Dec
7
2011

What Dating Can Teach You about Dealing with Bad Guest Writers

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To the SEO world, if you’re like me and do any link prospecting, you’ve basically been on hundreds of dates to find a good relationship (I’m not sure what a real life comparison to an email blast is, but when you figure it out, let me know). While prospecting for guest posts about the latest travel adapter or handbags, I’ve had some bad writers in the past where they “were not what I’m looking for,” ends with a furious, insulting email, and leads to guest post writing trust issues.

After the third or fourth failure, you feel like giving up on playing the field of guest bloggers. But before you deem yourself single and writing all your lonely guest posts on your own, remember that like dating, guest publishing is a learning process. Here are ten things I’ve learned through link-building (and dating) to help you through the grieving process and get back on your feet. Don’t resort to a bucket of ice cream and the Carousel episode of Mad Men just yet. You’re better than that.

1. You’re not linkbuilding with robots, but real people. If you treat the person on the other end like a real person and not an someone providing you favors (links), things will start off a lot better.

2. You’ve been hurt. If you’re not sure about exchanging posts, let them know you’ve had “bad relationships” in the past that have given you “guest blogger trust issues.” Tell them you’ll review their post, and you’ll publish it pending it’s up to your standards.

3. Get creative to make it a win-win. If you read their outreach response and their writing hints there’s bumpy waters ahead, assign a research-intensive subject or photo-heavy post. This way, they’ll still get credit even if all you have to do is change the wording.

4. Second chances are a good thing. Give them an opportunity to edit their post or write a new one before you dump them. The additional time will also give them time to post your already-submitted article.

5. Soften the break-up. If you don’t see their work in your future, offer constructive feedback and perhaps a few other blog publishers you’ve had success with to lighten the blow. Remember to take spiteful words with a grain of salt – you don’t want to burn any bridges!
By: Nate Schrader