Blogging on Active Rain IS the most astounding way of communicating with the consumer and peers that I have ever encountered. Blogging means to make my own magic by writing with conviction and passion about a subject I want to get out to the public, the consumer, to others in the Real Estate Industry and of course to other members in the Active Rain community.
Amongst following the general rules and guidelines for Active Rain (found right on our home page and at the bottom of each and every page) these other tips may be helpful to find your own "routine" and quality of writing for blogging on Active Rain. Believe me, this is no easy feat when there are almost 137,000 members and trying to read their posts as well as the ones we are already subscribed to.
I do make it a point to keep balance in my life with blogging vs. work vs. family vs. me time.
Real Estate, Family, Blogging: Time Management = BALANCE
My routine for blogging is not as severe (addict style) as it was before but the following is how I still run my day.
- Grab my coffee and settle down to check my email. And we all know this is the start of your blogging day because ALL your comments to your posts are in your email :) So, I go down the line
of emails (I use Outlook...made simple to just click on the down arrow button) and delete as I go along answering client related emails and AR and sticking junk email in their proper place...."Add Sender to Blocked Sender's List". - Log into Active Rain and click on Home Page For me it is my most important page. It has "Messages" and has a whole list of who responded to my posts and the ones I commented on. Now this is why I DO NOT click on "notify me of new comments".
- Click on the "Blogs" tab and check out all the bloggers I subscribe to. Now, if you're new or just don't realize this subscribing to blogs I'll tell you right now. It makes it easier to read the writer's you are interested in. I continuously add and "clean" my list constantly. The reason being is that the list gets long and there are some who join AR and leave and the list becomes too long to keep them on if they aren't going to remain active. OR their writing may not be the kind I really like but wanted to give it a try but in the end they got deleted (I may add them back on later if the writer gets more interesting)
- Go into Groups I have joined (if time permits) to see if there are new writers/articles I missed in that particular group category. I have formed my own group POSITIVE ATTITUDE for the Weary Soul and it has proven to be my favorite group to get the "be still" time. I find a lot of other posts that give me inspiration for the soul in here and when times get a little "weary" it is a wonderful place for me to relax.
Your content will be your magic. If you write ORIGINAL content that is from the soul, your heart and from you you will be read. Be REAL! Write as if the reader is walking along side of you while you're explaining your local area attractions or your tips for home buyers and so forth. Do not plagiarize (steal others pictures, content etc.) and try to claim it as your own.
- Start a post with an idea. I have found that taking pictures around the island that I can surely come up with something. I go over it...revise it....save it in draft and so forth. If it's a rant, I sit on it overnight. Usually I'll delete it in the morning. :) Otherwise, it's revised so much it turns into a
learning session. - Adding a picture or two to catch the eye and "color" your post. After clicking on the picture you want to insert, make sure you click on the "appearance" tab, size your picture and also click on the drop down box to enter your picture to the right or left. You can also use the verticle/horizontal space so your picture is set away from your words. TITLE YOUR PICTURES! Goole picks up on those too.
- Content of Posts: Use bullets to enhance points and bold only the pertinent info to a paragraph or point. When you bold or highlight too much the reader will miss what you're trying to make an important point with. The same for not putting a valid point in bold. If nothing is in bold I guaranty that I'll think it's all running into each other and it becomes that ever so famous "wall of words".
- Titles will attract the reader. Be original! I now leave my post in draft until I have time to edit, change the title, edit some more. When I feel comfortable with it then I will post. If I can't come up with a more catchy title I post it anyway. :)
- Add good tags, keywords along with your titles and great content and you will be found in Google! Go to your search bar and enter SEO and you'll get plenty of help in understanding the life of a blog and the internet search.
And on a side note...I have simple rules for me to follow....Think it may help you?
- Write with conviction and passion because everyone will read you if you do.
- Write with original content and your own pictures you've taken because everyone will read if you do.
- Write with wit, humor and emotion because everyone will read you if you do.
- Write with the intent of giving back to the community because everyone will read you and give back to you and the community too.
- Write with integrity, honesty and respect because everyone deserves it and so do you.
- Write a comment or two relating to the post you just read (it shows sincerity) and everyone will continue to come back and read you too.
