Guest Contributor, Patricia Millman
When I began blogging my aim was to provide quality content, relate well to visitors on my site and give honest appraisals of products I could eventually offer to my customers.
I visit a lot of blogs in a day. I love to learn from others; bring a newbie’s point of view to a post and interact with some great bloggers – growing community.
I’m loving it.
What I’ve Learned from Visiting Others
On visiting different blogs each day, one of the things I notice is how the blog owners treat their visitors. You can tell a lot about a person by their comments. I’ve become a regular visitor to some blogs after reading many comments on different sites. You see, I don’t just read the post; I read all the comments too. I can learn from the visitors as well as the author of the post.
I don’t have ads on my site and am in no rush to do so. This does not mean that ads are not a part of a blogging plan. Just not mine at this point in time. When I visit your site; how many ads I have to plough through to find the post, will determine whether I stay or go.
Other turn-offs are false claims, flashing lights that demand my attention (that’s an instant turn-off for this visitor) and whether the products being recommended are in fact all that they claim to be.
Building Community
Of course, my appraisal of a site will be subjective; just as yours will be of mine. On my site, you will be confronted with a simple theme, only a few articles (20 or so) though new posts are written regularly. After all a newbie can’t have 1000 up already can they?! Not in my niche if you want well researched accurate and informative information.
I love writing so yes I could churn out the posts daily; but then you would probably complain of information overload! Those bloggers who have me visit their sites will attest to that.
However, many of my visitors are complete newbies to all things lavender. They come to find out what my blog is really all about. They ask questions, encourage me with their comments and generally spur me on with my writing—and keep coming back for more.
I even have my new found friends planting lavenders! I’ve inspired them and I’m so pleased to have met them and they are teaching me different things about blogging, coding (well maybe not about coding they offer to do that for me) and I in turn am changing their ideas about gardening.
When someone declares they only ever kill plants and not long after are planning on planting lavender with their children during the holiday break; that puts a smile on my face. Wow! More lavender lovers than when I started my blog. That’s success in my book.
Building a Business
And yes; I plan to have an ethical business. I have taken some time to locally source organic lavender products. Although I have had friends ask when I would have them up on my site several months ago; I continued to seek out those products that would fit in with my eco-friendly ethos.
To find a lavender farm near where I live is an added bonus. Finally my dream is becoming a reality. Not only have I found beautiful products; I have also managed to find a web designer who will display the products and get them up on my site for me. Hope you like the way I have displayed them. When he suggested I could simply take photos with my digital camera (rather difficult as I don’t own one!) then upload them, I pressed the panic button and said I’d rather he did it. After all that’s his job. Phew. That was a close call. Back to writing which I really enjoy.
I am planning on doing product reviews, so you will learn about the health benefits of each of the lavender products and why I am recommending them. The first one will be up on my site by the time this post is published. I hope you will take the time to read and comment there too.
My blog is evolving and when I review my site and look to how I can improve things; I’m sure there will be things I change. However I will continue to post regularly, answer my readers’ questions, take their suggestions for blog topics seriously and keep on visiting other blogs so I can continue interacting and building community. This is all part of the blogging journey for me.
Success will be measured differently by us all. To my blogging friends I say thank you. Everyone a winner!
Patricia Millman, Australia
About Me: I
am fairly new to blogging so was both surprised and pleased when Rick asked me to write a guest post for his blog. Especially as he is both a techie and a wordsmith IMHO
I blog on all things lavender over at lavenderuses.com and am a frequent commenter on many sites. Especially commentluv sites where I meet many other bloggers; some new like me and others accomplished and successful marketers. I love interacting with fellow bloggers on Twitter. Yes I’m a regular tweetheart and will retweet your post if it’s helpful and informative. I will also retweet if you ask me nicely. Hope you enjoy the post.
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Thanks Rick for this awesome opportunity. My first guest post. Also thanks for your edit and graphics. Much appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Nicely written Pat, and I’m glad Rick asked you to write this as well. You’ve certainly embraced blogging wholeheartedly, and I’m glad to have met you and hope to learn as much from you as you like visiting my blog.
Mitch recently posted..I Get Motivation From Things Like This
Hi Mitch
Good to see you visiting Rick’s blog. He has some quality content here and one of the positives of guest blogging for the blog owner is hopefully they will be introduced to other bloggers who may not even know about their site. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Patricia is a prime example of the beginning blogger who has taken action, put passion into her content, interact in the community and really put her two cents to topics she is interested in. This creates the value which we all see in the social spectrum and long for to grasp. She is naturally a commentator, visitor and friend who is hard to find!
