Wasn’t really aware of this inquiry amongst bloggers but Wes tagged me so I’ll oblige.
The question of how the blogging process works for me is likely not vastly different from others but in an effort to be somewhat original, here goes:
- Originality. It doesn’t take long for a topic to hit the blogosphere and in no time becomes old news. Unless I feel I can contribute something really unique, I’ll likely leave it alone. On the other hand, there’s a bit of a journalistic appeal to be the first to post a breaking story or least present something new.
- Brevity. The nature of the web requires a different style of writing. Personally I almost am disappointed when one of my regulars decides to write a short dissertation. Not that there isn’t a place for that but I’ve become accustomed to very concise writing that DOESN’T fill in all the gaps. That’s what comments are for. I don’t think I’ve written many posts over 500 words.
- Emotion. Some might call it passion but often I’m simply compelled to write out of a reaction to a post, news story, or other observation. That doesn’t mean that I write it immediately. Often I’ll start it, leave it, think some more, read some more and finish it.
- Coolness or Humor. These are certainly less in depth but I think our blogs should reflect our personalities. Injecting the less than academic posts are important. I like bloggers who let their hair down once in a while.
- Personal. While many of the things I write about are reflections on things I read the stuff I experience with teachers, students and administrators is the most important. As someone who is not dealing with kids everyday, the fear of being out of touch concerns me. I find most pleasure sharing what I’ve done and seen.
That’s it. Brief enough?
Oh my gosh, another list on a blog…
*runs away screaming from list overload, even though I contribute to it too*
Sometimes lists can be helpful though :).
I recently read an article about blogging in the Barnes and Noble College Booksellers magazine “UTurn”, sorry for some reason the URL doesn’t work, that discussed similar topics. I posted an entry on my blog as well. The key to me is relevancy. Be relevant and as you say original, that will attract readers back to your site over and over again.
I agree with your 5 points here. My favorite posts on my own blog are the ones that come from my own experiences or have a direct connection to my work or my life. Regarding brevity, I am amazed by some people who write 1000s of words daily. How do they have time to write so much and hold down a full time job? I try hard to get my opinions across without overkill or too much verbage. I have trouble reading overly lengthy posts. Finally,since my blog is part of our school district’s site, I struggle with the amount of personal posts I write. Where do I draw the line between professional writing and personal writing? If I write an opinion about a topic, and my superintendent or a school board member disagrees, am I in jeopardy of recieving some type of reprimand? I think blogging has the potential to test the limits of freedom of speech rights.
I’m with you Dave, with the number of blogs I read, I can’t afford someone writing lengthy posts time after time. That said, if someone who regularly posts shorter posts and once in a while writes something of length, I usually pay attention.
As far as drawing the line, I do not write her as an employee, this is my own space but I also know I represent a school division and try not to be overtly critical. My criticism are generally broad observations in education that are not exclusive to my situation but may be a part. Your situation may be a bit different in that since you are tied to one school, any criticisms or negativity, would be hard to disassociate.
It’s a difficult line but you need to be honest and insightful in a respectful manner if you want others to consider your writing meaningful.