To Blog or not to blog

[kssinca]

My husband has a website that has been in business for almost 5 years. It has shifted from the original intent/purpose and right now is mostly operating as a retail store. There are plans to go back to the original concept but I don't know how long that will take.

I'm debating whether or not to add a blog to the website. I'm leaning toward using wordpress and using the free one and upgrading to premium features if the blog does well.

The website sells musical instruments related to Americana music, such as bluegrass, country, and nostalgia items, such as radio reproductions. I offered to help with the blogging but I do not have any knowledge of these items or genre! DH is the one who knows about it but he has a million other things on his plate.

So my questions are.... if you have a retail website, has a blog helped to increase traffic/sales of your items? What do you blog about - specials, industry information about your products or something else? If you use the free wordpress blog, can you edit/delete comments (like spam or unrelated things)?

Thanks!!!!

[dogmom327]

I need to get a blog going for my site but it keeps falling on the priority list. My general understanding (and hopefully someone more knowledgeable will jump in here) is that having key words linked to your site in a dated format helps search engine rankings. At least for me, advertising here on MDC seems to be having the same effect and right now this is easier for me since I'm more or less addicted to MDC

[janasmama]

Yes, blogging helps. Adding more content often brings search spiders to your site more often. Linking to products also helps....if you mention a certain instrument, link to that page. Wordpress is great and easy to use. You should definitely go for it.

[Ame]

If your husband has a website already...you can easily just add a wordpress blog to his existing website. Wordpress is very easy to use and janasmama is exactly right about spiders. A blog can also help to build confidence and/or relationships with customers. When posting, I would suggest giving good advice, sharing your experience, and product reviews.