3 Key Ways Knowing Your Weaknesses Strengthens Your Position As a Writer!

---"Knowledge is power."

Positioning is important.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re engaged in a game of chess, or vying for your dream job as a freelancer.
Knowing where you stand makes you stand taller, and helps to approach your goals with a sense of strategy, savvy, and overall efficiency. Simply put, it makes your game plan easier to execute.

In fact, it’s one of the things that I credit for my success in my creative career, in the midst of many obstacles. When I started this journey, (more than a decade ago), I had no formal training in writing.
Truth be told, my degrees are in business.

I didn’t have a computer, (didn’t get one until much later). Had no connections or contacts in the business. And worked full-time while attending night school.

What I did have was a solid business background, a strong work ethic, the belief that writing was my “calling,” the desire to excel, and the willingness to be objective about my work---the good, the bad, and the ugly.

And you should too.

Which is why I’m often amazed when talking to potential clients and other freelancers, that many seem to unfortunately have a real “blind spot” in identifying their creative weaknesses. Matter of fact, once I pointed out a shortcoming of someone whom I was trying to mentor, that caused her to be offended, and ended up doing more harm than good. Ouch. (Note to self: you can‘t help everybody). :-)

Here’s another case in point.
If you’ve ever tuned in to the popular talent-search show “American Idol”, then you’ve witnessed how some creative artists are convinced, (despite the judges’ assessments, and voices that sound like fingernails scratching a chalk board), that singing is their true talent! Huh?

Of course, we’d all like to be good at everything. Right?
Not gonna’ happen.
Instead a reality check is needed. There’s much to be said for the expression, “Knowledge is power.”

With this in mind, here’s why knowing your creative weaknesses can actually be a good thing that strengthens your career.


1. Efficiency
One of the most common complaints from today’s writer is not having enough time to write. Sometimes this is the result of mismanaging time, while at other times it’s the byproduct of pursuing projects or genres of writing that really are not well suited for us. The drawback? Spinning one’s wheels and not going anywhere. For example, mine would be writing for children. Be selective.

2. Strategy
The more in tune you are to what your weaknesses are, the greater the likelihood that you can address them, work to improve them, and operate from a greater position of strength. Or in some case scenarios, it may actually call for you to subcontract work out. Say for instance that you’re great at writing, but not skilled at design, or proofing, or photography. You spend less mental wear and tear on these areas, and more focusing on your true passions and positive areas.

3. Leverage
Like it or not, we all are in a competition of sorts. There are only so many creative jobs, clients, and projects. Not to mention, as Bloggers, we’re competing for today’s busy readers’ valuable time. Which requires that we put our best foot forward. That we know what separates us from the rest of the pack. And that we know ultimately how to pack a punch and how to deliver it.
Trust, you can fool yourself to make your ego feel better. Some do.
But really great Bloggers embrace their weaknesses, just like their strengths. Realizing that it is this combination of good and bad, darkness and light, challenges and victories that makes for an interesting Blogger who is relatable and real.

Thoughts? Any creative weaknesses you own up to?

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Reflections & Revelations-11 Mistakes I Made in 2011!

Experience is a great teacher.
And for those of us “resolving” to live better in 2012, a rewind to the past can help provide for a more prolific, passionate, progressive future.

Truth is, 2011 was a bag of mixed blessings for me.
Or to quote Dickens, “It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.”

I gained a few clients. I lost some.
My income projections were off.
My output exceeded my income.
And a tough economy served as a constant reminder that I should have “saved for a rainy day” sooner.

Still hardships can hold important lessons.

In an effort to provide a few “teachable moments”, I’ll share with you some reflections and revelations.

1. When it came to social media, I was somewhat of a recluse. Don’t get me wrong; I dig Tweets from my peeps. And I’ve made some great online connections. But I tend to be more “cerebral” than “social”. I’d really rather write than small talk. And 140 characters on most days wouldn’t even cover what I’ve had for breakfast. But I now think of social media like an “online water cooler” where a lot of cool conversations go on, and leads are shared . So I’ll be hanging out more in 2012, and sharing more of my popular posts from my Blog.

