After finally catching up on some summer work I missed while in China, I watched a recorded class in social web for social change. In that class, we learned about participatory media, stickiness in ideas, and influence using the social web. One of the things that stuck me was when one student stated that they find it difficult to remain motivated to create content when there is a Bueller Effect in which there is no response. When this happens many feel as though their efforts are wasted. So with that, here are a few reasons to keep blogging, writing, drawing, etc.
- Know your purpose: Are you creating content to spark conversation? If so, maybe you will be more effective by finding other, more well-known media sources to share your content. Also, ask more notable contributors blog on your own site. This will naturally help you engage with a wider community. If you purpose is to share yourself or serve as a creative outlet, take satisfaction in the act of creation itself.
- Numbers lie: Looking at response alone does not tell the entire picture. Many more people consume media than actually participate with it. Just because you don’t see comments does not mean your content isn’t being read. I’m often surprised when I run into people and they tell me, in person, about a recent blog post I wrote. Although they never left a comment, they were keeping up with the content.
- Controversy Sells: Look at the stuff that sparks the most discussion. Sex, controversy, scandals, and technology all spark more conversation than the content you might be producing.
- If you want feedback, ask for it: I’ve read many blogs. The ones I see with the most comments and participation are those who ask for it. At the end of the articles that have an active discussion, they often ask their community to leave their feedback, ask questions, or otherwise join the conversation.
- Your voice matters: Regardless of what happens, know that your voice matters. If you have something to share, share it.