The first question I ask once I’ve written a blog post is, will anyone actually want to read this? The next question I ask is, does the post actually provide value to whoever does read it?

You’ve probably worked out by now that I ask myself a lot of questions while I’m writing blog posts, and even once they’re finished I second guess whether what I’ve written is worth reading. I pretty much doubt everything I do every time I do it. That is why comments and shares are so important. They really do make it feel as though someone has appreciated the effort put in.

How to Know Whether You Provide Value

If you start by asking yourself similar questions then you are halfway to providing value before you even start. To know that you intend to provide information, to inspire and encourage your readers, to assist with promoting brands and services then that is your purpose. Once you know your purpose then you can focus on how to turn it into something meaningful.

It doesn’t matter whether you want to start your own business, find a new job or turn your blog into something more profitable, you need to know your purpose and that the content, product or service you are offering will be consistent. Once you know this, you can work to ensure that what you create provides that all important value and benefit.

One way to find your purpose is to imagine who your ideal reader (or customer) is and how you want to help them, and also think about the positive impact you wish to have and then use that as your motivation.

The problem with questioning your own value and trying to determine your impact on others is that you can unintentionally make yourself feel incredibly small and insignificant. The words value and impact can be quite intimidating if you associate them with large acts such as saving lives, but if you think smaller, ie. making someone smile, encourage them to do something that they enjoy, or help them to simplify a task.

The smallest piece of information or encouragement can provide value to someone who is lacking in confidence or the skills to do what they want to do. Your words and actions could be exactly what they are looking for.

How do you know if you provide value to your readers?

Let me know in the comments.