So when you find someone like that, learn to build the relationship. Many bloggers focus so much on the sell and marketing that they forget that sometimes kindness and a genuine heart to help is the real marketing in itself.
Thus, I have learned so much from Patricia. Not only is she an inspiration to my blogging efforts continuously, but her warm personality makes the community of blogging worthwhile. That’s because she has effectively reached out and said, ‘Hey, can you explain that again?’ Which helps improve the content I put out.
And I know I’m showering a lot of compliments here but Patricia is more than these words I’ve given. In the short amount of time she has been blogging, I have not only noticed how fast she has grown but she has also taught me the value of a community which supports, shares and even grow together. That’s real entrepreneurial spirit!
And the business of blogging is all about respect and Patricia really has brought that forward in all her comments. She teaches me that patience, quality-driven interactive content is where the heart of business is.
Plus, she keeps telling me that she’s a technophobe, but I said, in a year if you keep saying that, I’m going to tell everyone, ‘Don’t believe her!’ LOL.
Way to go Patricia, I have heaps to learn from you and can’t wait to start planting my first lavender!
Cheers!
Thu
Thu Nguyen recently posted..Your Feedback and Help is Needed!
Thanks Thu you rock gal. I love being part of the blogging community and with all the help I’m getting I may even be able to do a few techie tasks myself….maybe not lol
I’ll have you guest posting about lavenders before long; that should be interesting
Thanks for taking the time to visit and adding to the conversation. Please encourage others to do the same.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Now, lavender? You got me there, the spin is now on me, put the blogger in the newbie seat. Geez, I know exactly what you mean by technophobe now, LOL. Time to catch up!
Will do and pass on this conversation.
Thu Nguyen recently posted..Your Feedback and Help is Needed!
So good when you geeks aka geniuses get stumped. There has to be something this technophobe can do that you can’t lol
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavenders- Small Niche Big Ideas
I could not have put it better myself Thu.
Ill comment below, but I don’t think I can be any more eloquent than this
Alex recently posted..Presents for me- Presence for you
Thu really wrote a rocking comment eh??!! She is getting to rival you and Rick as a wordsmith
BTW I got the etsy button sorted and my shop now open. Written a post about it too so it’s all go now!
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Recipes-Flower Power in the Kitchen
Patricia,
What a fantastic first guest post girl!
You’re passion and your unbridled enthusiasm will be the envy of us all, because it is these two factors that will see you succeed where so many have failed.
Keep on keeping on Patricia, the blogosphere smells so much nicer with you in it
Thanks Rick, the honourary Aussie – for sharing Patricia with us here
Alex recently posted..Niche Site Challenge Part 001 The Method in my Madness
Thanks Alex for taking the time to come over and visit. I want Rick to get lots of traffic from this post. Wasn’t he kind to ask me if I would guest on his site?! Especially as he writes so well himself and manages to write every day. I felt humbled and hoped I could write something that would hold up on his blog.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Patricia any visitor to your blog would never guess you are new to the whole blogging thing. Your professionalism and genuine love for all things lavender shines through and your writing style is very polished – well written. Your enthusiasm and knowledge about the subject is contagious. As if that isn’t enough, you have a warm inviting personality to boot. The complete package – so I have no doubt you are just at the beginning of huge success.
Melinda recently posted..Why I’m never taking my kids to the Grand Canyon
Hi Melinda
Thanks for visiting and taking time to comment here. I am hoping my etsy shop does well. Cos it is in US and I post products from here hoping people will still like them and buy. I will be looking to my American friends for advice on anything to improve my selling, marketing and product reviews. This is a completely new venture for me.
I’m hoping from this guest post that Rick’s blog will get heaps of new readers. Now he is the complete package…..both wordsmith and geek and if you believe his bio a gourmet cook!
So many blogs out there giving us the same old, same old, that when I find one that is refreshingly well-written with good content I want to RT and tell everyone about it. Hope this guest posting will achieve that.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hey Patricia,
What a great article that was! I agree to everything in the article. The one about the comments and ads on a blog is especially valid. When I visit a new blog, the amount of comments, their quality and whether the author replies to comments, are important factors. If some of those is not at a good level, I will probably skip to the next blog in my list. The ads are a deciding component as well. Too many ads in inappropriate locations is without a doubt a recipe for disaster, as the layout and the overall looks of a website play significant role. The best place for ads in my opinion is the sidebar.
