I think anyone can learn enough about blogging to pass on some knowledge to the blogosphere.
You don’t need to be a professional blogger like Darren Rowse, or David Risley to pass on wisdom and what you’ve learned from blogging to other bloggers, but you do need knowledge of blogging before you start proclaiming you’re a blogging expert.
I’ve ran across a number of bloggers claiming to be experts on the subject of blogging. In fact, there are lots of so-called blog experts online.
The dictionary defines an expert as “A person with a high degree of skill in or knowledge of a certain subject.”
David Risley defines expert as this:
“I think the idea of a “blogging expert” is really in the eye of the beholder. Self-proclaimed experts usually aren’t. There are those who know blogging well, but at the end of the day, it is like “social media expert”. It rings hollow.”
Perhaps I’m not a blogging expert and I don’t think that is really up to me to decide.
I’d like to think I know blogging well enough to give advice though.
I’ve formed many relationships with people who have the same interest as me- blogging and I’ve experienced the joy of helping others bloggers grow their blog.
I receive a number of emails from bloggers asking me for help and I’m always more than happy to help them if I can.
In November of 2006, I was recognized by Google’s Blogger as a Blog Star (Blog*Stars the official term). A Blog Star is someone with knowledge of the Blogger Platform that goes above and beyond the call of duty to help folks out in the Blogger Forum.
In March of 2008, an acquisition editor, from Wiley’s Publishing contacted me and asked if I would be interested in submitting a proposal for a book on Blogger.
I did submit my proposal and On May 7th, I received an email that stated my proposal was very good and that they enjoyed reading it and that they had no doubt that I could do a great job with the book.
Susan Gunelius, however was was also very qualified, and had a better platform with which to promote the book, therefore ended up writing the book. (C’est la Via)
I’m now in the process of writing my own Ebook on the subject of Blogger and Blogging. (I just hope to someday have enough time to conplete it.)
I also administrate a blogging community (forum) and have assisted a great number of bloggers on other blogging forums.
Still with all of those things under my belt, I’m still not taken serious by some bloggers in the blogophere.
Now, I don’t proclaim to know everything there is about blogging, but I want to be taken serious for what I do know.
Of course the ones not taking me serious are the same bloggers who give inaccurate advice on PageRank, Traffic and Search Engine Optimization and then spend a large portion of the day giving me a hard time when I try to explain to them that their advice isn’t quite accurate.
I think that one of the biggest problems with blogging is that some bloggers get that little bit of success and they become so arrogant that think they know everything there is to know about blogging.
I believe knowing your own limitations is important. If you’re not qualified or knowledge enough on a subject to be giving advice than maybe- just maybe you shouldn’t be giving someone advice on that subject.
Lorelle Vanfossen (WordPress and Blogging Expert) has a very interesting article titled “Define Expert, Please.”
I asked Lorelle what she felt made someone an expert. This is what she had to say:
“I consider a blogging expert someone with a minimum of three years under their belt, TOTALLY dedicated to blogging on the topic of blogging, not blogging and then deciding to share their bloggy experience with others. Five years or more is better, if they have kept up the energy and dedication to the topic.
I think there is a difference between social media “experts” and blogging “experts.”
Blogging experts are social media experts who understand better how to deliver and make content work for them, as well as how to make social media drive traffic to their content.
Social media experts tend to be those turning from PageRank and SEO into the hype of Twitter and Facebook. There is so much more to the process than just knowing how to use a few tools.”
I also asked Lorelle if she thought I was an expert:
“I can’t be the judge. I think that you are doing many things right, and many things that continue to be old, which is what a lot of people are doing so you aren’t alone. How is it working for you? Is it bringing in the bucks? Do you have a wide and diverse clientele that keeps you on your toes and driving forward with your business or are you pushing a rock up a hill? Only you can decide that. I think you’ve been doing this a long time, so you understand a lot about how the business works, but I’d so love to see you push the envelope a lot harder, my friend. I know you can.”
Thanks Lorelle!
What do you consider makes someone an expert on blogging? What do you look for in a blogging guru?
Rose DesRochersRose wears many hats. She's a wife, mother, respite worker, proud shih-tzu owner, blogger, published poet, freelance writer, as well as the owner and administrator of Today's Writing Community and Blogger Talk Blog Community. Feel free to contact her with any questions you may have.Rose DesRochers has 1216 post(s) at Rose DesRochers – World Outside My Window
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36 responses so far ↓
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 5:48 pm
It concerns me too Keith that’s why I commented on it.
