The only thing productive about Pub Trivia is delicious wings.
I’m doubling on this post, I originally wrote it for the Seton Hall MAMP Newsletter. Thought it might be of interest here!
There are an estimated 150 million blogs (Blogpulse) on the web and it is likely at least another ten will be created while you read this article. So then, why should you write a blog? It’s just another thing to do – sort of like having homework, right? Instead, you could be watching Mad Men, reading Cosmo or attending pub trivia. It is a difficult decision.
When I first started my blog, years ago, it was a way for my family and friends to keep tabs on me while studying abroad. Now, much later, it has become one of the best learning tools in my career.
Five reasons why every museum student/professional should keep a blog:
1. It keeps you informed of issues and news.
You can write on any topic that interests you. Research the topic for 10-15 minutes, gather your thoughts and write about your perspective. You might be surprised, both at how well you stay informed and at the conversation you start.
2. It hones your writing.
Who doesn’t need a little writing practice? Beginning a blog is one of the best ways I’ve found to learn a happy median in writing for experts, enthusiasts and the general public all at the same time. This is a skill many of us must use at work every day.
3. Provides excellent networking opportunities.
As you begin reading and commenting on other blogs, those writers will inevitably start to reciprocate. Before you know it, you’ve connected with somebody you may not have met otherwise. Likewise, it is an excellent way to continue conversation with professionals you’ve met at conferences or seminars.
4. Makes you aware of events and exhibitions (and potentially gives you inside access to institutions and their “muselebrities”).
“I’d love to feature your institution or talk about this topic in my blog. Would it be possible to interview you about behind-the-scenes operations?”
5. It facilitates self-branding and boosts your résumé.
Maintaining a blog shows potential employers that you’re diligent, aware and tech savvy. If you’re looking to add something to your résumé that will set you apart from the crowd, an interesting blog might be just the thing.
If you’re self-conscious about your writing or about beginning a blog, than start small. You can keep a blog private, or only give the link to a handful of friends until you feel comfortable enough to let it go public. Another excellent option is to test the waters by writing a guest post. Contact the writer of a blog you enjoy and make a suggestion, or consider guest-writing for the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums blog. They are always looking for students/professionals who would like to write about anything that might interest readers.
Five blogs I think every museum student/professional should read:
1. Center for the Future of Museums
2. Museum 2.0 – Nina Simon
3. Know Your Own Bone – Colleen Dilenschneider
5. Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums
Blogging is a worthwhile investment of your time and a great way to bounce around ideas. You’ll find plenty of other great tips and tricks at (http://weblogs.about.com/od/bloggingtips/tp/TipsBeginnerBloggers.htm).
Pamela Schwartz 
February 1st, 2011 at 8:52 pm
Pam, this is awesome! Thanks for including me! I absolutely agree with your reasons why professionals should be writing blogs. (though, perhaps I’m a tad biased?) Thanks for sharing these reasons with the world.
I started my blog when I left my full-time job to become a full-time graduate student. I was terrified that being a full-time student meant letting for of my museum professional status. Keeping up a blog has provided me with a method of creating conversation, connecting to people– and generally doing all of the things you mention in this post.
I think blogs are generally underrated as forward-thinking career moves but they keep your mind sharp, and they keep you in the game. Thanks for an awesome post!