According to Jackie Huba and Ben McConnell, only 1% of all people online create content and 9% more participate. The other 90% are just consuming the information (watching), and I can understand why.
It’s intimidating to put your thoughts out there for the world to see; especially if it’s in your industry or related to your business. What if you get it wrong? What if someone doesn’t agree? I’m from Minnesota, so of course there’s a fear that someone won’t like it! Geesh, it’s a lot of pressure.
A much easier way to start is to comment very generally on blog posts you enjoy.
Every day this week take 10 minutes to read those blogs you found last week. Choose at least one to leave a comment for or respond to. When you agree, disagree, have an example to share, or just want to thank the author, it’s a great way to start participating in this thing called “Social Media.”
You may find you’re braver than you think. The point is to increase your comfort level online. Besides, bloggers WANT your comments and responses—it’s intended to be a participatory medium and you’ll be doing them a favor.