First, let's redefine what a blog is. This blog is an ancient one created on Blogger (Google) well over 10 years ago. Blogs started as text-on-the-web-logs, a diary or journal that may have been a creative outlet for some but was essentially to record whatever you wanted, either shared or not shared. It quickly became a business tool for businesses to announce news about their products, services, activities, etc. Now, such blogs are usually incorporated into a company's website as their news page. 'Professional' blogs followed, brand-building for the entrepreneur who wanted to share experience and gain kudos.
Then blogging caught on in a big way. Generally referred to as 'influencers' whose main goals are to gain followers by bringing trends and know-how to the public - where to go, what to see, how to look, and other lifestyle tips, including fashion, furnishing your home and a variety of other lifestyle topics. Travel blogs are usually well-researched and often provide essential information. Food is such big topic that it has it's own category - people were now able to follow recipes and cooking styles from around the world, which were previously unknown.
Reviews began as genuine opinions but have too often become a form of advertising. There are rules to follow - they are supposed to tell followers if they are being paid to promote the product or service or if they are affiliated in some way. Popular YouTuber TomSka is always bringing ASA (Advertising Standards Agency) rules to viewers' attention.
News blogs are a major part of every network's website. No doubt you've been unable to avoid them. Here's a recap...
- Personal blog
- Business/company blogs
- Professional/branding blog
- Lifestyle/influencer blogs
- Travel blogs
- Food blogs
- Affiliate/review blogs
- News blogs
- Multimedia blogs
More recently, there has been an explosion of multi-media blogs: vlogs, podcasts and video channels. Personally, I prefer to read blogs because I can do it at my chosen pace, depending on what parts of the content interests me, and it's easy to skip over the bits I already know.
Both audio podcasts and visual information (e.g. YouTube) have become extremely popular, far more so than a traditional blog such as this. However, there are considerations before using them. Audio: is your voice or regional accent going to be listened to and understood by your target audience? Video: have you practiced speaking into camera? Is your backdrop a distraction? Do you have an adequate setup for filming?
Definitely have a go at all forms of information sharing but make sure that you check and, if necessary, edit the final blog/vlog/podcast before you share and publicise it.
Link: https://youtu.be/AuYuzkGA3SI
Wishing you the best of luck!
