Blogger Bites: What I Like In A Blog

I’ve espied a bounteous number of blogs that feature discussion posts (and variants of endless chatter) regarding the once unknown realm many of us call the blogosphere. I’ve never talked about the blogging process as much as I have its objective—I didn’t think I’d find much interest in the technicalities, but now that I’ve given it much thought, I’ve come to realize that it’s probably an effective vent, inasmuch as it is a fun way to construe thoughts and opine on issues. This way, I’ll be able to tell you more about Jasmine, as opposed to what Jasmine does in her spare time, and hopefully, come to know you guys better in the process! 🙂

Hence, the birth of Blogger Bites.

For this week, I’ve decided to tell you about the things I look for the most in other book blogs.

1.       Blog Design

This may, at first, sound like a petty reason, but if you evaluate your blog rolls, and give the idea a thorough once over, I’ll bet a hand and foot that many of you will agree. After all, you made a conscious effort to design yours assuming that others would notice! Of course, there are some bloggers that prioritize content and care little for aesthetics, but in my case, the visuals count. I’m not very comfortable reading entries that are burdensome to the eyes (e.g. in miniscule, obscure font or in bright, unattractive colors). Neither am I a fan of blogs that are little more than generic, and though templates were created for beginners like myself with next to no knowledge regarding HTML and the complex procedure behind a personalized layout, I think it of great importance to at least allow yourself some customization. I personally see a blogger’s personality shining through from the design. Admittedly, I’ve clicked on a multitude of “About Me” buttons and lingered long enough for a follow based on the blog’s design alone, though I won’t hesitate to unfollow once I find the content worthless by comparison (which, thankfully enough, hasn’t happened in the almost two months that I’ve been around).

Ariella’s simple yet refreshing design at Secrets of Lost Words (who by the way recently celebrated her blogoversary!) is one that I wholeheartedly approve of 😀

2.       Great Content

This will always be the number one priority (please disregard the fact that it’s at 2). Some people may be around for the sole cause of self-promotion, but for the bloggers who socialize and take the time to visit blogs not necessarily their own, you’d know that content is key. It always motivates you to stick around for a while, leave a bit then inevitably come back for more when it comes to a blog that posts quality content. The scope of this however, doesn’t just span simple grammar. I think of myself as an author when it comes to my own blog—if I don’t take the time to make readers appreciate and relate to posts by reaching out to them and making it interesting, I’ll know that my audience will never grow the way I want it to. In much the same way, I prefer blogs that make me think or comment when it comes to features, and persuade me to pick up a book or make sure not to when it comes to reviews. The eloquence of prose is just an added bonus 🙂

Eve at Paper Sanctuary is a snarky and opinionated blogger who never fails to make me laugh or smile. I admire her posts in the same way I do vanilla latte or vintage fashion (which says a LOT), so yes she’s some cool beans.

3.       Replies to Comments

I’m not much of an introvert really, so I have nada problems when it comes to socializing. Nevertheless, I did make a blog partly because I wanted to make friends with people outside of my own circle, people from the other side of the globe whom I, unless I get lucky, might never get to see in person anyway. And that’s why it’s fun— not in the very least have I come close to comprehending the fact that I was, and am, as of now, posting thoughts and reviews that receive worldwide attention. Yes, that includes you, fortuitous being. Now bask in my glory (HAHA no). But of course, it never seems enough to reach out and not illicit some form of response. In that way, I prefer bloggers that take the time to reply to comments, or take the initiative to comment themselves, and share their own thoughts regarding mine. I love meeting people who agree (and agree to disagree) with my ramblings, because it tells me they’re approachable and friendly, and motivates me to visit their blogs and comment. I know there are some bloggers who have no time to reply, due to an extensive readership and a stupendous amount of books on their TBR piles, so I can’t really complain (Remember, content is key). However, I find it more rewarding and worthwhile to visit bloggers that reply.

Asti at A Bookish Heart makes sure to reply to her readers, and comment meaningfully on other blogs, so it’s no surprise of mine to see many of her posts receive a ridiculous amount of comments (I dare you to find me a one-digit number). I just love her personality, the same way her other readers do (it’s very Asti).

4.       Easy To Follow

When I come across a beautiful blog with content ranging from simply delightful to downright phenomenal, I want to be able to take one momentous look at their sidebar and follow their blog with one effortless click. I don’t exactly appreciate having to scan their entire blog for links, though I still do give them a chance if they fit any of the other criteria (after all, any number of factors could have been responsible for such complexity, though I hardly bother to look into their reasons). I myself don’t engage in numerous social networking sites for promotion, because I don’t prioritize gaining widespread readership (though a follow is no less than welcome!) so I think one or two (preferably twitter, bloglovin’ or email) will suffice.

Nikki at There Were Books Involved makes sure to keep her social media buttons and follow widget at the very top of her sidebar, for premium access. I just love her layout as well!

Where Do I Stand?

1. Design – People have complimented me on this one. I think my design is pleasing enough. Maybe. I’m open to change 😀
2. Content– I don’t think I’m as good a writer as many, but I’m 16 and a relentless chatterbox, so there’s room (and time) for vast improvement.
3. Commenting– Yes, I reply. Ha!
4. Following– There’s a gigantic Bloglovin’ button somewhere on there, and if you scroll up and down a bit, you’ll come to see the Follow by Email and On Twitter buttons that I deliberately made accessible. *wink wink*

To discover other blogs that might (and will most likely) be to your liking, don’t hesitate to check out my blog roll! I’ll be adding a few more blogs in just a bit 🙂

And now it’s your turn! What do you like in a blog? Do you think you fit your own criteria? If you have any thoughts, don’t hesitate to comment and tell me!