Writers, Do You Blog? Here's the Ninja Way to Do It!

Alex J. Cavanaugh has been amazing blog-friend since April this year, when I met him as one of the hosts of the A To Z Challenge. Since then, I’ve admired his blog, and have stood in awe of his Ninja army–his loyal and ever-expanding band of followers (I’m one of them!), and his warm, friendly presence on the internet. So, today’s guest post is from him, telling us all writer-bloggers how he works his magic!

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Thank you for inviting me to do a guest spot here, Damyanti!

I’m not sure I’m the most qualified to offer tips to writers who blog. Anne R. Allen recently did a series for writers that’s even more in depth. I guess Damyanti figured that after two years and a thousand followers, I’ve learned something along the way. (Fooled you!) With her vote of confidence, here are some tips from blogging Ninja Captain Alex:

CassaStar by Alex J Cavanaugh

Find your angle and blogging groove. Not all writers need to give writing advice, so find what fits with your personality. What are your passions? (Can you blog about them without making readers blush?) If you write about the things that excite you, it will come through to your readers. Select your topic(s) and style and go for it.

Establish a blogging schedule. Set a pattern that you and your readers can follow.

Short posts work best, especially for those who post more than once a week. People are busy – if the post is long, many will simple skip or skim. Basically your post should resemble a pamphlet on famous Bulgarian NFL stars.

CassaFire cover

Controversy gets attention, but… you don’t want to scare off potential readers and fans. Or potential publishers. Unless your book is really controversial, go easy here. Or go whacky! Nothing like a good dumpster fire.

Don’t talk about your books all the time. You’re here to make friends, network, and learn, not advertise. That doesn’t mean you can’t promote your work when it’s released. Just don’t beat everyone over the head!

Follow and comment on other blogs. If you don’t follow and comment on other blogs, don’t expect anyone to follow or comment on yours. Find blogs and people who share some of your interests. (Such as famous Bulgarian NFL stars.)

Don’t just follow writers or those of your genre, though. Follow a variety.

Participate in blogfests. They are a great way to get to know other bloggers and direct new people to your blog.

Be generous. Celebrate the success of others. Support others and never give expecting to receive.

Invite others to do a guest post on your blog. Ask to contribute guest posts on other blogs. (Or beg – begging is good!)

Be yourself. Don’t imitate another blogger’s style. You’ll sound fake. You can apply all of these tips while remaining true to your nature.

You will get out of it what you put into it. 

This Ninja does pour time into blogging and I visit a hundred sites or more a day. I’ve made so many great friends online, and with one book already published, it has translated into sales. But just as valuable is the friendship and support. And that’s worth a million bucks!

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Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Currently the author lives in the Carolinas with his wife.

 

Available now-

CassaStar by Alex J. Cavanaugh

Science fiction – space opera/adventure

Print ISBN 978-0-9816210-6-7 $15.95

EBook ISBN 978-0-9827139-3-8 $2.99

Book trailer

Available February 28, 2012:

CassaFire by Alex J. Cavanaugh

Science fiction – space opera/adventure

Print ISBN 978-0-9827139-4-5 $15.95

EBook ISBN 978-0-9827139-6-9 $4.99

Book Trailer

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