If you are looking for a bit of flair for your challenge?
26 letters rolling around your head with matching dates for the challenge?
Well look no further if you would like to use our snazzy post letters and our A to Z Challenge [2013] Desktop you are just one click away from that. Look above you see the "Banners/Badges" page if you go there you will see a couple things that you can use. Not only will you look cool, but you will better help us co-host keep track of the participants just by you showing your support.
Or this desktop, last year I found it much easier to not have to flip back and forth to find the right dates it was all in one place... So be cool, look cool and guess what you are... COOL!
And if you want to be cool and wear some cool stuff including "Alex J Cavanaugh's Ninja Army" shirt... you can check out my art/designs at my NEATORAMA shop...
At the end of every year, I have a tradition of writing down what significantly helped make me a better person that year. One of the bullets on this year's list read: "Participating in the A to Z Challenge". I learned how to make myself write, whether I was in the mood or not, but most importantly, I met an incredible group of encouraging and supporting bloggers who were genuinely interested in all I had to say from a perspective of someone from another corner of the globe. If only those in power were as accepting, open-minded and loving as our blogger family!
In a world that's controlled by the media and how they'd like us to think, gaps are made even wider and most of us are misrepresented. Because of this, my theme for this April will be the A to Z of Iraqi Culture. I'd like to use this year's A to Z Blogging Challenge as a tool to shorten the gaps. Build bridges. Reach out. Speak!
Last year, the A to Z Challenge taught me that we are much more alike than we are different. I hope this year's will teach me to celebrate the differences. http://spill-beans.blogspot.com/
Last time, we discussed how to make hyperlink signatures in order to lead others directly to your blog and streamline the process of blog visiting. This week, we'll address the nitty gritty of putting together a post that will draw readers and keep them.
Our previous five pointers were: 1. Choose your link, 2. Choose your signature, 3. Make your hyperlink, 4. Add your signature, and 5. Post it following your comment.
When I talk about putting together/formulating a post, I know very well you all know how to write a post. However, there are things that can make it so people are more likely to stick around and read your entire post, rather than just skipping along after a quick glance. And why do we write blog posts? Ostensibly so someone will read them, right?
Before I hit the five pointers, I want to give you a disclaimer: Not every rule has to be followed. When I give out these Blogging Basics tips, I don't expect you to do everything to the letter of what I'm saying. All I'm doing is passing along things I have learned along the way, that may help you, and that you may or may not find meets with your personal preferences. Do I follow all the rules? Not necessarily...
Without further ado, the basics of formulating a post:
1. Choose a catchy title. Those of you who are also writers know this one already, but, surprisingly, it is often forgotten with blogging. Try to choose a quick, clever title that will catch the attention of those scanning through new posts to read. Make sure it is an honest title, though. Don't say the post is about one thing then switch it on the reader. They won't appreciate it.
2. Keep it brief. We're writing blog posts, not magazine articles, and attention spans online aren't as long as they may be elsewhere. There are always exceptions to this rule (I'm sure my posts are longer than the "standard"), but overall, try to keep it somewhat brief.
3. Provide quality content. On the flip side of the "keep it brief" pointer, don't make it so brief that you're not actually saying anything. Find the balance you're comfortable with and go from there. Don't post just to post. Post because you have something to say, something others want to read.
4. Use photos/images. This is especially true if your post is longer. Images break up the text and give the eye a rest. They may also draw the eye to the blog post, which benefits you. Do make sure it is an image you are allowed to use. Look for Creative Commons photos or use your own!
5. Make it yours. Add your own flair. Your personality will show through in what you're writing, and that may ultimately be what gains you readers. It's the other half of providing quality content. Content + personality makes for a winning combination. If you're writing about things that interest you, you'll find this happens on its own.
These are just a few pointers that may help you with writing a post people will enjoy reading, and one that will hopefully draw readers to that post. Feel free to share your own pointers in the comments. Tell us what draws you to a post and what drives you away.
What is your top pointer when it comes to writing a blog post people will want to read? What Blogging Basics topics would you like to see covered in this series?
My father was a rock hound and a carpenter. He had a shop where he worked and his rocks were lined up on shelves. Sunday mornings, I’d go out and spend time with him. He’d have a fire going in the old stove and I’d sit there and polish his rocks while he worked on his next project. It was very peaceful.