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 8:06 pm
I’m clearly no expert, yet, for the novice, I have had a useful bit or two, even if it was how to do a page break in WordPress or the desirability of having content written for a couple posts before the 1st one (something I didn’t do myself, BTW) or ideas for a post . So everyone who’s been doing it awhile may have something to share.
Roger Green´s last blog ..2009: A Blog Review
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
There is a line that separates a person from being an expert and just a blogger knowledgeable enough to teach. I like to think I fall in the second category.
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 8:30 pm
Hi Rose!
Well I am definately not a expert and I don’t claim to be at all. I thought to myself when I first started this blog how am I going to write about blogging when I don’t know anything about it myself. Little secret dont tell anyone. When I first started this blog it was going to be about a totally different subject. I was going to talk about cars, VWs in particular. Actually a few of my first posts that have since been deleted were about just that. Anyways after a little while I decided to write about blogging because as I started to learn about it I thought it was exciting and I thought I could share what I have learned to other people. I am still learning to this day and will continue learning. I am not an expert and never will be. Just sharing some information.
You must be excited to write your own ebook. Thats great!
Jim Hardin´s last blog ..Nutrional Value of Baked Stuffed Post
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 4th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Um Jim, I don’t have to tell anyone. lol You just did.
I just wish I had time to complete the book. Too many projects on the go. By the time I get back working at it, Blogger will have updated their platform.
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 8:52 pm
Hi Rose,
How true. When you said,
I believe knowing your own limitations is important. If you’re not qualified or knowledge enough on a subject to be giving advice than maybe- just maybe you shouldn’t be giving someone advice on that subject.
I think the blogosphere is really churning out too many of these so-called experts.
Costa´s last blog ..The Frugal Theme Framework
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 9:02 pm
I added to that blah blah discussion.
Sorry! lol
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 10:36 pm
Hi Rose, good post.
For me, blogging expert is a seasoned and knowledgeable blogger who have the ability to guide new bloggers. He teaches new bloggers in a wise and kind way (without underestimating) that he gains the respect of the new ones. Darren Rowse is a perfect example.
Arrogant and underestimating is clearly not an expert’s character, in fact it’s not a character of mature blogger. An expert must be much wiser than the new bloggers, how else he can teach the them and gain their respect?
A true expert also PROVES himself.
If someone claim to be expert of traffic then he must have built massive traffic.
If claim to be expert of make money then he should already make piles of money from blogging.
If claim to be expert of PR, then he should have already earned an outstanding one.
Everyone can claim to be more knowledgeable than others, everyone can think he is the right one and others are wrong, everyone can proudly underestimate others, but it is solid proof and wisdom that differentiate the true expert and the misguided wannabes.
That’s for me. Cheers
Isaac | GoBlogger´s last blog ..Pagerank (Matters or Not) and Perspective
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
You talk of my arrogance yet here you use arrogance as a counter measure.
I’ve gained the respect of several bloggers and writers who turn to me for advice. That is satisfaction alone.
How are you going to learn anything new when you’re not willing to listen to advice being given?
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 10:38 pm
I think an expert is someone who has achieved the results that you want. In other words it can be subjective. However, a more realistic definition may be someone who has achieved the results that everybody wants.
Gordie´s last blog ..Interview With Captain Australia.
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
Logical thinking Gordie. I like that!
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 11:21 pm
I define an expert by someone who *shows* his knowledge and doesn’t just talk about it.
You can write all the articles and eBooks you want, but I’ll trust someone who’s concepts I see right before my eyes in their work.
This doesn’t necessarily mean everyone has to practice what they preach. Like the age-old expression “do as I say, not as I do”, it’s possible that the methods of success for one person won’t fully translate over to another. Everyone and every niche is different.
Some of the “blogging gurus” offer advice to a target demographic of newbies, some are more geared for small businesses, some are for large corporations. You must take this into account when judging someone’s expertise… because the stage that they’re at may be quite far from where you are right now.
Do you think Pete Cashmore needs to comment on a billion blogs to get his name out there. Of course not. But he’ll surely give that tip to anyone starting out. You have to take things into context ALWAYS.
