With the huge success of the television show “American Idol”, I wondered what the criterion for success was. I did a little searching online and came up with an article posted last season entitled “The eight do’s and don’ts for idol success” by Kim Reed of MSNBC. After reading the article I realized Kim’s tips for idol success could also be used for “Blog” success. I’ve listed her headings below and how they might relate to the blog-o-sphere. I’ve included some tips I have gleaned from problogger and other blog optimization sites that might be helpful.
1. Pigeonhole yourself: DO fit into a category.
This is so true. In the Blog world reciprocation is necessary for success. You need to fit in with like minded blogs. Share articles and comments with others. Use trackbacks to drive traffic to other blogs. Make sure your “tags” describe you
2. DON’T be the worst in your category.
Get some good blogging software and customize it. Be the best you can be. Make it readable and easy on the eyes. Use large enough fonts for clarity. Put time and effort into your posts and make them interesting. Post often.
3. DO have a smile and a positive attitude.
As with most things in life, a smile and a good attitude go a long way. If all that is ever posted are negative words, readers will slowly drift away.
4. DON’T be overly cheesy.
A cheesy American Idol… a cheesy blog… nuff said
5. DO be quirky.
Some of the most popular blogs are the quirkiest. Find a quirky name or premise and build on that. Quirkiness breeds curiosity. Curiosity drives traffic.
6. DON’T resemble a celebrity of the opposite sex.
Don’t look like a blog from another category. Don’t be a Slashdot clone when you are trying to reach American Idol fans.
7. Cultivate a psychotically devoted fan base.
Write with passion, strike a nerve. Make a difference in the blogging community. Show your talents.
8. The location of your fan base is important
Make sure you get linked on other, like minded blogs. Bring in readers from your town, county, state, country, and world.
I am really learning from others when it comes to blogging. So many of you have shared your experiences and given me helpful guidance. I think Kim’s advice may be as helpful to the blogging world as it was to the participants in American Idol. Just remember to watch out for the “Simon” bloggers!
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