To Blog or Not to Blog

Is it really worthwhile? Many of us have asked ourselves this question. And depending on the person, answers will vary. Some feel it involves too much time and effort that could be better spend on their next story. Others feel a blog keeps them connected with their readers, authors, and others out there in cyberspace.

I've often wondered--of what benefit to me is it to have fellow authors read my blog. The answer is simple. Authors are readers too. They have readers on their blogs that may drop by yours on occasion. Also, those writer friends may ask you to guest on their site and vise versa which may bring you new readers.

When I started my blog, Linda LaRoque's Musings, it was difficult deciding what to blog about. Interestingly enough, I get more hits on recipes, vacations, posts about my dog (this week I told about her run-in with a copperhead snake), and short stories I've written. Readers also like to hear about new releases and promotional events. An occasional post with writing tips can also be a big hit.

Blogging doesn't have to be hard. Your posts don't have to be long or on a schedule. Write about what interests you which in turn proves to your readers you're an interesting individual. Respond to your reader's comments. They may never check back, but then again, they might.

Offer an incentive for them to keep coming back. I give away an ebook every month.

I've just started putting out a monthly newletter. Will it take the place of my blog? I don't think so. Though the newsletter will have some of what I've blogged about, it serves a different purpose. Many would rather read something once a month that comes directly to their mailbox rather than go to your site each time you blog.

Remember, each time you blog, each time you comment on a blog, google makes note and that's a hit for you. Google your name and see how many times your name comes up? Is it 10, 100, 1000, 10,000? The higher the number, the better you're doing on getting your name out there.

What are your thoughts about blogging?

Happy Reading and Writing folks!

Linda
http://www.lindalaroque.com/

One Lovely Blog Award

Thank you Chiron for bestowing this award on my blog.

Here are the rules:

1) Accept the award, and don’t forget to post a link back to the awarding person.

2) Pass the award on.

3) Notify the award winners.

Here are my recipients for The One Lovely Blog Award.

1. Ciara Gold's Treasures. Ciara writes both western historical and sci-fi/fantasy romances. She has a new Viking time travel out at Champagne Books.

2. Sandra K. Marshall's Blog tackles issues about life and writing we can all relate to.

3. Ella Blackhart is a new writer friend of mine and I just know we're going to be seeing great things from her in the near future.

4. Linda Kage has some interesting posts on her blog we can all enjoy. Check it out.

5. If you enjoy history, you'll enjoy Laura Hogg's Travel Through the Ages.

6. And last, but not at all least, is my good friend, Judith Leger.

Okay, guys, follow the rules and pass this on.

Happy Reading and Writing, folks!

Linda

Linda LaRoque ~Western Romance with a Twist in Time~ A Law of Her Own, Desires of the Heart, My Heart Will Find Yours, Flames on the Sky10-9, Forever Faithful, Investment of the Heart, When the Ocotillo Bloom
www.lindalaroque.com/ www.lindalaroqueauthor.blogspot.com/