It's taken a while, but I think many in the camp and conference world finally have a Web site that they're proud of (or at least a site that doesn't embarrass them). Most of the sites have pretty good photos and copy, the navigation works and so does the online registration (most of the time). Is it time for you to consider a blog?
What's the difference? Why blog when you've got a good Web site? (I thought you'd never ask) I heard a great explanation of the difference between the two here today. Thomas Mahon (the world-renowed tailor and creator of English Cut) explains it this way.
A Web site is an image. It's a representation of an idea or a concept. It's your "prepared statement." If you took a dozen photos of yourself, you'd very carefully choose the very best one for your site. You'd make sure your expression was just so and that the lighting was just right. Even if you wanted the shot to look natural, you'd take great pains to pose just right to get the shot you wanted. In fact, it'd be anything BUT natural. The same goes for photos of campers, facilities, sunsets, etc. You'd also inspect every word of the copy to make sure it's telling the stories you want to tell directed to the folks you want to target. Don't get me wrong, you SHOULD do all these things for your Web site.
But a blog is different. A blog is a reflection. A blog is the REAL you. You can't get away with anything less than authenticity on a blog. That's what makes a blog so valuable. It gives folks a chance to get in touch with the real you and that's what they want.
They both have their places. The Web site tells your story to the people you want to reach the most. But a blog reveals who you are. And the blog will attract a tribe like no Web site can. A blog is a place to talk about the things that really matter to you and to your tribe. A blog is a place to unveil your passion for all to see.
One more word about blogs. I believe the best blogs are the ones that are written by actual people. People with faces and names and feelings and fears and passions. Blogs from companies or from organizations or even from ministries aren't nearly as interesting…or as authentic. Save the corporate speak for the Web site. On the blog let me see who you really are.
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