Daniel Sharkov recently posted..Writing Tips – 3 Ways to Squeeze the Most from Your Articles
Hi Daniel
Thanks for visiting and commenting. I find Rick’s blog is free of clutter and has excellent content. That is one of the reasons I said yes to guest posting here. Hope you had a look around as he has written some quality posts.
It’s great when commenters join in the conversation on a blog and help build community. That blog will probably be visited more than one where the blog owner doesn’t bother. I’ve made some great connections just joining in and contributing on some blogs I visit. Thanks for joining the conversation here Daniel. Much appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Patricia, you’ve taken another step in the blogging journey towards success! I know we talked about this on my blog earlier in the week and it’s fantastic to see that you are living your dream. Congratulations on your first guest post! You picked a marvelous blog to start this off with too.
Hi Rick,
I’ll be back here again soon!
Thanks guys
Ileane@Basic Blog Tips recently posted..Help Readers Find Your Guest Posts
What a great post. I am not currently a blogger, but have been learning more about it from my sister (Melinda – finding the humor). You have a lovely style of writing that really shows your passion for lavender and your newfound blogging community. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Marianne
So glad to have you here. I love Melinda’s blog and she is one classy lady. I admire her techie skills (I am completely devoid of them lol) and know she will be able to teach you heaps. What a great teacher you have. I visit her blog every day to turn my lemons to lemonade before I get down to more serious topics to blog about
Let me know when you start blogging and I can come visit your site and cheer you on your journey. You will meet some really nice people in the blogging community. It’s great fun……as well as hard work! But it doesn’t seem like work as so many people are cheering me on.
Appreciate you stopping by and commenting. Thanks Marianne.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hi Ileane
So good to see you here
When I read Rick’s guest post on commentluv site I really enjoyed it. Of course I commented on the post and then I received an email asking me to guest post. Wow I was blown away. Especially cos Rick is such a talented wordsmith (I put him and Alex Whalley in the same category) so hoped I could write something to his standard as this blog is really classy IMHO.
Also wanted to get the word out that over here there are some quality posts that people are missing out on if they don’t visit. I’m so glad you will be back. Great to have you stop by and comment. Thanks Ileane.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Congratulations Patricia for your (1) blog, (2) business and (3) for this wonderful guest post. I told you I don’t know anything about lavenders – probably because it is known with different name here in my country or because it is not available at all in this part of world – but I got a product ‘Odonil’ with lavender flavor. I immediately remembered you when I see flavor: lavender.
Suresh Khanal@seo mmo tips recently posted..Friday Gems and FollowFriday No 5
Hi Suresh
Thanks for visiting Rick’s blog. If you have looked around you will see some great posts to read and I’m privileged to have been asked to guest post here. See some familiar faces so it’s good my regular readers are expanding their blog hopping and discovering another great blog to visit.
Glad you liked my first guest post and thanks for your kind words. If you are looking for lavenders they may be sold by their horticultural name. The most popular is the true lavender which is also known as English lavender. It’s also known as lavandula angustifolia. The other popular ones are lavandula stoechas and lavendula dentata.
However if you are buying products that are labelled with containing lavender you need to make sure they are organic true lavenders and not lavandins which are just fragrances. The reason being if they are hybrids they may react when applied to the skin. I do an article on this on my blog. If you want to know more you can read it there or email me. Will be happy to answer any questions on the lovely lavender.
Thanks for your visit and being part of this conversation. Much appreciated Suresh.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Congrats on your first guest post and what a great start you have done with it. You can stop saying you are a technophobe now as you have come so far as know so much. Glad to see you venturing into the business aspect of Lavender and hope for nothing but great things for you. You are such a great supporter of others who blog you deserve all this success.
Karen Cruz recently posted..White Flag – SpokenWord Version
Hi Karen
Thanks for coming over and commenting on my guest post. I’m still none the wiser with the techie stuff. Rick did the graphics for this cos my Gen Y niece got assignments and other things going on and I sure don’t know how to get graphics for posts lol
This Etsy store and products reviews is a completely new venture for me. I’m hoping my store proves popular and people go there for some Christmas shopping. Been getting sales offline and so far the products have had a good rap…yay.
