It all started when my beloved laptop of seven years started to slow down and I decided it was time for a new laptop. I purchased my new laptop and discovered it included software for building web sites. 

Then I also learned that the computer store gave free computer lessons on how to use the software. In addition, I learned my internet service provided “free” web space where I could practice posting my new web site as I learned the web software.

How could I resist?

Practice Web Site

I really did “learn by doing.” I would get a little information at a lesson, and then go home and play with the web software on the computer. I used the webpage templates to develop “Welcome” and “About Me” pages. I learned how to drag photos to these pages as well as how to make borders, enter text and adjust colors. Finally, I learned to publish my web site to the internet.

Blogging

I noticed there was also a template for a blog. So, I just started blogging by writing about an article on “Influence Tactics” that I had posted on my business website. I blogged about different team activities I have used.  I even blogged about some of my favorite songs. Eventually I published my blogs to the internet, as part of my growing “practice website.”

It was then I started reading about blogs. A blog can be a personal journal posted on the web for anyone to read. A blog can also be a source of valuable information in your area of expertise. Blogs range from minute-to-minute updates, through regular posts, to yearly updates.

For me, blogs have been a great way to share information, as well as stay connected with my colleagues.  For instance, I posted several team building activities that require minimal equipment at the request of one of my colleagues.  Now, all my colleagues and potential clients have access to it.

Podcasting

A podcast is, essentially, an audio blog. It is like having your own radio show that people can tune into whenever they want. I discovered that podcasts can be a great way to learn.  I even downloaded a series of podcasts on “Learning to Podcast.”

I noticed there was a template for a podcast as part of my practice web site. In order to podcast, I needed to learn another software program called “Garage Band.”  I learned to record my voice, using the built in microphone. 

I wrote a script on a coaching tip for a one-minute podcast. I learned to add music at the beginning and end of my podcast. I then posted it on my web site, and finally published it to the internet.

I asked several colleagues to go to my practice web site and listen to my podcast and then give me feedback. Here are some of the suggestions that I incorporated into my second podcast, a two-minute podcast about an icebreaker I used at a global conference in San Diego:

1. Sound more conversational.
2. Record while standing up to give my voice more credibility.
3. Get a more crisp and professional sound by recording in a padded room to absorb the extra sound and keep it from bouncing around. (My recording studio is now my closet!)
4. Mention your business web site.

I really couldn’t realize the potential of blogs and podcasts until I started trying them out on a practice web site. Plus, it was fun to be a student again!

To check out my practice web site, go to web.mac.com/cathybolger.mac.