- Write from your own thoughts and creativity because no one will read you if you don't.
Happy Blogging!
Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman is a Realtor-Associate® and Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) with Century 21 Liberty Homes in Mililani, Hawaii. With a sharp understanding that a listening ear is the key to a client's needs she serves the island of Oahu (Honolulu County) and all Hawaii Military Relocations, Hawaii Retirees, Hawaii Job Transfers and Hawaii Residents, Home Buyers and Sellers.
© 2007-2012 Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman's Hawaii Real Estate and Relocation Blog.
All rights reserved.
Sally, in the immortal words of the Police:
"Every little thing she does is Magic!"
I'm going to ask those fellows up in Washington State if they can give you a raise. Seriously... You deserve it.
I tried to comment on this a minute ago and it vanished. Now I don't remember what I was going to say. I don't have much of a set schedule for anything really, and it drives my wife nuts. I do certainly believe that we need balance and that original, good content is oh so important.
Hey Brian! I love that song :) :) Thanks..you are ever the kind friend :)
JL: That's okay I kept publishing when I didn't mean to ....from early this morning...and still had touch ups to do lol. Anyway, one of those days... No matter what, appreciate your comments. As for being set. Well, mine seems to change as well....now I better do some RE work :)
"Every little thing she does is magic", I love that song and it is a great theme for your blog post. I do set my family and personal time first, then work in my clients and other tasks. You have to have balance and if you let business dictate your life, then you and your family will suffer and what is in the fun of that.
I am still a bit of an AR rookie, but getting better each day. You write a great quality post and are a great example and inspiration to many including myself. Keep up the great work!!!!!
Hey Doug: That was pretty cool.....I make magic (in my own mind lol) I do the same...I am at that age where my children are adults, my husband, me, the dog in our little townhouse and we make sure to make time with us first. Of course we have to make a living ...but I will not make it my whole life and neglect what's important. In the meantime, I have two screens open...one I'm working and the other to answer comments :)
Robert: It took two years....believe me! My two year mark comes up March 10th so I am telling you now....consistency is the key....and it does pay off in more ways than just clients! Good luck!
Sally- This is a great post for new bloggers as well as for those who are just needing to time block. You could add the music video for this one for an extra smile or two.. Have a great day!
SALLY!!!! My Hawaii inspiration. Thanks for being one of those dots in the ocean on the cluster map! You have it down to a science. Good for you and, always like the 'positive attitude for the weary soul' group. Have a nice afternoon. It's dusk here, so I'll say good-night.
Sally - this is wonderful information for bloggers new and old. I especially like your suggestions for the articles themselves to make them "magical."
Jeff
The past few months have been crazy with the drop in interest rates and all and I have been unable to log on to Active Rain but am soooooooooooooo glad that I did!!! I have bookmarked your post and will reread again and again - truly was inspired!!!
Hi there! Great information! I have just gotten serious about blogging, but know that my posts will get better over time. Writing is a skill that takes time and PRACTICE to develop! Reading posts like your's helps us "newbies" out.
See ya around...
Sis - I feel kind of bad because I will probably be writing an atrociously inappropriate post for a Real Estate Network later. I haven't done a "Fun" post in awhile. Your consistency probably shines because of your schedule, wish I was so steady with my schedule. And I personally love your magic:)
I like your thought Sally to wait till the end to add the title. That way you can look at the draft and come up with something catchy.
Hey Sally, Love the post overall. Yeah, content, originality, personality... I get that.
What jumped out at me though was the 'wall of words'. Golly, when I see that my eyes glaze over, my brains says NO and I move on... too bad... there was probably something worth reading, just looked like too much work. LOL The other one that gets me is bad spelling, Oh we all make mistakes. Honestly, I love spell check. Peace,
How do you broaden your horizons reading others if you just pick the same people to read? The newsletter dropped your post into my lap so to speak? There are so many great people here with great ideas it seems a shame to limit your thinking.
Sally- A great post! I do it a lot like you:) You got all the points covered. There is a blogger that I really enjoy as a person and she always comments on my blogs but when I go to her blog it is just a wall of words and so long too. I just can not keep my eyes focused and therefore I do not read many of her posts. I am sure I am missing out but the wall of words just irritates me and bothers my eyes.
