An End To Your Empty Blog: 6 Signs It's Time To Find A Website Content Writer | SteadyContent
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An End To Your Empty Blog: 6 Signs It’s Time To Find A Website Content Writer

Has your blog fallen off the map? Maybe you need a website content writer.

It’s a truth of human nature: we’re better at starting things than we are at finishing them. More often than not, a major project that starts off strong can get derailed. If this is happening to your blog, it might be a challenge to right the ship by yourself… and you may want to look for outside help from someone who specializes in writing blog posts.

Perhaps you haven’t gotten your blog off the ground at all. Perhaps you’ve had to abandon it because of more urgent demands on your time. Or perhaps you’ve slowly lost interest, watching as your rate of return diminishes for the amount of effort you put into it.

Whatever the reason, you need to get that blog back up and running.

Why Blog in the First Place?

A professional blog on your website can improve your standing with search engines, drive web traffic, improve your credibility, and increase sales.

But that blog is not nearly as effective if it’s left untended for too long.

Even when we start something with the best of intentions, it’s so easy for us to lose track of our goals amidst the constant demands for our attention.

Writing a blog for your business isn’t a simple task. It’s a long-term commitment; an operation that’s successful over the long haul, typically after many posts and many weeks of work.

So when do you know it’s time to look for help?

Sign #1: Your Blog Is Out of Date

One of the most common problems that small business owners face is a lack of time to write their blogs.

The more a business grows, the more employees, clients, and customers it typically picks up along the way. That’s a good thing! That’s exactly what you want.

But as a result, business owners often find that they don’t have the free hours available to continue a blog. Invariably, they go through a period of weeks, months, or even a year where they are burning the candle at both ends.

The problem is that no one sees any of that when they visit your website. They don’t see the long hours you put in. They don’t see all the emails you send. They don’t see the meetings with investors, the training you go through, or the strategizing you do with your staff.

All they see is a blog that’s out of date.

This is because the blog is frequently the first point of contact with new customers. Whereas word of mouth and advertising might bring some customers to your site, the blog typically brings people who don’t know anything about you yet.

That blog is the first impression.

So if the blog looks like no one is paying attention to it, it sends an unfortunate message to people who could become new customers.

At the very least, you should be adding new material every week. If you’re in a position where the blog is woefully out of date, or you’re struggling to keep up, then it’s time to look for a website content writer.

Sign #2: Your Blog Lacks Quality Writing

This is one of the more painful things to admit, but not everyone is a born writer.

In fact, most professionals aren’t even “born” writers… they only become good at their job after countless hours on a keyboard.

If your writing isn’t readable, engaging, and easy to follow, people will tune out. Your readers are going to close the tab and move on to something less difficult (and probably less helpful to them, which is a shame.)

So really do an honest assessment of the writing on the blog, and ask if it’s as good as it can be.

It’s possible that there are great ideas on the blog that simply aren’t being communicated well. Sometimes a brilliant businessperson will have a lot to say, but just won’t be sure how to say it in a way that resonates with customers.

If that’s the case in your business, then you definitely want to work with a website content writer.

Content writers work all the time from outlines, titles, or topic suggestions from business owners. A business will provide the writer with some rough notes, ideas, or bullet points. The writer can turn that into a blog post that gets the readers interested and motivated to find out more.

Sometimes, it’s best to know where your strengths are. Focus on those and delegate everything else.

Sign #3: No One Is Visiting

This can be a problem when your content isn’t search engine optimized.

A website content writer specializes in creating SEO content that integrates keywords and trending phrases. The trick, of course, is to use these phrases seamlessly, in a way that people can still read and enjoy.

When done properly, this manages to get the attention of search engines and people both.

But if your content isn’t properly optimized, then you won’t be getting the traffic you need.

There are a few potential reasons for this. You may not be using keywords at all, or you may be using some that have such a high level of difficulty that yours are getting lost in the shuffle.

When you work with a website content writer, you get the expertise needed to find the keywords that will have the maximum effect.

Sign #4: No One Is Sticking Around

Another huge potential problem: you write the articles, you post the articles, and people show up… but then they leave.

Driving traffic to your site is great. But if potential customers don’t actually do anything more than read, ultimately, that doesn’t help you very much.

This is one of the challenges a website content writer can help you overcome. Writers will work to make sure that at least some posts (if not all) include a call to action, and make a strong argument for why they should choose your service or product.

In the end, helping your conversion rates is part of the equation too. If you feel like you’ve made all the arguments you can think of, you can get a huge boost from another point of view.

Sign #5: You’re Out of Ideas

And this brings us to another very common problem: idea fatigue.

It’s incredibly common for business owners to kick off their blogs with a flurry of activity… only to let them die on the vine once they’ve run out of inspiration.