Hope your new blog will soon be up and running. Looking forward to visiting. Thanks again for your continued support Karen. Much appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
This is the direct benefit of hopping different niche blogs – after all – these are the part of our life. I’d used that Odonil for long time and never cared what that word printed there mean. Now I’m more educated and will definitely check when getting products.
Thank you Patricia and I honestly appreciate you for being extremely active blogger.
Suresh Khanal@seo mmo tips recently posted..Twitter Strategies That Works- NO Instant Followers Please
Glad to be of help Suresh. So many people after reading my post on lavenders v lavandins said they are now checking what is in the lavender products they buy. There are lavandin products advertised that make all sorts of claims. I like to do my research and then write for my readers. I am always pleased when I get feedback as I know then that it is helping people to be informed. Thanks for your comments Suresh. Much appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Awesome Patricia.
There is so much we as a blogger can learn from you. You really are rocking it.
I love the guest post. Your passion about lavenders and your interaction in the blogosphere is truly remarkable..It is about getting the leverage no matter the blog niche..and you show by example on how to do it the right way.
looking forward to some more of your awesomeness..
Later on Patricia.
Hi adam
Hope you stayed long enough to read some of Rick’s posts too. Now he can write awesome articles.
Thanks for your kind words. I love being part of the blogging community and their help and encouragement is cheering me on.
Now that the store is up I am discovering another area that I must learn about…..selling the lovely lavender products that I have sourced from a local lavender farm.
I have written my first product review over on my blog. Hope you find it useful.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hi Pat,
This is a well written post that comes truly from your heart. You have been very active in visiting and commenting in other blogs. Your community is getting bigger and bigger. You are acting according to your plan, that’s to set up your business which promotes Lavender products.
I believe you are a real life example to all newbie bloggers on how blogging should be done. Just want to say thanks for making the blogging community even lovelier.
Lye
Lye Kuek Hin recently posted..Why No Banner Ads is Found in Findmyblogway
Thanks Lye and thank you for taking the time to come over to Rick’s blog and read my first guest post. Good to see some familiar faces here and some new ones too.
Please check out my store and let me know what you think. So far the feedback has been good and I’ve had some great input from experienced bloggers that have caused me to tweak my site. So I am learning new things with this new venture and loving it
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Awesome post Momma! I love the way you nailed this post. Yeah, you prove that you are different from others and you didn’t follow the crowd by default. I can see the way your blog is moving, gaining more readers everyday! That shows that you are dwelling on the mountain top. Am sure by the time you release a product people will go for it with no doubt. Keep up the good work and have fun.
Hi Samuel
Thanks for visiting and taking time to comment. Glad you liked it
The lavender products I sourced from the local lavender farm are up on my Etsy store. Please go visit when you have time and let me know what you think.
I have been asked by some of my readers to do an ebook on all things lavender but that will take time and so I am just gathering information and writing articles at the moment. Lots happening and I am really enjoying the journey.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hi Patricia,
I enjoyed your post and it is well written!
I’ve learned quite a bit more about you and it was fun doing so.
How long have you been blogging? Well, however long it’s been, you are definitely a pro in my book. I admire how you make your rounds and add valuable comments on my blog as well as other blogs that I read.
Wishing you the best in all that you do,
Evelyn Parham
Hi Evelyn
Nice to see you visiting Rick’s blog and commenting on my first guest post. Started blogging earlier this year but really started seriously a few months ago.
As you know Evelyn there is a lot for me still to learn; especially about plugins and other techie stuff lol
I love writing and visiting other blogs as I am getting to know so many nice people. Also learning heaps too.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Alright, I’m finally here! And whom do I address first? Rick? Patricia?
Just for the record, this is the first comment by Mark of Success on Rick’s Internet Marketing blog where lies, in all its glory, Patricia’s first guest post ever!
Looks like everyone has forgotten that this is Rick’s blog, and I can sense that he is feeling left out. So I’ll say…
Hi Rick,
Glad to be on your blog! You (rather, your blog) sure got a lot of attention here, and I must say it was a great Internet Marketing technique to have Patricia write a guest post for you. Usually the requests are the other way round, aren’t they? Great thinking!
Patricia,
What can I say? Oh well, first of all, I kept up to my word and came around to leave this comment
I admire your dedication to blogging. You sure are doing all the right things for all the right reasons! Congratulations on getting out your first guest post!
And now, back to Rick before I end the comment. Loved your mascot, Rick! Did you design it yourself?
