One of the first business bloggers I met, I think in early 2005, was Paul Chaney (currently blogging at Conversational Media Marketing). Paul is smart, a thinker and one heckuva nice guy. We've met several times in person at blogging conferences and I always enjoy spending time with him.
Paul has written an excellent history of business blogging beginning in 2003 when early adopter marketing folks started paying attention to the medium. I believe it was 2004 when "blog" was Merriam Webster's word of the year.
Though a lot of social media distractions have evolved along side blogging -- Twitter, social networking sites -- I believe business blogging remains one of the most powerful ways for a service professional and small business owner to get the word out about what they offer while creating connection, credibility and trust with their prospective clients. There just isn't a better way to communicate online in a simple, frequent, inexpensive and information way that also helps your ideal client find you. Period.
What do you think? What changes have you observed in the business blogosphere?
Denise, the feeling is certainly mutual. I remember the anticipation I felt knowing that we'd finally meet in person. And we had a great face-to-face conversation...and on more than one occasion too. I trust that our paths will cross again sooner rather than later.
I know you feel similarly that blogging has been not only a career-changer for us both, but a life-changer as well. I can't imagine what my life would be like had business blogging not become a part of it, nor do I want to.
Posted by: Paul Chaney | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 05:46 PM