Blogging for the newbie

Blogging Protocol for the Newbie
Just for fun, I put together a few recommendations for the new, nervous blogger.
Are you new? Nervous? So what’s the big deal? Ask a few people to be a guest, announce it on-line and let the people come. Hah!
If it were that easy, I’d be doing it with a wide audience of devoted fans. So I have given the method some consideration. Decide what you’ll blog about. Stick to one area or theme. Writing topics are wildly popular, as are guest interviews. Since my book release, I’ve been interviewed and have strong opinions on the process.

Here’s what I’ve seen work.
1. Set-up a calendar you can live with.
Blogging takes a commitment you need to fulfill to keep followers.

2. Decide if you interview or have guests write on topic. Or both. Make it interesting to you. It shows.

3. Ask for guests from various loops. Have a specific list of what you need from her.
Live? Answer to comments? Announce to her loops, family and friends?

4. When someone responds, check her/his website. Specific questions raise interest and show you’ve done your research.

5. Schedule a date.

6. Send the questions, ask for photo and/or cover.

This is where it gets sticky. The guest needs to respond in a timely manner so you can get the posting ready. If it’s not returned shortly, send a reminder. Check it. I was surprised at misspelled words and photos or covers I couldn’t open.

7. Send your blog address a week before posting. This can serve as a reminder, too. Suggest she write a cute invite or tell her what you intend to use. Remind her you expect answers to comments, promo, whatever.

8. The day before send your promo to your guest to forward to her contacts.

9. Post the blog. Send your promo. Remember to say thanks to your guest. Check the comments. A number are aimed at the blog host, not the guest. I think it’s polite to respond to each one.

10. Keep a file. I didn’t do this and wish I had hard copies.

Do you have other recommendations? I’d love to know what others find helpful, harmful, or just silly.

Visit my website http://www.barbaraedwards.net

Barbara Edwards