Busting the Newbie Blues

The lovely mastermind behind the new blog, Small Review, has come up with a really nice way for bloggers who've been around a while to offer their advice and input to new bloggers, if only to lend a helping hand. I remember how clueless I was when I started my blog, so I figured I'd join in and give my two cents (however little they might be worth). I invite you to click here, take the survey, and participate as well - whether you're a new blogger or an old one! Ok...onto the questions...

1. When did you start your blog?

I started my blog last July, if we're being technical, but I didn't start book blogging until December 17th last year, hence my blogoversary giveaway (shameless plug). It took me that long to figure out what I wanted to do with it.

2. Why did you start your blog?

I originally started it just because I liked the name, and I'd always wanted to try blogging, but I wasn't sure what to do. I started book blogging because books and the written word are a true passion of mine, and this is a great outlet.

3. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced so far? Did you make any mistakes new bloggers can learn from?

I got really burned out this past summer. I loved blogging, but I was so hell-bent on being good at it that I made it into a chore. My biggest suggestion is to take your time getting into it. Make it something you enjoy, rather than dread to do.

4. What did you find most discouraging as a new blogger? How did you deal with this?

I think the one thing I had to get over was the whole follower shebang. I started my blog and gained a small following at first, but nothing huge, while other similar blogs just took off. Today, I have a good, active following, and I recognize it's quality over quantity in all aspects of my blog. It takes a lot of patience.

5. What did you find most encouraging?

The other bloggers. This is an amazing community of helpful and positive individuals. Get to know them...they're your greatest asset!

6. What do you like best about the blogs you read? Have you tried to replicate this in your blog?

I love that the blogs I read all have their own unique voice. I've worked hard to make my site a reflection of myself, and people shouldn't be scared to let their true colours come out in their blog.

7. What do you dislike about blogs you’ve read? Do you try to avoid this?

I really don't dislike that many things. I guess spamming is the one thing that irks me sometime. If someone wants to visit my blog, I'm honoured, but I'd rather they come to enjoy it rather than simply ask me to follow them. Chances are I will follow them (I follow almost 500), so give me a reason to follow you!

8. Do you have any advice for new bloggers?

Have fun! That's the whole point of the blogosphere. If you don't have fun with it, we'll know, and it's not worth it.

9. How did you bring your blog to the attention of so many people?

Interaction, pure and simple. I try to comment on at least 60 blogs a day (I know...a lot). It's a great way to get people interested in my thoughts as well. Most of all though, just be yourself!

10. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?

I shall close with a cliche...it's a marathon, my friends, not a sprint ;)