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Sunday

Blogging Secrets...


This week, I am so excited to have Elaine Stock, author of the EVERYONE'S STORY blog as my guest. As writers, most of us wrestle with blogging of some type. But why are some so much more successful than others? 

While there aren't any "silver bullets" to answer that question, I have found that successful blogs have certain things in common. The most important of which is take-away value. Something Elaine's blog has plenty of. How does she do it? Well, here's a few questions I just had to ask her, to find out...

Welcome, Elaine, it's great to have you here. You have such an uplifting blog, what gave you the idea to have other people's stories as a blog theme?

Oh, thank you so much, Lilly, for your kind words. And thanks for having me as your guest. A couple of years ago as a pre-published author I felt the heated push to establish and grow an internet presence in addition to joining social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook. I was plagued by the thought: who would really want to know anything about “Me”? So, fascinated by the dynamics of what makes people the way they are, and wanting to encourage others, I started to invite weekly guests. Since I’m a writer and reader, and seem to hang out with other like-minded people, I targeted EVERYONE'S STORY for readers, writers, and all those in-between.

Well, it was an inspired idea, that's for sure. How do you find so many people with the encouraging kind of stories you like to write about?

I have a confession to share: I’m addicted to seeing what has shaped people, and seeing how they’ve risen from unenviable circumstances. Actually, what I think I’m truly addicted to is encouragement. I think one needs more constructive and kind feedback, especially as the world seems to be getting tougher and rougher these days. Hooking up with people and sharing on Twitter, FB, or through one connection or the other, introduces me to many beautiful people. I am grateful when they accept my invitation to be my guest. I also have received queries of people asking to be on my blog…who would have thought?!

With so many positive responses, I'd say it proves you're on the right track. Were you a "novice blogger" when you first started EVERYONE'S STORY, or had you already enjoyed blogging on other subjects?

EVERYONE'S STORY is my first blog—I was definitely a novice. Actually, I’m still learning so much about blogging. For instance, take formatting. If you look at the first year of my blog segments I think the formatting was pretty hideous, or at least unprofessional. I’m not saying it’s gold right now, but I do try to make it presentable.

I’d also accepted guest spots on others’ blogs about the same time as I started blogging, giving me a feel for things on the other side of the table.

That was a good move, too. Mind if I ask why you choose to go with Blogger? Are you happy with that decision?

My neighbor, who sat beside me and “held my hand” while she helped me set up my blog, showed me Blogger vs. WordPress. There are probably other private blogs available via website designers, but at the time I wasn’t ready for that, nor had the means to cover design expenses. I chose Blogger because to my eye, it has a more cozy appearance to it that seems more suited for one’s individuality. But, that’s only my opinion. Many writing industry professionals seem to bow down to WordPress, but Blogger works for me and my present needs. It’s a personal choice.

Definitely the right one at the right time for you. Other than the technical side of things, what factors do you think have contributed most to your success?

Although I receive praise for EVERYONE'S STORY, my head isn’t swelling with “success.” But, thank you, Lilly, for thinking that! Blogging is the proverbial labor of love. I put a lot of sweat into it, though I’ve discovered a few ways to conserve time. I think the biggest tip I can give anyone who wants to blog—since blogging is an invitation to others to comment back—is to thank/acknowledge each commenter for bothering to take a couple minutes of their time to pay a visit. It’s very humbling and necessary. And nice.

It is, indeed. What is your opinion about sticking to one style and subject area for a blog, as opposed to branching out? Do you have any opinions on maintaining multiple blogs?

Power and blessings to anyone who has the time and energy to run their own blog or blogs and engage on multi-contributor blogs. I do not have time. I can only handle so much. Whatever works for you, go for it! Just enjoy it. Have fun.

A very important ingredient, I'm sure. What have you enjoyed most about writing your blog?

The interaction with my guests and commenters. I have been so blessed by their generosity, compassion, support, and the sharing of life lessons. 

Sort of one of those "the more you give the more you get" type things, right? You know, Elaine, so many bloggers start out strong, get tired of the same-old-thing, and then fade away. Do you have any advice for staying in it on a long-term basis?

