5 Ways to Add More Value to Your Blog Posts

Think of your blog as you would any other "investment property."
It involves time, maintenance, attention, upkeep.
The more you put into it, the greater R.O.I. (return on investment).
One way to do this, is to create blog posts that have value, substance, visual appeal, and that fellow writers like to share.

In this post-holiday post, we'll look at a few ways to enhance your current offerings.

5 Tips, tools and techniques to consider:

• Humor--- Bloggers, you don't have to always be "stuffy" to show you know your stuff! In addition to addressing serious topics, timely issues, and ways for writers to improve their writing techniques, why not take a humorous approach, or share a funny story when applicable?  My blogging buddy Linda O. at "Write From the Heart" and Susan Sundwall at "Sundwall Says" are perfect examples. Even best-selling author and Pastor Joel Osteen starts each weekly sermon with a joke. 
• Statistics---Stats give your pieces credibility and show that you've done your homework. Instead of saying "A lot of Americans get divorced" say: "According to statistics 50% of marriages end in divorce." Stats are to a story what condiments are to a hotdog.
• Writers' markets and resource links---Though writing for many of us is a labor of love, the opportunity to earn an income is definitely a plus. For this reason, Calls for submissions, ongoing markets and anthology projects are popular with writers of all genres. To practice what I preach, below I've included a few worth checking out:

WOMEN ON WRITING

Call for Queries: Short & Sweet

WOW! Women On Writing welcomes queries for their upcoming e-zine issue (issue 69) on the theme of "Short & Sweet." Deadline for Queries: April 10, 2016 This issue is all about short word count, tight writing, and having fun doing it! Ideas include: Market Profiles - Interviews with editors/publishers of paying markets with a small word count (literary magazines/e-zines, contest markets, etc.) How-tos on the craft of writing for a particular short word count market or genre (picture books, devotionals, poetry, flash, fillers, reviews, greeting cards, gift books, recipes, etc.) Quick tips on craft of writing/revision/editing How to do something faster and easier (faster article writing, marketing, audience building, collaborating, blog building, book publishing, etc.) and more!

Get more details at Women on Writing: http://wow-womenonwriting.com/

WRITERS WEEKLY

Provides a weekly listing of positions and paid opportunities for writers each Wednesday.
See this week's listings here:
http://writersweekly.com/find-paying-markets

PEN AND PROSPER

Effective as of winter 2015, I now pay for blog posts! It's a small amount, but hey, it will keep you "rich" in chocolates. Blog posts of 250-700 words accepted and published at this site, pay $10.00 upon publication. Send completed pieces to Gemsjen@yahoo.com with short Bio and one link.

•  Anecdotes---Sharing short stories that speak to your experiences as a writer or that have a universal message, draw readers in and help keep them engaged.
• Quizzes---"Test your knowledge" quizzes are fun, revealing, and add variety to your posts. Here's a site that provides quizzes on a wide array of topics and categories: http://www.quibblo.com/blogger-quizzes-surveys  quizzes can also serve in conjunction with theme-based contests and give-aways.

Use these five timely strategies to add value to the blogosphere and take your blogging efforts to new heights in 2016.

Thoughts? Any other ways you've added value to your blog posts not mentioned?


Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

What I'm Reading...And You Should Too!

A must-read for today's writer

 

In my ongoing efforts to celebrate and highlight women of achievement during Women's History Month, I am delighted to share the works of Kerrie L. Flanagan and Jenny Sundstedt, co-authors of "Write Away."

 

Where do I begin? First off, the last time I was this excited about cuddling up to something after a long day, it had a mustache. :-) 

 

I love this book! And you will too.

It's smart, strategic, cleverly written, thoughtful, interactive, engaging, and easy to follow.

 

The chapters are short, but substantive. "Write Away" made me laugh, think, nod, reflect and commit to becoming more intentional about my creative goals in 2016.

 

My favorite chapters included:

• Get out of your own way
• Writing Naked
• Writer's Block Cures

The book also includes motivational quotes, monthly goal-setting sections, tools, handy websites, and several pages devoted to recording and tracking your freelance submissions.

 

The negatives?

•  I don't think that the title of the book quite does it justice; I would have chosen something a little more original.
• The book did not include "Pen and Prosper" in its list of popular websites referenced. An oversight, I'm sure. :-)

"Write Away" contains about 192 pages, priced at $11.95, for those of you seeking to purchase a copy to add to your writer's library. I highly recommend that you do.

