A while back Adam McKerlie of The Computer Zone emailed me asking me to participate in a group post about why I started blogging. I along with several other bloggers agreed and Adam asked us all a very simple question “Why did you start blogging?“. He then compiled the responses into a single post and the result is well worth a read. And, while I’d probably link to the it simply because I’m included in the article, I think Adam’s post does several things well that we could all learn from.

The first aspect is probably the most obvious, it’s a good read. Each and every day more blogs spring up and more people make the leap to begin blogging. Personally, I found it very interesting not only in participating, but in reading the other responses as well. When Adam emailed me, I hadn’t really asked myself that question before and I think a little bit of self analysis is always good from time to time. I think the post prompts the reader to ask themselves the same question and will probably inspire several comments if not all new posts. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Adam received several links from bloggers that decide to write their own “Why I started Blogging” posts. In my experience, bloggers love to let others know where the found something and Adam has put his blog in a position to profit from that natural reaction.

The next aspect of the article I wanted to highlight is the built in support it has. As I mentioned previously, I probably would have linked to this post at some point simply because I was featured in it. While that might strike some as vain, I’m certainly not alone in this, in fact, I’d say I’m in the majority. People like to be talked about (especially if it’s in a positive manner) and it’s just natural that we will let our readers know when we’re featured in a post or on another blog.

Basically, by including me in the article, Adam didn’t have to ask me for a link or a mention on my blog. He simply let me know that the post was published and where I could find it. As the popularity of this blog has grown, I’ve received more and more pitches for story ideas or items people would like me to cover. While I certainly enjoy getting the chance to check out new services or blogs or whatever, the best approach I’ve seen in my experience both in pitching and in receiving pitches, is to simply let bloggers know your resource is there.

Last and perhaps most importantly, articles like this are easy! Sure you have to spend time emailing bloggers and compiling the data but for something that could turn out to be a pillar post, receive social media attention, go viral, or all of the above, it’s relatively easy to create. For example, my interview with Muhammad Saleem about social media took very little effort on my part, attracted several new links, and was very close to becoming popular on Digg.com! The part that took the longest was simply formatting the text so it was easy to read. Now I don’t know about you but I certainly don’t mind it when other people create my content for me. If you’re looking to create a resource that will receive some attention from other bloggers in your niche and attract some links while you’re at it, asking other people questions is a great way to go.

While you’re thinking of your next great idea, don’t forget to go over and actually read the post on The Computer Zone and consider subscribing to the RSS feed as well. There’s a lot of quality content there you won’t want to miss.

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