As a staff writer at 'Home Based Business' we regularly answer questions submitted by our members, one great topic is Internet marketing and using blogs.

Currently there are millions of different web logs, more commonly known as blogs, registered on the Internet. They come in several different forms depending upon which blog host you decide to use; Live Journal, MySpace, Xanga, Blogger, and many more. Each tries to make your small niche in the web unique. Customized page templates, picture adding, music or sound additions, personalized links, networking with friends; you name it, the blogging world has or will probably try to implement it.

Initially the blog had a simple use; to act as an online journal. With easy customizing features that did not require the knowledge of HTML or any other complex web creation tools, anyone anywhere could start a blog for free and work away. Now the blog has expanded and multiple businesses are creating blogs for a variety of purposes. Even Google's AdSense, which allows you to put ads on websites and blogs, has a blog of its own.

Companies utilize blogs for their marketing ability. Even with so many different blogs out on the Internet, knowing how to use a blog in the right way can drive traffic and customers to your site and create sales and income. It can also be used as a method of maintaining good customer service, something that any good online business has.

One of the greatest things about blogs is their easy of use and how quickly you can set up your own blog. Within just a few minutes of signing up to a blogging space, you can already be on your way to helping market your business, an extra bonus is that the majority of blogs are free.

Because blogs began as basic journals and the like, they have still retained an informal tone. You can utilize this kind of tone to help your customers relate to your business and give them the sense that there really is a person behind the storefront. You can use your blog however you want, such as writing about your daily business dealings, your thoughts on the subject, and many other topics.

If you want to stay away from personal thoughts, you can also use your blog as an informal FAQ site. Choosing a blog that allows people (especially non-members of the blog site you choose) to post comments gives them the chance to interact with you on a more one-on-one level. You can post their questions and the answers to them, linking back and forth from your website to your blog, creating traffic flow and potential sales.

Another great thing about blogs is that they archive past blog posts. You can add new product information, changes in your policies, updates to your websites, and all sorts of other information, keeping people up to date on your business. If they missed anything they can easily go back and take a look to catch up. Information is relatively easy to find in a blog, and people who continuously return to read your daily posts make for your best possible customers.

Do not forget the extra bonus of added income. You may have noticed Google's small text ads just about everywhere these days. They are more likely to be clicked upon as they tailor to visitor's specific searches and relevant information, and are much less obnoxious than blaring pop-ups or banner ads. You can also have other affiliate ads on your page - just be sure not to get overboard with your ads or people will avoid your blog entirely.

When creating your blog, make sure to give your readers plenty of opportunities to return to your website and earn you sales; just do not put it in their faces too much. People subscribe to blogs for enjoyment, information, and casual reading. Make a note to keep your content looking good, staying updated and sharp, and remaining unique in the blogging world. Once people continue to return again and again to visit your blog and, even better, your business sites, you will know you have created a successful marketing tool.

The staff at www.homebasedbusiness.com regularly updates the 'Home Based Business' website with new information on the up and coming work at home jobs and other Internet based home businesses opportunities.

Author's Info:Bill Scott Webmaster Homebasedbusiness.com Features Home Based Business and Internet Business Opportunities. It's like a Myspace for entrepreneurs.