Have you ever used the phrase, “Get off your soapbox”?
People can be very ‘loud’ when they start talking or blogging about topics of interest. When this happens, it is human nature to switch off or walk away.
With this in mind, we give you six simple ways to avoid turning your school blog into a personal soapbox.
1. Create a blog calendar
This is a great way to keep track of the topics you’re writing about and what is missing. By following your school’s blog calendar, you will avoid your blog turning into your personal soapbox as you will need to stick to the designated topics. Having a calendar will also allow you to allocate a set number of blogs to other staff members, again, avoiding the temptation to simply waffle about your interests.
2. Communicate with your stakeholders
Have open and honest conversations with your school’s stakeholders on a regular basis. Find out what they want, what they’re interested in and how they want their information. Do they like written content, graphics, video or imagery? Once you have this information, use it. Create content that you know will be appreciated and absorbed.
3. Be clear with your message
In this exciting digital age, people have access to incredibly large amounts of content. For your content to be noticed, it needs to be sharp and snappy. Get to the point with clear and concise messages. Your school community doesn’t have time to read through the waffle. Provide the information, make note of the research and move on.
4. Invite guest bloggers
Provide expert advice by inviting specialists to discuss topics of interest. A one-track blog with just one person’s perspective can be very monotonous. Consider other content sources and keep your blog flowing with interesting and relevant content.
5. Open your mind
Having an opinion is important – it makes us who we are. But not everyone wants to hear what you have to say. Include blogs from different angles and different perspectives. Obtain information from a variety of sources and open your mind to other opinions and views.
6. Let your blog ‘rest’
Once written, allow your blog time to ‘rest.’ This allows your brain to reset and you will often return with a refreshed and clearer mind to review your content and edit if necessary.
