There are a number of ways that you can successfully differentiate yourself from the rest of the crowd. It would seem natural that we do, especially since we’re called to be different than the world. But sometimes it takes a little thought and certainly a lot of practice.
I’ve been thinking about this recently in terms of expanding my influence and reaching new “markets” that may not necessarily every enter my blog and consume content. I, by no means, have “figured it all out” but I’m willing to try anything to see if it works.
Here are some ways that I’ve found that have “worked” (with varying degrees of success) that have helped me be “different” than the rest of the blogs out there:
- Thinking Memory: One of the best ways to be different is to stay in the mind (and heart) of the reader. Are you “memorable”? I’ve found that a good ‘name’ is a good place to start. Is your blog name memorable? What message does it communicate without the person ever reading your content? I’ve found that blogs that aren’t someone’s actual name really work well.
- Titles: I don’t spend too much time on my blog titles but I do think strategically. I think keywords. I think purpose. I think “gaps” and I think “points of entry.” I don’t think people spend as much time as they need to on their Blog Post Titles.
- Style: I think we should be stylish, not in a way that is pointless and overly-extravagant but I think our content and presentation needs a bit of style. I think we can be easily pretty boring.
- Media: You need some sort of media content with every blog post. Period. Pictures, video, music… something.
- Fence Sitting: Choosing a side can be difficult for the Christian (and for some it’s too easy) but a delicate balance must be played here. I think by choosing a side you can provide reason to engage. I’m not sure what this necessarily looks like, but consider it for a second, and then make a choice. Everyone can be everyman’s advocate, but only a few have the guts to tell someone that they are wrong.
- Valuable Resourcing: Are you considered valuable? Are you considered a comprehensive and definitive resource? If not, what’s making you different than the other 9,999,999,999,999 blogs out there that are just “talking?”
- Design Matters: I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. Our blogs should be world class in terms of design. Why aren’t they? And, if I were to stick my neck out there, I think we need to move back to the “less is more” strategy in terms of design. That’s all I’ll say about that.
- The Difficult Stuff: Don’t be afraid to talk about the “difficult” stuff. But perhaps more importantly, don’t be afraid to admit that you may not necessarily have all the answers and that you may in fact be wrong. It’s the last portion that’ll make you different.
- Apologize: I think this may in fact be one of the biggest ways we can be “different” without compromise. I’ve heard a thousand times over that a blogger never needs to apologize. Bull.
- Giving Up: Don’t give up. Too many people do. Start and then finish strong.
How are you making a difference? How are you being different? What’s it going to take?
[Image from Bitz]
Jeremy says
The only one of those I struggle with is the design part. I feel that I have something to say, but am not good at graphic design. What is a boy to do?! I went with something very simple, but effective I think. I wouldn't consider it world class by any means, or anywhere near world class. Design isn't a gift of mine, so I am I still expected to have incredible design? Check it: http://everythingstory.wordpress.com
Jeremy says
I just posted a few minutes ago, but now it's not showing up, so I'll try again.
The only one of those I struggle with is the graphic design. Blogging is a platform for amateurs. I'm an aspiring writer, but not a pro by any means. Design however is not anywhere near my forte. My design is simple, but effective in my opinion. It is nowhere near world-class however. How can it be if graphic design is not in my gift set and being a college student don't have the means to hire out? Just curious what your thoughts are?! Check it: http://everythingstory.wordpress.com
Dewitt says
Good stuff John! Very insightful!
human3rror says
thanks bro! got any yourself?
Lex says
I totally agree with #7, but also think I can answer your (hypothetical, probably) question. It takes either some knowledge of CSS, or some expendable income. Many of us have neither.
human3rror says
or, you haven't found “it” yet on google.
😉
Alan says
Good stuff! Lots to think about. I'm on my way to pick up some resources to increase my Word Press knowledge so I can create a world class site!
human3rror says
SWEET! let us know what you get!
Jim says
that's right, lemons are yellow and eggs are white…until you crack them…
buchanan23 says
Greg words, John. This is exactly what I needed to read this morning as I am really trying to be more creative and engaging. It's only been a month or so and I know it will take time. I am taking these things to heart and will definitely be making some changes to my blog very shortly. Thanks!
human3rror says
“Greg words” … ? hehe. did you mean “great”?…