Who's in Your Fave Five? And who really should be...

FIVE FRIENDS NO SUCCESSFUL WRITER SHOULD LIVE WITHOUT...

As solitary professionals, writers don't often have the luxury of cultivating (and maintaining) workplace friendships like those in the corporate arena.

Other than the mailman, and the folks we meet and greet at the local coffee shop, which sometimes serves as our "office", we're on our own.

There are no "water cooler" conversations, juicy office gossip, or gripes with a bad boss that binds us. Of course, we do have social media that allows us to connect and share "Tweets" with our "peeps"; but it's not quite the same.

You, "my friend", need to have friends beyond the virtual world. You need to have a support system of solid people of whom you can rely. And no, your pet doesn't count. :-)

As such, here are five folks that I believe that every serious writer should add to their V.I.P. list, for a more enriching experience, and more successful career.
See if you agree.

1. THE TECH GUY
Of all my professional challenges, I am most stumped by technology. Hacks, attacks, and things that go whack! Oh my! Lucky for me that I was blessed to meet a guy some years ago that has provided some serious on-site assistance-- with software installation, virus attacks, and general maintenance. He's a true life saver. Which brings to mind, a while back ago, when my laptop went out on me in the middle of a very important (and lucrative) client's project and he provided a "loaner" at the last minute. Thanks, Emmanuel!

2. THE LOCAL LIBRARIAN
My friend Deb is bright, helpful, and resourceful. If I need reliable statistics for a proposal I'm pitching, she'll either provide the research, or steer me in the right direction. She recommends good reads, and is always well informed about things going on in the literary community.

3. THE CONSUMMATE "CHEERLEADER"
You've gotten a rejection letter from an editor that really cut you to the core. Or you're working hard, but seem to be going nowhere. Or a client pink-slips you. Who do you call? Well, for me, it's typically my friend, "Red". As a creative artist too, she sometimes knows my pain and understands my struggles. She reminds me of all I've accomplished. She also has a good sense of humor, which allows me to "lighten up" when needed.

4. THE "DO I LOOK FAT IN THESE JEANS?" FRIEND
When you can't really be objective about your work, and need someone to provide a reality check,  this individual helps you keep your head on straight, and keep your wits about you. Accepting the "honors" for this award is my mom.

5. THE CREDENTIALED EXPERT 
Every writer knows that a good quote provides extra "oomph" and greater credibility to feature pieces and interviews. The problem? Many times credentialed go-to gurus are busy with their own projects, or you may feel intimidated to reach out to them. I'm so fortunate to have noted authors like Noelle Sterne, Wendy Burt, and William July, (and more folks than I can mention here) to go to. I greatly appreciate their time, wisdom and expertise.

Well, that concludes our time together today, my "peeps".  :-)
Jen will be on break officially March 1st, but will be checking in periodically; so do keep in touch!
B/T/W Thanks so much readers, for being a "friend" of Pen and Prosper.
Pen & Prosper has just reached the 100,000 page views mark!

Your turn.
Thoughts? Do you agree or disagree? Who's in your "fave five"?
Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Friction With Your Fiction? Guest Post by C. Hope Clark of Funds for Writers

10 Tips to Becoming a Better Storyteller Besides Taking a Drink

All of us tell stories. However, some of us become phenomenal storytellers after a couple of drinks. Why is that? Maybe we are overly anxious to get to the point, or we want to take advantage of the partiers surrounding us at a gathering where we happened upon those drinks. As fiction authors, we can learn much from barroom storytelling.

 

When we are “loosened up” at a party, we are prompted to perform. We sense we have a limited time to tell the story because, after all, others are primed to tell stories of their own, so we have THIS moment to make a splash. And we realize that the more animated we tell the story, the more intensely our friends lean in and listen.

 

Here are ten pointers to improve our storytelling without cracking open a bottle:

1) Open with a hook.

Such a simple word of advice that few people master. In a room full of storytellers, who gets to tell the story first? The person with the best hook; the hook that makes everyone hush, turn and tune in. Your fiction must grab from the start. Sliding into a story is like taking kids on a vacation and telling them for 300 miles that “we’re almost there.” They quit believing in you.