 

Discover more

at www.Hotchocolatepress.com

 

 

Thoughts? What book is keeping you up past your bed time lately? Do tell.



Has Your Muse Become a "Recluse"...?

8 Tips to Greater Productivity

It happens to the best of us. The worst happens.
You're on a deadline with an editor for an important assignment. Or you receive an intended disconnection letter for your Internet service. And to your horror, you discover that your "muse" has gone on vacation without you. No notice. No specified destination.
Without your muse, you're left to your own devices.
Your creative well has run dry. No output means no income. You panic.
The more stressed out you become, the less productive you become.

Sound familiar?

No matter how successful you are, or how long you've been penning pieces for a living, you're bound to have a temporary bout with what is known as "Writer's Block."

Perhaps you're even experiencing it now.
If so, in the words of Sarah Palin: "Don't retreat, reload."

Here are a few strategies and practices to consider for greater productivity and less stress...

1. Don't force it.
Sometimes my muse can be like a rebellious teen. The more I try to dictate and demand, the more stubborn she becomes. If this happens for you as well, chill for awhile. Step away from your computer.
Which, by the way, is why I am a strong advocate for working ahead of my deadlines. And you should too. It takes some of the pressure off.

2. Shift gears.
I often find that other creative activities can "feed" my writing. When I am creatively "stuck," I cook, decorate, or dabble in some arts and crafts. Before you know it, I'm relaxed and bursting with new ideas and themes. Try it.

3. Read.
Need inspiration or motivation? Open a book or a blog. Examine the writer's style. His approach. His techniques. What would you do differently? What worked for you as a reader? What didn't? Assess and apply.

4. Watch a movie.
Besides being relaxing, it can help you to better explore and understand plot, characterization, setting, pacing; all of which can enhance other genres of writing and projects.

5. People watch.
Take your laptop or journal to the nearest coffeehouse, or local park, or bus stop. You'd be amazed at how "eavesdropping" and simply being observant will inspire, inform and entertain you. Make sure to be as detailed as possible in recording the day's events. Little things can add up to great discoveries.

6. Spend time with nature.
Spring has sprung. And there's no better time to observe the beauty and wonders of flowers, birds, colors, sounds, greenery. Take a walk. Spend time by the lake. It will awaken your senses and ignite your imagination.

7. Tune into reality TV.
I know, I know. These programs can be a bit ridiculous sometimes, but they can also serve as "fodder" for a future rant, commentary piece, poem, review, or list article. For example, I've written a few posts on this blog, where I make a connection between being a writer/performer and American Idol. And these posts have resonated well with my readers in the past.

8. Try Creative Prompts.
These story starters are really helpful in getting those creative juices flowing and focusing on an introductory lead. The Working Writers Club provides monthly prompts here:
 http://www.workingwritersclub.com/creative-writing-prompts/


These are just a few ideas to help you become more prolific in 2016, as you seek to build your platform, your business, and your bottom line.

And in the process, perhaps prevent you from playing, "Come out, come out wherever you are!" with your muse.

Have a great week ahead, folks. :-)


Thoughts? Which of these tips have you resorted to when facing writer's block?
Any other suggestions?

"She Bangs!" 5 Female Bloggers Everyone Should Read

As many of you are aware, March is officially designated as Women's History Month.

A time to celebrate, embrace and trumpet the myriad accomplishments of women across the world. Women are trailblazers, innovators, trendsetters, decision makers...and the brilliant minds behind some of the most entertaining, informative, popular blogs on the scene.

Which is why I am "tickled pink" to share with you a few fierce females who merit the spotlight today. The women featured are smart, creative, talented and bodacious! They blog across different niche areas and have different styles.

They are among my favorites, and I'm willing to bet they'll soon be added to your favorites too.
And here's a bonus: you don't have to be a female to appreciate what they have to offer. So fellas, take note.

Here they are in no particular order...
 

SERENA @ THRIFTDIVING
 

Serena is on a mission to make home ownership affordable, attractive and awesome. She is the queen of D.I.Y. projects and money saving tips you'll find useful and interesting. Not only will she help transform an outdated kitchen, she'll transform your thoughts about thrift stores and flea market finds. Serena truly knows her way around a power tool! Check out her many make-overs and thrift store treasures at Thriftdiving.com.