2. I worked harder, not smarter. Trust, choosing the right type of writing projects can be a great time saving device and an important strategy for overall success. Certain types of writing just categorically pay more than others. Copywriting typically pays more than article writing, while Blogging for corporate clients generally pays more than personal clients. Choose wisely.

3. I didn’t market enough. Like it or not, it can make or break a writing career.

4. My “go-get-em” plan didn’t have a “Plan B”.

5. I neglected to work on my book project and finding an agent for my work. It still lingers on my to-do list from last year.

6. I Blogged for free too often. Though I enjoyed the experience, the connections and the growth it provided, I’ll be a little more selective in 2012.

7. I didn’t enter enough contests. As most of you know, I threw my hat in the ring for The Top 10 Writing Blogs contest at Write to Done, and emerged as a finalist! It was big fun, and I even got the opportunity to do a guest post. Often overlooked, many contests provide “paydays” in the way of prizes, cash, and exposure. Here’s a site that offers info on various competitions: http://writingcontests.wordpress.com/

8. I didn’t follow enough writing Blogs. There really are some great ones out there, I recently discovered.

9. I didn’t comment enough on some really great sites due to time constraints. Some of yours are among them. Consider this my apology. :-)

10. I believed that hard work was the ticket to success. There’s so much more that factors into the freelancing equation: prayer, perseverance, politics, strategy.

11. I didn’t diversify my income enough. In 2012, my efforts will be divided into an array of projects and pursuits. As they say, “Never put all your eggs in one basket.”

How about you? What would you do differently?
Any lessons learned?
Image: Stock

How to Get Off the Writing Treadmill!

Ever feel that despite all your writing efforts, you seem to be going no where?
Like you're running in place.

You spend hours on crafting queries, only to have them go unanswered.
Or you research new markets, but can't seem to find any suitable for the pieces you've created.

Or you're working hard, but your output exceeds your income!
You're exactly the same place you were last month, last year.

It happens to the best of us.
It's like being on a treadmill. And if you don't get off of it soon, you'll likely get frustrated, tired, and throw in the towel.
And you'll have nothing to show for your sweat equity.

As someone who has published professionally for over a decade, in just about every genre you can imagine, I'll share some tips to help you go the distance and better pace yourself for times ahead.

1. Got goals?
In order for you to move forward and stay on a progressive path, you must know where you intend to go. This may seem obvious, but trust me, it isn't. There are numerous writers that write because they "love" to, with no clear vision as to where they see themselves going in the future. Perhaps you're one of them. Productive writing requires planning. Make sure to put your goals in writing for greater odds for success. Studies show that when people actually pen their goals, they are much more likely to achieve them.

2. Quit writing for everybody for free.
You'll burn out much more quickly. And you'll never attain financial growth.
In the infancy of my career, I wrote a lot for nothing. And don't get me wrong, I still write for free now. If it's a valuable cause, or for a good friend, or a start-up that I believe has growth potential. But there's a limit. Over the last few months, I've gotten several requests to become a guest author at some pretty well-established sites, (for free). Unfortunately, I had to decline. As much as I love writing, I need to eat too. :-)

3. Market more.
Let's face it: many creative creatures get caught up in the art of "creating" with very little efforts devoted to selling their work. Getting paid is what makes writing a career and not a hobby. Sure, I know, that sometimes it may make you feel like a used car salesman, but do it anyway.

4. Invest in yourself.
In a tough economy, everybody is trying to get more bang for their buck.
But free ain't always better, folks.
At some point on your path, you'll need to invest in yourself for optimal results.(Meaning you'll need to spend some money).
Other professionals do it all the time. Beauticians go to classes to update their skills and learn new techniques. Whether it's Jherri Curl perms, or weaving procedures.
Teachers take self-development seminars to hone their craft and maintain their certification. Why not you?

