Please, Please check with your administrator before using bogs. AND

discuss etiquette with your class! If you are planning on using this tool, use it the correct way.

Blogging has become extremely popular lately, to the point that now big corporations have considered having Corporate Blogs. And yes, there is etiquette for blogs too.

Here are some essentials:

1. A blog is like a diary, but public. Once posted is for the world to read it. Write accordingly. Keep in mind that is not for your eyes only. Be especially careful when you write on a corporate blog.
2. Write content that is not just about you, but something that gives benefits to your readers.
3. When you post on somebody else’s blog, write something of value. If you disagree with the blogger’s point of view, say why and the solution you propose.
4. When you write, either on your own blog or on other’s blog, keep in mind that your personality and your reputation are reflected in your words. You decide what is going to be.
5. When someone makes a good comment about your blog, acknowledge it and be thankful. Courtesy will always speak well about you.
6. If you post and you want anonymity, don’t make any references that might indicate who is posting.
7. Not everybody has broadband. If you want your blog to be read by as many people as possible, keep your graphics to a minimum.
8. Be consistent with your posts. Don’t post every month and then suddenly post many messages. Choose your own pace and keep it. This way your readers will know when to visit your blog for new information.
9. Include RSS feeds in your blog. More and more people are using it and your readers will not be frustrated for your lack of RSS feeds.
10. Be clear and specific in the description of the links on your blog. Tell your visitors where you are sending them.

Blogging is here to stay. Make the best of it for you, but especially for your reader

This (http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art1204.asp) is also well-written. It includes some of the same points, but she says it with flair!

It seems like every human on the planet now has a blog. As with any other public display, there is an etiquette to having a blog that is appreciated.

The first thing to remember is that this is going to be public knowledge - not just today, but for the rest of your life. There are enough scanners and archivers and printers out there that even if you take down words after one day, those words can be part of your permanent record. Things that you feel are really nifty to say at age 16 can be incredibly damaging to your professional career when you're 22 and looking for a job.