Blogging for bucks [part2]

1. Study other blogs the popular ones. What makes them successful? Where do they miss the mark? What’s the tone? The word count? The take-away value?
2. Write right and write tight. Blogs categorically require a different type of writing than other genres of writing. Most are more informal and conversational in tone. Very few call for word counts of over 700 words per post.
3. Do a few guest posts on other blogs. Doing so gives you credibility, visibility, and success by association.
4. Network.Tap into your available resources and folks who are in-the-know through Facebook, Twitter, and online communities in which you interact.
5. Follow directions to find the road to success. For example, if a blog ad for a paying gig calls for 2 samples of 500 words and a resume, don’t send one sample of 1000 words and links to work you’ve created on line. It’s the easiest way to get fired before you’re hired!
6. Make it brief. When applying for work, or presenting your work for consideration, be brief but substantive. 
7. Have goals and a game plan. How much would you like to earn monthly? Yearly? Which blogs are the ones you aspire to write for and how often? What will your niche be? Is there anyone who can serve as a mentor to advise and guide you? These are a few key questions to consider.
8. Write what you know. The traditional philosophy of writing also applies with blogging. Pen posts on topics with which you have experience and familiarity.