"Which is your favorite fictional character and why?" (Mayflow3r)
Ruth, the White Dragon from Anne McCaffrey’s books. Ruth was the only white dragon and smaller than the rest, but smarter than the other dragons. I guess because I’m a bit of a runt myself, I’ve always identified with Ruth. "Describe the last Halloween costume you wore." (Nicole)
It’s been a long time, but I went as Brandon Lee’s character from The Crow.
"Name a movie you watched that exceeded your expectations." (Nicole)
Argo. My husband didn’t even tell me what it was about until we arrived at the theatre. It’s not my type of movie, but I knew he really wanted to see it. I loved it - thought it was incredibly intense.
"Name an item that you have too much of." (Nicole)
Bath and Body Works products! At least 25 different scents, all with matching spray, lotion, and body wash. My husband says he really should’ve purchased stock in the company.
"True or False: Frequently cracking your knuckles will lead to arthritis. (Defend your choice.)" (Mina Lobo)
False. I’ve cracked my knuckles since I was a kid, and the only place I really have arthritis now is my toes.
"How old were you when you realized your passion for writing?" (Magical Mystical MiMi)
I was 13 and it was when I read The White Dragon for the first time.
"Coke or Pepsi?" (Mina Lobo)
Coke! Although we usually have RC products in our house.
"What is your "Thing". i.e. do you have a non-professional hobby or a particularly acute preference for something that you feel defines a large part of who you are?" (Matt Conlon)
I’m a professional speaker, author, and photographer, so I suppose none of those count. My thing would have to be roller coasters then. I’m a thrill junkie. Bring on the drops and the loops!
"When writing, do you prefer to compose your first-draft by hand, on your computer, or using Morse Code?" (Mina Lobo)
I write everything by hand first and then transfer to the computer. Last year I got the Dragon Naturally Speaking software, so instead of typing that first draft into the computer, I speak it, which is wonderful!
L. Diane Wolfe
Professional Speaker & Author Blog - Spunk On A Stick’s Tips Website - Spunk On A Stick
Known as “Spunk On A Stick,” Wolfe is a member of the National Speakers Association and the author of numerous books. Her latest title, “How to Publish and Promote Your Book Now,” covers her publishing seminars in depth and provides an overview of the entire process from idea to market. “Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting”, ties her goal-setting and leadership seminars together into one complete, enthusiastic package. Her YA series, The Circle of Friends, features morally grounded, positive stories. Wolfe travels extensively for media interviews and speaking engagements, maintains a dozen websites & blogs, and assists writers through her author services.
Please
welcome today's A-Z Participant expert, Sylvia Villalobos. Her topic is timely
and important for all who are participating in The Challenge, as well as for writers of all genres in general. I hope
her advice helps you like it helped me.
You can find her here:
Name:
Silvia Villalobos -- first time A-Z participant - way to go!
Blog:
Silvia Writes Stories
published: “An Affair of the Heart” at Fiction365, and “Games”
at Red Fez.
Why is it important to set aside blocks of time for writing
I’m having trouble, sometimes, keeping a writing schedule -- for blog entries or stories. The A-Z challenge is a perfect motivator. Great to keep me on that chair, coming up with something new every day.
After long breaks from writing, most of what I write centers on what’s already there, old stuff. Not bad, but it doesn’t stimulate my imagination. I add a few words to a WIP or a blog draft, cut and paste, maybe even change a name or two, but that’s not real writing, is it?
When I'm lucky, and inspiration strikes, writing is that process where I let my thoughts guide my fingers on the keyboard, create new sentences and paragraphs, do not move from that chair until I produce something new. Hopefully a whole lot of something new. Editing comes later, but if I don't put something down, I don't have anything to edit.
Here’s what writing everyday does for me:
1. It improves my writing. The more I write, the easier it gets. 2. Memories clarify themselves -- the more I write, the better I seem to remember things. 3. Keeps the creative part of the brain engaged. 4. I don’t have to endure remorse for not having created anything new. 5. I have a schedule and discipline -- instill that writing discipline. 6. Helps me be more observant. The more I write, the better I connect with the world around me. 7. Master techniques such as description, dialogue, and exposition. 8. I get comfortable with writing. 9. Practice, practice, practice. 10. Feels good.
What about you?
