We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: Blogging is one of the best content marketing solutions for most businesses. Yes, still. In 2022 (as of this writing).

That’s because they can offer so much value, like:

• Increased organic visibility
• Connecting with target audiences
• Positioning yourself as a trusted expert
• Growing brand awareness and loyalty
• Promoting your products and services
• Converting readers
• And so much more

However, we’d be lying if we didn’t admit that blogging can get…dull. The ideation and writing process is hard enough as-is, but to do it over and over and over and over again? Yeah, it can start to feel like pulling teeth.

Our advice? Mix it up. 

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that not all blog posts have to be the same. By introducing new types of blogs, you can expand your creativity, spark new ideas, and actually enjoy putting new content out into the world.

That said, let’s dive into five different types of blog posts to try (and why they’re effective)!

1. A how-to or tutorial 

Think of all the times you’ve opened up Google and typed in the words ‘how to.’ It’s probably a lot, right? Now think of everyone in the world Googling that term every single day. It adds up really quickly and provides lots of opportunities for bloggers.

In other words, people are constantly turning to the internet to learn how to do things. Whether it’s something as simple as organizing a closet or as complex as calculating algorithms (♫ “Butterfly in the skyyyyyyyy, I can fly twice as hiiiiiigh”♫ ), users want how-tos and tutorials that are clear, easy to follow, and produce a great result. And you have the chance to teach them something and position yourself as an expert! 

Another reason we love these types of blogs? It’s evergreen content. Meaning: They will always be relevant and very rarely outdated. Sure, you may need to update them occasionally, but that usually involves a quick edit here and there. 

If you’re wondering what kind of how-to or tutorial you want to write, here are some thought-starters:

• Something you’re really good at
• Something related to your business or brand
• Something people ask you how to do all the time

Ideally, your how-tos or tutorials will relate to what you can provide for your target audiences (e.g., “Here’s how to organize your closet in 5 easy steps. P.S. I offer that service; let’s chat!”). But you definitely don’t have to limit yourself! Feel free to have fun with different topics and ideas. 

2. Listicle 

Listicles, which are articles with lists, are also another type of blog you should try out. They’re short-form, quick and simple to write, and can easily capture your readers’ attention because they’re easy to read. And, just like how-tos and tutorials – they are evergreen. 

Listicles are also a great way to showcase your brand personality and lighten things up. Some of those lists might include:

• Your favorite products
• Your top brand inspiration
• Your favorite places to eat and shop
• Your favorite free business resources
• Your top vacation spots

Again, listicles don’t always have to be related to your business or brand. The list of ideas is virtually endless. Sure, it’s a nice-to-have, but not a need-to-have.

P.S.: If you’re an affiliate for brands, listicles can also be a great way to showcase products and brands you love while driving more traffic to your links at the same time. Cha-ching!

3. An interview 

An interview blog post is exactly how it sounds: an article in the form of a Q&A with another person or person(s). Interviews are great for several reasons – they can help you and your audiences learn something new, promote your products or services, or simply get to know someone better. 

So, think of a list of people you’d love to talk more in-depth with. It can be anyone from:

• A mentor
• A client with a success story
• Someone in a field you want to learn more about
• Someone in your field you want to learn from
• Someone who can provide value to your audiences

Plus, when you interview another person, think of all the brand reach you’ll have through their audiences and platforms! All you have to do is ask that they promote your post, and suddenly you’ll have lots more eyes on your work. 

4. An op-ed 

An op-ed, which stands for ‘opposite the editorial page, is essentially an opinion piece. It gives you a chance to express your opinions while building your brand voice. Historically, op-eds are written for newspapers and magazines, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try your hand at them.

No matter what subject you choose to share your opinion on, an op-ed can give your audiences a better sense of what you stand for, which is key to locking in brand loyalty and advocacy. If you feel strong and confident in where you stand and aren’t afraid to ruffle some feathers, we suggest you go all-in. But if you’re hesitant to turn audiences and target clients away, maybe think a little bit more on this one.

However you go about it, just make sure to support your points with lots of evidence. Yes, it’s an opinion, but an evidence-based opinion is far sexier because it’s well-researched and trustworthy. 

5. Roundup or example post 

Roundups and example posts are similar to listicles — but these are designed to help your brand in a few different ways. First, they can help explain a point you’re trying to make. Say you’re trying to prove that blogging is important (something we do on the daily), your roundup post can include links to several research-backed experts, statistics, and case studies that further prove your point. 

Roundups can also help with something called backlinking, which is an important element for SEO. When you link to other trustworthy sites, it lets Google know that your content is trustworthy. And when those sites link back to your site, that trustworthiness goes up even more. 

Whether you do a roundup or example post of trends, experts, or something else entirely, don’t be afraid to reach out to the sources you’re quoting and linking to. Let them know that they’re featured in your article and are free to promote it. This is great for more brand reach, and it can help open the door to building relationships with others for future opportunities!

Need help planning out your blog content? We’ve got you.

Now that you have brand-new ideas for blogs, it’s time to put a plan in motion. But uh…where do you even start? 

That’s where we come in. 

We can support you with all things content management and strategy, like:

• Content calendars
• Content creation
• Ongoing content management
• And all the things in-between

Check out our sexy blogging and content services, or set up a call with Latasha – she’d love to talk to you (unless you’re a dick, then don’t even bother).