This is perhaps the biggest quality of a website content writer.

Content writers produce, no matter what. They don’t wait for inspiration. They go out and find it, and research until they have something to say.

This is not the easiest skill to develop. And if you’re not in the business of writing thousands of words a day yourself, you might not particularly feel a strong need to acquire that trait yourself.

Sign #6: Your Best Posts Are Going Unread

But perhaps you’re not entirely out of ideas. Perhaps you only have 4-5 topics you really want to cover in-depth, and you simply need more relevant content to support these “primary posts.”

Fortunately, there’s a fantastic middle ground.

Hiring a content writer to create content for you will keep your blog up to date. Customers will always encounter a post that’s new.

Meanwhile, you can still write any additional posts you want to write yourself. But with someone else keeping the blog current, you don’t have to rush your main articles. You’re free to add them on your own schedule.

Often, a blog that has a few great entries will go largely unnoticed, because it simply doesn’t get updated frequently enough. If you write only a few really great articles a year, the extra work done by a content writer will make sure that people are still finding their way to your site in order to read them.

Where to Find A Website Content Writer

When you start to look for a writer, there are a few different places you can look.

You can find talent from within your own company. This is often a great way to encourage participation, but it can just as frequently become a stumbling block.

You can also hire someone using a gig site like Fiverr or Upwork. These sites specialize in connecting you with a specific freelancer.

The downside to this is that you’re working with just one person, which will often be a risk.

Lastly, you can work with a content company like SteadyContent, which will connect you with an entire team. The company will handle everything, from the keyword research, to writing, editing, and posting.

Occasionally, a content company can be slightly more expensive than a freelancer… but that’s also because these companies have a whole machine at their disposal, and they get results.

The Complete Blog Solution: SteadyContent

If you’re interested in boosting your web traffic with reliable, quality posts, SteadyContent specializes in just that.

There’s currently a “trial offer” that will sweeten the deal: a discounted rate for the first few posts, so you can try out the service and see if it’s for you (we’re confident that after you see how easy it is, you’ll stick around for more.)

All you have to do is approve the titles, then accept the content as it comes in.

With SteadyContent, that blog won’t be empty ever again.

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Working With a Kitchen Designer in Coconut Grove

After you purchase real estate, the first thing you may consider is changing, upgrading, or completely demolishing aspects of your home that don’t suit your needs or style. Giving your kitchen a facelift can be a surefire way to enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality while increasing its value. In areas like Coconut Grove, Brickell, and S. Beach properties sell at a premium. Any work done should be the highest quality achievable within your budget. It’s for that reason many people consider hiring a professional designer.

Why Use a Kitchen Designer?

Working with a kitchen designer can help you achieve a polished and professional finish. The experience they have in remodeling can ultimately save you time and money. Anything more than minor changes to your kitchen, such as knobs, superficial fixtures, etc., should be handled by a professional. Considering building codes, material costs, and access to reputable contractors all add layers of complexity to your project, kitchens are not a do-it-yourself job. You will want the finished product to be accurate, safe and insurable

Types Of Professional Designers

The designer you should choose depends on the work you need to be done and where you are getting your supplies. National chains and retailers will often have designers on staff at little to no cost. There are also private designers that work on a per contract basis. Although they cost more, they may give you more impartial advice on materials and design because they rarely have direct brand affiliations.

Locating A Designer

When trying to find a designer, seeking the recommendations of friends and family is useful. Some communities like Coral Gables and Pinecrest have designers many homeowners have used with solid reputations. There are also resources like the National Kitchen and Bath Association, which list reputable designers. No matter where you locate your designer, they should have a portfolio of their previous work to review.

Honing In On A Designers Expertise

Keep in mind; designers may be more versed in some areas. If you have a modest single family home and are not looking for opulent trimmings, picking a designer that specializes in upgrading luxury real estate may not be the best way to go. Also, some owners have unique property aspects they may want to be enhanced. For example, waterfront properties have the potential for unique design ideas like open-air walls. Ask potential designers share their design strengths and note their weaknesses.

Once you have chosen a designer, prepare yourself for your consultation and design process by:
Determining your budget
Listing the pros and cons of your existing space
Having some idea of what you would like
Maintaining flexibility about what you want vs. what can be achieved
Agreeing on a time line in writing
Knowing you can ask for multiple draft plans, and agreeing to a number in writing
Minimizing the changes you make as the project progresses

Most importantly, be patient. Doing a remodel properly is a process and there will be some inconvenience to you as your project is in the works.

Our site is your premier resource for real estate related topics in Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, and the surrounding areas. If you have a question, we likely have an answer. Check out some of our other articles, blogs, and resources.

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Is PRP Facial Treatment Right for You?