Now can the process of everyday writing become counterproductive? Sure, it could turn into a mess if I just type away for fear of not coming up with anything new. I also need to take time off to look for inspiration. That happens when I travel or read a lot. But back to setting aside blocks of time for writing. When two writing friends mentioned the A-Z challenge I thought, that is exactly what I need. What better way to keep motivated? Can't think of one, nor can I think of a better event than the A-Z Blogging Challenge. I'm ready. :)
Sylvia,
I'm glad you shared your advice with us. The part about not just
adding to the work I've already done really spoke to me, as did the
discipline of daily writing. I wish you all the best in this year's
challenge!
If you’re participating in the Challenge, you are probably already planning your posts. That is good – plan and write as many as possible before the Challenge begins so you have more time to visit other bloggers in April. And it’s easier to do that if you have a theme for the month.
If you intend to wing it, nothing wrong with that. The first year of the Challenge, I didn’t have a theme. Of course this meant some days I was scrounging for something that matched the letter. (For Q, I blogged about Q*Bert and the crappy 1983 movie, Q – not good!)
A theme will give you direction. If you select movies, you can go with the movie titles. With music - band or song titles. With sports - players or teams. By narrowing the focus, it’s actually easier, because then you won’t be overwhelmed.
A theme also lets visitors know what to expect. They will be more apt to return, especially if they like your theme. If you can, include a line or two at the beginning of each post that states your theme for the month.
It’s good research. Select a topic you want to know more about – you’ll learn something as you search. Perhaps it’s something you need to research for your next book or for school. Kill two birds with one stone.
Does the theme have to match your blog exactly? No, it can be anything you want. If it’s something that interests you, chances are you’ve already talked about it on your blog. Brainstorm some different themes and pick one. If it fits your style, then do it.
If you need some ideas to get you started, I recently listed some fun, geeky themes at Allison’s blog, Geek Banter.
Have fun with it. Just think - your blog is a theme park for one whole month. Make it fun!
Co-host Ninja Captain Alex is the author of CassaStar and CassaFire and his blog can be found HERE
Name: Konstanz Silverbow Blogs:Nothought2small, and Writeaway Publications: So far, none. But I did just submit my first manuscript to Shadow Mountain! Other Places to Find Me:Facebook (author page), Facebook(blog), Twitter, Goodreads,
10 GETTING TO KNOW YOU QUESTIONS
1. When writing, do you prefer to compose your first-draft by hand, on your computer, or using Morse Code?
A mix really. I start by hand, somewhere in the middle I begin typing, and along the way I write down ideas I have for other stories.
2. If you could sing any song with the artist who wrote/performed it, what would it be and with whom?
Secrets’ by OneRepublic but more importantly, Ryan Tedder. (He is the lead singer for OneRepublic and also composed the music and lyrics for the song)
3. Who inspired you to write in the very beginning?
I wasn’t really “inspired” by someone to start writing. What really started it was an experience I had. It is a really funny story and one day I was telling my two best friends about it. We were all laughing and I realized that it kinda sounded like something you would read in a book or see in a movie. So I sat down and attempted to write it out. I failed miserably. After that one of my friends told me that her mom and eight other women had just started a writing group and I was invited to come.
4.Favorite childhood memory? Spending time with my siblings. We grew up close because we were all home-schooled and own a family business. We did everything together. That doesn't happen often anymore with everyone grown up, some of them have their own families now, and one brother lives in Australia.
5. What is your "Thing". i.e. do you have a non-professional hobby or a particularly acute preference for something that you feel defines a large part of who you are?
Almost all of my hobbies, I make money from. The one that I have not is Dragon and Sword collecting. I LOVE dragons, I LOVE swords. (Does that count as a hobby?)
6.What items could you typically have in your pockets?
My phone, a hair tie, and loose change.
7.What is the most unusual thing you have ever given as a gift?
I love this question. Usually people ask what is the most unusual thing you have been given. So, most unusual thing I have given? An old mining Stock Certificate.
8. What makes you cry? (Emotional reasons. Onions don't count.)
Answer: Movies, books, people. I am a sympathetic crier. I am over emotional so a lot of things make me cry.
9.Where do you go to "Get away from it all"?
Novels. I read and listen to music.
10.What makes life worth living?
The Small moments when it seems like everything is falling apart and one person changes it all with the simplest of things. A simple gesture, a small compliment, a smile.
Another random fact just because, I love sarcasm. Oh yeah, and I LOVE being an A-to-Z April Blogging Challenge Co-host! ~Konstanz Silverbow Nothought2small
I encourage you out there to follow Angela from Whole Foods Living. She's coming back for a another year, but still doesn't have as many followers as she should have. You might get some good eating advice while you're there.