2) Cut the backstory.

Attention span of readers, and inebriated listeners, is limited. If we don’t make a strong point, they drift away. If they don’t need to know where the characters came from, who they are related to, what the weather is, or where they work then leave it out. Besides, you can slip this information in the story here and there along the way.

3) Use impressive verbs.

After you write your story, or the opening chapter, go back and highlight WAS, WERE, BEEN, BE and HAD. Replace ninety percent of them with action verbs, creative verbs, and verbs that make your senses sit up and take notice.

4) Use all your senses.

We love to use LOOK in our storytelling. Not only are there three dozen other words for LOOK, but there are four other senses as well that can define a character’s moment, the setting, or action. In a bar we’re surrounded by those senses. Use them while hunched over your keyboard, too.

5) Get into your character’s head.

Lack of Internal Monologue is a common sign of a novice. When he is surprised, let us in on what he’s thinking. When he’s sad, give us insight to his pain. Let readers into his head to make the story more three-dimensional. A barroom storyteller will at least say, “and then he thought…”

6) Show don’t tell.

An exciting storyteller will feed listeners colorful language instead of “he did this, then he did that, and then he found this and he found that.” Attention span is short with listeners, even shorter with readers seeking a story to read from amongst the millions available. Showing puts the reader into the story as fast as any hook.

7) Make dialogue believable.

Listeners taking in a story know which character is speaking because the storyteller is speaking differently with each one, changing his voice, throwing in dialect, and choosing styles unique to each player. You don’t even have to hear, “he said” and then “she said” because you hear the difference. When you can read dialogue without tags and still follow the story, the author has performed well.

8) Don’t stereotype emotion.

The character didn’t feel angry. He threw his glass against the wall. She didn’t feel sad. She laid her head on the quilt and soaked it with tears. He didn’t regret his actions. He stared at his feet, shoulders drooped. She wasn’t overwhelmed. She backed into the corner, palms flat on the walls. Think movie action.

9) Use metaphors but avoid cliché.

The best metaphors come from barroom stories and original thought. “Her story was thin as cheap toilet paper.” “His voice bounced off buildings three counties away.” “His words stunned me, like learning your church-going mother liked bourbon neat.”

10) Make the ending smack hard and stick with the reader.

When we listen to a tall tale, the build-up has its limitations. Ever heard someone tell a story, building a never-ending crescendo to the punch line? Ever get there and realize the over-dramatized build-up killed the ending? Make a dramatic, remarkable, never-saw-it-coming final point loaded with WOWs and AHAs, where the reader suddenly realizes all those clues you sprinkled along the way made perfect sense.

You don’t need to over-indulge to write your stories, but putting yourself in the mind of a lit-up storyteller might remind you how stories need more than the mundane to capture a reader.

BIO

C. Hope Clark is editor of the award-winning FundsforWriters.com and author of the likewise award-winning Carolina Slade Mystery Series, set in rural South Carolina. Lowcountry Bribe, February 2012, takes place on beautiful, secluded Edisto Island when a farmer offers a bribe and Slade learns that following the book can lead to losing her job, life and family. Tidewater Murder comes out in April 2013, and takes Slade to Beaufort amidst slaves, voodoo, drugs and a tomato industry that isn’t what it seems. Available at all bookstores. www.chopeclark.com / www.fundsforwriters.com

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

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Move...CLIENT--ELLEN SCHERR...CLIENT--OPEN COLLEGE...FINANCIAL-LOANS DUEGHOST CLIENT-GREENE-...JENS FAN MAILMISCELLANEOUS

News You Can Use-Weekend Announcements

It's been a busy and blessed month. And I am happy to be sharing with you some of the activities that have rounded out this month nicely---along with useful tips and quips. Before I begin, I'd like to extend a warm hello to my new followers for 2013. It's a pleasure to have you join us.
Now, on with the news...