Make it work for you. Enjoy it. If you’re feeling too pressured and bored by it, maybe time to reconsider things—like anything else.

Well, you definitely have a great thing going with EVERYONE'S STORY, and it's a blessing to me whenever I get a chance to stop by. Meanwhile, what are your plans for the future?

I daydream of publishing these stories floating around my head and when I do I’d like to establish an eye-appealing website that is linked to my blog. Maybe somehow expanding on this whole interaction thing that seems to be developing on EVERYONE'S STORY. Please, don’t laugh. Indulge my dreams.

Wouldn't think of laughing, as all success starts with dreams. Thanks so much for visiting with me, Elaine, and here's wishing you many blessings and much success with those dreams! 

Meanwhile, dear readers, you can check out some of these encouraging stories, yourself, by visiting EVERYONE'S STORY.

38 comments:

  1. Lilly, thank you so much for your kindness and hospitality this week for hosting me. I'm honored to be your guest.

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    1. My pleasure, Elaine. I can certainly see why the Lord has blessed your efforts to encourage others... it's because encouragement is so close to His heart, as well. What a wonderful position to be in!

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  2. One of the things I love about blogging is that it's connected me to many wonderful people. In fact, Elaine is one of those wonderful people. She and I blog swapped years ago and have been friends ever since--Praise God!

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    1. Connie--we haven't been friends since God created the earth? So glad we met! I'd be lost without you.

      Blogging is an awesome venue for making valuable and heart-inspired connections and friendships. Indeed, a true blessing.

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    2. I agree, Connie... in fact, I am amazed at how close friendships can become when people who are "like-minded" begin to share their thoughts and hearts with each other. Very glad you stopped by!

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  3. As one who struggles to produce even one blog post every three months, I am encouraged by Elaine's comments today. And inspired to do better. :-) Thank you! Wishing you much success with those stories floating around in your head.

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    1. Thanks for visiting Lilly's blog, Pat. I'm smiling about the inspiration :)

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    2. I can so relate, Pat, as consistency is the hardest thing there is for me. I'm going to try and do better, too.

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  4. I used to follow so many blogs to keep up with authors, friends and the publishing world. I just can't do it any more. I'm thrilled to be part of a group blog for readers. We plod along and share the workload but the biggest blessing is the friendship and support we share. Sometimes I wonder why I am blogging at all, but I know it's good practice to just keep at it and have to be accountable. Thanks for the ideas and this interesting interview, ladies!

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    1. Debra, thanks for your visit. I appreciate what you saying about not being able to keep up with all the blogs you really want to. I'm glad you found what works for you...and may you continue to be blessed with it, and enjoy it.

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    2. Hi, Deb... it's great to see you here! I have to say that visiting with your "circle of blogging friends" was one of the most pleasant experiences I had when I first started "dipping my toe" in blog tour waters. Since then, I have considered the wonderful friendships of that group to be one of the best examples around. But, like you, I wish I had more time!

      I used to say I practice "turtle marketing" because I am so slow when it comes to the lightning speed of the Internet. However, lately I've been feeling like one of those bugs that only pops up every seventeen years. Because that's about how long it would take me to consistently read all the wonderful blogs I would like to. Definitely headed in that direction, though, so I'm just going to try paddling faster!

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  5. Very nice interview. Thanks for sharing your, insights,
    Elaine. I'm still new at blogging, so I have much to learn.
    Thanks for hosting this interview, Lilly.

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    1. Kathleen, I think one of the tricks to blogging is the willingness to keep trying different things that work for you while juggling it with the goal of attracting others to view your blog. It really is an on-going juggling act. Then again, that's one way of not getting bored! May you be blessed with joy when it comes to blogging... and all things in life :)

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    2. It's been a real pleasure, Kathleen, I've had a great time, myself... learned heaps just reading the comments. So glad you stopped by!

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  6. I am not a blogger, but I love reading other people's blogs on subjects that interest me. Elaine always provides a great message and/or interesting people with a wonderful story - real life or a great read I want to pick up. I have no desire to start blogging, but I'm glad others do! I read about a dozen a week, and that's just enough to keep me connected and informed.