With the help of Jimi Hendrix, Bill at Images By Bil paid homage to the April Challenge. Go over and check out his cool artwork--Jimi Hendrix is the subject of one of them.
An outstanding promo post was delivered by Jolie at Precious Monsters. She covers a lot of bases in this post so please go to it, read it, and then tweet it, send it to friends, and spread it around. Jolie is one our A to Z staffers.
Our own A to Z co-host Nicole Ayers offered some excellent Challenge advice in a guest post at Write Non-fiction Now! Especially if you're still trying to come up with an idea for April posts or are afraid to sign up because you can't think of a theme, check this out.
She may be a newcomer to the Challenge, but Shirlene from Just Good Stories promoted the A to Z like a vet. Go to her blog and help fuel her enthusiasm.
Thank you Colin D. Smith for the mention and the fascinating Challenge analysis. That should be of some help to bloggers looking for Challenge advice.
Then there's Dennis at LimeBird Writers (now that's a group I can fly with). He's got his April plans all mapped out as evidenced in his post about the Challenge.
Did
you know that if you're participating in the 2013 A-Z Challenge, or
have participated in any of the past challenges, we'd love to
showcase your ideas here at The A-Z Blog? Today's brilliant ideas
are brought to you by M.J Joachim who blogs at Lots of Crochet Stitches and FOUR others. Here's how to find them all: Follow M.J in one stop-shopping! (I'm not a shopper...I like one stop...)
On your
mark!
Ready!
Set!
Go!
And they’re
off, all participating in this year’s Scavenger Hunt for Alphabet Words!
Here are a few clues, to help you on your way!
Online Alphabet Word References
There are
oodles of places to find A – Z word lists online. I discovered this last year
by Googling, “words that begin with x.”
Wish I’d found this out much earlier in the Challenge, I must say!
You can also
get a little more specific and look up things like “scientific terms beginning
with letter _” or “recipes beginning with letter _.”
Another easy
thing to do is type (define:word – whatever the word may be) into Mr. Google’s search
engine URL. You can also do this for synonyms, antonyms and homonyms, btw. It
will search for sites to help you. Then you can click on the link and open up a
virtual Pandora’s Box, containing words with links to new words, with links to
new words…and so on, and so on and so on…
Bring it on Home
It takes a
keen observer, and it might be an unexpected chance to clean out your garage,
but most people have numerous things they’ve collected over the years, many named
with at least one letter of the alphabet, some containing multiple words –
things like books, movies, records and food & product labels. This sounds
like an opportunity, if ever there was one!
Out and About
I might be stating
the obvious by mentioning the library here, but what about all those other
places you go like restaurants, museums, amusement parks, theaters, retail
shops etc. etc. etc.? If you spend any length of time there, you’re bound to
find at least a few bits of jargon for posts that might be puzzling you.
Don’t forget
the great outdoors, when looking for words to write your posts! Start naming
all those trees, plants and shrubs. Break down the animals by species, habits,
diets and food chain levels. Not enough for you? How many shades of gray do you
see when it rains? Is the sunset pink, orange or mauve? Does the wind shriek,
lament or whisper?
It’s a
challenge, but it’s not hard…
Not if you
know where to look, that is! Wow, that was some really great advice! Now we have no excuses for Q, Z, X or whatever may be stumping us on a particular day. We appreciate you sharing this with us! ~ Tina (contact me, see contact tab, if you have ideas you'd like to share at this blog)
Photo
credit: Scrabble Game in Progress,
thebarrowboy, Creative Commons Attribution; Interior Mall of America, Mono P,
Creative Commons Attribution; Animal Diversity, GNU Free Documentation License
Our Moon. Something that has captured our imaginations and fascinated the minds of mankind for millennia. The moon and its regular cycle of phases have made it a vital cultural influence on language, calendars, art and mythology since ancient times. The moon has inspired stories of werewolves have frightened us and poems of love. Books, movies, and songs have centered around the moon. I Googled the list and it is far too long for me to elaborate here.
Our moon, which does not have a name like other moons, is Earth's only known natural satellite. It is the fifth largest satellite in our solar system. It has a diameter one fourth that of Earth’s, making it the largest satellite relative to its host size. Our moon is in a syncrhonized rotation with Earth. That is why we only see one side of it. Hence, the term The Dark Side of the Moon. Its gravitational pull produces the ocean tides and the minute lengthening of the day.
