As a marketer, I am always cautious on the “branding” of things. In our business of online games we have tried to apply tried-and-tested methods and processes to brand our games individually. Each must have a core set of values and we must be able to communicate these values to our target market. Sometimes it’s hard to just concentrate on the game features and we must be able to place importance on the brand based on the emotional and actual experience that it gives to the gamers.

Now that I am truly addicted to blogging, it came as a thought that I brand myself and then my blog.

I found great inspiration through an article by Jaqueline Zenn where she points out 5 questions that you should ask yourself in order to properly come out with your very own blog brand.

I guess this is important to both novice and long time bloggers and will give one a new outlook on direction and focus for your blogging. In time, this will bring in more readers and ultimately bring you success (and a little cash too).

As per Jacqueline:

1. What do I want to say?  Try to narrow your message down to a few sentences.  Think of it as a blogging mission statement (you can put this on your about page). 

2. What do I have to offer?  What unique skills and knowledge do you have to share with your readers?  How can someone benefit by reading your blog?  This can can become the basis for your cornerstone content. 

3. What is my niche?  No one can be all things to all people, so focus on what you can do well.  Define your niche so that your blog and brand can be tailored to it (this is also important for SEO purposes, as it helps you to focus on the best possible keywords).

4. Is this sustainable in the long run?  Do I have enough to say on this topic to maintain a blog?  If you are blogging about your business, (hopefully), you’ll be very passionate about it and have more than enough to say.  Remember that creating a successful blog, like a successful brand, requires time and commitment. 

5. What sets you apart from the competition?  What makes you and your business stand out?  Can you describe in a few words?  Why should someone read your blog? 

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I hope that these tips helped. Thanks to the source, of course.

Ciao,

GM T