Sally - no wonder I always enjoy what you write! The bird of paradise in your header and in this blog post added appeal to knowing that I'd enjoy what you wrote. Hope all is well with you!
@Lyn Sims - Good question. I don't do it as much as I should, however I will go to a random post just for the heck of it to ensure I'm reading somebody new. Also, I watch for really good/insightful comments and will sometimes subscribe to someone just on their comments alone. I love finding new people, new ideas, new insights, & a fresh way to look at an abundance of things... Real Estate related or not.
Sally, you really are a great teacher! This is a nice post even for the odlies ! I have a routine as well but like the idea of going back and searching new members to subscribe..I have a list that has gorwn and shortened..and I too have paerticipated then dropped off during busier times in my life. Hoping to search all the new groups and subscribe to some more of interst...there is definiitely something for everyone!
Sally - Sounds like my daily routine as well...I just don't have your blogging gift!
Sally - Good direct, heart-felt advice!
Great post. Love the pics. I love Hawaii. Thanks for the good insight.
It is another alternative to Trulia and Zillow. AR will gain you better Google rankings. Nice post.....
Sally - Looks like Brian set the tone for your post! I love reading your posts just for the "magic" in how you express yourself with such passion and inspiration. All of your advice will be a great encouragement for everyone who reads it.
Great information! I just started and I am very overwhelmed as to when I would find the time. Stay tuned.... Thanks!
Sally, you always give us the most amazing quotes about why AR rocks... I can't imagine AR without you!
Evening Sally, You really do make this whole blogging thing seem so easy ! Keep up the inspiration !
Sally - Your are one of my Active Rain mentors. This post should inspire all the new addicts to Active Rain and some of the old crows (like me) too. I enjoy your posts, very much. Thanks for the Inspiration (for this weary sole).
As I am entering this world of blogging; you sure do indeed make it seem so natural and so easy. You have accomplished your post. Thanks, Kim
Sally,
THANKS,...There's always a post that stands out among others in an evening of informative reading!
Thank you! I am a kind of new blogger....still figuring out how to benefit my business with it! Good tips, I really appreciate you sharing your finding!
Kim Melin
Sally - Great post ! Active Rain and the people here are certainly magical. And when we experience the magic that comes out of our blog posts individually, that is beautiful. It is such an honor to grow as a blogger on this great platform and read and subscribe to blogs such as yours !!! Thanks you ! ~ Chris
Everytime we see that bird of paradise we know i'ts going to be a featured post :) AS always Sally, you really shine every time you write for others. You are an absolute inspiration for newcomers and someone we will always look up to. Thanks for everything you do to help others on this network.
Katherine! How are you? Thanks....ah...everyone can hum while reading LOL.
Charlie: Why thank you! I love my group :)
Jeff: Isn't that what we do Jeff? Magical indeed!
Judith: Oh, goodie! Hope it helps some...and good luck!
Katrina! Hey...told Lilian I spoke to you...everyone sure misses you here! Oh...your posts have gotten better in the short time you've been here! See ya!
Lil Bro: Ah...but I love your magic too..we ALL have some magic...just different is all :) :)
Gary: Go back to my beginning...oh, geez...those titles were really bad. Colleen Kulikowski helped me with those :)
Steve: I do too....move on from the wall of words. I also move on from all the bright colored words. It's really bad on my eyes (I don't wear glasses but I presume I would if I kept looking at them :) Okay...paranoid...now I better go check my spelling lol.
Lyn: I don't pick the same people...I subscribe to more and delete the ones who leave or turn out to be not so good reads. I do the same...the newsletters...the dashboard. That's how we read new material. If I limited my 'thinking' I wouldn't have had this sentence in the paragraph for subscribed to reading.....
I continuously add and "clean" my list constantly.
Sally.... you hit the nail on the head... blogging allows you to write with conviction and passion. I couldn't have said that any better.. hence why I love to blog. People get to know me and realize that I not only care about what I do, but that I try to educate the average person reading what I write... it certainly has earned me over 30 deals just in the last 18 months. nice job here.
Katerina: Thanks. I feel the same way....I have a hard time with the wallllllllll. I also get irritated by all the colors. I just can't keep focused all the time.
