4 Simple Rules For Guest Posting

If you’ve never been a guest at another site, it can be intimidating. You take a risk by asking someone if you can write for their site, but it’s a great way to build your writer platform. Guest posting is easier than you think, especially if you do your homework.

Research prospective host sites to be sure you’re a good fit. Do you have similar audiences? Does your writing style match the tone of the site? Do you have a fresh message? Skim the past several months to see what’s been published, and then pitch something new. Once you’re accepted, follow these four simple rules:

1. Follow the host’s guidelines TO THE LETTER. A good guest post will

• have the proper content. If the host focuses on personal stories, don’t give them a lengthy research article.
• follow the word count. Most hosts will give you a little leeway, but do your best to come in within 10-15 words.
• include images with attributions and links. Remember that hi-resolution images take longer to load on a page, so resize your images to a manageable size (4×3 aspect ratio, no greater than 1000px wide). Include all the necessary attribution info (site name, photographer, link).
• send text and images separately. Format the post in Word with instructions for where to insert images. I insert bold red caps, “INSERT IMAGE – LAKE” and I name the .jpg file, Lake – Susan Stilwell.
• include a short 25-50 word bio with your social media links, and with information that ties in with the focus of the host site. For example, I wrote an article for a travel site about the regions in Israel. I omitted what may seem superfluous and instead included my love of adventure and experiencing different cultures.

2. Share with your subscribers. Post a “tease” on your site with a link to your guest post. Include at least two links to their site: one to their Home or About page, and one to your post. For example, I guested on our own Edie Melson’s site way back in 2012. The post on my blog would look like this:

“I’m excited to be guest posting at Edie Melson’s site today. She shares great information for writers and bloggers, and on Mondays she offers tips on social media and networking. Here’s a snippet:

Have you noticed how many people are adding “Click to Tweet” in their posts? Pretty jazzy, huh? It’s also pretty easy when you know what you’re doing. It’s a great way to increase your visibility on Twitter and can also drive traffic to your site.

Want to know more? Join the conversation there for Social Media Monday—Click To Tweet”

Turn off commenting on your site so all the conversation will be at the host site.

3. Share on your social media networks and tag your host. Be sure you’re linking to the host site and not the “tease” post on your site.

4. Be gracious. Check the host site periodically and stay engaged in the discussion. When the conversation comes to an end, add one last comment thanking the commenters and your host.

With the constantly changing landscape of blogs and social media, savvy writers and bloggers are discovering the benefits of collaborating to build their platforms. Guest posting is one of the best ways to work together and expand our networks.

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Photo Credits
“Share,” Stuart Miles (FreeDigitalPhotos.net)