The BritMums Blog

Linkys: What's it all for?

Linkys. What the heck is a Linky? And why would I want to join one? And how in the heck do I actually join one? Are you confused about this blogging phenomenon? BritMums is here for you with a simple explanation of what linkys are and some input from BritMums members themselves. You see, we are here to hold your hand and get you involved in one of the big blogging trends at the moment.

A "linky" is simply a method of linking up your blog url or a specific post url through a third-party programme which, when clicked on by a reader, will take that reader to your blog and/or post. A linky within a post and/or blog can be in the form of a "blog hop", a meme, a weekly challenge, a blog carnival or your everyday one-off post. It's a way of putting posts together (generally centered around one theme) which then gives readers one platform to come to and visit a variety of blogs. Examples of some popular and current linkys are: The Gallery, Blow Your Own Blog Horn and the BritMums Blogging Prompt of the Week.

What's in store for 2011? 6 predictions for mum blogging

2010 was a phenonimal year for UK mum blogging. We saw bloggers exercise their voice in varied ways, supporting charitable causes and using their blogs as launch pads for other writing or business ventures. Brands dipped their toes into the scene in a big way. We grew in leaps and bounds; BMB now has nearly 2k members! Our writing became more innovative and engaging. And we had fun! CyberMummy10 was a scene of tears, laughter, and hugs (did we mention the cupcakes?!)

What does 2011 hold in store for mum blogging?

State of The Blogosphere, a UK view

 
If you are interested in blogging you should read Technorati's annual State of the Blogosphere 2010, which outlines growth and trends in blogging. This year was special because it is the first time it focused on female bloggers. Go girls!

You can go over and read the report itself, but some of the highlights include:

• The rise of mobile blogging (thanks to smartphones and tablets)
• The influence of women and especially mom bloggers on mainstream media and brands
• Great optimism about the future
• Blogger types: part-timers, corporates, hobbyists, and self-employeds
• Geographic mix: EU makes up 29% blogosphere (US is 49%)

There are interviews with influential women such as Charlene Li (Altimeter Group), Stefania Pomponi Butler (CityMama), Jessica Gottlieb, Joanne Banberger (PunditMom), Lisa Stone (BlogHer) and ... drum roll ...with a UK view...  Susanna Scott!!! I did the interview with California-based  Akemi Bourgeois at 5 am, so please excuse my hair.