Blogging—do you use correct grammar and spelling?

Blog professionally for professionals

Microsoft

Blogs are written on a variety of interests, ranging from professional issues to those topics that are viewed solely for entertainment purposes. But does writing a blog—many times an informal journal that reflects the personality of the author or the purpose of the website that hosts the blog—require the author to use correct grammar and spelling?

If your blogs are geared toward a professional community, a resounding YES! It does not matter one iota that blogs may not be viewed as formal communication. Your audience is comprised of professionals; and if you want to be viewed as a professional, then your writing must be up to the standards expected by the targeted audience.

I recently received an email from a friend who prepares professional résumés. She mentioned a writer who blogs on the subjects of résumés and curricula vitae. In his latest blog, he had misused to and too. Consequently, the readers focused on the author’s error and not on the issue on which he was writing.

Did this blogger lose credibility? Yes. Did the writer provide the impression of professionalism and knowledge? No. Did he lose prospective clients? Yes.

As I have mentioned in previous articles, always keep your target audience in focus. You are appealing to them for viewership, work, and referrals. Unless you are positive that your grammar and spelling are accurate, have another pair of eyes (hopefully somebody who is knowledgeable) read your blog before you post it for the world to read.

I will gladly respond to email inquiries regarding grammar and punctuation issues.  If you are having difficulty or just need clarification on a certain subject, please email me and I will do my best to cover the topic in a subsequent article.