An Introduction to Blogging by Leanne Dyck

Some bloggers own their own homes. They've built or have had built blogs. These are the most expensive blogs on the Internet. But they own them and no one can evict them. However, they live out in the wilds and no one may even know they are there. 
(Here is an in-depth explanation on how to create your own blog) 
Other bloggers live in apartment buildings. The most highly populated buildings are WordPress and Blogger. Because they live in apartment buildings they have the potential of getting many visitors. But they are tenants so there's a danger that they can lose their homes--and all their hard work--if their landlords decide to close the building. 
(Here is an in-depth comparison of Blogger and Wordpress)
Still other bloggers live on communes. The work of maintaining these blogs is divided more or less evenly between two or more bloggers. It sounds like fun until there is a conflict. Then what? Whose blog is it? Also, with so many contributors, it's easy to be overshadowed.
(Here's another interesting article:  How to Start a Group Blog for Writers)
An author's website is your storefront; a blog is your home. It's where you can let your personality shine through. Are you an educator, an entertainer, a motivator, a promoter--tell your readers. They're interested. They want to get to know you. And through your blog, you've expanded your readership globally.

Secrets of Successful blogging by Leanne Dyck

Tips collected over a lifetime--at least eleven (or is it sixteen?)years--spent blogging. Secrets shared with you...

Be genuine

Readers want to get to know you. That’s why they visit your blog. So welcome them in. But give careful thought as to what you will share about your life and what you wouldn’t. Where will you draw the line?

Add value

Offer your readers something of value--on this blog, I review books and share my short stories. 

Be supportive

To receive support, offer support. Find valuable online content and share it. Acknowledge and express thanks when your content is shared.

Be predictable

Are you old enough to remember, ‘Same Bat-time, same Bat-channel’?

Did you faithfully tune in?

The same thing can happen for your blog.

I publish a new short story OR book review every Sunday evening (between 4:40 and 5:00 PM PST)

Be positive

The biggest secret of my success is that I have fun blogging. Positivity attracts--negativity repels. Make your blog a fun place and others will find you there. 

Sharing My Author Journey...