[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text css_animation=”right-to-left”]Being a blogger is a wonderful experience. There are so many reasons that people begin to blog. Whether you blog about your kids, deals, recipes, craft or travel, there are some basic rules that encompass all of blogging. There are some definite things that should be off limits for all bloggers – no matter what their style or topic. Here are 3 things you should never blog about.
1. Other People’s Ideas
It is never ok to copy and paste another person’s ideas. If you find something amazing on another site, then there are appropriate ways to link back and give them credit. But it is never ok to simply take their ideas and paste them on your blog. If you are inspired, then mention them and give a link back, but don’t use another person’s hard work to try to boost your own site. Not only is this unethical, but it is also illegal and can cause some serious problems.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_single_image image=”1687″ alignment=”center” border_color=”grey” img_link_target=”_self” css_animation=”right-to-left” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text css_animation=”right-to-left”]
2. Other People’s Problems
If you are a Mom and want to blog about your kids and your family, then do so with their permission. Be careful about posting information that could cause embarrassment or problems when the kids get older. Remember that everything that is posted online is permanent – even if you try to delete it. Ask permission before you post pictures of people and make sure that what you post online is not going to cause them issues.
Having problems with another person? Think carefully before you air the dirty laundry on a public blog.
3. False Claims about products
Bloggers need to be aware of claims they make about products they review or receive for payment. Not only can false information lead to a lack of trust from the readers, but can also lead to serious legal issues with brands. If you are posting medical or nutritional information, check your facts. Consult with the brand before listing benefits or results.
It is always good to be honest about a product or service, but bloggers need to be aware of what can and cannot be claimed.
Being a blogger is a different experience than it was 10 years ago. Be aware of what you post and think about the long term reach and influence your post will have on readers.
Do you agree with these three things? Do you think I should have added something else? I’d love to hear![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
I agree about the pictures. My son is turning 15 and has gotten to the point where he doesn’t want his picture all over the social media sites. I now have to clear it with him before posting or he gets very upset. I understand this as it is his future college reputation at stake.
Thank you for a very important article. I have been online for many years. I am sort of an internet entrepreneur, and as such I have had to learn what is exceptable and what is not, where it concerns selling and reviewing products. The trouble I see, is many amateurs start a blog, and think they can do pretty much what they want. It is just not that way anymore. If you want to talk about health and natural healing type subjects, there are many disclaimer and other legal documents available for bloggers, that will help keep you out of trouble.
Another problem I see now with the popularity of social media such as Facebook and blogging, it seems that no part of a person’s life is off limits, on the web. It seems we as a culture have no shame or at the very minimum, embarrassment about anything, anymore. As the author of the article above said, everything is permanent on the web. So for those who wish to start a blog or share or Facebook, please make a discernment between talking about your Family’s day at the Zoo, as opposed to telling everyone about personal things that should stay in the privacy of your marriage, or your family.