Editor's Note: This is a gust post by Colin Alsheimer. Please read more about Colin in the bio footer.
It's no secret that content makes the web go 'round. Your blog helps you accomplish many digitally centric goals - from being found in a search to engaging with prospective customers.
But what happens when your normally trusty source of content inspiration goes dark? Turn to these ten free sources for blog inspiration the next time you find yourself reaching for a new topic of discussion.
1. Forums
The original social media! Forums, especially those that are relevant to your blog, can be a great source of inspiration. Look for threads where people have posed a question or a problem.
2. Question and Answer Websites
Much like forums, Q&A sites, like Yahoo! Answers and LinkedIn Answers, can provide much blog inspiration. Look for people asking questions relevant to your niche.
3. Comments
If your blog is privileged enough to have an active commenter base, use these to generate ideas for future or follow-up posts.
4. Google Analytics
People search for the darndest things! Comb through the search keyword referral traffic in your Google Analytics (or similar platform) to see how people arrived at your blog. Sometimes people will search for content that you haven't written yet.
5. Current Events
Use current events, particularly when associated with pop culture, to serve as creative inspiration for your posts. An added bonus to using current events and pop culture? It makes for great link bait!
6. Books
If your daily regimen involves reading a lot of short-form blog posts, try switching your routine up to include more long-form content, like books. Books are able to communicate complex ideas and concepts better then most blog posts.
7. Twitter
Use Twitter search to cruise Twitter to see what people are saying about your niche. Or, if you have a solid following already on Twitter, ask your network what they'd like to read.
8. Google Alerts
Set up a Google Alert (or better yet, a Google Reader Listening Station) around relevant keyword in your niche. Browse the results for inspiration.
9. Keyword Research
Use tools like Wordtracker and the Google Adwords Keyword Tool to research relevant keywords to your niche. See if there are any topics or concepts you haven't covered yet.
10. Client Conversations
If part of your job involves regular interaction with clients, then use these interactions as blog inspiration. That said - don't go airing your dirty laundry on your blog! Look for nuggets of insight, or, if you repeatedly receive the same questions, try to answer in a blog post.
Where do you turn when you're in need of blog inspiration? Share your favorite places in the comments!
More from Julie McElroy
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Funny, I always get my moment of inspiration in the shower!
That’s a good place too! I’ve pondered many a new idea in the shower as well. Sometimes your environment alone can be a source of inspiration.
Colin Alsheimer recently posted..Ten Tips for Using Brand Ambassadors in a Social Media Campaign
Same here! I feel at peace when in the shower so a perfect time to think of my plans and everything.