Tips for Managing a Multi-Author Blog
Managing a multi-author blog can be challenging, but with the right processes in place, it can be a rewarding experience. From creating an editorial calendar to communicating effectively with your writers, here are some tips to help you manage your multi-author blog and keep your sanity intact.
1. Always Work Ahead
One of the most important aspects of managing a multi-author blog is staying organized and working ahead. Create an editorial calendar before launching your site and assign topics to your writers in advance. Set deadlines at least a week before the post is scheduled to go live. This gives you time to edit the post, provide feedback to the writer, and ensure that you have content prepared for the site for a few weeks. Working ahead allows you the flexibility to bring posts forward in the publishing schedule to cover any issues that may arise with your writers.
2. Create a “Write For Us” Page
If you are open to being pitched by writers, it’s essential to have a dedicated page on your blog that makes it easy for them to approach you. This page should include all the information writers need to pitch you correctly, such as a link to your contributor guidelines or a method for them to enter their information. By having a clear process in place, you can save time and avoid wading through pitches that may not be appropriate for your site as it grows.
3. Assign a Single Editor
In the beginning, it’s important to have a single editorial voice for your blog. Whether it’s you or someone you hire, this editor should have a hand in every post published on your site. Having a single editor, along with contributor guidelines, ensures consistency in style throughout the site, benefiting both your writers and readers. As your site grows, you may need to add additional editors for various sections or due to workload. Promoting regular contributors who have shown their quality can be an effective way to fill these positions, as they are already familiar with the site’s style and can enforce it with new writers.
4. Create a Writer Database
With multiple writers contributing to your blog, it’s important to keep track of their information, assignments, and contact details. Creating a writer database, whether it’s a simple spreadsheet or an online CRM tool, allows you to stay organized and easily access this information. Update the database regularly with new writers and assignments to ensure everything is up to date.
5. Communicate With Your Writers
Regular communication with your writers is crucial for a successful multi-author blog. This can range from having a canned response email for new writers to providing feedback on drafts. The more you communicate with your writers, especially when they first start working for you, the better the results will be. Be available to answer their questions and provide feedback if needed. Promptly communicate with them when it’s time to pay for their work, as delayed payments can sour working relationships.
6. Showcase Your Writers
Give your writers recognition and showcase their work on your blog. Use plugins like Fanciest Author Box to create author profiles and bylines for each writer. This not only boosts their morale but also provides free marketing when they share their work on social media. Consider creating a contributor’s page that lists all your writers and gives them pride of ownership over their work. Additionally, give regular contributors a “promotion” by assigning them titles like “Senior Writer” or making them lead writers for specific topics. This increases their profile and motivates them to produce high-quality content.
In conclusion, managing a multi-author blog requires organization, effective communication, and recognition of your writers’ contributions. By implementing these tips, you can successfully manage your blog and foster a positive working environment for your writers.