Cheers,
Mark
Mark of Success recently posted..50 ideas that make the Gratitude Book Challenge a piece of cake
Hi Mark
Thanks for taking the time to visit and comment on Rick’s blog. Hope you stayed long enough to read some of the other posts written by Rick. I’ve learnt heaps from visiting and reading his posts.
It has been a really positive experience to do my first guest post. Although at the same time I published a new post on my blog and opened my Etsy store! Got a bit busy Tuesday night and all day Wednesday. Blogging sure isn’t dull is it??!!
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hey Patricia!
I finally found your guest post! I knew from word of mouth that you’ve published your post somewhere but I was trying to find it and I found it right here. Congrats on getting an invitation to guest post here.
I’m sure a lot of bloggers are watching you grow your blog and your business since you started like me
You are on your way Pat, and I’m sure you will shine in your small niche lavender business
Bryan recently posted..Passive Income Generation – Methods- Efforts and Income Potential
Hi Bryan
Wow the word has gone out eh??!! lol We obviously mix in the same blogging circles. Aren’t they such nice people. I’ve enjoyed doing my first guest post.
I like the fact that I’ve introduced a lot of my regular readers to another amazing blog. Rick’s posts are quality and I like to give heads up to blogs I enjoy visiting.
Thanks for searching and finding my post finally. Appreciate your support Bryan. Here’s to your blogging success too
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavenders- Small Niche Big Ideas
From the way that you make your rounds and from the success on your blog, soon you’re not going to be able to say that you’re a newbie.
Either that, or today’s newbies are tomorrow’s gurus!
Congrats on your success and may it continue to grow, Patricia.
Cheers,
Tia
Tia recently posted..5 Ways to Improve Blog Readership With Simple Design Changes
Hi Tia
Great to see you visiting here and staying to comment on my first guest post. I still feel like a newbie most of the time. I find some aspects of blogging incredibly difficult. The writing of posts I love. When people write about writers’ blog, I don’t relate. Heaps of ideas whirling around in my brain.
However, soon as anyone mentions anything techie I go into panic mode. You should have seen me trying to navigate my new Etsy store lol Took me ages just to find where I could add some information on my bio!!! For those who are geeks aka geniuses I do always say RESPECT
It is an interesting journey I’m on and I’m loving the fact that I am being encouraged by some amazing bloggers. I love being part of this community.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Hi there Lavender Queen (aka Patricia)
First and foremost, this is a brilliant post. It’s well written and insightful to read for both oldies and newbies to the blogosphere.
I couldn’t agree with you more about what you said on comments. Yes, absolutely. You can learn a heck of a lot about a person by the way they comment and treat their commentators. You see, like you, I too read the comments in left on a post. That’s how I learned about you. It seems that everywhere I go, you and your kind and encouraging comments are there! And when I say everywhere, I really mean that! Actually, a few days ago I was reading a post, and while reading the comments I thought to myself, “hmmm…I wonder if that sweet and active Patricia woman said something here.”
So, either I’m following you lol or we just have all the same interests – either way, I’m happy
.
You’ve honestly written one heck of a post Patricia. I take my hat off to you and wish you nothing but continued success in both the blogosphere and your lavender business. Seeing your obvious passion for both I have no doubt that you will plant, nurture and grow a flourishing community and business (my honest yet silly attempt to use these little related words hahaha).
I unfortunately know nothing about gardens or lavender. I know I love both – especially our garden here at home (but I take no credit for that) as well as the smell of lavenders. But I intend to learn a little from you and your blog posts as well as your upcoming product reviews.
Note to Rick – Smart move having Patricia guest post here
. Well done!
All the best to you. I look forward to reading more of your posts and comments – well, pretty much everywhere
.
Cheers
Ingrid Abboud recently posted..17 Things About Me- If You’re Curious to Know – My Special Bday Post!
PS – This post is definitely going in my SuperPost Sunday – Weekly Roundup tomorrow
.
Ingrid Abboud recently posted..17 Things About Me- If You’re Curious to Know – My Special Bday Post!
Wow I will look out for when you post. With all the time differences I have to keep checking Twitter to see when posts are tweeted. Thankyou so much Ingrid. Wow and wow again
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Thankyou Ingrid for your kind comments. I did go to your blog and read your birthday post before you posted here as I think Rick had tweeted it. So I know who you are and have heard you mentioned by other bloggers whose posts I read. You are right. We must mix in the same circle. Have to admit I was a bit in awe of you with your well-written post. And all those languages and degrees
Will be looking out for your next post and will now have to follow you on Twitter.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
[...] A Newbie Begins a Blog – And a Business – by Patricia Millman, internetmarketing.ricklapoint.com [...]
