'Z' is short for 'Z. Allora' which is actually the pseudonym under which she writes. Because this is a family-friendly blog, I won't go into any detail about what she writes (Google her and see for yourself), but she's very good at it and has a lot more experience with managing an online presence than I do. So, in my quest to improve my own online presence, starting with this blog, I asked her to check it out and offer some advice.
A few of the tidbits she offered up (in no particular order):
1. Write regularly. Make a writing schedule and stick to it.
I set aside a 1-hour block of time every Tuesday night to write. Even if it's not ready to publish, I'll at least work on it. Having done that, I promptly missed my very first writing session this past Tuesday. Well, I can only improve!
2. Put up a real picture of myself, not a caricature.
I haven't done this yet, but I will. I guess. I can't imagine people want to see the real me, but Z is smarter than I am, so I'll trust her on this.
3. Tag/label your posts.
I hadn't done this - never even thought about it. I went back and tagged my last few posts. Eventually, people may start running across my stuff when they search.
4. Better Titles.
I struggle with this. Coming up with a title that's both succinct and invites people to read the entry is an art form unto itself, I think. She also suggested that if the title is a bit vague (A Glowing Display! is the example she used) then put a picture right under it to grab the attention. Great idea! I added a picture right under the title for that post, and will definitely keep it in mind in the future.
5. Blog Description
I had a long blurb about what my blog is about, almost like a mission statement. I shortened it up a bit, made it a bit less stuffy and formal (I hope!). I need to ask her what she thinks about it....
