Today we welcome Susan Cooper to the LFI porch to share her blogging story! Susan is a published author who has a vital blog over here!Treat yourself to a visit after you meet hear her story (and share yours) here!

The social aspect of blogging has been a surprise to me.  When I first ventured into the blogosphere, I was a babe in the woods.  I’ve grown to love blogging & the creativity it brings.  Being a dyslexic, I’ve so enjoyed how it’s stretched me.

Here’s what I’ve found.  There are givers & takers. You first learn that in order to be noticed, you must engage with other bloggers.  That engagement consists of reaching out for advice, commenting on blogs & guest posting.  What comes of that will surprise you.  I’ve made some amazing friends.  There’s a sense of wonder whenever I speak with an out-of-country blogger friend.

Social Media has that name for a reason.  The need to syndicate your blog posts requires work.  What you’re willing to do will come back in kind and takes on a life of its own.  Through the many different Social Media channels, I’ve learned to find what works and stick with it.

In all of this activity comes a realization that 60% of your time is spent publicizing your blog, 20% in creating images, and the remaining 20% in writing blog posts.  You realize that without that, you’ll be doing this blogging thing alone or no one will notice.

The other factor is the need to comment on other blogs. Early on that’s where most of your traffic will come from. By being a regular commenter, these bloggers grow to trust you; start reciprocating, and friendships blossom.

Then there’re the takers.  They ask for, even demand your attention but do little in return.  How do you know the difference?  It takes time to discern that. Once you know, you’ll know what to do.

At times you’ll find blogs that have mega comments which makes it impossible for reciprocation. Learn from them, enjoy their creation and maybe you’ll get noticed.

What have I learned?

• Blogging is social, requiring engagement with others. Yes, you’re alone at your computer, you’re just communicating differently.
• Beware of false prophets.  Not everyone is an expert.
• It’s hard work becoming a successful blogger.
• Not everyone will love what you have to say, that’s OK.
• Push past the doubts. Your efforts will pay off.
• Don’t obsess about the numbers.  It’s not about that; it’s about building relationships.
• You’ll make amazing new supportive friends who’ll cheer you on.
• Don’t to be fooled by the “anything goes content bloggers”.  Good content matters. Readers know the difference.
• Find ways to have fun.  Your readers will love it, and so will you.

Remember, it’s all about building relationships and enjoying the process.

What’s been your experience?  How do you see the social aspect of blogging? What have you learned from your experience?

See other posts in the Life of a Blogger series here! We would love to hear your blogging story! Email me and I’ll send you the Guidelines for submitting your contribution.