Rules of Blogging

There is a movement out in cyberspace known as Netiquette – how to behave on the Internet – so it only makes sense that there are a few rules of blogging that should be followed as well.

Rules of Blogging

Many of the rules of blogging are commonsense rules that can be applied to all actions on the web. The first, and most important, rule to remember is that anyone who can find your blog can read it. This means that even if you don't publicize your blog, or link to it from other pages, you can be found and people you don't know will be able to read your content. Unless your blog or site is password protected, assume that your content will be in the public domain, and don't write anything you would be ashamed of.

The second rule is also common to the rest of the Internet. Do not give out personal information – yours or anyone else's. People on the 'Net, just as everywhere else, can have less than kind intentions, so be aware of this when writing. Any time you put out your full name and address, or phone number, know that people reading your blog can find you. This may not be a good thing, especially if you are a teenager. Leave out the defining information – use first names and initials, towns instead of full addresses.

Blogs do have some specific challenges, not seen in other types of websites, so the rules of blogging do vary a bit. Writing in a blog can often feel like you are writing for yourself, or in a diary. This feeling can lead to expressing opinions about others that might come back to haunt you. Remember to never put in writing anything that you might regret later on – because older versions of blogs can always be quoted or found. Be careful with what you say and who you say it about.

A final rule goes along with the last one – don't give away secrets. This is especially important with business blogs. Company secrets or private data, ideas and other things that should be left within the company should not be written about on a blog. While you might think that no one else is reading, there is always the chance that a competitor or news company is checking out your blog for ideas and information.

Remembering to follow these simple rules of blogging can make sure that you don't regret starting your own blog, and that you enjoy blogging for years to come.