Sharon: Hi there friend! Glad your new office is going great and hey...are you scheduled to come on down soon?
Lil Bro.... Are you answering for me? LOL! I do suppose if I stayed 'stuck' in the same ole I wouldn't have met my lil bro :)
Michele: Mine's gotten short, long and now very long. So many to keep up with. Some days I don't even go to those...but I know that having a subscribed list helps keep in contact with the ones I do like.
All I know there is a lot of magicians on active rain pulling off great tricks.
Gary: Oh, you have your own style and gift too Gary!
Thanks Wendy!
Thanks Melissa!
Tim: Now THAT is a fact.
Donna: No kidding...he's a doll. I hope so....that was what this was meant for.
Leslie: Wonderful and will look forward to reading yours!
Thanks Sally. I have been blogging for about a month and it's post from you experience bloggers that really help me. Thanks again.
Claire: Now you deserve a response all your own. When I receive a comment from one of you folks it really makes a difference to show that you folks do care. Thanks for all your hard work and effort....come out this way and I'll give you a tour. Last time Bob diverted and went to the other island. Matt came last January with Lydia...hmm...probably would have more fun with you lol!
Thanks again...you folks are well appreciated by .....ME. :)
Sally...
I think that you "build up steam" as time goes on. Blogging is not a quick exercise, it's a long process that gets easier over time, although I must admit that there are some mornings I really have to strain to write something.
Bill: Oh, believe me....almost two years of practice...and it's not any easier. :) But inspiring each other is a must!
Christine: Thanks...I love that group. :)
Kim: Oh, it's not over...it continues on....believe me, it's not easy keeping up with blogging, work, website etc. It's ALL down to time ...how much is there?
Angela: Great! There must be more out there....gotta get this done and get out there :)
Kim: You can put up everything and anything here that you think may benefit. Consumers love to hear about local area interests, history and the local housing market. You'll do fine!
Chris/Stephanie: It is an honor for me as well. I appreciate all they have given me...and will continue to contribute and give back to the rain ....yup....I love this place :)
ActiveCastellum: Oh...I didn't realize that :) :) Anyway, I think the ones who remain positive and give back to the community will eventually shine as well. You contribute and give much of your time as well...and I applaud you!
Thanks Jeff! If more people relocated here I am sure I would have many more as well. In the meantime, The best part is that I closed more last year (because of my blogging) than the year before...and it's because they said....they knew me from reading them first before calling. I love it Jeff...and you are wonderful with your info and your spirit in the Rain.
Russ; And you have a few up your sleeve as well!
Hi Ron! Good for you...keep it up...it's the consistency, determination and knowledge here that will keep you going!
Sally, thank you for a great intro and review of being authentic, real and a great blogger. Keep it up.
Richard: We all build up steam...no where to go but from bottom up :) I think it still is a big job...no matter before, now and every morning :)
Kelly: Thanks much....Now...let's see what you're up to :)
Very nice post Sally. It's obvious you put a lot of effort into collecting your thoughts on this one. :)
Well hello there friend....let me see if I got this right....original yep, honest yep, use bold yep, no stealing your wonderful graphics....nope I just ask :) Well looks like I have all the ingredients right to do a decent Post...love the checklist :) You are the ever Positive, good AR Member, love it :)
Colleen: Thanks....I collect and collect :)
Hey there buddy: yup..just ask ....no problem... lol. I love this place :) Go check your email :)
Hi Sally! And, you do it SO well--that's why you are the Queen of AR in ALOT of members' eyes! This is a great 'tutorial' for newbies and a reminder to the oldies to stay in touch with your readers. You always have the right amount of content, the right amount of white space, excellent writing skills and AMAZING photos! PLUS you always comment back--reciprocating is a HUGE part of this forum and you do it all SO well!!
Sally, you make some really great points and give us alot of food for thought when we are thinking of writing a new post! I love your list at the end, very good!
Sally: WoW... What a great post here.. Active Rain is Great !! Keeping a balance is a MUST.. but a hard thing to do some times.. :)
Great post. It's good to let everyone know how thought processes begin. and end. Great tips. Worth rereading.
