In response to positive feedback on the benefits of blogging, I have decided to launch my first blog. (Well, that and the fact that it’s now a requirement for my Online PR course at Centennial College.)
My initial hesitation in launching a blog was rooted in the fear of publishing my personal thoughts and opinions for the world to see. However, after sifting through hundreds of pro-blogging posts, I am convinced that Web 2.0 sets the stage for opportunity more than it does threats. Enabling instantaneous sharing and reflection of information and opinion, it levels the playing field and encourages insightful thinking. To pass up blogging is to pass up the opportunity to develop my craft.
I struggled with the earliest stages of blog development – choosing a name.
At last fall’s IABC/Toronto event – an evening seminar on surefire strategies for branding yourself – keynote speaker, Roz Usheroff, emphasized the impact, influence and opportunity that lie within a strong brand. As I have learned, writing a blog provides opportunity to manage your online reputation. In essence, a chance to brand yourself.
I found myself two days (and countless lists) later, still trying to generate a name that: (1) accurately represents who I am, (2) distinguishes me from my peers and (3) triggers the idea that it is a student’s commentary on PR.
Narrowed down to two names – Fresh PRspective or PRpetual Motion – I resorted to surveying peers, colleagues and friends.
Almost instantly I got a response from blogging guru Paull Young:
“Hmmm, I must admit that the plays on PR are getting a bit over done. (Says the man who author’s Young PR – however in my defense that’s simply my initials).
How about plain old kristenzemlak.com? I’m moving over to paullyoung.com shortly (but hanging onto Young PR cause I’m already branded as such).”
At this moment, I realized that in an attempt to be original, I fell into the trap I was trying to avoid. No wonder I couldn’t figure out which one to use – neither was good enough.
Out of this, my blog name was born – How I see it, as I see it. I feel this title accurately represents what I plan to publish on this website – my experiences, as they relate to PR, corporate communications and Web 2.0.
I welcome the comments of my peers, colleagues and friends on the posts to come.
2 responses so far ↓
Christine Smith // January 23, 2008 at 9:52 am |
Creating an effective blog name is so difficult. You can consult lots of resources to get clues on how best to do it. And, as always, everyone has an opinion.
I experienced your same feelings in naming my blog A Learner’s Way. Actually, I’m no longer very crazy about the name…so, I tend to agree with Paull that just using my name might have been wiser.
Kristen Zemlak // January 23, 2008 at 10:11 am |
Thanks for your feedback, Christine. I decided to customize the title of my blog, but used a name-based domain. I figure this will allow flexibility as I evolve as a blogger and PR student. However, I’m not even sure if title revision is acceptable in the blogosphere.