Can Your Blog Make You Money Offline?

There’s a new wave of emerging businesses that are choosing to use their blogs to make money both online and off in their local areas. Could your blog be the key to an entirely untapped revenue stream from your local neighborhoods?

What is a semi-local business?

A semi-local business is one that offers a portion of its products or services virtually via the internet and another portion offline through traditional methods or word-of-mouth marketing. They are much less susceptible to risks involving say…Google Panda updates…as they typically have a more diversified income stream.

How can my blog be semi-local?

Whether you realize it or not, chances are you’re already close to having a semi-local business straight from your blog. Think about what you blog about. Is it internet marketing? Do you blog about graphic design or copywriting? Maybe you blog about making money online or weight loss? These are all very popular markets online, and those same people exist in the offline world – many of them who still don’t know how to search for the best solutions to their problems online.

All you need to do is transition your approach to an offline world. There are markets that aren’t traditionally found online. When was the last time you saw a plumber with an extensive internet marketing campaign? These businesses can be great candidates for coaching or consulting. Do you offer services as a freelance writer? You’d be surprised how many businesses benefit from a well-worded billboard, Yellowpage or newspaper ad. All it takes is a little creative thinking to transition your online blog into a semi-local offline business.

How do I find customers offline?

Referrals have always been and always will be the best source of business anywhere. When looking for customers in a new market, tap into the folks you know. Have some affordable business cards or brochures printed up and give them to your friends. Include all your services/products, contact details, customer support, preferably with an 800 number, to further encourage people to get in touch with you. Just be sure not to invest so much on your printing and 0800 numbers cost.

Offline marketing has always been more expensive option than with the internet. The marketing industry offline has existed for centuries longer than the internet has. But you’re already set up with affordable rates and brilliant offers because of your online experience. You have a natural advantage due to your access to virtual assistants, partnerships and online tools. The only difference will be the occasional in-person visit to potential clients.

How Can I Learn More About Becoming Semi-Local?

Danny Iny over at Firepole Marketing has put together a fantastic survey for semi-local businesses or those interested in making the transition to a semi-local business model. Be sure to check out that survey, fill it out and then stay tuned for the results. It will run from October 10th to the 15th. The survey will generate lots of information for those interested in a semi-local approach to their online businesses about making this kind of transition and understanding what’s really involved. You can check out the survey here.

Final Thoughts

So are you ready to experiment with a new approach to making money with your blog? I would love to hear about your experiences if you’ve already tried something similar! In the blogosphere, the first to arrive at a new trend are always the ones to profit the most! Could this be the next move for your blog?