You’ve probably heard of a blog. Perhaps you’ve even stumbled into one before. But what is a blog, really?

A blog (also known as a “weblog” or “web log”) is a website consisting of regularly updated entries or posts, with features like comments and links to increase user interactivity. They originally started in late 1990s and were used as online “diaries” for individuals. Since then, the popularity of the blog has grown, with millions of blogs being written and posted daily.

We know what you’re thinking. What does some sort of weird, public, online diary have to do with my business? A lot, actually. Enter the idea of business blogging. A blog is essentially a piece of short-form content, which can be used by businesses as a marketing channel in order to connect with more potential clients from across the Web.

Still with us? If you’re getting confused, here’s the abridged version: A business blog can bring more people to your website and convince them that you are great at what you do.

It’s all in the numbers
There’s plenty of evidence to support the benefits of blogging. In a 2014 B2B Social Media & Marketing report released by Business2Community, a couple of telling statistics stand out.

“76% of B2B companies maintain blogs.” That means over three-fourths of your competitors are likely producing unique content for potential clients, and are establishing themselves as experts and thought leaders in your field. By continuously producing quality content they are simultaneously boosting their search rankings — as your business falls behind.

If that last statistic wasn’t enough to convince you, listen to this: “B2B companies that blog generate 67% more leads than those that don’t.” Anyone who has ever worked to generate leads knows how astronomical that statistic is. The numbers don’t lie — business blogging leads to both tangible and intangible benefits.

The bottom line
If you are still asking yourself who really cares about blogging, Forbes provides a succinct answer: your customers and your competitors. It’s time to face the facts — blogging isn’t just for that guy living in his mother’s basement anymore. The question should no longer be “why” to blog. Rather, it should be a matter of “how” and “when.

Marc Dube is the president and founder of Proven Systems Corp. His passion for helping businesses grow through strategic marketing has led him to create a nationally recognized blog and eNewsletter production and distribution service. 

Ready to get your blog rolling? We’re here to help. Contact the professionals at Proven Systems at (800) 720-5398 or info@provensystems.com for a no-cost consultation.