What’s in a blog?

You’ve heard the expression, “what’s in a name?” It is human nature to make certain assumptions or conclusions about someone or something, based on the name. It’s why branding is so important for companies that are competing for your hard earned money. You’ve probably also heard a lot about “personal branding” these days.  What is personal branding, anyway? We aren’t commodities, we’re people! Personal branding just means being consistent with your message about who you are. Don’t portray yourself as a church going Christian to one group of people, then portray yourself as a party going Pagan to another. It leaves people confused about who you are. Just be who you are, everywhere, all the time.

Some job seekers in this market have been advised to “start a blog” as part of their personal branding. What do you do if you’re not a good writer, though? You don’t have to be a great writer to start a blog but you do have to provide consistency. Consistency about who you are – not just what you do. So, if you’re an Travel Consultant and you can write blogs all day every day about travel – great! However, if your true blogging passion lies in knitting with the local ladies club then you should do that, too. Who says your blog only has to be about 1 subject? That gets pretty boring and let’s face it – the people reading your blog don’t just want to know about your expertise – they want to know about you. Your blog (should you choose to have one) should actually contain some insight into your personality. If it doesn’t, then it’s going to bore people and then you’re just wasting time writing things no one will read.

So what’s in a blog?

My blog is pretty random with regard to subject, but it’s a true reflection of who I am in each and every post. I have a “brand” – mostly so that there’s no mistake about me being me on all these social networks & platforms. Imjustagoyle here, imjustagoyle there – imjustagoyle everywhere. :) Makes it easier for people to remember, too.

Bottom line is, what’s in a blog should represent you accurately and genuinely. If you can’t do that or aren’t comfortable doing that – then don’t. It’s ok, you don’t have to blog – really! Stick to reading others’ and commenting. You can still network that way and maintain consistency.