Hi Sally,
Now this explains why you are one of my favorites, you really do have a gift my friend. :)
Thank you, Sally. This is a very informative article on how to approach writing a post. I particularly like your side note of simple rules at the end. They make perfect sense, and are inspiring me to start working on my second post . . . my first one was today!
And all of this is why you are such a great blogger and why so many of us read your posts.
I've rediscovered the fun of reading new blogger's stuff every day and subscribing. And yes, I'm doing a Twitter move and unsubscribing from folks who don't comment back on my blog. Geesh, there are a TON more people on here than even last fall...
Woo Hoo, No surprise here, it's only one of the best "How To's " to write successful posts for the consumer and peer group alike. Well done and congratulations on the gold star.
Sally,
Nice sharing for other bloggers to model...!!! Thanks, Fran
Thanks Sally! You're brilliant!
I appreciate you sharing your daily blogging routine. I will use some of your ideas. Thanks!
You have a system that is working. Keep it up!!
Sally, Congrats on the star!!! You seem to start your day like mine...
Your building consultant for life in the Fairview, TN area - Michael
You have great tips! bullet points, pictures, links, these little things make a good post great.
thanks for the great tips on posting - I am here a lot but can always learn more
Wow! Great post, I should print it out and keep it by my computer! I have not been around much but that will change soon! Thanks for the positive energy! ;.)
There is always a little time for me to blog...be with my family and work....if you manage your time right then there will be some time even if its for 5 minutes.
Great post Sally. We have very similair "blogging plans" I wrote a blog yesterday between visitors at an open and saved it for a day I don't have time.
Hi Sally, I am a little late to this party and waht a fabulous post! Thanks for taking the time to post so many great tips and ideas about blogging, I have been a fan for sometime. Here is a funny little aside, In 1974 a friend and I decided to travel to Columbia and mine emeralds (long story) but we also had a secondary plan which was to meet Juan Valdez and maybe marry into the family! I know I was in college and probably high...LOL
Hi Sally. Thanks for posting your blogging routine. As you know, I have come and gone and come back again. Making AR a part of my routine, and having a routine for posting, commenting etc. is what makes the difference between having AR work for me and making AR feel like work. Right now, I am concentrating more on commenting than writing blogs, only because I need to get back into the community and see who's out there, In time I will get back into posting more of my own blogs. I hope I can post as many as you do, and keep them as interesting!
Debe: Uh...I'm just me.. lol. Thanks for the pedastal although I think it's just what happened....I evolved from a few uncertain paragraphs to full blown stories haha!
Thanks Karen...I was wondering if it was so long that you all would read it through. I really cut it down! lol!
Roland: Takes much practice and discipline :)
I appreciate it Don. The mind IS a powerful thing :)
Hey Suzanne! And you continue to pop in....good. :)
Sally ~ great tips for everyone. So nice of you to share your blogging habits with everyone!
Lynn: I just went there...good for you to keep moving on and get your buyer in contract!
Why thanks Christine!
Jeff: It sure is hard to get around to as even as many as I subscribe to...whew!
Sally.... Another great post, and such good advice. I really enjoy reading you, and look forward to your posts. And, it sounds like our days start very much the same. Works for me too. Cheers...
WooHoo to you William! Ah..the ever supportive friend. HUG!
Thanks Franm Michael-JB-Michael T-Morgan-Randal & Vanessa!
Neal: The die hards...:) There is always time to invest in our marketing and peer connecting. :)
Paddy: I have stuff saved from months ago ...lol!
Russell: I had a client from Colombia..he bought and sold ...and when he went home he brought me back all kinds of gifts....including colombian coffee beans!
Hey Mike! Whatever you can do...just know that you are found with what you write! Referrals and connections with others here also blossom! Glad to see you around more!
Ann: Blogging habits, tips and found some new friends through the comment stream!
Wonderful Bill...see ya around!
I'm still trying to find my groove, taking advantage of the market to set myself up and get a good start. Thanks for the encouragement!
Fabulous Sally !!!
I have a similar start to the day, checking the steps you take too :o)
... and nice rules to follow for an effective blog ! Love it :o)
And I TOTALLY agree with the 'blog subscription' CLEANSING once in a while !!!
Cheers Hawaii !!!!!
Sheldon :o)
Danielle: That's right...you go girl!