Hi Patricia,
This is a great introduction to your blog. I really appreciate what you’ve shared with us about the ethics and noble intention for your blog.
It’s just amazing how much you’ve learnt and accomplished since your first post in March this year.
If there is one thing I really appreciate about you and would congratulate you for is the effort you are putting in connecting with people online. It’s great to have you as an online friend.
Ben.
Ben Wan recently posted..How to Get Highly Targeted Traffic through Social Bookmarking
Hi Ben
Thanks for taking time to visit and comment. I see you are increasing your posts on your site which should see increase in traffic.
I just started promoting my blog seriously from late June/early July so in only a few months it has been good to see visitors to my blog increase and become regular contributors to the conversation when I publish a new post. Building community which is great.
Now that my Etsy store is up they are visiting and commenting on the products too which is great. As this is a completely new venture for me, I am appreciating their input.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Great post, Patricia! You know you’re doing something right when people are asking you to guest post for them!
I love how you said, “Wow! More lavender lovers than when I started my blog. That’s success in my book.” What an awesome mindset! I wish there were more people out there like you! Sure, you can make money blogging. But if you’re just trying to make money, it’s still a job. When you can make money blogging AND help people’s lives be better in some way, THAT’s when it becomes a fulfilling part of your life.
And I’ve been wondering… On average, about how many blogs do you think you comment on a day?
Tristan recently posted..How to Create Killer Analogies by Relating Anything to Anything Else FREE ebook!
Hi Tristan
What a lovely surprise to see you on Rick’s blog. Like you, he is one talented wordsmith. So felt really privileged to be asked to guest post here. I enjoy your posts as they are both original and innovative. Respect.
I visit on average 20 plus blogs each day and yes I do it all manually! Being technically challenged I have no idea how to put URLs into my RSS or is it my feedburner (I think that is what it is called lol) so I can go to regularly visited sites early and comment. I scroll Twitter so am officially part of the Tweetheart club as spend so much time there
I like to interact with other bloggers and help build community. If I can do that and also build a successful business too, then as you say it doesn’t seem like working. I am enjoying the journey and learning heaps along the way. Thanks so much for joining the conversation Tristan.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
Very nice post Patricia. At first, I thought was writing about lavender.
Knowing that couldn’t be write, I realized that I was reading a guest post by you. Congratulations on a job well done. Now, I’m off to check out your blog.
Sherryl Perry recently posted..Differentiate your Website From Your Competitors with Live Help
Hi Sherryl
Firstly, thanks for visiting and taking the time to comment. Yes this is my first guest post! I have really enjoyed the experience of being over here on Rick’s blog, seeing some regular readers of my blog and meeting some of Rick’s visitors too. Glad you enjoyed the post and hope you get something out of reading my blog on the lovely lavender.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
[...] A Newbie Begins a Blog – And A Business: Yay! Show some love folks because when a fellow blogger starts guest posting those are some precious times to learn from. Here is Patricia’s very first guest post on Rick’s blog. She shares her secrets to how she has build her business online in such a short time with her blog! [...]
Hi Patricia,
Dateline today: Choux Cafe. Swanbourne. Australia.
Two ladies having coffee – one holding a packet of lavender macaroons. It looked like you from you Avatar. It WAS.
I met a blogger in person. A real person !
Just read your guest post, then the many supportive comments – it’s like you have a written version of a radio show call-in show. So many new friends. Congratulations on the way you are growing your blog.
Now I have to look at your Etsy store. When I searched to find it I noticed there is a ”Down Under” Etsy store. Did you know? I think it’s called “DUST Etsy”.
It’s nearly Tuesday – i bet you’re writing tonight.
Julia
Hi Julia
What a lovely surprise to meet you today. I am not usually out and about on a Monday morning and didn’t expect to meet a fellow blogger in Choux Cafe either! BTW the lavender macaroons were delicious
Thanks for taking the time to visit and comment on my first guest post. Hope you liked my sourced lavender products. I’ve written a review on my blog about one of the products. That was a first too. Will have to check out the Aussie version of Etsy; that could be interesting. And yes I am still working but will be signing off soon.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Lavender Product Review-The Truth- The Whole Truth…
As a blogger, it will be very fulfilling if somebody will recognize your existence in this field and also if you can build a community. Making all of these possible, you can eventually go up the ladder as you take an effort to make your blog possible.