At the Osteopathic Center, we specialize in the latest PRP facial treatment technology and cosmetic therapies. We understand signs of aging, trauma, acne scarring, and sun damage can become heavily evident on your face and neck after time. Also, common issues, like dark under eye circles, can greatly change the way other’s perceive you. Fortunately, PRP facial rejuvenation can help restore and correct such imperfections.

 

Platelet-rich plasma, PRP, has been used as an effective treatment in orthopedic medicine, dentistry, and reconstructive surgery for 30 years. It is garnering mainstream popularity due to its proven effectiveness and organic approach to cosmetic improvements. Your own blood platelets are used in the procedure, rather than a host of chemicals, to renew the appearance of your skin.

How PRP Differs from Other Fillers

PRP facial treatment is able to stimulate your own collagen, promoting total facial rejuvenation rather than attempting to attack individual wrinkles. If your face is beginning to sink in from age it can add volume and youthful plumpness. The volumizing effect extends to under eye hollows and sunken cheeks. Also improved are skin tone, tightness, and overall texture.

 

This is in stark contrast to hyaluronic acid fillers that can be ineffective in many areas due to placement difficulty or the penetration of treatment. That said, our team can advise you on whether a pairing of the two types therapies can provide more pronounced results. What may be needed will be dependent on your skin’s condition.

How PRP Facial Treatment Works

Platelets are designed to help your body’s tissues heal and grow new cells. Your body responds best to its own cells, so using your freshly prepared PRP virtually eliminates the possibility of negative side effects. Each session only takes about 20 minutes.

 

During your session, a small amount of blood will be drawn. While your PRP is prepared your face and/or neck will be cleansed and prepped for treatment.The PRP that is injected into your skin will trigger the natural regeneration of damaged tissue and collagen production. Since PRP therapy is far less invasive than traditional plastic surgery techniques there is no post-procedure care time required.

 

Effects of your treatment will begin to show two to three weeks after your session and will improve with time.  Ideally, you will receive three treatments spaced about two weeks apart for maximum benefit.  Results can last for up to 18 months.  

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5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Taxes

According to data published by The Wall Street Journal, 3.7 million Americans submitted amended federal income tax returns in 2015. These amended returns were filed to take advantage of tax deductions/credits, to submit fresh financial information, and to add new income data.

It is important to note that you cannot e-file amended returns. In other words, you have to file them by sending hard copies using the USPS. The best way to avoid the extra time and expense of filing a hard-copy amendment is to get things right the first time. Here are the ways to avoid common filing mistakes:

Math Errors

Math errors are quite common on tax returns and constitute the first category of errors to be flagged, the IRS explains. In some cases, IRS employees correct computational and clerical errors.

This is especially true for paper returns, which are more likely to have missing or misquoted figures than electronically filed returns. To avoid such mistakes, double-check the figures that you provide throughout the first two pages of your returns.

Erroneous Social Security Number

This error is particularly common among people who claim a dependent exemption, because they have to list the SSNs or ITINs for their dependents. If you have dependents, you should verify all the SSNs/ITINs listed on your tax return to ensure they are correct.

One of the best ways to do this is by double-checking all the social security numbers on your tax return against the actual cards.

Alternatively, you can verify this data from the actual cardholders.

Filing Status

Another common filing mistake that you should avoid is providing an erroneous filing status. This can occur when separated couples file their returns separately while the IRS’s records show that they are still married.

To avoid having to correct your return, verify your filing status. It determines the deductions and credits you receive, and may lower your tax responsibility. Either way, make sure to use the correct filing status or you may end up with an IRS lien on your property.

Names

While it may seem absurd, many taxpayers actually misspell their names when filing their returns due to a number of reasons.

For starters, the current tax preparation software tools do not cover the entirety and cultural diversity of American names, which means they could mispronounce your name or offer a closely similar one. If you fail to verify every detail, you could enter an incorrect name on your return.

In addition, individuals who file returns on behalf of others, including tax/financial consultants may end up mispronouncing their client’s names. Divorced individuals could accidentally use the names of former spouses even after legally adopting other names.

Erroreoneous Income Details

If you are a contractor or freelance employee who receives a form 1099 for taxable income, make sure to keep detailed records of all sources of income. Also, make sure to report them correctly. Penalties from the IRS for unreported earnings are very steep.

Remember, the IRS keeps track of all legal transactions via form 1099.

The penalties for this offense vary depending on the size of unreported earnings and could include wage garnishment.

It is important to note that any federal refund, credit, or extension should be filed within three years of the original filing.

Conclusion

Every year, millions of Americans file tax returns that contain mistakes, including misspelled names, erroneous income figures, computation/math errors, erroneous Social Security Numbers, and wrong filing statuses. Avoid the hassle of amending your return by thoroughly checking your math, your status, and your name before you file.