To help you move forward, I'm happy to announce my new service---(see here's where I practice what I preach, by marketing to you). :-)

(On a side note---Up until this point, you have never seen Ads of any sorts or affiliate programs that ask for money.)

This month, I have launched JEN'S VIP CLUB. If you like my Blog, you'll love my club. For the price of a Starbucks visit, (7 bucks for the first month, even less for multiple months), you'll receive, Blog Jobs, Marketing Tips, Advice by Email and more! Email for details.

Commitment phobic? Money tight? Sign up for just one month for the 7 bucks, and cancel at anytime. There's no further obligation.
Free gift to the first 12 to sign up! Discover the benefits of being connected... today.

How will you get off the writing treadmill? Or does this apply? Do tell.

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6 Things Every Professional Writer Can Learn From Dr. Phil...

Millions of Americans know him as the go-to guru for advice on love and relationships.
Others see him as the sage psychologist that pens best-selling self- help books on personal development, and Oprah‘s legal advisor.

Add one more title to his impressive resume: writing mentor.
That’s right. Though this may not be a role he professionally intended to assume, it’s one that I have identified and embraced in my creative career. And you should too.

As a faithful viewer of his show for many years, I’ve not only been entertained and enlightened by his no-nonsense approach to his guests‘ plaguing problems, I’ve also gleaned many lessons on how to be a more strategic, introspective, profitable writer as well.

Here are a few that will remedy your writing ills and provide for a more successful, (saner) career.

1. Dr. Phil is a unique communicator that dares to speak his own truths in his own language.
One reason that I’m a fan of Phil’s is that he can go from “geek speak” to “street speak” in a matter of minutes. In one sentence, he uses some deep medical terminology, and in the next, conveys his message like a common homeboy with southern charm.
He breaks all the rules: from frequently using informal words like y’all and ain’t, to clever, colorful expressions to make his point. Some of my favorites are “That dog just ain’t gon’ hunt” and “So how’s that workin’ out for ya’ pal?”

2. He shares effective anecdotes with universal appeal to connect with audiences. Two that stick out with me are his long-term marriage to his wife, Robin, and the struggles they’ve survived, and his dad being an alcoholic. In your writing, it’s important to apply anecdotes to illustrate important points, provide variety in techniques, and draw readers into your story.

3. He stresses the importance of introspection and personal accountability in diagnosing problems and devising a game plan for action.
In order to get where you’d like to be in your creative career, it’s crucial to take some inventory on where you’ve been, mistakes made in the past, and lessons learned. What clients or projects have been the most profitable? How can you manage your time better? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Where do you need to tweak your marketing plan to make more money? There’s great truth to the expression, “Those who fail to learn from the past are destined to repeat it.”

4. He aligns himself with the right people to open more doors.
There’s no disputing that his affiliation with Oprah made all the difference in his career. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. For the savvy scribe, this may mean tapping into social media outlets, networking through writers’ associations, and chatting others up via popular bulletin boards.

5. Dr. Phil is funny.
Even though his subject matter is often serious, he’s able to disarm people and make them feel more at ease by using humor and allowing them to sometimes look at the hilarity of the situation.
Savvy writers do as well. Humor is to writing what seasoning is to food. It adds flavor and appeal.

6. He walks the talk.
Though I don't agree with all his theories, assessments and recommendations in his "TV counseling sessions," his words do have merit. Here's a man who has been happily married to the same woman for decades. And I rarely if ever see any bad publicity about his personal or professional life. Wouldn't you agree? In writing, credibility is important to your image. If you give advice, why should readers value it? What qualifies you to speak on your subject matter? These are things to consider.


If you’re striving for “expert” status in your writing career, and the pay and perks that go with it, follow these six savvy tips. It’s just what the “doctor” ordered.

Views? Holla! :-)
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The Perils of Blogging While Bored!

It’s a Monday. You’ve made the rounds of all your favorite “Blog Roll” sites and discovered that everybody who’s anybody has posted something new to their site.

