New in the Blogosphere: 2011

Monday, October 24, 2011

Trolls

Have you ever had to deal with a troll or another troublesome blog visitor? In the real world, we are often advised to deal with bullies as well as small annoyances by just ignoring them and therefore taking away their power. This would seem to be particularly relevant online when a rogue commenter could lose interest quickly and never return. Even if they do stick around, what's the worst they can do.

Unfortunately, this has some drawbacks. In the real world, ignoring really isn't that great of an idea if it could escalate, and it could easily escalate online. In the worst case scenario, you could end up with a cyber stalker on your hands. Deleting or flagging the comment might just give them ammo and cause the problem to quickly escalate.

In my opinion, the best solution is one I have not implemented, mostly because I haven't had the need to: a commenting policy. This way, if you do find yourself needing to delete a comment or block a user, you can direct them to the policy to show them why you are doing it. Consistency will weed out some of the problems and cooperative readers will follow the policy, which will get rid of problems that are only caused by misunderstandings.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Crafts

I have a theory that one group of people has benefitted more from Web 2.0 than anyone else: Crafters. Thanks to blogs, crochet and knitting patterns are often only a google search away. Many of these patterns are completely free, and the range of patterns is ridulous. My favorite pattern so far is a peace sign as seen here: http://www.crochetspot.com/crochet-pattern-peace-sign-detailed/. Its easy to make, but I doubt anyone would think to put something like it in a published book. There are also all kinds of well-known character patterns available such as the angry birds, mario, and even complete tea sets.

The internet is also a great resource for beginners. Many bloggers are willing to post simple tips like stitches as well as reviews of necessary product brands. If you have any trouble, just comment and almost all craft bloggers will answer your questions.

The bloggers benefit as well. They sell finished products and sometimes patterns, and they get the benefit of being seen as an expert. Not everyone has the time to dedicate to getting themselves published or selling through retailers, but thanks to the Internet, they can still make some money with their hobby.

Who do you think has benefitted especially because of Web 2.0?

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Blogging and Your New Career

I've talked before about the possibilities of damaging your career by blogging, but is it possible that blogging can advance your career as well? I've read a few articles written by people who think so. I'm not talking about blogging as a career either.

Blogging demonstrates a multitude of skills that employers want to see. It shows that you are comfortable with technology, have good written skills, are dedicated and self-motivated, and can market yourself. As a bonus, if you blog about the field you are interested in, it shows that you have knowledge of it.

If you already have a blog, spice it up a little so that you would be proud to show it to potential employers, and consider an extra blog to write about your chosen industry or market. If you don't have a blog, now might just be the time to start. You might also consider reading and commenting on some companies' blogs that you would like to work for.