Hey Sheldon! Oh, yeah...it's a given :)
Sally, That was awesome. Have you ever thought about writing a book?
This is a good post and I learned a few things! I also strive for balance and don't spend as much time here as some, but it is enough to take away a very positive experience each and every day!
Christopher: Thanks...and I have...and stay tuned :)
Sonya: Good for you...that and more...believe me!
Have had to step away from AR a bit more as I started with Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes and while loving it have lots of education and stuff to do that take up most of my time.
It shows that you put a lot of time into this post. Thank you for sharing. You're a great blogger and I'm sure a great agent too.
Good luck Kathleen!
Kelsey: I bet you are too! Thanks!
Hi Sally,
great way to balance the time in your life. Most important you keep time for yourself you should always reflect on what you have accomplished throughout the day.
Kim: If not for balance....we'd be all wacked out :)
Celeste, Excellent advice and well written. I know I have a way to go, when I started I thought after my first 10 blogs I would never have another thought to put down in my life. It is easier than I thought, but I still have a long road to feeling I have made a good representation of your suggestions...
Sally - Excellent points. Thanks for sharing.
This is great, Sally. I've always wondered how those who seem to post quite frequently find the time to do it! You just answered my question! Thanks for sharing.
Kent: Everyone likes fluff ...I think. :)
Thanks Chris:
Joanne: It seems to come 'naturally' now lol!
Betty: You're welcome...
Peggy: Time management! :)
Sally - beautifully put. Well worth the feature here in the Newbies group. I agree with original content!! And RELEVANT content!
Great advice - especially for those of us who are new to blogging. Thanks!
Thank you for one who needs all the help they can get with blogging!
Sally,
Thanks for the post : ) I need a system it seems I have the wordsmith in me I just can't seem to put it down on a daily routine.
This blog is a great reminder to stay focused and not become addicted to AR. I tend to get carried away and read too many posts. Oh well, after work and the kids I can get back to it until the late hours of the evening. Learning how to be organized is essential.
Sally,
I have become a fan of AR and passing on the stories of my beautiful city - Santa Fe, New Mexico. Reading your insightful information will keep me going.
Thank you,
Victoria
Thank you for that list. Great advice on how to handle the subscription and comments.
Email is no place for 100 or so comments
I agree with Steve; the wall of words overwhelms me; put pixtures in there; other than that, great posy.
Alhoa Sally! Thanks for your response to Robert, a WAY back up there! Consistency then! We are newbie's loving AR, but feeling a bit overwhelmed because there is so much to read and so much to learn. B4 you know it, hours have passed. Love the "weary soul" group!
Al & PeggyCunningham
http://www.TheHousePeople.com
This post is so good, I don't know what I like the most about it. Your writing style is very clear and concise, short and to the point, the content is excellent, what can I say you made magic.
Great points! Very informative.
People can spot a "phoney" a mile away -- and you are certainly anything BUT that! Keep up the great content!
Thanks Sally,
You keep me motivated!
Hey Sally: Your blogging routine sounds a lot like what I do too. Your advice is great as well...one thing I usually forget is to title my pictures--thank you for the reminder. :-)
Hope your day is great!
--Anne Rains
Sally, Great points and excellent post. Thanks for sharing
You make a lot of good points, thanks for the helpful points.
Active rain is kinda addictive I guess you could look at it kinda like its work You learn some thing every time you read a post.
Elizabeth: It IS work :)
Cheryl-Suma-: You're welcome
Anne: It's a great reminder (title on pic) as google will pick it up too :)
Monique: Great!
Cori: Thanks.
Sandy: We all do :)
Peggy: Wonderful! I love the group for those days to get some inspiration :)
Terry: I had wall of words in the post....other than that thanks.
Jim: email comments?
Victoria: Thanks.
Anja: Thanks...it does get a bit addictive doesn't it?
Montana: You'll be doing just fine :)
Irene: Hope you can use some...
Kim: Newbies group is a good place to learn... :)
Sally,
Great tips...thanks! I'm still trying to figure out things like how to post pics, and when I do post pics how I can frame them or blur the edges....and I'm especially interested in figuring out how to place them in my post....any ideas where I can go on AR to learn these things? Thanks!