What Blogging Has Become

When I first heard of people writing online diaries and sharing them publicly I figured it was just another internet fad that wouldn't last.  To be honest, I found it a little creepy and sad that strangers would pour out their hearts to any voyeuristic stranger that surfed their way. However the trend grew and blogs soon evolved; writing styles refined, sites gained a focus and began to be designed better, and it wasn't long before the popularity of this new form of fast changing website became a valuable commercial tool.

With all the talk of blogs as a form of promotion and an extension of business' online marketing efforts, it's easy to forget the original style of blog that started it all... personal, opinionated, unedited and without any thought to technical elements such as SEO and cross-browser compatibility.

Personal blogs were often rambling, sometimes mundane, occasionally funny but always honest and without any motive other than to serve as a new form of expression.

These types of blogs do still exist, and I often enjoy the breath of fresh air wafting through the now largely clinical blogosphere.  Whether it is to find a new recipe, to read someone else's  film recommendation or just enjoy a candid peek into another human being's life there is still an appetite for "reality blogs". 

As an online marketing consultant I am constantly trying to convince business owners to loosen their ties on their blogs and let a glimmer of their personality shine through.  It can make a huge difference between making a connection with your readers and turning them off.

So the next time you put fingers to keyboard to type out your latest blog post, make sure you are writing about something that you genuinely care about, and let your own original voice guide your words.