Q. How did you get into blogging?

I started doing SEO and Adwords for an Ecommerce firm I used to work for about 2 years ago.   As I learned how internet markting, seo, and ppc worked, I wanted to blog about it for two reasons: 

1. To have a place of reference so I can go back to it easily

2. To share them with others so that we can both learn more

I bought my domain awhile back but it wasn't until last December when I started to focus a lot more on blogging.

Q. What have been the most important changes/developments in your approach to blogging since you first began?

Most important changes to me was finding that style of writing that I felt was the best representation of who I am.  We're trying too hard to chase the probloggers, and I'm realizing you just have to be yourself.

Q. Why blog in 2010?

Because I was dumb not to start sooner! It's never too late to blog if you have great things to write about.  If you have the goods, then people are willing to read it.  Probably the hardest step for people to starting blogging is….to start blogging.  Fear of failure stops people from taking action, pretty sad.

Q. What are the most important tips would you give to those who want to write effective comments in blogs?

You have to leave smart comments. Never leave a short comment by saying "Nice post".  That's so annoying.  You want to add value to the post by adding your opinion or additional tips.  Readers will notice your level of expertise and will click on your link to see what your blog is all about.  Also, ask the blogger a question in the post, this will build your relationship and network.

Q. What is Trackback Traffic Marketing?

Trackback marketing is when you send a blogger the post link that you wrote in reference to one of his post.  Many bloggers separate their trackback links above the comments, and some just add them in the comment list.  The key here is to find those blogs that allow trackbacks and write a post that references his article.  This will add a link on his site that will redirect his readers back to yours.  That's basically the gist of it.

Q. Where do you get your ideas for content? What do you do to get into a creative frame-of-mind for coming up with ideas, in general, for your blog?

I get my ideas from trying to solve my own problems I face with blogging.  I also read other blogs, but the beauty of having your own blog is that you can basically write about anything you want.  I've written posts on food, the Lakers, buying clothes, etc!  It makes your blog personal and your readers like that.

Q. What sort of posts should you write in order to get lots of quality comments?

There are many writing styles that would draw quality comments.  Some of the recent ones I've seen on other blogs are:

1. Personal rants – When the blogger just let's out steam

2. Showing off – When they show off their income streams from blogging

3. Controversial – When you write a post disagreeing someone of higher status

I'm sure there are lots more. 

For new bloggers, it's very important to start reaching out to other blogs in your

niche and comment on their posts.  Getting a blog up won't bring in the traffic,

you have to build your brand awareness and introduce yourself to other

readers because right now they don't even know you exist.

This method wont bring in massive traffic, but it will bring in a few each day.  The

important thing is that your building relationships with other readers and the

blogger as well.  Stick with commenting on other blogs in the beginning, but

make sure your priority is to write content on your blog.  Consistency is key!