Blogging tips from Soloman

LexBlog Blog : Lawyer blogs : Be an expert, not a bore:
'Don't make your blog look boring. There's nothing more disturbing than a well-written blog that looks like a newsletter template from Microsoft Publisher.

A blog should be welcoming to read. Embrace white space. Be generous with line spacing and use bigger fonts. Well-written subheads almost guarantee readership. Pictures that illustrate your point are also fantastic.

No passion, no blogging. Don't think about starting a blog unless there's a passion for your topic.

Take risks. A blog is not a buttoned-up corporate newsletter. Invite comment and even some controversy. Don't be afraid to begin dialogue on an issue that may prompt a different opinion.

Find your tone. Corporate writing is different from brochure writing, which is different from Web writing, which is different from blog writing.

Break from the pack. One problem with blogs is that they tend to link to the same sites and regurgitate the same news. Offer something new by channeling your inner news reporter.

Be topical. Unless your blog is on Jane Austen (and I'm hard-pressed to find a business blog tackling this topic), relate entries to current themes.

Know your audience. There are literally too many blogs and too little time to read them. Only post items relevant to readers.

Be truthful with yourself. Before hitting 'send,' read the blog entry and make sure it excites you. After writing the entry, are you jazzed about floating the information in the blogosphere? Will you feel the urge to constantly check for commentary from interested readers? Those are sure signs you're writing inspired copy."