Or, it’s a Wednesday, or Friday---in fact, the day of the week is irrelevant. What is relevant is that when you scan your blog you realize you’ve not posted any new content in weeks. Where did the time go? You panic. You feel pressured.

All because one of the cardinal rules of blogging success is consistency. Right?
So, you sit at your keyboard and start typing. La, la, la, la… You really have nothing new or noteworthy to share. You figure you’ll wing it.
After all, a Blog is simply an online journal with informal writing, and you reason that you should be able to share your myriad of moods--even the “blah” ones. Right? Wrong.

Here’s a typical scenario…a (bored) blogger shares what he or she ate for breakfast. And then rants about some random client or rambles on about something of which most of his reading audience has no real connection or interest--like throwing a surprise birthday party for his pet cat. Surprise! At the end of the day there are few to no comments . Really?

Houston, we have a problem!

Now you’ve made your audience a hostage in this “crime”. ’Cause we’re bored too.:-)
Adding insult to injury is that many have wasted valuable time reading on their 9 to 5 jobs when they should have been working (just kidding). Time, much like our youth, can never be recaptured. So we feel cheated. The penalty? If done too often---lost readership and lost credibility.

Don’t get me wrong: a dull day can be made funny. A rant can have redeeming value. A bad day can be rebounded. If you approach this blogging thing the right way.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER:

7 Ways to take your Blog from zero to hero!

1. QUALITY always trumps quantity.
True, consistency is crucial, but content is still King! Better to leave readers waiting than to leave us wanting. There is great truth to the adage “less is more.”

2. Even posts of a personal nature should have some take-away value for your readers.
Will they learn something useful about the writing life? Relate to a universal lesson on relatives? Laugh? Cry? Be inspired? Be called to action? Persuaded to support a cause? Always look at the “big picture” for optimal results.

3. Challenge yourself.
See the blank screen as a blank canvas in which you create a potential masterpiece. Or at least something of which you can be proud. Tap into your senses. Use colorful language. Engage us in a conversation. Remember that boredom is temporary, but something posted in the Blogosphere is forever.

4. Words won’t come? Most of us are not immune to writer’s block in some form or fashion. Regardless to our experience or area of expertise. If this happens, try posting quality images along with motivational quotes. Or keep a supply of guest posts in your arsenal. Or perhaps conduct an interview with a person of interest in your niche. These techniques and strategies can help you to blog smarter, not harder, and enhance your site by providing variety as well. It’s a win-win situation for all.

5. Take a break.
Sometimes burnout can be the culprit. Don’t operate on auto-pilot. Instead, take the time needed to renew your spirit and your psyche. Many bloggers do.

6. Share the spotlight.
I’ve surprisingly found that several of my most popular posts are actually those in which I share the posts and links of other talented bloggers. If you “get around” the Blog Town, why not highlight other worthy hosts and authors? It provides value for your readers and creates good karma to boot!

7. Google the words “ideas for blog posts” and voila!
you’ll find an array of options available to peruse and pursue (1,680,000 entries at the time of this writing).


Blogging is no longer just a vehicle for venting or sharing views. (That’s so ’90s!) Today it’s been elevated to an art form with major players, job opportunities, and platform building avenues for writers of all levels and genres.

So, the next time you find yourself at the keyboard with the “blahs” be mindful of these tips. Or minimally, “phone a friend”.

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3 Signs That Signal You May Need to Put the Blogging Breaks On!

Bad blogging is like a bad relationship. It pains us to throw in the towel, given our sweat equity. But, it's a reality that some will eventually have to face and come to terms with. Especially if we want readers to find true happiness; even if it's with someone else. :-)
Nobody likes to admit it, but it happens to the best of us.

With this in mind, here are three types of blogging scenarios that may signal a need for a break, detour, or ended journey.

