7 Deadly Blogging Sins

According to Windows Live there are 7 Deadly Sins of the blogging world - a far cry from Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy and Pride! Of course, these deadly sins don't apply in the world of political blogging!

The humble blog has swept the internet world by storm. Think of it as your own online journal - a place to both store your thoughts and air your views.

1. Not blogging

There is no rule when to begin. Put simply, the more often you blog, the better you will become. One thing to remember - Blogging is a commitment, set aside some time each day. It is easier to get into blogging regularly than trying to pick it up after a dry spell.

2. Blog only when you have something to say

Too many posts are an instant turn-off for most people – this is the blogging equivalent of sending e-mail forwards. Everybody wants to have a lively blog; an absolute maximum should be 4 a day, no more! Nobody wants to fall into this trap.

3. Having a meaningless post title

People blog for one of two reasons; either they gain enjoyment from doing it or for some monetary, commercial purpose. In the case of the latter - in order to gain the most blog views, people insist on cramming their title with the most vague and nonsensical keywords. Codswallop I say! The same applies for writing purely for fun; don’t use boring and generic headlines, your title should encourage people to read - not send them to sleep.

4. Not leaving comments for your friends

Being tight with your comments won’t win you any friends; it may even alienate people from your blog. Blogging should be a lively medium and encourage communication. Don’t be a scrooge and leave your friends comments as appropriate.

5. Don’t delete your comments

Your friends have spent time reading your blog – to delete their comments is just plain rude. Don’t be put off by negative feedback; if you blog often and make great posts - any bad comments you receive will quickly be overshadowed.

6. Don’t strive for perfection

Perfectionism will hold you back and will turn the simple task of writing an entry seem like a chore! It is especially easy to fall into this trap early on. To be a successful blogger you must find your own voice - don’t force it, blog in the style that feels most comfortable to you.

7. Shameless self promotion

Nobody likes an attention seeker and this rule applies for online too! Don’t promote yourself at the expense of others - you shouldn’t have to force your blog down other blogger’s throats, this is the sign of a bad blog.