The Soviets actually reached the moon before us with an unmanned spacecraft in 1959. Since then, NASA’s Apollo program has sent an orbiting mission in 1968, followed by six actual manned landings from 1969-1972. Twelve men have walked on its surface. We brought back lots of rock that helped scientists determine its age: 4.5 billion years old.
The prevailing hypothesis is that the Earth–Moon system formed as a result of a giant impact: a Mars-sized body hit the nearly formed proto-Earth, blasting material into orbit around the proto-Earth, which accreted to form the Moon. It is believed most of the Moon came from the impactor, not from the proto-Earth. Like the earth, the moon has a crust, mantle, and core.
Water cannot exist on the moon as exposure to solar radiation causes water to decompose, a process known as photodissociation. However, comets and hydrogen from solar winds combined with oxygen in lunar rocks could have deposited water ice in permanently shadowed craters. This is of vital importance if we want to set up a permanent base on the moon, a possible stepping stone for reaching Mars.
Although we have recently found proof of frozen ice on the polar regions, the moon does not have wind or erosion. That is why we see crater impacts large and small that pocket its surface over its life. Volcanoes in the past have spewed out basaltic lava. With a decent set of binoculars or a small telescope, you can see fascinating features on its surface on a clear night.
There is no legal ownership of the moon, although the U.S. has planted flags there. There is an Outer Space Treaty (1967) that defines the Moon and all outer space as the "province of all mankind. The moon cannot be used for military purposes and bans weapons of mass destruction.
You can view the moon using Google Earth. Grail Moon Mission – September11, 2011 (Very Cool Stuff Here)On NASA's third attempt, the dual-spacecraft mission finally lifts off from Cape Canaveral. The twin craft separate and begin their journey to the moon, where they will study its gravitational field. Scientists predict that the mission will provide a map of the lunar gravitational field, data that will allow for the first comprehensive assessment of the moon's crust, mantle and core.
Some scientists say GRAIL is the beginning of a revolution in planetary science. Precision formation flying could allow for numerous spacecraft to create singular technology "platforms" that could see deeper into space and in far greater detail than ever before. Scientists envision a day when they will send swarms of iPod-sized spacecraft into space, a technology that could replace satellites and offer other advances in communications.
Well, how about it? How has our most awesome neighbor inspired you? If you think this post is worthy of Twitter or Facebook, please select the appropriate icon below. Thanks!!!
Stephen Tremp, author of the BREAKTHROUGH series, has a B.A. in information systems and an MBA degree in global management. Stephen has a background in information systems, management, and finance and draws from this varied and complex experiential knowledge to write one-of-a-kind thrillers.
His novels are enhanced by current events at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and other scientific research facilities around the world. These potential advances have the ability to change the way we perceive our universe and our place in it!
You can visit Stephen Tremp at Breakthrough Blogs.
BREAKTHROUGH and OPENING can be downloaded: Kindle for $2.99
Did you know blogs that publish guest posts could be
penalized by Google? I didn't at least not before reading about this latest
news regarding the practice, a few days ago. Yesterday, I also received an
email containing tips from another blogger on how to play it safe when
publishing content from guest bloggers.
The overall message from both of these
posts is that our blog’s search engine rankings, traffic and general reputation
could be affected if we publish content written by third-parties. Sounds scary,
right? I don’t blame you if you’re scratching your head wondering what the heck
is going on. Just remember that this guest posting penalty thing isn't as
simple as A-B-C; Pun intended for all you folks gearing up for the April
Challenge!
Most, if not all concerns surrounding the matter stem from a video that Google released where it’s CEO explained why they frown upon guestblogs. Just like mainstream media, however, some bloggers who have brought attention to this news are sensationalizing the situation by yelling “penalty” first but ignoring the rest of what he said. If you are among the bloggers who did (or will) watch the video and listen – I mean, really pay attention to what is being explained, then there might not be much for you to worry about. Does this mean you’re safe from being hit by some type of sequel to the Panda and Penguin updates? Not at all – and this is where things get kinda risky for those of us in the blogging arena.
