I Am a Writer, Journalist & Blogger

Yesterday, someone asked me what was I an expert in. I told her writing and blogging. I have The Write Design Company and three blogs: As NOT Seen on TV, Shorty in Da House, and Marcie Writes.  For now.

The Write Design Company provides writing, design and social media marketing services. Copywriting, blogging, and social media marketing are the primary services I am promoting for my writing company. Ultimately, I am a writer.

As for my blogs, I do it because I love writing and it’s free. Blogging is one aspect of social media or online communities, but people wouldn’t understand that so I don’t include it in conversations. Social media marketing requires creative thinking and even more creative writing. That is not far off from what I do as a writer and journalist.

Now, the topics of my blogs are a different story. Blogging does not take away from my writing skills and abilities; however, the topics put me in different categories. Shorty is going to be a resources for the South Side of Chicago and As NOT Seen on TV will address media practices and influences.

So, does sharing the subjects of my blogs take away from my expertise as a writer and blogger? I don’t know. But, I will make it my business to ensure that people know that I am a writer, journalist, and blogger first and foremost.

 

Shorty’s New Blog is Looking Good

I’ll let you know when it is up and running.  Although my goal is set for December 15th, it may be operating before then.  Things are looking good and moving along.  My new personal Shorty blog is almost done.  The Write Design Co.’s website should be completed by Friday, November 20th. 

Although I would like for As NOT Seen on TV to be completed by Friday, November 20th also, I’m experiencing technical difficulties.  So, the 28th might have to be my date.

We’ll see.  I’m just majorly excited about progress!

 

I Think I’m In Love With WordPress

I have been using wordpress for all of my blogs, Shorty In Da House, Marcie Writes, and As NOT Seen on TV.  I checked out WordPress for Dummies at Borders on last week and learned some new stuff. 

Also, most of the bloggers that get paid for blogging use WordPress from what I gathered from my reading.  It only makes sense to use what’s working, right?  (Now, it’s time for me to start getting paid like the pros.)

If you are interested in WordPress and have no idea how to use it, I have the following suggestions:
1. WordPress site has a wealth of information to get you started and keep you going.
2. Check out WordPress for Dummies
3. There is a One Day WordPress in Chicago on Saturday, November 14, 2009.  Get more details and to register at www.meetup.com/mywplife
4. Join a local WordPress Meetup on Meetup.com
5. Visit random sites that are shown on WordPress and contact the owners

 

Future Changes on Shorty

Shorty In Da House

Shorty is my baby.  Shorty started as a monthly newsletter used to inform everyone who helped me with a job that I had landed.  Since then, it has grown to include employment, stuff going on in the community, small business ads, programs for young people and seniors – pretty much any information that could help others.

During the 8 years I’ve been publishing my newsletter, I only asked for financial assistance once, and that was to create a website.  I had never asked for money or seriously considered advertising because that would take the fun out of creating my monthly online newsletter.

Well, going into year 9, there will be changes to Shorty.  The newsletter will no longer be the primary source of information; the blog will. Also, it will be a resource only.  Much of the information shared in the newsletter now will be the same, but it be from a broader audience.  There will also be fees to post, advertise, and promote programs, events, and businesses and other information.

I know I am going to lose some people with the pay thing.  That’s fine. 

Here are my thoughts.  I am using my time and resources to provide a platform to spread the word about things going on.  In a way, Shorty is going to be sort of a PR site where people can promote their businesses, programs, activities and events. So, this is low-cost publicity. Should people and businesses profit through money, attendance or brand awareness -which I totally expect – they are not going to come back to me and say, “Hey, here is some money for helping me get more attention, more people, money, etc.”  Some may not even say thank you. 

Oh, there will also be opportunities to advertise.  I’m still working out the kinks, but I am certain that I can make money while helping others.

So, look out for future changes on Shorty.

 

To Fellow Bloggers Who Want to Profit From Blogging

In the past six weeks, I have read at least four blogger who now make over $10,000 per month from blog efforts.  I will share that information with you in a second.  First, I want to let everyone know that the two main keys that are emphasized are passion and patience.  You have to have a passion for what you are writing about. That is how to begin and keep going.  Patience is needed to grow the blog. 

Several people have asked me how to make money from blogging.  Before reading the following sources, I had no idea. So, here are 4 must-reads to learn how to make money from blogging.  Also, keep in mind that all of their money is NOT made from writing blog posts only; it also comes from advertising, books, speaking engagements, and other indirect sources related to their blog and blog topics.  Popularity breeds success in the form of cash flow.

1. ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income  – Darren Rowse and Chris Garrett
This book can be purchased from http://probloggerbook.com/.

2. Roadmap to Becoming a Better Blogger – Yaro Starak and Gideon Shalwick
This can be downloaded at http://www.becomeablogger.com/roadmap/.

3. Blog Profits Blueprint – Yaro Starak
This can be downloaded at http://www.blogmastermind.com/.

4. Make Money Online With John Chow dot Com – John Chow
This can be downloaded at  http://www.johnchow.com/.

Happy blogging!