Harnessing the power of social media

In the simplest terms, social media is the fusion of reader and publisher. You can throw around words like user-generated content, but the most important thing to remember is: You can now become a part of the story -- just write yourself in in that little empty box beneath"comments" or "what are you doing?"

Facebook and Twitter post updates will boost your hits toot sweet; but if your content is crap, your friends will start to ignore you -- or worse -- unfriend/unfollow you. So keep the content tight, and stagger the links to keep them hungry. I shall use my Twitter account as an example. I have a feeling Twitter will be much different by the time you're reading this, though -- the Atkins diet of social networking.

You have to make yourself accessible to people. It definitely doesn't hurt to include your e-mail in your "about me." If you want to reach people, you have to let them know they can reach you. Atlanta Runner has always been quick to respond to me.

Find the nicest blogs within your niche, and hit up the authors. Say hello, nice blog etc., and send a link of your blog. This is good way to make friends within your niche. And who knows? Maybe they'll link to you in a post or on their blog roll. I tried this technique with Training for a Half and it worked.

Take part in conversations on other blogs. Start a few on your own blog. It isn't wise to post a story and leave it alone. Ask questions. You'll probably get answers. People are quick to throw their opinions into the mix. Have a look at Laugh lines from the New York Times blog.

Find groups on social networking sites -- groups that fit your niche. Join them, and occasionally throw a link into your comments. Chances are you'll find someone bored at work who would welcome the distraction that is your blog. Here's a Facebook group devoted to TV on the Radio.