1. Blogging has become a chore and not a joy.
If the thought of posting your next piece has as much appeal as a visit to the dentist, or a tax audit, chances are that "you've lost that lovin' feelin'." There could be a myriad of reasons you find yourself here, whether you're a month in to blogging, a year, or even ten. It could even be a bout of Blogger's Burnout. If this happens, you may need to take some time off the "information highway" for awhile and schedule a little vacation time.

2. You're not clear why you're blogging.
Truth be told, many people joined the blogging bandwagon simply because it was popular. Very little forethought, planning, or even goal setting went into launching their sites. It looked easy, so they jumped in. Which is not against the law, right? There's just one problem: their confusion confuses their readers. Hello? Regardless as to the niche or theme, blogs should have an identifiable focus or target audience. The clearer you are, the fewer detours you'll have on the path to success.

3. There's no blog growth.
Would you stay on a job where there was no promotion? Or a relationship that didn't deepen as years progressed? Probably not. Though it's not exactly the same, blogs are "living things," and as such, should reflect growth through increased readership and ongoing, interactive discussion.
Growth won't happen over night. Still, if you've been blogging consistently for more than a year or two without desired results, or measurable progression, assessment is needed.
Are you passionate about your subject matter? Do you periodically conduct polls and surveys to get readers' feedback? Are you studying other successful blogs in your niche? These are a few things to consider.

Contrary to popular opinion, blogging is not for everyone. Ultimately, it's your decision.
I hope these tips will help to navigate your direction, and put you on the "write" path to go from zero to hero!


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Do You Suffer from the "Super-SIZE " Syndrome?

There's no doubt about it: in these economically challenging times everybody is trying to get more for less. True?

We often opt to super-size our meals and our deals.
Some mistakenly of the mindset that "bigger is always better." Not always.

In fact, it's one of the reasons that far too many potentially promising bloggers lose out on reaching their traffic goals and would-be fans.

Let me explain.

I often read some very engaging, effective bloggers across the Net. But I don't "follow" them, or sign up as a subscriber because they don't update their sites regularly. And frankly, I get tired of playing "hide-n-go seek" trying to figure out when the heck they'll update their blogs.

But, what I'm finding out is that the culprit for many is time and a lack of ideas.
So they don't post anything. Sometimes for days. Sometimes for weeks. Sometimes for months. Then they lose their mojo.

Folks, let me break it down as simple as a fraction reduced to its lowest terms.

A blog post does not have to be lengthy or laborious to be "quality".
Are you with me here?

Trust me. In my frequent travels across the Net and with different niches, I've read posts that were long, and went on and on and bored me to tears. If it were a "live" performance, I'd be searching for the nearest exit. For real.

Conversely, I've read stuff that was short and sweet and fun to read.
It's not the size, but the content and the level of engagement that matters.

To help you to discover ideas for fast and "fulfilling" updates, I offer the following suggestions.

1. Post motivational quotes and a beautiful image to inspire readers. Karen Lange at Write Now often uses this technique successfully.

2. Share vacation photos, or pictures of your family or garden. I love learning about the person behind the blog. Don't you?

3. Post a music video. Cynthia at Simply Positive Blog often entertains me with her choice in artists.

4. Share some writing related trivia, or trivia as it relates to your particular niche.

5. Pose a problem or thought provoking question and ask readers to weigh in.

6. Sponsor a contest.

7. Share links of other interesting reads across the Web.


Get the picture? Now get it in gear!

Thoughts?

Image George Cochrane

They're "JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU"-- Common Barriers to Blog Success...

Most Bloggers come on the scene with the best of intentions. And regardless to our niche or knowledge base, we typically have one thing in common: to connect with our audience and enjoy a degree of popularity. True?
(To be appreciated would also be a plus).

Though some won't fess up to this, why else would we go "public" with our "penned" thoughts and actions, and display our creative works before "virtual" strangers.
Pun intended.;-)

Still, some Bloggers experience slow growth, little interaction from readers, and unknowingly sabotage their success. They unfortunately toil in vain by committing the following blogging blunders.

How many are you guilty of?

