Not long ago, I did a post called Blog Identity Crisis and asked Active Rain bloggers to help answer six questions that I have been wrestling with about. The response was great! Since so many people took the time and effort to answer, it seemed only right to let them know how their comments have helped me.
The first thing I noticed was that Rainers are quite independent about how they answer (is anyone surprised?) I asked six questions, and only Kaye Thomas answered them specifically and in order. Others like Herb Hamilton and Elaine Reese had very helpful suggestions in their own formats. No matter how the comments were written, I do appreciate every one who added their voice to the discussion. It was also nice to discover that there are plenty of other "freshmen" wondering the same things. Now it's up to me to follow the guidance and find ways that I can improve my blog's content and relevance.
Step One is homework. Herb's suggestion about using the search bar to research a topic and then save results in a Favorites folder was helpful. With the right title for the folder, I can keep track of my topics. I've already bookmarked the blogs of some of AR's best, thanks to suggestions in the comments.
Step Two is to ask myself questions when I'm creating a blog. What would my client or potential client want to know? What's going on in my market area of Phoenix that is interesting or unusual? Some clients are first-time buyers and so ever step of the process is full of questions, but I can't forget the couple buying their fifth house who have different questions.
Step Three is to do it! Frequently! It's always a challenge to make time for blogging, especially when you are juggling transaction details and client needs and private life. I have to remind myself that blogging is just as important as any kind of marketing I might do. But I cannot just throw something together to create a post. Whatever I write will be there forever so I have to choose my words and tone carefully. Personally, I prefer a positive approach so that I'll never be embarrassed no matter who might find and read my blog.
I said it before: there are always people who are committed to doing things better and are eager to share their knowledge in the Active Rain community. Thank you all for helping this newcomer with your responses and encouragement.
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