winter night, settling rambunctious children, or teaching the next generation the legends and mysteries of a people. Theyve evolved until now theyve gone digital, in a place known as the “blogosphere.”
There are many reasons to join the blogging revolution. Blogs have become a source of information for many. Theyre quickly becoming the way many express their opinions, share their beliefs and air their grievances. Blogs have become the new community bulletin board, the town crier, the editorial and the soapbox of the 21st century.
Some retailers offer a blog “community” where satisfied, happy customers can share their stories relating to the sites products, service or area of interest. Some will post anything thats submitted, others prefer to have a little editorial oversight. Some offer discounts to those who submit their stories. Some will give the “winners” a prize package of some of their products and/or services. To win, your story must be approved for posting to the Internet by a select individual or group of individuals involved with the company and its web site.
There are several benefits to joining a retailers blogging community, even if you never post a story or win a thing. The biggest benefit is that you have an entire library of first-hand testimonials to read and to learn from. Considering buying a Widget Model A? Before you do, you can check the blog and see if there are any satisfied owners. (If the blog is one of those thats edited in some way, you may not find any negative comments, but the lack of good reviews for the Model A would be telling in its own right.) Wonder if the companys bestselling Gadget Goo is really worth its price? Its a good bet some previous customer has voiced an opinion on that at some point in time.
Another benefit of joining a retailers blogging community is the fact that many retailers use their blogs to announce new products, sales on existing products, important “owners manual” type information concerning certain products or offer a “members only” discount especially for those who join the blog. Youll be thrilled to learn that starting next week, their best selling products are going on sale, and that just for joining the community, you will be receiving a coupon for 25% off your first purchase over $100.
The last, and somewhat overlooked benefit of joining a blogging community is the opportunity to interact with fellow customers and the company. You can read how Janette in Oregon was thrilled with her latest purchases. You might find where Jeff in Minnesota has found an unconventional, creative use for a product. Youll be able to post your questions as to how to use the companys automated shipping function, to ensure that your supply never runs low. The company receives vital first hand feedback from its customers like Janette. They get new ideas for marketing from folks like Jeff. And your questions may alert them to a deficiency in their FAQ section on the website. A blogging community allows for better communication between retailer and customer, and that makes for better stories all around.
By materials of Article Factory