• Acceptances---I recently discovered that I have two short motivational stories that are slated to be published in an anthology for women in March. Yay! Stay tuned for details.
• Guest Posting Opportunities---Have you heard? Two of the most popular sites for bloggers have decided to discontinue guest posts for 2013 and "focus on quality content". Yep, it's true. According to what I've read, PRO BLOGGER and DAILY BLOG TIPS, will no longer be accepting guest posts from bloggers, until further notice.  
• For those of you still interested in using guest posting to increase your visibility and to "make friends and influence people," The Renegade Writer with Linda Formichelli, pays 50 bucks for accepted submissions.
• Online Classes---Seeking to hone your craft and increase your cash? Coffeehouseforwriters.com is your connection for all things creative. Popular, affordable classes are offered year-round for writers of all levels and genres. Register today at Coffeehouseforwriters.com.
• In the market for signs or business cards for promotional purposes? Signazon.com offers an array of products to suit your needs and great customer service to enhance your shopping experience. I recently ordered cards from their company, and was pleased when my merchandise arrived.  
• March is Women's History Month---It's a great time for pitching stories and profiles honoring women of achievement. Or perhaps to feature blog posts from successful female bloggers or entrepreneurs. Be creative and courageous.
• Tax time is here. Make sure to have the necessary receipts and paperwork to avail yourselves to as many credits and deductions for which you are entitled as freelance professionals. Consult a qualified tax preparer for more details.  
• Looking for "Contest Clues?"--- Author Wendy Burt shares a load of listings on her site here.
• Tech Issues---My apologies for any spam or formatting glitches. As much as I try, some things are unfortunately beyond my control. 
• Black History Month---This month is Black History Month. I am honored and grateful to recognize the many contributions and services of African Americans, past and present.
• Blogging Break---Jen will not be "in" from March 1st-March 7th, to work on some important projects and spend some quality time with chocolates. :-)  

That's it for today, folks. Have a great week.
Feel free to share any news you have, or comments as well.

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Are You Following All the "Cool Kids" Online? How to Use "Social Proof" Properly

Remember back in high school, when being part of the "in-crowd" made you cool?
How "group think" influenced what we wore, who we hung out with, and what we valued?

Let's face it: we were immature, impressionable, and many times lacked the confidence and cognitive ability to think on our own and stand up for what we believed in.
And nobody, (heaven forbid) wanted to stand out and be considered different.
True?

Pretty silly, huh? :-)
Though times have changed, a similar scenario plays out when it comes to, "cliques," blog following and online worship. It's a phenomenon known as "Social Proof".

What is it? I'm glad you asked.

Social Proof is a behavioral term that loosely translated, means that when people, uncertain of how they should act, will choose to follow the activities and actions of the masses.

In other words, if a person visits a new blog and sees a large subscriber count, he or she would be more inclined to join it, as opposed to one where there are few noted followers. Or, take for example, how popular "Tweets" are shared over and over, sometimes with little regard to content or credibility. "Perceived value" is really what is at work here.

So, what's my point?

Social Proof, when used properly, can have positive results. But it can also be misleading and restrict our choices, (not to mention, stunt our intellectual growth) .

With this in mind, here are a few things to consider before conforming to Social Proof.

•  The popular choice is not always the best choice. It depends on individual circumstances, values, and personal taste. Here's a case in point. Sometimes I have opted to see movies at the show based upon ratings and box office earnings. I naturally assumed that the more popular the flick, the more likely it would be "quality" entertainment, and worth my money and time. Wrong! I don't always agree with the "Red Carpet" choices, and frankly, neither should you. 
• Though it's great to "follow the pack" sometimes, make sure that there's something in it for you--not just the prestige of association. For example, some folks will follow the "big name" bloggers, not because they necessarily deem them better than the rest of us mere mortals, but because it's what everybody else is doing. Sometimes, the "road less traveled" can lead to some great discoveries. Be open to it. Venture your own path.
• Readers will often post comments to these A-list sites in order to be seen and validated. Don't get me wrong; many of the "cool kids" online merit popularity, but some may not. Diversify. You just might find that there's quality content and valuable connections with lesser known bloggers as well. Just like the cool kids, us Nerds need love too. :-)
• Size is not always a qualifier of quality.

To get the best online experience and discover the sites that are uniquely suited for your needs, interests and goals, "you better shop around."

Thoughts?
Agree or disagree? How would you define a "small" Blog?
Do you follow the "cool kids"? Do tell. :-)

What's Your Biggest Writing Related Stress?