All of these practices are simple to implement – for me, at
least. I do suspect, however, that it might take some time for a lot of
bloggers to adjust their guest posting routines and develop a new – more
Google-friendly practice in how they manage guests on their blogs. So, the news
comes at a very inconvenient time. I considered outsourcing the posts for my
blog via guests -- after shelving the theme that I initially wanted to use for
this year’s A to Z challenge. I was going to invite 26 people to write a post
for my blog and now I’m going to have to change that plan up a bit.
I’m also currently at the beginning of making what will be
several, or more, guest appearances around the blogosphere; promoting my short film campaign, which runs all the way through March. How in the world am I
going to swing this? I’ll tell you how – the same way you’re going to save your
own blog from being shot down by search engines like there’s a hit out on you by
Frank Costello (as played by Jack Nicholson) in “The Departed.”
Here’s how we’re going to make this happen through a summary
of proper guest posting practices that I learned from blogs managed by Darren
Rowse and Neil Patel.
“Guesting” Language
Hurts Your Blog
Stop using language such as “guest post” and any derivatives
of the title including “guest author,” “guest blogger,” etc. on your blog. Do not address people as guest
bloggers nor posts as such in your titles, within the body of the content
itself or in any introductions or closings that you add to the post.
The Remedy: A
good rule of thumb is to publish blog posts in a manner similar to magazines
and newspapers. When was the last time you saw “guest writer” in an issue of
Rolling Stone, VOGUE or Architectural Digest? There is a reason you didn't so
take heed of how these publications do things when it comes to featuring posts
on your own blog.
Say No to Bios/Bylines
Filled with Several Links
Author bios and/or bylines should not contain more than two
links. In fact, links aren't even be necessary if you just create a page with
short bios of all your contributors and then link to their blog or wherever
else readers can find them.
The Remedy: Create
an author page for each contributor and link their name to those pages, OR,
link their name to their blog/website/social media page or whatever. That could
count as one of the two maximum links, so they wouldn't even need to add more
to their bio, OR, just stop allowing guests to send you bios containing a link
to every single online site or social media profile they have online. Since I
don’t have a staff of people and am short on time, I’d likely opt for the two
latter solutions.
Don’t Pimp your
Blog’s “Write for Me” Page in Exchange for Guests
Telling potential readers that they will receive link(s)
when contributing to your blog is a violation of Google’s linking policy.
Receiving a link back to a blog or social medial profile should not be the sole
benefit of someone being featured on your website.
The Remedy:
Change your “Write for Me/Us/this Blog” call for submissions to something less
saturated. Again, this is a good time to check out what the Big Boys do and
follow that model. Next, establish editorial guidelines that include a
requirement for original content that was not previously published elsewhere.
If you wouldn't eat food that somebody else already chewed
up and spit out, then why would you accept blog posts that were seen on another
website? It’s what’s known as “duplicate content” by Google’s standards. By the
way – secure the rights to these posts, while you’re at it. Doing so brings the
extra satisfaction in knowing that a contributor won’t spin something they
wrote for you today, into a post for another blogger, tomorrow.
Be Selective About
Who You Feature on Your Blog
Don’t just accept posts from anyone and everyone who submits
something to you – especially content that is already written. In fact, why are
you even accepting open submissions in the first place? It’s much easier to
review, accept and reject queries or proposals or cover letters or messages of
intent than to have to read through entire blog posts.
I thought that most bloggers already knew this (…even I don’t
write or submit guest posts blindly. I query FIRST and then wait for a response
from the blogs that I’m interested in submitting a post to), but, I guess there
are blogs out there who just put up an “open call” and take everything that
comes their way.
The Remedy: Only
accept posts from people who have a track record of writing great content on
other blogs – and on their own website! Do a Google search for the name of your
potential blog contributor; this search should not yield a bunch of spammy
websites and spam links. If it does, then that’s a red flag and you may have a
spammer trying to ride his or her spammy wave through some of your blog’s link
juice. Also welcome contributors who are community builders and can add some
discussion to your blog, by responding to comments on their post.
Restrict Access and Privileges
It is not necessary to give contributors author accounts to
your blog, like handing out candy to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Maintain a
filtering system that compliments your submission guidelines, by restricting
the publishing privileges allowed on your blog to you only. Are there
exceptions to this tip? Yes, of course there are exceptions. Does this mean
that leaves more work for you in terms of formatting, scheduling and publishing
posts on your own? Yes, but in many cases, that’s better than the alternative
-- being penalized by Google.
