If you are just starting out writing a blog you are probably not thinking about adding guest bloggers
. Though it is not something you have to think about from day one it is something you should think about early on.
They can alleviate some of the burden of having to post on your blog frequently. Guest bloggers can also help keep your blog going during a planned or unplanned absence.
Choosing a Guest Blogger
A guest blogger is someone that can write content for your blog that is relevant to your subject and interesting to your readers. Though they do not have to write in exactly the same style and tone as you do, you generally want them to write in a similar tone.
If you know the blogger you want to ask to be a regular contributor on your site then the screening process is simple. Other options include asking writers for a sample blog posting so you can evaluate their style or choosing a guest blogger from someone who contributes to your blog presently.
The reliability of your guest blogger is crucial.
Introducing Your Guest Blogger
A guest blogger should be introduced to your readers. The introduction should include a brief bio of them as well as information about when they will be posting and if necessary why they will be posting (e.g. if you have a planned absence from your blog).
You can add a guest blogger for comic relief as well. In that case your introduction should be humorous and let your readers know they are in for some fun. It is perfectly fine for your guest blogger or guest bloggers to be posting when you are posting as well.
There are many highly successful blogs that have multiple blog writers. It is not necessary for your blog to be in one voice only. You can have writers with different viewpoints or areas of expertise. You can also have different writers for different topics on your site.
The thing to keep in mind is that though you may control your blog and all of its content, it does not mean that you have to be the sole content creator. Guest bloggers or regular contributors can help your blog stay fresh, interesting and frequently updated.
Even if your blog has not yet been started now is a good time to start thinking about additional writers for your blog.