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When you think of the word “useful,” what comes to mind?
For me it’s things like garlic presses and hot pads. A Kitchen-Aid mixer would be useful, if I had one. My bike basket is really useful when I bike to the library or farmers’ market. The assembly instructions that come in the box with your new IKEA furniture definitely come in handy.
What doesn’t spring to mind for me, when I think of the word “useful,” are people, relationships, conversations and stories. Technically, you could say a conversation or a person is useful, but I think I’d probably say they’re smart or wise, helpful or informative before I’d say useful.
Another thing that’s not useful? My blog. (You’ve been warned.) You can imagine my dismay when I read the number one point on this post, which someone on Twitter linked to it (I can’t recall who it was—sorry!).
10 Mistakes that Could Be Killing Your Blog
Today, I’ll walk you through some common mistakes many blogs make that turn off new readers (and even regular readers oftentimes) … mistakes that could be killing your blog.
1. Less-than-useful posts. When I’m exploring new blogs, most of the time I’m looking for certain information — interesting new workouts, yummy recipes, good running advice, frugality ideas, inspiration to improve my life, and so on. You want useful posts — that’s why you’re there. Sure, some times a blogger is just such an interesting writer that you’ll read posts even if they’re not that useful. Some of my favorite bloggers are more interesting or funny than anything else. But most of the time, you’re looking for useful stuff. And when you go to a blog and scan the front page and can’t find one single useful post, you’re outta there.
Umm…I think it might be time to start planning my blog’s funeral. I wonder—will anyone come?
Getting worked up about this “one way to do things” approach to social media
Actually, this whole concept sets me off, ranting and carrying on (just ask my husband). Who decides that a blog has to be useful to survive? The King and Court of Bloggingland? Trust me, the guy who wrote that post isn’t alone in his stance. It’s a very common one. There are hundreds of posts and articles out there giving you The Formula for making money with your blog, attracting a huge following, being popular on Twitter—you name it.
It doesn’t just bother me that “experts” out there are telling people their blog posts have to be useful. I want to know who defines what’s useful to the general population? I can broaden my definition of “useful,” beyond the garlic press and the IKEA instructions, and apply it to blog posts. But when I do, I personally don’t come up with only posts on weight loss tips and home improvement ideas.
I think a “useful” post can be one that makes me remember something I’ve forgotten about myself. It can be one that makes me laugh on a difficult day, or makes me think about a complex topic in a completely new way. It can just be a really great story—when doesn’t some great storytelling feed the soul? And when isn’t having your soul fed worth it?
At least 2 out of every 10 bloggers say soul-stirring is useful
Earlier this week I wrote a story about my daughter’s ninth birthday: The fine art of not making memories. The same day I posted, I also saw this tweet:
@bambooforest: With limited time and enthusiasm, I’ve learned that there are only a few blogs that I ensure I read every post of. The ones that help most.
He’s a good guy, but I was feeling extra sensitive about my blog, going through the whole “why am I doing this, who really cares” cycle. So I replied:
@kt_writes: how do you define “help most?”
Another friend jumped in with a re-tweet and a question, then he and I had this exchange:
@writerdad RT @kt_writes: @bambooforest: how do you define “help most?” Me 2 Bamboo. What about sheer pleasure or entertainment? Do they make the cut?
@kt_writes to @writerdad: how did you know that’s what I was really asking? :) did you read the “non-useful blogs die” article? define useful too, please.
@writerdad to @kt_writes: To me a blog is useful if it stirs me. I don’t need endless lists and tips. I want soul.
@writerdad said he really liked my post about S’s birthday, and said he was glad I didn’t write a post that shared tips on how to make memories. I joked that I could have written a “Ten Steps to Making More Memorable Memories” post: Step 1: Fully charge your camera battery; Step 2: View most of the event through the camera’s lens, stopping everyone frequently to get them to pose for a great shot….(you get the idea).
Anyway, I’m not feeling quite so frustrated, anymore. I’m feeling really grateful to people like @writerdad, who tells wonderful, “non-useful” stories on his blog. I’m grateful for people like @modite, who’s brave enough to challenge the “big guys” on her blog, and @JebDickerson, who is willing to rant against the established system on his blog, and who says he’s ultimately seeking a community of people who are thoughtful and searching.
And I’m very very grateful for all of my readers. Not because you’re adding to my numbers and statistics, but because you clearly are here as individuals, for your own individual reasons.
I’m pretty sure you don’t read my blog in hopes that I’ll help you get rich or lose weight or become a famous writer. You show up here, I suspect, because I have stories to tell—because life is messy and complicated, and a blog is a great format for sorting it out together.
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Right on! Awesome post and so true. The best bloggers tell stories and you’re a fabulous storyteller. Thanks for the link, and I’m looking forward to getting to know the others peppered throughout this post as well. Have a great weekend :)
Exactamundo. I’ve read enough lists to last a lifetime. I don’t need tips to tell me how to live a better life, I just need to live it. Why do I read online? Sure, I like to feel current on the happenings around our big blue marble, but more than anything I want what people have wanted since we were drawing in caves. Stories.
