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:
- Sound more conversational.
- Record while standing up to give my voice more credibility.
- 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!)
- 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!
Cathy Bolger is a San Diego-based consultant, specializing in Presentation, Meeting and Conflict Management Skills.
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