Hey folks, Mike Stewart here from Local Internet Presence in Donelson and Nashville, TN. Let’s be honest, running a business is tough. You’re juggling clients, managing finances, and trying to figure out how to get your name out there. And one of the biggest challenges I see for small business owners? Content marketing. Specifically, blogging.

I hear it all the time: “Mike, I know I should be blogging, but I’m just not a writer.” Or, “I don’t have time to write a blog post every week!” And you know what? I get it. Writing takes time, effort, and a certain knack. But what if I told you there’s a game-changer out there that can make blogging easier than ever, even if you’re not Shakespeare?

I’m talking about Artificial Intelligence, or AI.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. AI? Sounds complicated, right? Nope. It’s actually pretty darn simple, and it’s revolutionizing how we create content. Think of AI as your own personal writing assistant. It’s not going to replace you, but it will give you a serious leg up.

Here’s how AI can make blogging a breeze for non-writers:

• Idea Generation: Staring at a blank page wondering what to write about? AI tools can help you brainstorm topics relevant to your industry and your target audience. Just give it a few keywords, and boom! Instant content ideas.
• Drafting and Outlining: Not sure how to structure your blog post? AI can help you create an outline, ensuring your thoughts are organized and your message is clear. It can even generate a first draft, giving you a solid foundation to build upon.
• Improving Your Writing: Even if you can write, AI can help you polish your prose. It can identify grammatical errors, suggest better word choices, and even check for plagiarism. Think of it as having a professional editor on speed dial.
• Saving You Time: This is the big one. AI can drastically reduce the time you spend writing. Instead of agonizing over every sentence, you can focus on refining the content and adding your own personal touch. This frees you up to focus on what you do best: running your business!

Now, I’m not saying AI is going to write perfect blog posts for you. You still need to be involved. You’ll need to review the AI-generated content, add your own voice and expertise, and make sure it aligns with your brand. But AI can take away the pain of starting from scratch and give you a huge head start.

At Local Internet Presence, we’re always looking for ways to help our clients succeed online. And right now, AI is one of the most exciting tools we have. If you’re struggling with content creation, I highly recommend checking out some of the AI writing tools available. There are plenty of options out there, so do your research and find one that fits your needs.

Don’t let the fear of writing hold you back from reaching your target audience. Embrace the power of AI and start creating killer content that drives results. And as always, if you need a hand, give us a shout here at Local Internet Presence in Donelson and Nashville. We’re here to help!

By Mike Stewart, Local Internet Presence, Nashville & Donelson TN

Howdy, folks! Mike Stewart here, from Local Internet Presence. I talk a lot about building a strong online presence for local businesses, and today I want to dig into a powerful tool that often gets overlooked: YouTube.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Mike, I’m a plumber/electrician/landscaper… not a filmmaker!” And you’re right, you don’t need to be Spielberg to make this work. But here’s the thing: YouTube is more than just funny cat videos. It’s the world’s second largest search engine and a massive social media platform. That’s a HUGE opportunity for local businesses like yours.

Why YouTube Matters for Your Local Service Business

• Get Found: When folks in Nashville need a plumber, where do they turn? Google! And guess what pops up in those search results? You got it – YouTube videos. By creating helpful content, like “How to Fix a Leaky Faucet” or “5 Signs You Need a New Water Heater,” you’re positioning yourself as the expert and attracting potential customers actively searching for solutions.

• Build Trust: Seeing your face and hearing your voice builds trust. People want to know who they’re doing business with. Use YouTube to showcase your personality, your team, and your expertise. Give behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work, customer testimonials, or even answer common questions.

• Drive Traffic: Your YouTube channel acts as a funnel, driving viewers back to your website. Include links in your video descriptions and use calls to action to encourage viewers to learn more or contact you.

• Boost Your Social Media Game: Promote your YouTube videos across your other social media platforms. Share snippets, teasers, and behind-the-scenes content to keep your audience engaged and drive traffic to your channel.

Consistency is Key: The Power of a Schedule

Think of your YouTube channel like a TV show. People tune in when they know what to expect and when to expect it. A regular schedule keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more.

• Pick a Frequency: Start with what’s manageable. Weekly? Bi-weekly? Monthly? The key is consistency.
• Create a Content Calendar: Plan your videos in advance. What topics will you cover? What are your customers’ biggest questions?
• Promote, Promote, Promote: Don’t just upload and forget! Share your videos everywhere you can.

Don’t Forget the “Social” in Social Media

YouTube is a community. Engage with your viewers!

• Respond to comments: Show your audience you’re listening and care about their questions and feedback.
• Ask for suggestions: What kind of videos do they want to see?
• Collaborate with other local businesses: Cross-promote each other’s channels and reach a wider audience.

Ready to Get Started?

Creating a successful YouTube channel takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. Remember to keep it simple, be yourself, and have fun! And if you need help getting started, you know where to find me – Mike Stewart, Local Internet Presence, right here in Nashville and Donelson. Give me a call!