    As a newly published author, let me say that I'm grateful to all the bloggers who help promote authors and books they enjoy. I'm just starting to visit blogs and it's a fun way to meet new people.

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    1. Nice to see you, Lisa. Wow--12 blogs a week is an impressive number. I'm glad you're inspired by blogs. I'm touched that you find Everyone's Story relatable--I believe that's key. The other element you mentioned--fun--is also very essential.

      I'm looking forward to hosting you in March!

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  7. Great interview and advice, Elaine. =] Making it work for where you are in life is one of my favorites. =]

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    1. Patty, thanks so much for visiting Lilly's wonderful blog. Through the years I've learned quite a lot from your blog :)

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  8. I love reading Everybody's Story every week. It's a brilliant idea to showcase everyone else and yet your name is out there Elaine. Once a week works because it gives your chosen author a time to shine on the Internet--okay time to post about it to every social media network they can.
    Blessings,
    Diana

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    1. Hi Diana. So glad you're here with us today. I'm smiling while I visualize you reading my blog every week. Really? I didn't know that. Thanks so much! I enjoyed showcasing you the few times you've been on.

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  9. So many insights. Thanks for sharing, Elaine.

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    1. Thanks so much for your visit, Davalyn. I'm glad my thoughts helped.

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  10. Thank you for sharing, Elaine. Your blog strikes a chord with its readers. Everyone has a story to tell, especially about overcoming adversity. Your blog offers people hope that "with God, all things are possible."

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    1. Nancy, thanks so much for visiting Lilly's blog. By the way, did you catch that she and her husband live on a boat and travel all over? Very exciting!
      Perfect timing to say that yes, everyone is special and offers a unique story to share.

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    2. Good of you to mention that, Elaine... because the truth is, having people "catch me" makes me feel a whole lot safer out here. This because I'm finding that being brave on paper is a lot easier than real life. Seriously thinking about being nicer to my characters from now on, too. But that's all I better say about that...

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  11. Elaine, I've been following your blog since it began and been inspired by so many of your guests. Thank you for sharing your insight on blogging here. Although I've never been a blogger, now I'm tempted to try.... :)

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    1. Mary, it's so nice to see you here at Lilly's. I bet you'd be wonderful at blogging! Just think of it's hosting a bunch of friends for lunch and you're seated around the table, enjoying each other's company. Have fun. Offer fun.

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    2. What a great blogging philosophy, Elaine... I'm going to write that down: "Have Fun. Offer Fun." Love it.

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  12. Great interview, Elaine. So fun to get insight behind your story and thanks for your generosity in sharing others and their work.

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    1. Hi Jordyn. Thanks for visiting. And thanks for the kind words. I've learned a lot from your own very informative blog!

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  13. Two of my favorite bloggers in one blog? Reminds me of the two, two, two mints in one commercial! Love you both!

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    1. Karla--a fond hello. Thanks for the memory of that mint commercial! I think your blog is wonderful and I wish you continued success with it.

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    2. Love you, too, Karla... you are such a blessing! And I'm tickled Elaine is so willing to share some of her wisdom with us, because I think she has tapped into that wonderful "collective strength" we encounter when we hear other people's encouraging stories. You might say it's sort of catching--like a smile, or a yawn. I like to think so, anyway!

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  14. Just like you enjoy reading other people's stories to success, I enjoyed reading yours! Your commitment to the process is encouraging. :-)

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    1. Thanks for visiting, Sara. Some days I don't know whether it's commitment or craziness, but I'm in it for as long as it takes...and as I am learning,for as long as He wants it to take.

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  15. Thank you, Lilly, for graciously hosting me this past week. It's been a true joy.

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    1. And I have loved having you, Elaine... I have learned many valuable things that I wasn't even aware of! Not everyone shares their real "secrets of success," but you have been as encouraging here, as you are on your own blog, when encouraging others along the journey of their everyday lives. Thank you for that! And may EVERYONE'S STORY continue to be a blessing that people can return to, again, and again.

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