 

MARIBEL STEEL @GATEWAY TO BLINDNESS

I truly dig and admire Maribel. Besides being a talented writer and author, she blogs about blindness at About.com. She and I "met" through her guest post submission many moons ago here at Pen & Prosper. And I have been a fan ever since. Maribel lives life without limitations. Legally blind since her teen years, she is inspiring and encouraging.  Maribel has great insights about living with grace, humor and courage. Read more about her at Gateway to Blindness. 

 

SYBIL CHAVIS @POSSIBILITY OF TODAY

What do you get when you combine brains, beauty and a Harvard law degree?

A smart and savvy blogger who dedicates herself to helping thousands of readers to reach their full potential and  appreciate life's daily blessings through her ongoing work at Possibility of Today. Read how her efforts to go without complaining for a month or so, ended up producing a more positive outlook  and embracing even greater levels of joy. You'll be more optimistic about the future.

 

MONIQUE@ DIVASCANCOOK 

 

Okay, so anybody who has been reading my blog for more than a hot minute, knows that I am a big foodie! Yep. I love to cook, decorate, shop and entertain friends and guests. So, Monique and I are kindred spirits here. Besides the great recipes found at her place, you'll love the visuals and tutorials provided. I love her "old school" approach, and friendly, engaging style. Monique's been featured on the Nate Berkus Show, Forbes and Black Enterprise. "Seeing is believing." Order her recipe books or take a peek in her kitchen here at Divas Can Cook

 

 

CAREN BAGINSKI @  THE YOGA SITE

 

Caren tackles a tough subject with compassion and candor. She shares how she used Yoga to successfully battle anxiety and depression, over the years at Carenbaginski.com. 

I believe that anyone can benefit from the many ways she uses Yoga poses, practices and principles to live with greater "poise" and inner strength.

 

 

I hope you enjoyed meeting today's bodacious bloggers. If so, please leave a comment to encourage them, Tweet this post, and visit their respective sites.

Remember that when we uplift each other, we can all soar to greater heights.

 

Happy Women's History Month, ladies! 

And thank you to all the special men who support and encourage us along the way.

 :-)

 

Image credit: Mirror-Freedigitalphotos.net



Finding the Right "Sweet Spot" For Updating Your Blog

Jen's Home made Brownies

 

Knowing how often to update your Blog is as crucial to your blog’s success as the topics you choose to address.
I like to compare it to “preparing” a meal for consumption.
Think of it this way…

No matter how tasty a spice may be, if you use it in excess, it becomes overpowering and less appetizing. Too little seasoning, and it comes off as bland, and lacking a sense of commitment and care for the other person‘s experience. Balance becomes crucial.
Still, it’s a question that baffles many bloggers. How often should you post?

If you’re one of them, here are a few things to consider, as you plan your strategy in the upcoming months. Let's take a look at a few contributing factors.

　
YOUR LIFESTYLE:
How much time do you “seriously” have to devote to quality blog posts, given your other creative responsibilities? Do you have a “9 to 5” as well? Kids? A support system? Good time management skills? It’s much better to craft a few well-conceived, quality posts a few times a month, than to attempt to do one every day a week, that lacks substance and real take-away value. Even though Google is said to reward bloggers for frequent updates and longer posts, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons accordingly.

YOUR BLOG’S GOAL:
Is it to entertain? To educate? To highlight an important cause? To share celebrity gossip? To showcase your work? Your blog’s goal will often dictate how frequent you post, based upon your reason for connecting. For example, if your site is to show off your poetry, most people would probably become bored by reading your work, (and I’m sure it’s lovely) five days a week. Keep in mind the expression: “All things in moderation.”