The bottom line is that unless they are a part of
your main administrative team or a regular contributor who has established a
good track record of posting on your website, everybody online shouldn't have
the access and authority to publish anything they want on your blog. When contributors
publish blog posts about weight loss or diet pills on your homeschooling and
parenting blog – you know you have a problem!
Solutions to the Guest Post Dilemma in a nutshell:
Stop telling people you have guests. Those
who read your blog already know who is who, thanks to author bios, tags and/or
bylines. Speaking of author bios, those of contributors on your blog should
contain two links maximum – and they better not be spammy (diet pills, SEO
marketers, Viagra, anyone?). The bio link concerns could be solved by
designating a page on your blog for all of your contributors. Of course, this
part (making a “contributors” page…which also takes a lot of time to setup and maintain)
is optional – I’m surely not doing it unless I feel it’s useful. That day isn't coming any time soon.
Now that we’re all up to speed on the happenings of blog
post authors, Google rankings and best blogging practices, I’m pleased to
report that this long post is done.
By now, I’m sure that many of you are aware that surviving the Blogging from A to Z Challenge in April is no easy feat. My fellow co-hosts have made it clear that scheduling posts in advance and picking a theme are some of the best ways to complete the challenge. So, you don’t have a theme, yet? No worries! I can help you create a schedule -- at least, on Mondays -- even if you’re plan is to wing it when writing posts for the April challenge.
In April 2012, Dale a.k.a the Smurfdok at Smurfin’ the Web partnered up to merge our Monday Movie Meme (MMM) osting duties with the alphabet, since we both signed up to participate in the A to Z Challenge that year. If you want to know more details, check out my previous MMM introduction to challenge participants, which shares the history and more in-depth information about this meme.
Here’s a Cliff notes version to get you up to speed: The Monday Movie meme is a weekly blogging event where I post a different theme or topic on Mondays and then list my selections of movies that fit the topic. Participants (that would be you) then follow suit by posting a list of their own movie choices on their blog, of course, linking back to my original post and leaving a comment to let me know they participated. I will then visit their blog to find out what movies they picked for the week. This year, the Monday Movie Meme will continue to operate throughout the A to Z Challenge, so my themes and topics will coincide with the letters G, M, S and Y.
Want to know the best part about this weekly meme? You don’t even have to wait until April to participate. You can get started this week, next week or on any Monday leading up to the A to Z Challenge in April. An early start will get you into the swing of things, providing great practice for when the challenge starts. So, what do you say? Are you game to join me? Let’s Rock it out!
~Nicole A to Z 2013 Co-Host *Check out my short film! - Contribute, Share and Comment* @MadlabPost on Twitter
Other
Places to Find Me:
Twitter: still can't believe I did it...@TinaLifeisGood. I don't do
other social media, it's just too much to keep up with. I'd rather
write...
10
GETTING TO KNOW YOU QUESTIONS
1.
"Where do you hail from?"
I'm a
first generation immigrant, born in Sweden. In 1974 when I was
almost nine, we moved to America for “just a year”. We lived in
Silver Spring, MD. However, for my senior year of high school, The
Swede got a big promotion and we moved to Colorado. Well, he dragged
me kicking and screaming across the country is more like it... I
shouldn't have wasted that energy, though. Colorado is my dream home.
I love almost everything about this state except the hot summers.
The smallish community (formerly farming, now high tech silicon
valley stuff everywhere) with the magnificent view of the foothills
and Longs Peak/Mt. Meeker is a wonderful place to raise children.
They're living my childhood in Sweden – go knock on a door and see
who's free. Or what happens more often, there's the knock on OUR
door. We're THAT house where everyone gathers and I love that.
2.
Would you ever join a team that was headed off to colonize Mars?
Yes, I
actually would. I'm a die-hard sci-fi fan, and The Engineer is an
inventor, and dreams of doing this. So how could I say no. It's a
pretty safe “yes” though...I can sound like the supportive,
adventurous wife, but with little risk of ever leaving my beloved
Colorado. There are parts of this adventure that DO appeal to ME too
though: the whole fresh start thing...and space travel...
3.
"Who is your favorite fictional character and why?"
I should
probably pick some Jane Austen or Mark Twain or other “classy
classic” character, but I like Eve Dallas of JD Robb's futuristic
cop series. She's my exact opposite, so that's probably why. When I
need a break, I splurge $7.99 and buy the next book in the 35+ book
series. I think I'm seven behind...good mind candy, and since I'm
hypoglycemic and can't eat REAL candy, it's my justification.