1. Not maintaining the right Blogging frequency.
For far too many it seems to be feast or famine. Either they post every blue moon, or you hear from them more than your relatives! A good rule of thumb is to post no less than once a week, and no more than 3 times a week. Though it also depends upon the nature and purpose of your Blog. And word to the wise: If you're going to take an extended leave, for whatever reason, post it to your site, so readers won't have to bounce back and forth trying to guess the appointed time that you'll re-enter the Blogging world.

2. Not responding to readers' comments.
Maybe it's just me, but I don't care how big of a "hot-shot" you are, if I post a comment to your site twice with no feedback, I'll be giving you the "silent treatment" in the future. That is, unless you have hundreds of comments that you receive and it becomes impractical and time consuming to address each one. We should all be so lucky. ;-)

3. Failing to study and learn from successful Blogs.
No doubt about it: Blogging is not rocket science. But, it still involves certain tools and techniques to do it well. Think about it. Though there are millions of Blogs in the Blogosphere, routinely you'll see the same dozen or so to receive recognition and top the popular Blogs lists time after time.

4. Not providing enough take-away value for readers to take away.
Whether your Blog is designed to educate or entertain, readers should come away with a lesson, reflection, or a laugh.

5. Going off on the deep edge, or not staying on topic.
Though there are different schools of thought here, I think that most people like to go to a Blog knowing what to expect. How about you?
Of course, this is not to suggest that you can't add different topics now and then; especially if you can tie it into your Blog's theme. But, by and large, you should have an identifiable "topic" and stick to it like Velcro.

6. Not having a unique voice in the Blogoshpere.
I've said this before, but it bears repeating. If you want to be relevant and remembered, your style, voice and approach to blogging must stand out amid the chatter.

7. Poor grammar or inappropriate language.
This can serve as an eye-sore for some.


Agree or disagree? Did I miss anything?


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Blog "Hecklers"? 6 Ways to Show Class When Comments are Crass!

Guest Post by: Alexis Bonari

No one is immune to criticism. By the very nature of our occupations, bloggers, writers, and other creative types perhaps know this best of all. We hope that when we hit the publish button, something miraculous will happen and nobody—nobody—will hurl a single rotten tomato.

But when it hits, it hits hard. Every time.
So, in those moments we hear and feel nothing but our own pulse in our ears and the blood rushing to our cheeks, how do we deal with criticism?

1. Count to ten.
Mama was right about some things. Shut your eyes, step away from your computer, and walk away. Go walk the dog, take a shower while blasting angry music and belting the lyrics at the top of your lungs, and then chill out with some yoga.

2. Suspend the urge to get defensive. Remember that the same thing that made the critical remark so hurtful—that it was made publicly in a comment thread, a forum, or a blog post—is true for you, too. Your impulse to angrily respond, should you choose to act on it, will be public. This will reflect poorly on you. Even if your response is witty and snarky, someone will be unhappy to see it.

3. Remember that there’s a person behind the name "Anonymous". Nobody walks around with a digital blur for a face. Remember that there may be a reason why unhappy commenters are unhappy. Maybe they just got laid off from work. Maybe a friend of theirs was diagnosed with a serious illness. Think about the times you said things that were hurtful and the reasons you did it. Try to find a link between yourself and the critic.

4. Glean nuggets of truth from the criticism. We can either be victims or volunteers. Even if the criticism was made in poor taste, there might have been a point that stood to be made. Seize the opportunity to not only take the high road and maintain your poise, but also learn how to improve your craft.

5. Thank them for their criticism. The best thing to do when someone’s being nasty is to smile at them. It’s disarming. It’s humbling. It can be frustrating, but anything the other party does in poor taste afterward just comes across as unnecessary and mean-spirited. Few other critics will want to jump on that bandwagon. So, humbly thank them for the criticism and try to initiate a civil and honest dialogue. The second part is what keeps it feeling like you’re rolling over and showing your belly.