Jordan Cooper´s last blog ..The Homeless Blogger’s Guide to Procrastination
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Jordan, I found it very interesting that you and I were on the same page today with regards to writing on the subject. I’m curious what sparked your discussion. My interest in the subject grew as a result of visiting too many blogs with bloggers giving inaccurate advice.
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 11:23 pm
Since I am really new to blogging, I have noticed many bloggers claiming to be blogging experts and social media experts, etc..etc.. I was astonished at how much information out there is on blogging. It seems like almost every blog I go to, they mention how to blow what I should do, this and that.
Now, I have taken advice from every different “blogging expert” and tried to implement them as best as I can. I have taken some ideas from the most known such as you said Darren and David and also from bloggers who are in the same boat as I am. I feel you can not just take one “blogging expert” and run with everything he says. You need to be open and learn bits and pieces from everyone out there.
Tanner @ LifeDestiny´s last blog ..The Inspiration Manifesto is NOW LIVE!
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
I agree that blogging is a learning experience. For those who have been doing this awhile I think Lorelle makes a great point. I need push the envelope a lot harder, and think outside of the box as well as step out of my comfort zone.
Wrote: Jan 4, 2010 at 11:31 pm
I don’t really know what the consensus is on what a blogging expert is. However, I think if someone is making a living blogging, then that person must in some way be considered an expert, even if one doesn’t have a large base of loyal readers.
Crystite´s last blog ..Solar Patio Lights -Your Learning Resource
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
I agree & disagree. A writer may be making a living writing, but that doesn’t necessary make them an expert on writing.
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 12:44 am
I certainly don’t consider myself a blog expert Rose, far from it. As to gurus, I don’t look to them at all these days. I gave that away when upon signing up for stuff they started sending me emails with products that will boost my blogging career.
Nope, I learn enough from other bloggers who like us are willing to share stuff when they come across it.
Sire´s last blog ..What Is This World Coming To When It Comes To Morals
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:40 pm
Sire, there are still some experts I look to for advice or input, like Lorelle. I look to them not only because they have gained success, but because they are never too busy to help someone like me get to where they are.
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 8:05 am
I didn’t realize you were so well-versed in the blogging arena, Rose. I did know you were/are active in forums and such and had been blogging for quite some time. I guess when someone toots their own horn on being an expert is a tell-tale sign they may not be an expert at all. Those who are don’t need to tell us as others already do that. Although those who are more modest may be less than helpful, too. Hmm, guess it’s one of those ‘take it with a grain of salt’ things.
Anne´s last blog ..I Always Admired Mr. Franklin, But Now I Truly Respect Him
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
Anne, I hope you don’t think I was tooting my own horn? lol I’m far from an expert. Well versed in Blogging- yes! Expert….. No!
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 1:54 pm
I hate to see someone so full of themselves profess to be something they aren’t and people actually believe them.
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 3:54 pm
I don’t think you need to be a blogging expert to manage a popular blog, In essence being an active listener and a good writer is all you need.
Btw enjoy the cofee =p
Our Blog Log´s last blog ..Social Media Marketing And Advertising
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Thanks for the coffee. Think I’ll buy tea instead. Less caffeine. lol
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 5:47 pm
@Sire:
Sire – dfor the second time/blog today, I’m with you!
I just started unsubscribing to the “Make a Jillion Dollar” offers in my Inbox. It’s still a jungle in there but I’m starting to see the forest for the trees!
Thanks mate!
Thanks Rose!
- Don
@donpower´s last blog ..The Secret to a Successful Blog? Write and Promote. Repeat. [Guest Post]
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
For what?
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 6:13 pm
@@donpower: No worries Don, always willing to help.
Sire´s last blog ..What Is This World Coming To When It Comes To Morals
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 6:26 pm
Excellent enough that a guest post showed up on your blog today on the same subject?
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 6:34 pm
I would consider someone a blogging expert if they were blogging long enough to grow their blog, stay within the blog world as you say 3-5yr.( as mentioned) I would purpose that if they were making money at it to support their doing it full time or getting enough traffic to support what they are selling they would have some valuable insights to share. And have tips and advice for you in how to do the same. Funny I just did a search on page ranking and seems mine has gone down, yet the traffic has increased. I have read some of your other articles and the google, blogger equation is still just outside my reach. I want to learn and grow more and I am not willing to quit doing what I love. ~ Theresa
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 5th, 2010 at 11:30 pm
Theresa, as long as you are doing what you love that’s all that matters.