OTHER BLOGS IN YOUR NICHE AREA:
How often do the “successful” bloggers in your niche update? And equally as important would be your reader’s “need to know” factor. Most blogs that I follow in the creative writing and marketing arena, typically publish new material 2-3 times a week.
Here are a few other things to examine and assess:

• The more frequent you post, the easier it is to “burn out.” Trust me; blogging is hard work. Proper pacing will enable you to maintain momentum and go the distance.
• The more frequent you post, the greater the likelihood that you’ll have to use previously published material, to keep up with the frantic pace. Most people don’t prefer “left-overs” in excess.
• The more frequent you post, the harder it is to come up with substantive, quality posts. No doubt you’ve encountered this with other bloggers. You know the ones... their posts may include their pet’s activities, or what they had to eat for the day, or rants with no real direction or purpose. Do you really want to add to that? J
• The more frequent you post, the less time your audience has to "digest" your offerings and to interact thoughtfully. Let it settle. Then serve "seconds."
• If you post sporadically and inconsistently, this can be equally detrimental. It causes your audience to feel ignored and frustrated. You risk losing "regular" readers. Additionally, readers may not perceive you as being as committed or as professional as your peers.

The best way to approach things here, is to start off slowly. Be realistic. Test the waters. See what works. Then modify accordingly.
Keeping in mind that: "Sometimes less is more."

Thoughts? Agree or disagree?
Have you found your "sweet spot" yet?

Are You Sabotaging Your Blog's Success?

How to Lose Your Readers in 8 Easy Steps!

Most of us blog fully aware that it takes time, commitment and creativity to truly go the distance.
But, what we don’t always recognize is that we can sabotage our efforts when we fail to meet the needs of our readers, or fail to understand certain success principles.

With this in mind, here are eight practices and activities that have caused me to stop following blogs and unsubscribe as a reader. Common tendencies that you’ll typically find will often alienate other readers as well.

In no particular order…
Are you guilty of any?

　
1. Irregular Posting

There’s no doubt about it: blogging is hard work. And life gets in the way. Your job. Your family. Your need to escape. Bills. Writer’s block. Been there, done that. But sporadic, inconsistent blogging will give the impression that you’re “faking it,” are an amateur, or lack commitment. All the more reason you should find a personal schedule that works and stick with it like Velcro. In a blog fog? Ask for guest blog posts, publish reprints, or make your posts short, but substantive.

2. Going on break for extended periods, without announcing it

To many followers, it’s the equivalent of allowing all your phone calls to go straight to voice mail. It’s rude. Which causes a “disconnect.”

3. Excessive personal photos of you

Where do I begin? Let me just go on record by saying, I dig when writers share images of themselves and their personal lives. It’s great to get to know the person behind the words, and pictures provide visual variety. To a point. Unless you’re a model, please don’t post dozens and dozens of images of yourself, in a variety of poses, that do nothing to add value to your article, and that in no way tie in with your topic. It comes across as, well… a little self-indulgent.

4. Angry, repetitious, personal rants

Rants are commonplace for writers and bloggers of all walks of life. Who doesn’t need to “sound off” from time to time about a bad boss? A demanding client? Relationship woes? Poor customer service? And as they say, “Misery loves company.” But be careful here. Too much of it can be a bad thing. Branding you as bitter, immature, or in dire need of a good friend or therapist. 
　
5. A lack of focus on a designated topic or theme

Most people read a variety of blogs to meet their informational needs and to broaden their horizons. I, for instance, enjoy cooking blogs, writing blogs, decorating blogs, and sites devoted to frugal living. And I find that it saves time and energy when I visit a site and know exactly what I will encounter. It also helps to establish the writer’s expertise in a designated area.

This is not to say that a blogger can’t address multiple topics, when in moderation, and when there is a “tie in” of sorts. But flip flopping, changing directions, and writing on an array of unrelated topics can be confusing, and dilute your “brand”.

6. Not responding to blog comments

Blogs, by their very nature are intended to be an interactive medium. Which is why I am often left “scratching my head” when bloggers don’t respond to comments left. That is, of course, unless you’re lucky enough to garner 50 or more comments per post. Then, by all means, I don’t mind being ignored, because you’re obviously doing something right. Proceed.

7. Sell like hell

Blogging is a great way for writers to build their platform and their bottom line. But, there needs to be a balance here. Every post, ad, or “pop-up” shouldn’t be about making money or promoting your products and services. Give to receive.

8. Never comment on blogs you read

Don’t get me wrong: I’d be lying if I said that every time I read a blog, I leave a comment. Cuz I don’t. I don’t always have the time. But I do leave comments on most blogs I read on a somewhat regular basis. I realize that readers don’t owe that to us as bloggers, but it certainly fosters good karma, builds supportive relationships, and shows appreciation for the blogger’s efforts and time. And there’s a bonus here: it doesn’t cost a thing.

