Three reasons why I’ve (finally) started blogging

The time for procrastinating is over.

My first proper foray into bloggery is underway. I’ve spent years reading, commenting and posting on other people’s blogs and advised and encouraged folk to ‘get involved’ in the conversations out there.

But, until now at least, I have not had a distinctive voice of my own. After much thought, experimenting with WordPress templates and stepping back from the brink more than once, that ends tonight. And it feels pretty good too!

Why I’ve started blogging

As any self-respecting blogger would do, I am kicking things off with a ‘list’, containing three reasons why I’ve finally decided to get blogging. It also explains why it’s taken me until now to get started.

#1 Finding the time

In fairness, it’s been a busy year. I’ve become a dad for the second time, relocated from Manchester to the South West, sold my house and switched jobs at a time of intense and rapid change for my new employer, the Homes and Communities Agency. 

Adding to those pressures has, at times, seemed like madness. But with the last year under my belt, now seems like a good time to start something new.

#2 Relevance to the ‘day job’

Some in the social housing world, and the public sector in general, feel that communications efforts are better focused on traditional methods. But it’s clear that an increasing number of people are not finding out about us in ‘traditional’ ways any more, however. 

Some are showing what the sector should be doing, without ditching the ‘tried and trusted’ in the process. My own view over this is shaped by the audiences I try to engage, not the latest ‘fad’ or trend. And, if they use social media (which they definitely are, judging by the blogs and Twitter traffic out there), communicators should too.

3# Knowledge and skills

Sure, I will never understand code. And it’s taken some time to get to the point of making my first post. But, it’s only as I have begun piecing things together that I have also realised I have the skills needed to be a blogger.

I can write (and enjoy it), which is the most fundamental aspect. I have a sound knowledge of the principles around engaging other bloggers and posting on their sites. And I use social media (including Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook) every day.

This blog is my attempt to demonstrate this. I hope those of you who visit find it worthwhile.