Stress. It's a small word with major impact. And everybody deals with it at one time or another--whether you're a doctor, lawyer, teacher, baker, or candlestick maker.

And writers? We have more than our share.
From freelance clients that don't pay as promised, to "lost" files, to writer's block, to editors who are sometimes in "poor form". :-)

But there's good news. Not all stress is bad.
For example, some individuals admit to actually performing better when they're under the stress of last minute deadlines and flying by the seat of their pants. While the stress of potentially losing their job has motivated others to peak performance.

The key here?
It all comes down to a matter of perception: in other words stress is all in your mind.
According to Dr. Serena Wadhwa, of Triqual Living: "We require a certain amount of stress that allows us to feel challenged, stimulated, and energized. When we are "understressed" or "overstressed' this reduces our ability to stretch ourselves and grow. Most people do well with an "optimal" level."

It's important to note that certain life events can be contributing factors to stress as well.
Here are some of the most common, (in no particular order).

• Death of a spouse, friend, or family member
• Losing a job
• Divorce
• Major illness
• Marriage
• Retirement

Regardless as to the source of it, we all need to govern how much negative stress we're exposed to on an ongoing basis.

Why? Because according to WebMD, stress can compromise the immune system, create sleep problems, raise blood pressure levels, and have a negative impact on our overall mental and physical functioning.

Got stress?

Here's what a few other scribes reveal about the source of their writing-related headaches.
See if you can relate.

MARCIE HILL---Journalist and Blogger

"My biggest writing-related stress is editing my own work. In my mind, good is not good enough even when the work is ideal and ready for submission."

A.D. MOORE---Poet and Author

"Getting paid."

AUTHOR DONNA CLARK GOODRICH shares, "That's easy---time!"

RED THE POET

"Having my work left up to interpretation." 

Though stress can sometimes be inevitable, here are some ways to calm the madness and make your writing life more manageable:

1. Work ahead of deadlines.
Waiting until the last minute to tackle an important writing assignment is always risky.  Anything could happen. You could get sick. Your computer could go down. Murphy's law is real. Be sure to devote quality time for quality results.

2. Seek balance.
Work hard, but play hard too. They both have an important role in your success as a writer. Think of it like the yin and yang of nature.

3. Remember to see the humor in things.
Studies show that laughter is therapeutic.

4. Have a good support system.
Whether it's your best friend, your critique group, or other writing buddies--having someone to bounce creative ideas off of, or merely to vent can make a difference.

5. Recognize that some things are beyond your control.
Do your best. Pray about the rest. :-)

"For fast-acting relief, slow down."---Lily Tomlin

YOUR TURN.
Inquiring minds wanna know...what's your biggest writing related stress?
Do tell.


Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

A Valentine's Day Tribute** A Love Letter to my Readers...

Okay, so I know that some of you are not really into P.D.A. (Public displays of affection), but allow me this one indulgence. J
We typically associate Valentine’s Day with romantic lovers.

It’s a time that celebrates couples that have committed to each other through words and actions, and honors their union.
It’s a special day of Hallmark cards, red roses, sweet chocolates, and heart-felt expressions.
And it serves as a reminder that we need to not take that love for granted, if we want to keep it.
Love needs to be nurtured and acknowledged.
But, you must admit that there are many forms of love. True?

With this in mind, I thought that it would be a “sweet” idea to take a break from the usual posts here, and pay tribute to you, my dearest readers, for February 14th.

In the words of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways…”

1. I love that many of you have been loyal supporters throughout the years. You’ve been with me through good times and bad, through learning curves and trial and error, through formatting issues and glitches, in sickness and in health. Like romantic love, we’ve truly “grown” together.

2. I love that you “woo” me with your comments. Blogging by nature is intended to be interactive. Don’t you just hate feeling “unheard”? Me too. Your Blog comments help me to feel “heard”. They allow me to know your thoughts, to determine the direction of future posts. They challenge my way of thinking, affirm my beliefs, and broaden my knowledge base. Like romantic love, give and take is important.

