I encourage people to write and the best way to publish their writing is through blogs. Usually, people interested in blogging, ask me “how to start putting thoughts together?” A valid question! Like any other learnable things, writing skills can also be learnt gradually.

I was told a long time ago that to be able to write well, one must read a lot. My first suggestion to aspiring bloggers is to make a list
of topics that interest them. This could be sports they follow, music, fashion, politics, humor etc. This reading will trigger a flow of thoughts and that is the beginning of the process!

The trend is that the user generated content is read more as compared to news! According to estimates, only in the US, User generated content consumer will touch 130 million in 2012. Lets become part of this massive stream!

Following are 12 key steps any aspiring blogger must follow:

1. Decide on the topic(s) you wish to focus.
2. Scribble your thoughts in bullets on paper or on a word document.
3. Read other blogs and news related to your topics.
4. Divide your early posts in three segmentsa. Introductory par (provide opening thoughts and reasoning)b. Express your views (explanation)

   c. Conclusion (food for thoughts)

5. Review it couple of times.
6. If you have a mentor, share it for improvements.
7. Use simple language.
8. Be careful about grammar and spellings (use active voice sentences).
9. Hyperlink references.
10. Re-check contents.
11. Give your post an attractive title.
12. Publish it!

CBS News gave the following 7 Rules of Successful Bloggers:

1. Create valuable content.
2.  Focus on a niche.
3. Identify popular markets.
4. Be opinionated.
5. Get personal.
6. Create a brand.
7. Market your blog

Happy blogging (..)