I feel like I’ve been waiting for the medium, this “Blogging” medium, my whole life. I know that my writing, that didn’t seem to fit into any other genre fits just fine here. Is it useful? A better question might be, “Is it quality?”
Personally, I wish there were more “useless” blogs that contained quality writing–like yours. I don’t care whether or not I agree with the author, or whether the author leads a novel-worthy life. I want thoughtful, well-spoken posts that carry ideas to completion, or at the very least, set forward earnestly on the path to completion.
And it helps if the writer can make uninteresting things seem interesting.
Rebecca, thanks! I feel like this is a good opportunity to clarify something I was fuzzy about in my post (although I’m pretty sure you don’t need the clarification). There’s nothing wrong with so-called useful blogs, packed with helpful tips. I’m not saying blogs that focus on storytelling are better in some way than other types of blogs. I’m just saying there’s plenty of room for a variety of approaches, rather than one “right” way (and I just happen to be drawn to stories that make me think and smile and *feel* something).
Writer Dad, when I’m on Twitter, I like to get news and current events and commentary about it all, too. I like to find out what people are reading and listening to, and what movies they’ve seen. In other words, I do appreciate a broad mix of tweets, particularly when that mix provides a good snapshot of the multifaceted nature of individuals. I guess what it gets down to, is that I want people to really be themselves on Twitter and their blogs, and write about everything that really matters to them, rather than subscribing to a formula or narrow personal brand. Maybe that’s what’s so great about stories: they’re able to encompass the wide scope of who we are.
I guess I’m wondering — why does it matter what the so-called experts say?
Well said! To me, logs aren’t a “how-to” collection. They’re an enjoyable pastime, a way to connect with people I might not otherwise know. My blog isn’t a “useful” type, unless you count my recipes and gardening posts. That’s not what I’m all about, though.
Oh boy, my blog is pretty useless then too..:P I enjoy reading about people’s lives. Oftentimes, I learn through their experiences. Or I just enjoy coming along for the ride. There are many blogs that I read that I can’t tear myself away from because I have been watching the authors’ kids grow up and I can’t wait to see what happens next. That’s totally “useless” but it is great for community and relationships!
If you stop by Chuck’s blog today (or read his tweets), you’ll know that I’m stopping by just to say “insert blog applause here.” :)
And that I read your blog because I feel like I can relate to it. Isn’t that one of the main reasons people blog anyway? For the relatability factor?
Amen, Sister! ;) That’s exactly how I feel about mine. It’s a connecting point. It’s often “cute,” often “fun” and is a sort of “store-front” a lot of the time. But the posts that I get the most soul-level feedback from are the ones where I bare my soul…talk about how human I am or what is difficult. In a blog full of fabric cupcakes, yummy fabric and delicious sewing projects, here are the two posts I have gotten the most heartfelt comments on:
1)http://roseyposeyconfections.blogspot.com/2008/08/gettin-messy.html
2)http://roseyposeyconfections.blogspot.com/2008/05/some-thoughts-on-mothers.html
Telling! So don’t be useful…I’ll be mad and disappointed if you start trying to give me recipes and jogging tips!!!! lol :)
Oh, poo on those experts. Who are they to define “useful.” That would negate much of what exists in our world that we call “art.” Why do people write novels, paint pictures, carve wood? It’s not “useful” but it is necessary.
You keep writing, girlfriend.
I think blog “rules” are limiting. And, it matters what your goal is. Some people want Digg front page status – but those posts are all very similar: stupid humor or really long lists of technology-related info. It’s geek humor. Cool. But not my style. And I’m guessing not yours.
I have to say that I think “useful” is a really broad term. Useful for some people would mean long lists of tips and tricks and hacks. While, useful, to me, is a blog I can relate to and feel inspired by.
I don’t have a husband, a dog, children, or any faith in Christianity, but your blog speaks to me. And that’s, in my opinion, the most useful you can strive to be. Because, while these useful blogs that the article talks about may be giving us all these tips, it’s not being useful for us in connecting with others. And, that’s the cornerstone of humanity, not tips and hacks for getting things done or getting a job or whatever else. Not that there is anything wrong with those posts, because there’s not.
But, limiting the usefulness of blogging to tips and tricks is narrowing. And it stops the flow of thought. And, I say, write from the heart and the right people will think your blog is useful. Because it is.
Oh wow Kirsten.Those who think ‘useful’ has to be on the top of the list seem to forget the audience is wide and varied…. I’ve stayed here after being introduced to you via ‘BlogHiker’ b/c I love the way you make a point WITH OUT making a list. Lets reference your memory making post for that one. In addition you encourage involvement via thought provoking questions. If I hit a site with lists, I tend to think ‘been there, seen that, cant make stick around for more’ Having said that, I will be back for more of yours, Best, Trina
3 Easy Steps To Help You Ignore the Experts:
Step 1:
Write, first and foremost, for yourself. There is nothing more useful in the world to me than getting my thoughts down on (virtual) paper so I can see them, move them around, consider them in a new light. I’m a better person for my writing…more confident about who I am and, thus, more able to disregard those who thrive by telling people they don’t measure up.