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 6:50 pm
@Rose DesRochers:
Although it’s always funny to me seeing people pitch “expertise” without having proven it themselves, my interest in the subject is not based on my ill-will on those that do. Go for it, in my opinion. It only helps me even more to differentiate myself.
My concern is more about how people learn in general. I’m pretty strongly against standardized “forced” education and the way people are taught things in that model rely on them to not question authority. Too many read something and believe it outright without looking deeper into the context of the person who wrote it.
This is why I prefer learning *concepts*, not tactics. Concepts are ideas that can be molded to fit everyone’s individual need in many ways. Tactics are pretty much straight forward facts that can’t.
Learning tactics just shows you a cookie-cutter way *someone else* has been successful, but who says this method applies to your unique model of operation? Now, if you learn concepts, then you can formulate your *own* tactics and find out the best way to achieve success on your own terms.
Jordan Cooper´s last blog ..Google Updates Pagerank, Blogger Intelligence Remains Unchanged
Wrote: Jan 5, 2010 at 7:04 pm
Great post, sorry if it felt like I copied your post idea on the infopreneurs blog. I honestly didn’t see this post until now.
As for ‘experts’ I think we should let others define our status for us. We should be there to help others solve problems, if we’re successful with that then maybe we’re an ‘expert’ in the eyes of the person we helped. It’s up to them to then go tell other people.
Great point on setting your own limitations. I’ll admit I don’t know everything about blogging either, I have heaps to learn and to be honest it’s an evolutionary subject ‘blogging’.
I made beginner blogger where I’m able to help others at a basic level based on my experiences. I won’t start preaching to others about areas of blogging unless I know about it and have tried it before and has been successful.
Certainly don’t label myself as an ‘expert’ but more someone that may be able to help others solve their blogging problems. If I can’t do it then I refer them to someone else who can.
Sarge | BeginnerBlogger.com
Wrote: Jan 6, 2010 at 12:17 am
@Rose DesRochers: That’s nice to know Rose. Who knows, perhaps one day I’ll need to ask one of them for advice.
Sire´s last blog ..Why I Will Never Be A ProBlogger
Wrote: Jan 6, 2010 at 10:30 pm
It’s nice that your readers so far seem to know the difference between a con artist and a “expert” – but I love the comment that a real expert shows more than “talks” about their expertise. I’d have to say that is one of my key filters that I pass through “experts” on my way to deciding whether or not they iz one.
I love asking audiences if they can tell when a blogger is faking it. They all know but they have a hard time actually describing the clues. Too many ads, more ads than content, too much talking about themselves, font bling, images that don’t match the content nor belong to the author, too many links in the sidebar…things that describe some of the so called “top” experts on whatever subject on the web. But I love that people know instinctively that they are seeing fakery. Your readers can tell, so do not lead them astray!
Great discussion!
Rose DesRochers Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
I would never leave my readers astray.. “Laugh” Joking! I know what you meant. Thanks for joining the discussion Lorelle.
Wrote: Jan 8, 2010 at 4:35 pm
My general thought is that most people have either a very strong or negative reaction whenever the word “expert” shows up as either describing themselves or someone else. In my main consulting area, I’ve had some people call me an “expert”, and tell others I’m an expert. I always change it to “specialist”, which is funny, and I probably need to think even further why I cringe whenever the word is attached to me.
Going further, though, I think one can consider themselves as knowing more than the average bear (yes, let’s so Yogi for a moment) when people who either are doing some of the same things or aren’t doing the same things and want to learn more are coming to you for advice. If it continues over and over, there’s nothing wrong with acknowledging that maybe there is something you know that a lot of other people don’t know, even if you believe they do or should.
I’ll add this. Whether you’re an expert or specialist or just fairly knowledgeable about something, it doesn’t mean you know it all. I think that’s either the fear or the hate about the term. In my main field, I can tell you anything you want about medical charges, capturing charges, and coding charges, but there’s always a new procedure I’ve never heard of, and I struggle with pharmaceuticals, since some of them have upwards of 10 or more names. That doesn’t mean I’m not good, and it doesn’t mean I can’t figure it out, but if anyone expects that I will know it all off the top of my head at all times means that’s their expectation, and not mine.
Wasn’t this wordy? lol
Mitch´s last blog ..Subtle Tech Racism