Marketing With Articles The Smart Way

You've probably heard about article marketing and how important it is for getting exposure for your ideas and expertise on the Web.

In the consulting work we do with professionals who want to get known and get found on the Web, we recommend writing articles and submitting them to directories as a key strategy.

Submitting short articles to directories that demonstrate your knowledge helps in a number of ways:

1. Drives targeted traffic to your blog or website.
2. Builds your credibility with prospects looking for the type of services you provide.
3. Helps set you apart from your competition.
4. Highlights your expertise and personality.

Submitting your articles to top directories such as EzineArticles.com helps people who are searching for your area of expertise, find the information they want., By allowing people to use your articles (with your resource box intact) on their website or in their ezine, you reach a wider audience and get more links back to your site.

The key is writing short relevant articles (250-450 words) that demonstrate your expertise. Here are a few ways to find content ideas:

1. What problem/pain point are you solving for a client this week?
2. Write out 5-7 reasons your product or service is valuable.
3. What three tips would help your clients' save time, money or energy?
4. What are you blogging about this week?
5. Who have you interviewed recently?
6. What frequently asked questions do you typically get?
7. What articles do you already have in your library, which can be expanded?
8. Is there a holiday, current event or celebrity news item you can hook into your expertise?
9. Have you read a good book lately? Comment on a key idea that can make your readers' lives better.
10. What mistake have you made that others can relate to? (Besides ending a sentence with a dangling participle!)

A few more tips: let go of perfection when it comes to writing. Most people read at far less than a college level (8th or 10th grade); you'll do just fine if you give plenty of value. This usually means writing with both your head and your heart.

Keep your article short, personable, and to the point. This article is about 369 words, is written at the 7th grade level, and delivers several key points about marketing your business with articles.