3. I love that you make time for us. There are so many other things you could be doing when you visit. So many other blogs that beckon. Some of you read me on weekends. Some of you check in late at night when the house is quiet, and you have a little alone time. Some of you never miss a week of commenting and connecting. Heck, some of you even read me at work, when you’re not even on break. LOL Don’t worry your secret is safe. Like romantic love, quality time is important.

4. I love that we encourage each other. On days when editors’ harsh words forget that there’s a human being behind that rejected submission, you keep me going. Sometimes I laugh at our lives as writers, or relate to an “inside joke” that only those of us that have chosen this path would understand. Like romantic love, support is important.

5. I love that we show respect. Even though we may not always agree, I truly appreciate that you allow me to speak my mind and be who I am. And I follow suit as well. Like romantic love, opposites often attract. :-)
　

I could go on and on here, but I fear more “mush” might only embarrass you. :-) I merely want you to know, that this Valentine’s Day, I send these words of love out into the universe, to say thank you for all you do. Each and every one of you.
I appreciate your readership, your support, your time, and your confidence. (And I should mention, your guest posts as well.)
Whether you’re a new follower, or one of my long-time regulars, I look forward to spending more time together in days to come!

Like romantic love, you’re just my type. :-)

Warmly,
Jen

Pen and Prosper

Find Inspiration for Your Next Blog Post in the World Around You!

Guest Post: By Janette Dolores

Has Your Blogging Muse Left You High and Dry?
Find Inspiration for Your Next Blog Post in the World Around You...

We bloggers appreciate the wealth of opportunities that blogging provides.
Blogging gives us a forum where we can showcase our creativity, enlighten our readers and forge contacts in the writing world. Despite this, some of us may have experienced…well…a love-hate relationship with our blogs.

In fact, sometimes we'll fear that our muse is "missing in action" as we sit at the computer, rack our brain for our next blog post topic and come up with nada. Nothing we consider engaging or illuminating or even entertaining, anyway. 

If you’ve ever found yourself distraught that your idea-well has run dry, take heart! Inspiration is all around you. You need only take a moment to slow down and notice it.

Consider these five sources of blogging inspiration, all available at your fingertips:

1. The Calendar
The time of year can provide a treasure trove of blogging topics. Women’s History Month may invigorate you to write a post on the victories of female trailblazers. Is Independence Day on the horizon? Craft a short piece on the history of these great United States. Holidays such as Thanksgiving, Chanukah and Christmas all lend themselves to posts on tradition, family, spirituality and travel. The wintertime is an apt time for posts on illness-prevention, and the summertime may spark a post on your most memorable road trips from years gone by.

2. Billboards and Signs
There is some interesting signage out there that can serve as a springboard for blog posts. On my blog, one of my most widely-read posts emerged from the following statement: “To be loved, be lovable.” This sage one-liner with universal appeal caught my eye as I was driving home one day. Where was it written? On a church billboard. Likewise, a “No Trespassing” sign I saw on a driveway shared by two houses spurred me to write one post on respecting boundaries, and another on striking the right balance between your needs and those of others.

3. Interviews of Your Friends and Family
You may not be aware of how many accomplished, dynamic people you know until you show an interest in their history. Ask your friends and family questions about their childhood, countries they’ve visited, jobs they’ve held or dreams they’ve had. You may know a war veteran, a champion of the less fortunate, a homeschooling parent of three or an aspiring artist. I know a former paralegal who had taken acting classes at night for years. Since she and I both write, she shared with me that she had written a play and joined a theater group. Before I knew it, she was performing her play on a Manhattan stage to rave reviews. I was so inspired by her story that I interviewed her for what would become one of my first blog posts.

4. Interactions Going on Around You
Reality check: I’m not advocating staring a hole through people here, everybody. What I’m referring to in this point is simply sitting in the park or a coffee shop and being moved to write by the tender hand-holding of an elderly couple, or the giggles of college kids daring each other to jump into a park fountain. I once witnessed an interaction between a harried restaurant employee and his badgering boss. That motivated me to pen a piece on redirecting your life’s course to invest in a more enjoyable future, even if you have to take those first bold steps afraid.

