By Amber Alarid, JVA Consulting

Time and time again in my research I have found articles and blogs encouraging ALL young professionals to blog, whether it be a personal blog or via their organization. The list of benefits bloggers like Rosetta Thurman offer is extensive and includes improved writing skills, tech savvy and personalized marketing for job seekers and a platform for showcasing and getting the word out about individual passions. However, when beginning to blog, it can be intimidating, as this great blog from Ms. Career Girl captures. This week, I will offer some of the tips I have found especially helpful in maintaining my own blog.

Ask questions/interview others

If you’re wondering whether or not your blog will be of interest to your target audience, why not just ask them. My friends and fellow young professionals are often roped into being a test audience for my ideas. I often ask them how interesting they find a particular topic and what issues are most important to them that day. Interviewing others and including their thoughts can also be a helpful tool in making your blog more interesting. Interview experts, coworkers and successful professionals in the field—this not only makes for a more credible blog, it gives you the opportunity to learn from your peers.

Cite articles and blogs

Just like you probably discovered when writing college papers, the more sources you cite the more credible your writing becomes. If you find another blog that inspires you or sums up a certain point well, write a response blog and credit the writer, or list them as a great reference in your blog. Sharing is also a great way to build relationships with other writers and readers. Other writers may reciprocate the favor and share your blog, or agree to be featured as an interviewee in your blog.

Let your personality shine through

The thing I have come to love about blogging versus the other types of writing I am familiar with is that there is plenty of room for reflections of me in the blog. For anyone who follows my blogs or some of our other social media platforms, you have probably discovered that I enjoy writing with a bit of humor, I am a true animal lover, and any time there is a panel discussion—I’m there. Similarly, your personality, unique writing skills and enthusiasm for your favorite cause should be embedded in every blog, giving coworkers, friends and potential employers a more personal view of you.

If you write a blog, what lessons learned and skills gained can you share with us? If you are considering starting your own blog, what concerns do you have?