Cole Stan recently posted..5 Cool Christmas Gifts For Boys
Hi Cole
Thanks for coming across and taking the time to comment. I am finding the whole blogging experience an interesting ride. Learning heaps and meeting some amazing people along the way.
My blog is getting recognised more now as I am active blog hopping and commenting. Also I always make sure I answer all comments to my post. It takes time to become an authority in your chosen niche but I am definitely working on it
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..So Little Time- So Much To Do
You mentioned that too many ads are a turnoff. In your opinion, when does it become a big no-no? Sites obviously need ads to make money, and they have to be noticeable. There has to be a balance though – I’ve seen some sites that make me think that the content was a second thought and the ads were the primary focus. I don’t know – I’d love to hear what you think.
TJ McDowell recently posted..Pocket Wizard Flex TT5 Transceiver Review
Hi TJ
Firstly thanks for visiting Rick’s blog and taking time to comment on this my first Guest Post.
For me, if I visit a site and I have to hunt for the article I have come to read; that is definitely showing me that there are way too many ads on that site. I’m sure I’m not the only one that would bounce off that site and probably not go back!
It all depends on the type of site you are building too. One of my friends has just re-done his site and took down ads that greeted you soon as you clicked on his site. They are now more subtle and don’t overwhelm his blog.
Your readers would be the best people to ask about your own site. Especially if you have built up rapport with them. They should give you an honest appraisal. Or you could ask an experienced blogger who is making money with their ads. Just my 2 cents worth. Hope that helps.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..So Little Time- So Much To Do
Well done Patricia. It’s amazing how far you have come in such a short time. You obviously embraced the importance of commenting from the beginning and it’s also obvious that it’s working well for you.
It always amazes amazes me how so many people put so little effort into their comments. They are so short sighted because all they see is a potential backlink, one that may never appear as the prudent blogger either deletes it or sends it to spammers hell.
Imagine if they took the time to leave a well thought out comment, as you do, not only will it add to the value of the post it will also have the potential to attract people to their blog. More importantly it will build their brand, and if they want to make it in this game that is pretty important.
Sire recently posted..Be Creative- Be Innovative- Be Positive When Blogging
Hi Sire
Thanks for visiting Rick’s blog and staying to comment on my very first guest post. Had commented on Rick’s GP on the commentluv site and he emailed me inviting me to GP here. I checked out his site and although I was a bit overwhelmed by the quality of Rick’s posts; I agreed.
So glad I did as it meant I introduced lots of my loyal readers to an incredibly talented wordsmith and marketer. It also helps that he’s a genuine nice guy too. I was introduced to other bloggers who are Rick’s regular readers. I now visit their blogs regularly. Win-win wouldn’t you say
You are so right “great post” usually ends up in the spam bin! Anyway, I enjoy the interaction and have met so many lovely bloggers by staying to add to the conversation on their site. Also ask questions if there is something I don’t know but the blogger can help me with.
I have found the blogging community extremely supportive and helpful. You started it off and now I hope I am doing the same. Thanks so much for stopping by. Much appreciated Sire.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Are You a Tweetheart-Commenter…or both!
Patricia, you have done extremely well. I am honestly amazed at how far you’ve come in such a short time. I’m glad that I played a small part in that journey.
It shows how hard work can help you along the path you have chosen.
Sire recently posted..Do You Want Increased Income Chango Could Be The Answer
YOu sure did play a part Sire. Just being willing to visit a newbie’s blog and keep coming back to encourage and support me. That was so helpful in the early days.
Also teaching me about comment etiquette and being able to have a role model in this aspect of blogging was important.
However busy I am or however tired I may feel; will always visit blogs of new commenters and stay to read the post and if at all possible will leave a comment. Remember what you taught me and it also helps that I know that you don’t just teach this, but do it yourself
In fact I just had a comment on my site this morning from a fellow blogger. Apparently I left a comment on his site that he appreciated and he has been visiting my site regularly. He just commented on my latest post as felt it was something he could say something about.
Some people lurk for awhile (without me knowing lol) and then they suddenly appear with a really great comment. Never know who is there till they comment eh?!
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Are You a Tweetheart-Commenter…or both!
