the air

John Chow has a neat post about ten mistakes that every aspiring blogger should remember. Since my blog is still relatively new, I feel it would be nice for me to share with you my insight on how I continually strive to make this blog work.

New Blogger Tip#1: Consistently Update

This is by far the golden rule that every blogger should live by. I have come across many blogs that have a great idea and seem to be destined for great things, but then they don’t update regularly, they falter, and soon disappear. If you cannot update regularly, how can you expect your blog to make money or even garner any visitors? There is no need to update every day, but you should keep a regular schedule of publishing posts. For example, my goal has always been to have at least one post per day no matter what. If I know I am going to be out of town, I try to prepare at least one post that will automatically post in the future. Hence, there are many times when I will write a few posts in one sitting, but they will publish automatically on the days I set. Although there are times when I may publish three or more posts in a day, I always stick to a bare minimum of one per day. Before you read any further, make sure you commit yourself to a post frequency and stick with it.

New Blogger Tip#2: Proofread Your Posts

I know I am guilty of rushing my posts out the door and notice several spelling and grammatical errors later on. Then I have to go through the hassle of editing my post once it is published and then publish it again. That’s why, I have a two-step approach to writing posts. First, I type in the post directly into the WordPress composition window using Firefox 2.0.X.X. Firefox automatically checks for spelling errors as you type and you can fix it on-the-fly. It’s not perfect, but it does capture almost all spelling errors. Once I have completed my composition, I copy the entire post and paste it into Microsoft Word 2003. This is the second step of my system. I use Word to evaluate further spelling errors that were not picked up by Firefox and also use its rudimentary grammar check feature to review my grammar. This gives me the opportunity to re-read my post and fix any spelling/grammar issues. Once that is complete, I update my composition in the WordPress window and save it for previewing. I look at the preview to make sure everything is in order and then I simply publish. Occasionally, you will find some errors, but once you do, make the corrections immediately. From my experience, it’s alright to make a few mistakes here and there. Let’s face it, we’re not all professional writers. However, if you have too many errors, you are simply going to turn off your potential readers.

New Blogger Tip#3: Write Because You Want To

In my daily escapades to the hundreds of blogs out there, I come across a bunch of them that are just littered with advertising. If you don’t already know, I have a strong aversion to advertising. I understand that most bloggers dream of making money from their blog, but let’s face the facts. Roughly 80% of blog advertising revenue is conducted by the top 20% of all blogs. This is also known as the Pareto Principle. If you are going to blog because you want to make loads of money, I’m sorry, but I think you will fail. You should always blog because you want to. Blogs are driven by content, not advertising. As such, your readers will be attracted to your writings rather than your ads. Doesn’t it make sense to focus on your content first before spending the time to implement some ads? One of the things that I strongly dislike is poor ad placement. Many bloggers simply put ads anywhere they want and it makes their posts and their sites look completely disorganized. The purpose of blogs has always been to showcase your thoughts and feelings to the world. That’s why your blog should always be focused on your thoughts and you should always focus on your writings.

New Blogger Tip#4: Be Original

Simply put, DO NOT COPY. It’s okay to copy excerpts from another blog post or from the original source, but at least credit them. Whenever I write a post inspired by another written piece, I always put a link to the original source near the end. When possible, I also use the blockquote feature. This will tell your readers that the words inside the blockquote are not yours, but come from another source. It’s illegal to copy writings that are copyright protected and it generally is frowned upon if you copy work without acknowledging the original author. Those who copy without regard are hurting other legitimate bloggers. When you write, make sure you credit the author and add your own opinion to the piece. Use bits of information from the original source, but also add your thoughts. A blog is an extension of your personality, so feel free to write your opinions and views. If people don’t like it, they can move on. So DO NOT COPY and simply credit the original source.

New Blogger Tip#5: Visit The Air Daily

Let’s face it, your internet experience is not complete without a visit to The Air. With my island inspired image and colors along with an airport-like sidebar, it truly makes for vivid thoughts and an illustrious experience.

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