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Blogger Spotlight; Vicki Moore
By Todd Carpenter | January 23, 2008
Teresa Boardman wrote an excellent post for The Tomato yesterday. The crux of it all is fretting over SEO, Keywords, and Page Rank can ruin a perfectly simple and effective blog. Just start writing, and good things will come out of it. Vicki Moore is a great example of this strategy.
Hi Vicki, what made you decide to start the San Mateo Real Estate Blog?
I always have something to say. When I was told I needed a new and improved website, all I wanted to know was if I was going to get a blog. I have pretty strong opinions and I’m a thinker/talker. Writing about my thoughts allows me to get it out and move on. I can express my ideas, opinions and thoughts and leave that topic behind - most of the time.
It seems like many bloggers are consumed with driving search engine traffic, capturing leads, and converting visitors to clients. When I read your blog, I get the feeling that you might do it mostly because you just like to express yourself. How much does “strategy” play into your blogging efforts?
I hadn’t thought about strategy until I read about it on another blog. I write for myself. I read my blog more than anyone else; so I write what I enjoy reading and what makes me laugh. That’s the criteria of every post. It may not be the most lucrative approach, but I’ve been told many times that if you do what you love, the money will come. I like to believe that that’s true.
What’s been the result?
The results have been unexpected, exciting and amazing. The first post that got noticed was written after a long day and out of frustration. I never expected anyone to read it, especially to comment about it. I’m glad they did, but if no one had read it, I wouldn’t have been surprised; disappointed but not surprised. I’ve met the most wonderful people - another unexpected result. Writing for Agent Genius has been another surprise. The surprises just keep coming.
You also blog at Agent Genius. While I’m sure AG has a very wide following, the contributors have also created an informal social network of their own. This is going to sound a little weird, but if nobody read Agent Genius except those on the contributors list, would you still contribute?
It’s funny you ask that. I haven’t focused on the financial, strategic aspects or accolades that bloggers receive. My attention has been on two things: The enjoyment I get in writing, and laughing. And until recently - it’s a little embarrassing to say - I didn’t realize that AG had such a large readership and following. That realization may change what I post. Since most of the people who have commented in the past were other contributors, that’s who I thought read it. If Lani was the only one who read my posts, I would be completely satisfied and ecstatic about it. I feel fantastic to be a part of that network. They are one of the most supportive and encouraging group of people I’ve had the fortune to be connected to.
Although I have to add that after reading April Groves‘ blog, I want some of the cool acknowledgments she’s received. Wow! What an impressive star she is.
What are some of your favorite blogs?
I really enjoy Athol’s blog; the pics are great and so is his humor. Of course, Lani and Agent Genius, I read daily. Lani has become an awesome pal whom I treasure and look so forward to meeting in person - that amazes me too. I can make a friend not ever having met her in person! Jay Thompson is a favorite; he has been very kind to my posts, so, of course, he’s a member of my feed. Into The Box is way cool, far more technical than I can imagine accomplishing. The BawldGuy is always optimistic, so when he talks my ears perk up. Oh! And the RealWeenie. Teresa Boardman is one of my idols.
What advice do you have for agents who are just starting a new blog?
Yikes. I don’t know if I’m qualified to answer that. I think it depends on the individual. I certainly understand the perspective that you should write only for the consumer and not have all of the political spats and conversation that occur within the profession on your blog. I didn’t realize that when I started, and I’m so glad I didn’t follow that model. If I had, I wouldn’t have made connections that I hope to nourish forever. Also, Realtors are the best referrers I know of.
I don’t think a blog is for everyone. It could be a real pain if you don’t like to write or don’t desire to devote the time necessary. Having a plan might be a good idea. I didn’t have one of those either - still don’t. Okay, so advice. Umm, research, plan and spell-check twice. You know, measure twice, cut once? Same idea.
After all of these questions, I guess I should be paying more attention to making money with my blog…nah. Maybe later.
Thanks for making me one of the chosen. I’m thrilled and honored.
Topics: Blogger Interviews |
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:26 am
Thanks for the linky love Vickie! It’s easy to be kind to your posts. As evidenced by your blog and AG contributions, as well as this interview, you clearly “get it”.
“That realization may change what I post.”
Please don’t let it.
January 23rd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
I’m with Jay — in my case, as you mentioned, the glass is probably gonna be half full.
Nobody can read Vicki and not like her.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Thanks guys! I really appreciate it.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Guys- with Vicki, the glass is probably completely full!
Vicki- you are amazing. Your writing made you approachable from day one and I am proud that you are my friend! You broke onto the scene like being shot out of a cannon and found your voice faster than most possibly could. Your contributions over at Agent Genius are invaluable and I know I speak for the RE.net when I say that YOU ROCK!!!!
January 24th, 2008 at 5:13 am
Vicki - Ditto all around. You are one of the funniest people I don’t know
You are witty without being obnoxious and honest without being ugly. I am humbled by your compliments and intend to make sure you know how many of your own you deserve! What a phenom brain you are 
January 24th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Gosh. Thank you doesn’t seem big enough. It’s humbling to be praised by the people I respect so much.