Blogging is more conversational than traditional freelance writing. Bloggers don’t have to follow a particular style or format, nor do they have to consult manuals or guides to make sure they’re doing everything right. Most bloggers blog like they talk. In fact, when you think about it, the average person doesn’t speak in the AP or Chicago format. We rant, rave, swear and use run on sentences.
Still, I find I have to check myself to make sure I’m not blogging like I talk.
Because I’m a writer, I’m not really expected to blog like other bloggers as I’m expected to follow proper usage. In fact, on days I stray and have a little fun, a bunch of wannabe editors come out of the woodwork to tell me how my writing sucks and I should hire them as editors. (Hint: For future reference…I’m not going to hire anyone who sends me insulting emails, so you might want to rethink your delivery.) This is something I was thinking about as I wrote, and subsequently trashed a humorous piece I was writing. It wouldn’t have worked if I didn’t write it like I speak, but I wasn’t sure if that would be a turnoff on a freelance writing blog.
I often wonder if freelance writing bloggers are held to higher expectations because we’re professional writers. Should we be more formal in our delivery? If we go a little casual and throw out a slang word or run on now and then, should we get called on it? After all, we’re not writing “articles” we’re writing blog posts. Mind you, I’m not saying we shouldn’t worry about typos and bad grammar, but do you have less respect for a freelance writing blogger who is less formal with her writing? Also, do you find that bloggers who talk like they speak, as opposed to those who are a bit…stuffier are more interesting?
I often wonder if tone and style matter to this community. I already know you don’t like it when we make mistakes. Do you mind if freelance writing bloggers are too conversational?
Discuss…
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