The Corporate Weblog Manifesto: Part 4
Today, I continue my look at The Corporate Weblog Manifesto by Robert Scoble. Below are my thoughts on the next five tips:
Tip #11 - Know the information gatekeepers.
This is one of those things that a new blogger is going to learn, most likely the hard way. Information gatekeepers reach more users than anyone else. They are your first point of contact in a crisis. This tip works both ways; when something goes wrong, these gatekeepers should know if you are a popular blogger so that they can offer an explanation before you blast them.
Tip #12 - Never change the URL of your weblog.
I’ve lost many a good weblog to the fact that the admin changed the URL without giving proper notice. I was never able to find it again, nor did I want to expend the effort to search for it. Even when the creator of a weblog gives proper notice, readership is going to decline. You’d better have a great reason for changing your URL. I didn’t bookmark just for you to be fickle.
Tip #13 - If your life is in turmoil/or you’re unhappy, don’t write.
I can’t count how many times I’ve been reading a blog for a corporation, web comic, etc. and been made uncomfortable by an announcement of some pending crisis in someone’s life. If you’re going through a divorce, death in the family, or some other traumatic event, do yourself a favor and take a break from writing. Your blog is only going to suffer because you can’t hide sadness or disdain in your writing.
Tip #14 - If you don’t have the answers, say so.
But find them out, as soon as you can.
Tip #15 - Never lie.
Credibility can’t be gained back easily, and sometimes, it can’t be gained back at all.
Next week, we’ll wrap up our look at The Corporate Weblog Manifesto!
