Blog Consumption Manager

a.k.a. Blog Consumption Manager

One of many tools I take for granted is my Google Reader.  I have a small number of blogs which I regularly read and even with a small number, the “Reader” saves me significant time navigating to each one.  Instead, new posts are served up in a nice tidy window – then go away after I’ve read them.

For anyone who is an experienced blogger, this is – well – old news.  But remember the Ultimate Blogging Toolkit’s tag line:  ”Blogging Tips and Resources for the Average Blogger.”  We must stay true to our purpose.

 The value of an aggregator like Google Reader is that it automatically pulls together new information from around the web from those sites to which you’ve subscribed.  When there’s something new, it appears.  The reason I am appreciating this tool more than I have in the past is due to my recent membership in Entrecard.  In Entrecard to Increase Blog Traffic, I make a point about the importance of building relationships and how Entrecard is a great platform for doing so.  However, I have frequently been reminder of the adage, “be careful for what you wish.”

(Note: traffic has increased substantially since enrolling in Entrecard.  Look for a post with some commentary on that soon.)

With tens of thousands of blogs, it’s a big feast – one that is difficult to consume.  Enter Google Reader.  While some of the Entrecard activity is “shallow and wide” (brief exposure to many types of blogs), much of the time is spent interacting with those blogs where a more involved connection is made (narrow and deep.)  When I encounter a blog that really fits with my interests, I add it as a subscribed blog to Google Reader.  Then, I don’t have to remember to visit that blog to see if anything is new – I just wait for a post to appear in my window.  One click and I’m at the feast.

Dave