You better stop right there Patricia, otherwise you’re going to make this Aussie blush.
Sire recently posted..It’s Time For A Little Link Luv
I was glad to find this post Patricia, I know that you are a prolific commentator,and wanted to learn more about you.
I have started visiting more blogs, and I agree with you about intrusive adverts. Pop-ups that I can delete straight way aren’t too bad, but the ones that jump or float about really annoy me. Not for long though, because I’ve left the blog never to return.
You must be the perfect example for setting up a niche blog. Lavender, who would have thought it? I’m fascinated by your progress with this, and will be watching your journey with interest.
John
John McNally recently posted..The Value of BLOG Commenting
Hi John
Thanks for your kind words John. Yes I do enjoy networking with my fellow bloggers
I did write a post about blogging in such a small niche. If you want to check it out it’s entitled “Small Niche Big Ideas”.
Have my goals set for 2011 and will be publishing a post sharing my plans for the new year too. So you will see what I have planned…soon.
All the best with your blogging journey John and may 2011 be all you hope for.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..At Lavenderuses Safety First Means…
patricia:
great point about the comments! I learn a ton from the post AS WELL as the comments. People always ad such amazing value when I visit these sites. Excellent post.
lisa
Hi Lisa
Thanks for stopping by. This was my first Guest Post and I was so glad it was well received. Especially as it’s sitting on a gifted wordsmith’s blog
This is one blog I visit often as Rick is also an experienced marketer. As I come from a nursing background; since starting my blog and my fledgling business, I am on a steep learning curve.
I find some real treasure over here. Trying to take it all in, so that this year I can take my blog and amy business to a new level.
Thanks for joining the conversation and adding your 2 cents. Much appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Are Your Goals Attainable In 2011
Hi Pat! I’ve been your follower since I’ve read your interview with Lye. I really found you an adorable blogger. Another “wow” article here, well, you are like a testimonial about visiting other blogs that this is really helpful and useful. Thanks for always being there!
John from Electricians in Paddington recently posted..Electricians Paddington – Great Local Electricians Vs Average Local Electricians
Hi John
Thanks for your kind words. I do my best to network with other bloggers. However, I realise that there are many types of bloggers and not all are interested in doing what I do.
Some are wanting to be part of a community and support each other, whilst others will churn out same old, same old fluff and hope to get traffic with minimal effort.
Tt takes time to get a blog notcied and if anyone is looking for a quick fix, blogging won’t suit. It takes perseverence and patience but I for one believe it is worth the effort.
All the best with your blog and your business too John.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavenderuses recently posted..Are Your Goals Attainable In 2011
Blog owners like Rick that read and answer to comments are very rare, and that’s what probably makes them special. It doesn’t make you feel ignored like on the rest of the blogs.
I believe that the perfect blog must have: quality content and an involved owner. If he loves what he’s doing, the quality and involvement come without effort.
Maria Pavel recently posted..CNA Training in Arkansas
Hi Patricia,
Very Interesting article, I believe all the new blogger like me should admire and learn from you about your dedication and passion towards your interested topic.
My Salutes to for achieve such a hugh popularity. Thanks you have given me an great blog for my list.
Thanks
-Imran
Imran@shariffdotOrg recently posted..Why To Avoid Free Webhosting Services
Hi Imran
Wow I wrote this post ages ago….my first Guest Post
Rick is a blogger/marketer I really respect and admire. He has integrity and runs his business honestly which is the only way I want to run mine too.
He has encouraged and helped me on my blogging journey, along with other amazing people who I can now call friends. I still have heaps to learn and still there are those who are helping me and cheering me on to that eventualgoal of having an established and successful business.
And thanks for your kind words Imran. Appreciate you stopping by and joining the conversation.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavender oils recently posted..The Clue’s in the Lavender Brew
In the current trend that is going all over the internet, a blog has not just merely a medium to air your thoughts but also become a medium to fill your pockets and with this comes a scorching demand for great content and relationships, but in the end you do get paid well.
James@Chainsaw reviews recently posted..Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch 55-1-2cc 2-Stroke Gas-Powered Chain Saw
The main thing we need to do is learn. Now, we can learn by ourselves, but that means trial and error, wasted time on learning from our mistakes. But we can also learn from others and skip the mistaking.
Glad to see you made good use of this, Patricia, you have a promising blog.
Maria Pavel recently posted..Certified Nursing Assistant Salary