Have you ever been scrolling through your favorite blog when suddenly it’s like you hit an infomercial? Like you wish you had your TIVO remote to fast-forward through the canned text and canned pictures? Unfortunately it happens, a blogger gets a cool PR pitch which includes a paycheck or free product and their blog turns into a wooden, impersonal commercial!
It’s totally flattering when a company, organization or ministry asks to use your platform to further their voice. It means they recognize the influence you have! We need to take that honor seriously. Not just for the company, but also for our artistic integrity and especially for our readers!
So, how do we get involved with other folks and still be authentic, personable and honest on our blog? I’ve got a few quick tips for you to try next time you get the opportunity to share about someone else’s awesome ideas. Ready?
1. Only accept products you love! And if you’ve never tried the product, make sure it’s one you think you’re gonna love!
2. Keep your reviews on-topic. If your readers would be baffled by an organic frozen french-fry post on your women’s ministry blog, don’t do it! (Even if you love french fries!)
3. Make sure you write your post after you’ve interacted with the product or company. Read the book, use the material, work with the organization and then write the post. (You don’t want your post to say, “I think this might be awesome!”)
4. If you write about a product launch or the beginning of a company’s campaign (and can’t do #3), make sure to tell your readers it’s new and untested. Then update as you have more interaction with it!
5. Don’t regurgitate the PR pitch and hit publish. Write about YOU and YOUR interaction with the product. Use a personal story, special memory or detailed history of you and the product. (Here’s a fabu example from Amy J Bennet: Fly a Little Higher)
6. Write an incredible post and weave the review into it. Almost surprise your readers that a product is involved in your post. (Here’s a perfect example from Erin: Life-Giver)
7. Get creative and offer readers something to go along with the review. Maybe a family discussion guide to go with a movie review? a free printable that corresponds with the product?
8. If you’re spreading the word about a ministry or social justice organization, start a campaign to actually raise money for the mission!
9. Be generous. Link to the organization’s social media sites, websites, etc. and give a call to action so your readers can get involved (or buy the product), too!
10. Properly disclose your connection with the company or organization. Amy Lynn Andrews has some fabulous tips on how to keep your disclosure above board.
Writing reviews on our blogs gives us the opportunity to shine a light on other like-minded people who have amazing products and are changing the world. I love sharing about new people I meet. I want my readers to love them as much as I do. That’s why it’s important to write with authenticity and heart!
What’s your best tip for writing a fabulous review post?
You belong here! Our heart is to equip you to be an effective Christian communicator.