6. Some people just don’t want to play nice. That’s not your problem. It’s theirs. It’s best to ignore them at that point and move on with your day. More than likely, you have a hundred positive remarks on your blog for every random, nasty comment. If you’re still having trouble cooling off, force yourself to smile. Even a fake smile releases the same chemicals in your brain as a real one!

Bio: Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and researcher for College Scholarships, where recently she’s been researching scholarships for returning students as well as scholarships for social workers. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Okay, spill the beans. Readers, how do you deal with negativity and name calling regarding your creative efforts? Anybody have any experience in this area?

Image:photographer photostock

BLOGGING FOR PLEASURE OR PROFIT

Blogging has become the "new black".
Everybody and their momma is doing it.
Some for recreational reasons, others to promote their businesses, or promote a cause.

But what is really cool about this blogging phenomenon is that it creates an additional income stream for writers and other creative individuals, if you know the secrets and strategies.

Which is where this info comes in...
I can show you those insider's secrets.

My work has appeared at various award-winning and influential sites such as Search Engine Journal, Blogging Pro, Daily Blogging Tips, Living Well for Less, and Small Biz Bee, to name a few.

I'd love to show you how to go from zero to hero with my new ONLINE class!

Study from home at your own convenience.

Blogging is extremely competitive and you need a winning edge. In my course you'll discover: how to blog strategically, where to find job opportunities and increase the odds in your favor, how to choose good topics and more!

See the details here:
http://www.coffeehouseforwriters.com/Blogging.htm

You know you love it anyway. Why not get paid to do something you love?

Classes start Monday, April 19th. Register now for this 2-day workshop. Credit cards accepted.
Hope to see you there!

10 WAYS TO ADD MORE BLING TO YOUR BLOG!

Seems these days everybody’s doing it.
Blogs are indeed the “new black.”

For writers, these online journals are a virtual showcase for bragging about recent accomplishments, posting online Bios, cultivating a consistent readership, displaying clips and editors’ comments, or promoting products and services.

Some authors even report that their Blogs helped them to establish a platform and seal the deal with reputable book publishers.
But, with so many folks saturating the Blogosphere, your Blog had better be bodacious if you want to generate repeat traffic, create a buzz, make money, or merely “win friends and influence people.”

WITH THIS IN MIND, HERE ARE TEN CREATIVE WAYS TO ADD MORE BLING TO YOUR BLOG!

1. Have a catchy title to jazz up your joint---Just like with print magazines, readers are drawn to dynamic titles. Choose something that will ideally identify what the Blog is about, yet also make it memorable. Read it aloud to yourself. How does it come across?
   
2. Use quality photos and graphic images---People like visual variety. Add pictures to your site to personalize its appearance and create greater interest.
   
3. Remember that there is a psychology to colors. Use the right combination to create the right effect. For example, beige and earth tone colors have a calming effect. While green is often associated with money and vitality.
   
4. Make sure to use colors, font styles and sizes that are complementary and easy to read even for older eyes that may not have 20/20 vision.
   
5. Organize the content so that it is easy to navigate and user friendly. Use tags and categories accordingly.
   
6. Make sure that your Blog has take away value. In other words, what’s in it for online visitors? Will it educate? Entertain? Provide money making opportunities? Be interactive? Decide then deliver!
   
7. Provide useful links that give additional info or related resources.
   Keep it simple. With online readers “less is more”.
   
8. Infuse a little personality with some substantive reading for a winning combination that keeps em’ coming back for more.
   
9. Experiment with different templates and designs that suit the topic and tone of your Blog, and your individual style of expression. Don’t be afraid to check out what other authors have out there to determine what works and what doesn’t.
   
10. Keep in mind that just because you’re recording your own personal views and vents, your online entries should still be presented in a tasteful manner. As a writer, I definitely defend 1st amendment rights, but you just never know who might click on to your site, (it could be a potential client or editor) and as they say, first impressions are important.
    

By following these ten tips you’ll increase your readership and potential revenue, and be blessed by the Blog Gods!