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SEO is an Investment That Grows Your Business!

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is one part of an effective website design. If you are not already using SEO, it should be part of your marketing strategy. It can be implemented quickly and easily using the right content writer. Here are 5 reasons to implement SEO today:

It Takes Time to See ROI – Get Started!

SEO is a very effective marketing strategy and can drive thousands of customers to your website monthly. However, it takes time to see ROI, or “Return On Investment.” This means implementing SEO takes patience. A recent survey shows that 94 percent of online marketers using SEO effectively plan to continue or increase their current SEO budget. Hiring an agency to create SEO content can be expensive, but the cost is worth it. The investment pays for itself in increased brand recognition and greater search and referral-driven traffic. So be patient. You will see the return on your SEO investment soon.

Golden Age Of SEO

We are in a “Golden Age” right now, where black hat tactics and manipulation are no match for SEO. There was a time when competitors could displace their competition using these underhanded strategies. Now, however, SEO reigns and your company can benefit greatly. This is the time to invest in SEO, before digital assistants and immediate answers take over the search engine territory.

Reap Greater Rewards By Compounding Returns

With every word of content you post, every link you establish, you are increasing your search visibility. This is called “Compounding Returns.” Essentially, you are building your reputation one post or link at a time. The more you put your business out there, the more authority you have on the web. The longer this goes on, the more you will reap conversions and referral traffic. The sooner you start building your reputation and compounding your interest growth, the sooner you will reap rewards.

Don’t Let Your Competitors Pull Away

The longer you wait to start utilizing SEO, the more you will lose out on high-ranking positions for lucrative keywords. Your competitors will build their defenses around their positions, making it harder to get in. They will add more targeted keywords and increase their rankings. The best way to avoid missing out is to get in now. Start using SEO today.

You’ve Nothing to Lose. Give It a Try

Don’t be intimidated by agencies that try to convince you to sign a six-month contract. There are SEO agencies out there that will work with you to accomplish your goals. Talk to professionals. Establish a budget and get started. Results will take time, but you can tweak things as you go. The sooner you get started, the better ROI you will see.

Don’t let the competition win because you didn’t join the race. Start using SEO and maximize your web exposure today.

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Fund Your Retirement with Real Estate Investments

We are all familiar with the standard types of accounts when it comes to later-in-life financial planning. However, in the current economy, these accounts will only guarantee you the minimum standard of living. If you’re looking for a little luxury in your later years, consider funding your retirement through real estate investments. Real estate has been used for years by savvy individuals, and it’s your turn to join the ranks of the successfully retired.

Passive Retirement Income

Investing in real estate allows you to enjoy the benefits of a passive income. Passive income is achieved by investing in properties that will generate cash flow beyond what is needed to sustain the investment. In other words, any money you make after you pay the mortgage and upkeep the property goes into your pocket. These funds will pad your retirement, allowing you to leave the workplace and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Multifamily Properties Maximize Passive Retirement Income

A MDU, or multi-dwelling unit, has two or more dwellings underneath one roof. Each unit has a kitchen, living area, bathroom(s), and bedroom(s). An example of a MDU is an apartment building. Investing in one or more MDUs can maximize passive income, which we already discussed above, by providing multiple revenue streams from the purchase of one property. The income from each unit is independent of the others, meaning the loss of income from one unit will not automatically cause the loss of income from the other units. Investing in an MDU is a smart way to maximize your return, since purchasing one apartment building is easier than purchasing several single-family homes. An MDU can also guarantee you have a place to live during your retirement, since you can reside in one of the units while turning a profit on the others.

Benefits of Investing in Multi-family Properties

There are several benefits to investing in MDUs, or multi-family properties. Beyond creating passive income, let’s look at what makes MDUs especially attractive as a retirement investment.

Multiple Streams of Income
As we stated above, a multi-family property will be occupied by several, separate tenants all paying rent independently of each other. If you lose a tenant, you still have others paying rent while you fill the empty unit. There’s no such guarantee of income from a single-family home. If a single-family home is empty, it’s not generating revenue for your retirement. The same could be said for multi-unit office spaces, if you’re looking for a higher-dollar investment. Multiple units equal multiple ways to make money.

Less Expensive to Manage
When you purchase a MDU, you have the option to hire a property management company. The overhead to hire the company and manage the property will be significantly less than the overhead to manage several single-family homes. A management company will handle things like rent collection and soliciting tenants, allowing you to relax and enjoy your retirement.

Invest with Less Risk
Even in a down economy, multi-family properties usually have tenants. This means your risk is less when investing in these types of properties. You should be able to draw passive income even in harder economic times. Also, having multiple dwellings means your revenue streams are not dependent on each other. This also equals less risk.