Part two

Link, Link, Link Blogging isn’t just saying what you think. Blogging isn’t just spouting off. Blogging is at its best when it aggregates and provides context. That’s why you link.

Write to be found Headlines on blog needs to be easily understood. That means: No double entendres, no irony, no allusions. Remember: You want people to find your post; a computer will be helping them find your blog. Why doesn’t this headline work online: Where the Streets Have No Name

What to link to Other blogs, Web sites, news stories Background information If someone else wrote about the same topic, explain if you agree – or disagree – with that person. Link to the blog. If you’re following up or commenting on a news story, link to the original story (and credit it.) If you use a technical or unusual word – link to a definition. If you’re writing about the latest in a developing story, link to earlier versions. If you mention a study or report, link to the original document.

How to link Don’t: Drop in the messy URL with all the coding and symbols. (Looks ugly and may not work.) guide-to-linking-and-getting-links/ Do: Using your blogging tool to create a link. Highlight key words that have to do with the link, then click on the link symbol. Add the URL. Why to link.

Add a blogroll What is it: A list of blogs that you like on your blog. Why add it: Helps your readers get a sense of who you are. (You’re known by the company you keep.) Can get your blog noticed by people in your niche! Examples

Technorati What is it? A blog-ranking service and search engine. Why list your blog there?  Get your blog noticed.  Find out total authority (total number of unique inbound links.)  Way to track your blog’s progress.  It’s free.

Get Personal Even on news blogs, people relate to a person. Use your real name. Put your picture up. Give a brief bio. Offer a way (or several) for people to reach you.

Don’t make readers work Your goal when you blog is to provide information to readers in a way that’s easy for them. (not you.) That means:  Short text.  Subheads to break up text (people scan, not read).  Simple sentences.  Link to background, as discussed before.  Embed video right on the blog (rather than link.) People will abandon your blog in seconds unless you give them a reason to stay.

Let’s get blogging