Friends, If you enjoy blogging, writing, and sharing online this is the post for you.I have completed two classes taught by author, instructor, blogger, and an all around inspiration Holly Becker (and photo credit: decor8). Last fall I took her class on Blogging: style and intention, the class I just completed was a beginner/all levels class on writing, branding, adding visual content, social media, and defining yourself as a blogger.
The class included lessons three days a week, over fifty lessons total, plus a weekly homework assignment.
OBSERVATIONS
Out of 350 students, I was the only book blogger in the class. I learned so much, it sounds like blogging trends are expected to change over the next year.
HOMEWORK
Throughout class we were asked to pick blogs we read, for ideas, trends, noting like/dislike about the formats etc. I picked three book blogs, and two other blogs I enjoy reading. Let’s get to it…. I have a few questions for you, and tips to help freshen up your blog:
What kind of blogger are you? In one or two sentences, write your mission statement for your blog. Can you find mine?
When was the last time you updated your about page? Do you have one? With a paragraph or two, to explain your vision and point of view? It’s important to remember you are the editor-in-chief of the online magazine you publish, your blog. A few blogs I visited for homework haven't been updated in years. Think of the first impression you are giving to publishers and author's who visit your blog.
Successful blogs have a focus. The more focus, the stronger your identity. A topic we discussed a lot in class, which was good for me. This was an issue for me but now I'm happy to say that once again I'm blogging with intent.
Writing online. Write from the heart. It gives you exclusive content on your blog, your personal style. Here are a few tips every blogger should remember: do NOT overuse bold, avoid text lingo like LOL, the use of ALL CAPS, and exclamation marks!!!!!!! It lacks sincerity as you’re trying to tell your readers. Challenge yourself to use words to communicate your points.
Look at your blog with a critical eye, what can you remove? Do you need all the badges and extras you have on display or are they making your blog too busy for your reader? Less is usually better.
LOOKING AHEAD
I would love to see you in class next fall. I'm planning to attend “Visual Story Telling”, September 1-12. Followed by a blog boot camp (details not available yet), October 24-Nov 21, 2014.
I'm ready for the future of blogging, are you?
