This is something that has been bothering me for over a year and I am not sure why it took me so long to write about it, because it's really three simple things that stop me from sharing content.
I really want to put a spotlight on the smart thinking I come across that I think deserves attention, but sometimes it's just too time consuming to do so. Perhaps others are feeling this way too? After all, we are all busy and strapped for time.
This isn't an all-inclusive list (I am sure you could add more), it's just my list of what stops me from sharing blog posts-even from some of the most popular and experienced bloggers. I don't have all of the answers on how to fix this (technologically from WordPress to TypePad to Blogger), but thought I'd kick off the conversation.
- Bloggers don't use tools like TweetMeme (or similar), Facebook Like, Facebook Share and LinkedIn Share. Or, other plugins like Sociable or Sexy Bookmarks (Blogger and TypePad users - help out here?)
- If bloggers are using TweetMeme (or similar) they don't use their Twitter handle when setting up TweetMeme (e.g. RT @Name...) If I have to take time to find your Twitter handle to give you credit for the post, I probably won't share it. (Note: Your blog name doesn't really matter if there isn't an RSS feed associated...right?)
- Bloggers need to make sure that their social media information is clearly visible on every page of their blog. So, if I do have to find it (because you haven't done 1 or 2), it's easy to do so. Don't make me search your about page, please?
Maybe it is too much to ask, but I'd like to share blog posts with one click. I mean, you took time to write the post-don't you want it shared? And yes, as silly as it may sound taking 30 seconds to one minute to share a post is way too long. Especially after I've taken the time to read it and the additional time I'll need to add a comment when I share.
While these are my pet peeves, I think these issues also have business implications. What if I am your customer and new to reading blogs and sharing them on Twitter? Don't you want to make it easy for your content to be shared among industry professionals? Why make me figure it out...make it convenient.
Anyone else? What would you share with bloggers (including me!) that will make content easier to share?
[Image: ima2four7.blogspot.com]