4.
"If you were a contestant on the CBS show "Amazing Race"
and could pick ANY movie character to be your partner, who would it
be and why?"
James
Bond. Let's be more clear, Daniel Craig's James Bond. C'mon, who
else could do ANYTHING they'd throw at us? I love this race. It is
amazing (haha) to see places and cultures I might never, ever see. I
don't have much time for TV anymore, and we don't have cable (got
data plans for smart phones instead, something had to go...) so I
haven't seen it in a while. I'm confident he could “carry” me,
and I love martinis, too. We'd both be seeking the same thing at the
end of the day.
5.
What's your biggest frustration in blogging?
Not
enough time. I'm a schedule woman, so I try hard to carve out my
time for it, but I'm also a wife, a mom, a volunteer teacher, and
there are only so many hours in a day. Setting priorities is hard,
but it's life.
6.
"Have you ever wanted to be a rock star?"
No, but I
wish I could sing on key. What I REALLY want is to be a best-selling
author...sigh.
7.
You're house in on fire, assuming your kids, pets, and other living
things are safe, what do you grab as you head out the door?
My mom
has made me some amazing Creative Memories photo albums, and I've
made some myself, waaaay before the blogging bug infected me
permanently. I'd grab those. Two of them are the boys' baby books.
Of course, they're not done. The Transporter is 6 months old, and
OYT has ONE picture affixed in it, the rest lying loose on the
pages...some day...
8.
"Where do you go to "Get away from it all"?
We go
camping in our 1968 Forester camping trailer. The Engineer has
redone all the systems, so it's still peddling along despite its need
of another new paint job. We pull it with our prison van. Not
kidding. The van still has the outline of the “Colorado Department
of Corrections” logo that adorned both front doors. It seats
twelve and then has a huge cargo area behind it. Nothing like having
two teenage boys separated in the car by an entire bench seat...We
prefer state and national forest parks with bigger sites, no
hook-ups, and more privacy. The only thing I don't like about
camping is pulling out of the site and heading home...I could
seriously be a campground host. I think. I've got enough bossy in me
to do the job...
Thanks
for making it this far. We're supposed to do 10 questions, but I'm
so far over the word limit you get 8. I promise to be more brief
during the challenge, but it's hard to get to know someone in a few
words. Especially a wordy, talky person such as...me.
I'll be
writing about “Adventures in America” - what it was like my first
year as a Swedish immigrant. Last year's #atozchallenge I taught a word or two of Swedish a day, included a picture and a childhood
memory. I'm thinking this will be similar, but you won't be learning
a foreign language...hope to see you then!
You're all signed up for the A to Z Challenge. (If you aren't, go on, run and do it,I'll wait.)Now you must be thrilled you've done your bit for your blog by entering it on the list. You can relax till April.
NOT. I have news for you.
To get the best out of a bloghop the size of a T-Rex on steroids (just go look at the sign-up list now to see what I mean), you need to put yourself and your blog on steroids, right away.
Here are 5 ways to do it:
1. There are no rules stating you should start blog visiting in April.
Start with the list now, and if you visit and Comment on 5 new blogs a day, you would have covered at
least 250 by the time the challenge comes around. This challenge is all
about building a community, and schmoozing with other participants will
guarantee your AZ posts hordes of comments come April.
2. Preschedule your posts now, so you can focus on comment love in April. Even if you can't be online during some of April, that's no reason to be discouraged. Point 1 above will ensure your blog remains active with comments even on the days you're away.
2. If you're on twitter, tweet your posts using the #atozchallenge hashtag and comment on other posts that use the same tag.
3. Follow @AprilA2Z and better still, follow other participants on twitter. It's easy to do if you start following the peeps on this twitter list.
If you're not on this list, tell us on twitter, and we'll add you. Discuss the #atozchallenge themes, compare how many posts you already have scheduled, cheer on other participants. Mingle. 4. Talk about the challenge on your blog, onFacebookand Google+ and any other social media you're part of. The higher the buzz about the challenge on your blog and on these media, the more visitors you can potentially attract. Tag friends, start a discussion.
5. Check your blog. Is it easy for a visitor to comment or do they have to sign up on some vague machinery to do it? Have you turned off CAPTCHA ?
If you are a challenge veteran, and have something to add to the above list, fire away in the comments!