5. Book or Movie Reviews
Sometimes we need to savor someone else’s creativity to prod our writing muse awake. Drop by your local bookstore and purchase that book you’ve been meaning to read or watch that highly-touted movie and then write about it. People routinely buy books and rent films based on the recommendations of others, so why not get pay for your say?

In short, the next time you find yourself staring at the computer screen, frustrated that ideas aren’t flowing forth, take a breath, notice the world around you and be inspired!

Janette Dolores is a devoted mom, wife, and blogger. She is passionate about family and spirituality, and draws inspiration for her writing from everyday experiences. Read more of her posts at www.janettedolores.com.

Any of these ideas resonate? What inspires you, writers?
　

　
Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Should Blogging Be a "Write of Passage" For All Serious Scribes?

 

 
Blog. Never has such a small word done so much for so many.
Like a superhero, it rescues!
It’s a noun. It’s a verb.
It’s a marketing tool.
It’s a medium for rants.
It's a means for building online communities globally.

So popular, in fact, that real estate icon, Donald Trump has his own "virtual real estate".

Blogs have launched book deals and transformed writers from anonymity to noted authors.
They’ve even been deemed the “new black”.
Practically everybody’s on board.

But, should they be?
Specifically, should all “serious” writers be?

This topic comes to mind as a result of an “ah-ha” moment I experienced some time ago.

You know, when a light bulbs goes off in your head and you make an important discovery that perhaps changes your way of thinking, or confirms significantly a pre-held belief.

To better explain, let’s do a rewind first…

Some time ago, I put out a “call for submissions” for a creative project, asking writers of all backgrounds to submit guest posts for consideration. I was initially tickled pink with the response; I got journalists, authors, teachers, and poets, from various corners of the world and numerous niches. Oh my!

Excitedly, a few days later, I went through the entries to determine who would make the final cut, having received more than enough to meet my goal. Then something unexpected happened.
Much to my regret, many I couldn't use.

Though I was very appreciative of the interest and the effort, more than a few missed the mark.
Some pieces were way too long and bordering on boring, others were too scholarly, some lacked a conversational tone, while others were too technical.

My conclusion?
Not all writers are necessarily bloggers, nor should they be. It depends on different factors. Interest. Time. An interesting personality. The ability to engage an audience. The subject matter.
Wouldn't you agree?

Even though I admit blogging isn't exactly "rocket science", it's still a "skill".
At least to do it well, it is.

To get a broader perspective on this timely topic, I polled a few writers, and here's what they offered:

"All serious writers should blog if they want to increase their visibility and reach....meaning their platform. Platform equates to book sales. That said, they have to create engaging blogs related to the topic of their books (so the blog posts have keywords that create discoverability in search engines) and that have readers who actually share their posts and mention them on social networks. When writers achieve this type of influence on social media their books sell. Their blog readers become their buyers and their co-promoters.

Writers write. They don't like to promote. But they have to be good businesspeople, too. That means they have to be good promoters. The easiest way for them to do that is with an engaging blog that gives them influence as well as makes them easy to find in the search engines."

 

---Nina Amir, Author of "How to Blog a Book"

"I'd like to begin with the notion of "serious writer?" What makes one a serious writer versus a non-serious writer? Does one have to be a professional writer to be considered serious? A writer of literary prose? Can someone who earns their living writing erotica, romance mystery or any other genre writing quality to wear the title "serious writer?" It seems as though a "serious writer" is a value judgment and subject to a variety of opinions. So, it stands to reason that "writers who blog" may also fall under some type of scrunity for blogging or not. It's 21 century technology, so is one a more serious writer if he or she blogs or should one be taken less seriously for wasting precious time blogging when one could be using that time to hone his or her craft for real writing? Writers--serious or not--should blog if that is something they feel compelled to do and for no other reason than that. I'm sure there are plenty of "serious writers" who do and some who don't, but they are writers

non-the-less."

 

---Stephanie J. Gates
Educator/Freelance writer/Editor/Blogger

 

" I think that it's a good idea for serious writers to blog. It helps build an online presence and connections, and offers another way to sharpen writing skills. There are hidden treasures found in blogging, from friendships to info gained from other blogs and beyond. I don't think it's a mandatory thing, for if it's a choice between getting other, more pressing writing done and blogging,
I'd say choose the other writing. As with everything, there's a balance to be had."

