Yesterday’s guest post by Cheryl Linn Martin drew a lot of comments. I love it! Here’s a writer who’s doing everything right. I hear a lot of writers say, “I know I need a blog, but . . .” Then they proceed to list excuses.
Writing Tip for Today: Some say blogs have outlived their usefulness. But for writers looking to establish their names, it’s still an easy, free way to build a network. Take these things into account:

• Target your Readers. If you can offer something more than just wandering journal-type entries, great. Many writers seem to have a difficult time deciding what sort of content to offer. Some try chapters of work-in-progress, others have themes. Cheryl posts about Hawaii where she has lived and where her middle grade novels are set.
• Be Consistent. Decide on a schedule and keep it. Even if you post once a week, it’s better to be consistent than haphazard. Find what works for you.
• Comment on Blogs. You say you have 3 followers and one is your cat? Visit writing/reading/review blogs regularly and leave intelligent comments. You can then provide info for your blog–but first establish a relationship. Nobody likes a hard sell.
• Be Brief. Try to limit your posts to say, 250 words or even fewer. If you have a topic that is longer, break it up into multiple posts.
• Give Back. While you build your following, invite guests, do book reviews, run contests or in some way offer the reader something other than your thoughts.

I’m out of town until Sunday afternoon, but will try to post. If not, see you Monday!