Step 2:
Recognize that all the lists in the world will not fix the problems in your life. Focus, instead, on being honest with yourself, on expressing the parts of you that may prefer to stay hidden beneath the surface but, in fact, serve you best when they’re out in the open. All of which leads to the final step in this process…
Step 3:
Use your newfound honesty and self-reflection to connect, authentically, with others. Recognize (ala @ccseed) the power of each and every story (yes, that includes yours) to help others frame their own.
ps…if you apply these 3 easy steps consistently and it doesn’t seem to help, write blog posts with lots of curse words.
(Thanks for the shout-out KT. You’re as useful as they come.)
Kristen–
It seem to me that your blog is a wonderful forum for discussing the shared human experience. I think that most individuals are awash with information. Most websites have so much content, that most people aren’t taking the time to glance at half of it! Because it’s just *information*. BUT, show me a community of individuals who feel comfortable to share in each other’s lives, and I think you have the real definition of a successful blog. It isn’t about information, as much as it is about conversation. And conversation–true dialogue, a mutual exchange of ideas or shared experience–has more value than a list of facts. Because THAT, in the age of fractured communication, is what is truly useful to many individuals. You should take great pride in Halfway to Normal; it records your own life with humor and sensitivity, and in doing so it invites your readers to do the same.
Betty, I know what you mean about this blogging forum just “fitting” the way you write. I feel that way, too (although I still want to publish a book!). And I’m glad you brought up the “quality” issue. It’s not just about grammar and sentence structure, either. As you point out, it’s about developing ideas and moving them forward in some way, and being able to make the most uninteresting topics interesting. (You’re very good at doing that, too!)
Arathi, you’re right. It doesn’t matter what the so-called experts say. But I guess one of my life missions is to kill the idea that there’s a “right” or normal way to go about doing anything. I’d love to just completely ignore the experts, but my personality is such that I tend to get riled up, instead. :)
Daisy, utilizing blogs as “a way to connect with people I might otherwise not know” is a wonderful reason to write and read blogs. (And I’m very glad I’ve gotten to know you in this sphere.)
Shell, maybe we should start a Useless Blog society or club. I think we’d be in good company. I also enjoy reading about people’s lives. The other day on Twitter, a social media expert was telling everyone to “stop blabbing about yourselves and do something for someone else.” I get that people can be way too self-centered, and I’m all for being a community that helps each other, but I think at least part of how we help each other is by sharing our lives, stories, and feelings.
Ashley, yes I read Chuck’s post. We definitely need to establish an “insert applause here” symbol or acronym. And yes, you’re exactly right—the whole business of feeling like we can relate to others is at the heart of blogging (both reading & writing) for me. I often refer to it as “wanting to know we’re not alone.”
Cheryl, “a connecting point” is another really good way to put it. I’ll definitely read your posts, (and you don’t have to worry that I’ll start sharing jogging tips!).
Jennifer, thanks for the vote of confidence, and good point about art. It’s really interesting, to me that the internet and social media somehow seem to negate the “art factor” in most people’s minds. There’s something so efficient and practical about the medium and the technology, that people naturally feel like it should translate into practical stuff. It’s just a perception that needs to be fought, I think.
Jamie, I sense a theme: connecting people! Maybe you should write a post about it. :) And these are words to live by: “write from the heart and the right people will think your blog is useful.” Btw, I’m glad that my collection of “right people” includes you and others who don’t necessarily have everything in common with me. I really like that.
Trina, thanks! I’m glad that whatever I’m doing encourages involvement, because when you all share your two cents, your own stories and your individual perspectives, it makes what I ultimately want my blog to be about all come together.
Jeb, HA! Genius. And wise and true. You’ve outlined something I was getting at in my response to Shell (above). That writing for ourselves (step 1) isn’t necessarily selfish, because it leads to step 2, and finally to step 3—the connecting part, which is what it’s all really about. Sharing our stories helps others frame and share theirs.
Kira, I love that you brought up the sense of “comfort” that’s critical in true community: “a community of individuals who feel comfortable to share in each other’s lives.” Feeling safe and comfortable with who we are, even while we’re being challenged by different beliefs and opinions, is the best foundation for good dialogue. I’m really glad so many people can feel that way here. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I know I’ve gone thru that with my blog posts as well. Part of what keeps me going is when people whose music I feature end up telling me how great it was to have their music shared in such a fashion as my blog. I’m pretty sure I’ve gotten away from my original goal of only writing about the music. At some point I will come back around to focusing only on the music, but it’s a journey.
If your blog is making you happy then why worry about whether it’s useful? Right?