---Karen E. Lange
Coffeehouse for Writers, Instructor

"I think most professional writers don't have time to blog! But
blogging is a nice way of networking online and connecting with
readers directly. It also depends on the type of blog. For example, I
use my blog simply to announce new publications of my articles, but
don't actually write any posts."

---Ms. B, Freelance Writer

 

"I think all serious bloggers should blog for two main reasons. First, it keeps them on a consistent writing or blogging schedule. Second, their consistency shows their level of commitment."

 

---Marcie Hill, Journalist and Blogger

"For me, it's a break from work for clients. Yet it establishes my expertise in my area."

---Steve, Restaurant Reviewer and freelance writer

 

I still, however, maintain that there are definitely more benefits than drawbacks to blogging, for most scribes.

 

Here are a few based upon my many years as a professional writer.

•  Blogging builds community and allows writers to get direct feedback for their work.
• Blogging helps to hone your writer's voice.
• Blogging allows writers the freedom of speaking their own truths without editorial scrutiny or dictates.
• Blogging helps to establish your "brand".
• Blogging helps to improve your search engine rankings.

That's my take here. What's yours?

Why "One Size Fits All" Blogging is Not the Best Approach

I'm always amazed when I'm out shopping and trying on clothes that claim, "one size fits all"... only to find... it really doesn't. :-) Unfortunately, that generic, all-inclusive labeling is a misnomer for many reasons.
But, I imagine it gives designers and stores more bang for their buck.

Rarely does the "one size fits all" approach serve its intended purpose.
And I find that blogging is no different.

Yet, so often, bloggers will research other successful blogs and try to emulate their success by writing on the same topics, following the same format, using similar constructs, and showing very little originality and authenticity. And it almost never works.

Don't get me wrong; I think that it behooves us to study what Darren Rowse is doing right.
And I think it's important to examine other successful bloggers in various niches to see what they're "up to," to make decisions on our blogging journey based upon what we discover.

But, with so much competition these days, you better be bringing something more to the table, baby!
If your blog followers wanted to read the thoughts, voice and style of other bloggers, they'd be reading them. Hello?

With this in mind, here's what your blog project should take into consideration to be a successful pursuit:

1. Your Goals
In other words, are you blogging to entertain? To educate? To rant? To raise consciousness of an important cause? Your goals will determine your game plan.

2. Your Target Audience
Sometimes, particularly with newbie bloggers, there is a tendency to try to "be all things to all people." Big mistake here. Who are you trying to reach? What issues are important to this group of people? Speak their language. Address their needs. Write with them in mind.

3. Your Style of Expression
Let your personality and your personal truths shine here. Follow the important rules, (like grammar, spelling, proper protocol), but dare to be different too. e.e. Cummings did! For example, despite the many experts that recommend that we write for SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and targeted keywords, I rarely do.
In the past, I've always felt that it compromised the quality of my writing and my flow. But, in the future, I may think a little differently, after reading a great post by Sarah Webb at ProBlogger on this timely topic. You'll find that my posts sometimes contain fragments (to vary sentence length).
Heck, I may even use slang, if I feel so inclined. :-)

4. Your Personality
Authenticity resonates with readers. Be you. One of the bloggers featured on this site, as someone I enjoy reading is Princess Jones. She's a real hoot. Even when she's addressing important business topics, she puts her own spin on things. Others that I also enjoy for their sense of humor would be Linda O'connell, Susan Sundwall, and Becky's Bliss. Though I do keep up with some of the "authoritative sites," many times I follow a blog based purely upon the blogger's personality, credibility, and the quality of the content. How about you?

5. Your Strengths and Interests
Though I suppose that one could launch a blog on a topic in which they have little expertise or interest, I wouldn't advise it. As someone who has been paid to blog for other folks, on topics that weren't exactly my cup of tea, there's a difference between posting a few of those on assignment, and constantly creating content on a site that requires week-to-week upkeep. Don't make it harder than it has to be. Passion about your subject matter will help you to persevere. Choose wisely.

For the right "fit" make sure to customize your blog using these considerations.

Your turn.
Thoughts? Agree or disagree?

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