By the way…If I haven’t commented on your blog, you’re probably next on my list. J


Remember, there's great validity to the expression, "It's not what you do, it's how you do it."
So make the most of your efforts by considering the needs of your readers.
Thanks for being one of mine.

Thoughts? Which of these points do you agree with, if any?

How Our Errors Can Enhance Us...

 

Welcome Back, Readers!

Double your pleasure this week with two posts; since I am back on the scene earlier than I expected.

Today's post addresses a timely topic that I hope you'll find inspiring.

If so, let me know. I love your comments and questions.

 

Now, for today's post...

 

Mistakes.

Most of us have been socialized and conditioned to perceive them as bad things.

They embarrass us. Cause us to question our judgement. They reduce us like Christmas merchandise in January.

 

But they don’t have to. If we reframe our thoughts, we can embrace the possibility that not all errors are necessarily damaging and detrimental in nature. In fact, depending upon how we address them, and their related lessons, they can be a positive thing.

Especially for our creative careers.

 

Not convinced? Read on.

 

Take the example of talk show host and award-winning author, Steve Harvey. Who can forget when he made the ultimate blunder in front of MILLIONS of viewers? Harvey announced the wrong winner for the Miss Universe Pageant. Ouch! For weeks afterwards, people criticized and vilified him in social media circles and late night comedic routines. Some thought it meant suicide for his professional career. Ultimately, it didn’t.

 

Fast forward. He ended up with more gigs and endorsements; one new show airs in March. This just reveals how forgiving and charitable we can be as humans, and that if the right “damage control” is applied, even things gone wrong can work out in our favor.

 

And what about Paula Deen? Some of you may recall in former years when she alienated the Black community by making some “off-colored” jokes about people of color. The “fall-out” caused her to lose quite a few followers and some significant revenue as well. She has since then apologized and is being “restored” in the eyes of some of her previous fans.

 

As a wise person once wrote: “Everybody makes mistakes. That’s why erasers were made.”

 

MY STORY…

 

I used to avoid mistakes at all cost. I would ruminate, deliberate and procrastinate until I could arrive at just the “perfect” decision. I was paralyzed by the fear of perceived consequences. Making a mistake, years ago, would cause me to hang my head in sorrow, or confine me to bed, replaying the scene in my head over and over again, losing sleep and peace.

 

Like the time I accidentally sent a carbon copy of an email on a client’s project to the wrong person. Yikes! I was certain that once I disclosed my mistake to her, she would pink-slip me. Much to my surprise, she didn’t. Instead, she respected my honesty and continued to work with me until this very day.

 

And, I must admit, no matter how diligently I strive for perfection, I am plagued by periodic errors: Blog post gaffes, punctuation mishaps, emails sent without the intended attachments.

 

And no doubt, you’ve goofed too. True?

 

But, here’s what I’ve discovered along the way… (as a "recovering perfectionist") that has enabled me to move forward with greater grace and wisdom.

 

When you make a mistake own it.

Apologize and move forward. People will respect you more if you do.

 I've learned that accountability shows maturity.

 

Learn the lesson.

If you don’t gain perspective, you lose the opportunity to grow

in character and wisdom.

 

Recognize that most errors are not permanent.

I've discovered that “this too shall pass.”

 

Laugh.

One thing that helped Steve Harvey to save face in his pageant mix-up was that he chose to   make fun of himself; enabling others to laugh with him, not at him-- through his subsequent  Twitter posts and humorous videos. Of course, he graciously and sincerely apologized to everyone first.

 

Recognize that errors can help us to identify needed areas of improvement.

Consider how many times Edison and other innovators "failed" before arriving at the right answers that led to useful modern-day inventions.

 

Errors humble us.

And humility helps us to seek God.

 

Forgive yourself.

Many times we are much harder on ourselves than those doing the judging. “To err is human.”

　

Handled properly, our errors can enhance us, make us more strategic, stronger and wiser; if we heed the lessons they impart.
This doesn’t mean, however, that we should approach our work casually or without the desire to maintain high standards of excellence.
To not do so would be the greatest “mistake.”

The key here is not to let the fear of making mistakes keep you from sending out that manuscript, or making decisions about your freelance business, or trying something new, or moving forward after a failure.

You’re better than that.