This is the first in a series of posts that include tips on being successful when using social media. Everyone has a different definition of success so I’m only going to try and communicate these things based on my definition.

You are a success if you’re able to find and connect with an audience that shares the passion for the ideas you present using social media.

First you need to get started though. I recommend looking over a couple of blog posts by Dave Winer and Doug Welch. These posts reinforce a pair of simple messages:

1. Just get started.

2. Don’t stress about perfection.

I will add a third message and that is to keep a low profile in the beginning.

Like anything else that is new you have to figure out if this blogging thing is for you. So just start. Don’t worry about the formatting or how everything is set up. Just start writing posts that you are moved to write. Don’t press it either. Write about things that you are compelled to write about. Keep the posts short too. Short posts make it easier for you to get the hang of publishing things that the world will see.

Don’t worry about having the most perfect grammar or the best take on a topic. Make the message true to what you believe. Some people worry about criticism. Don’t worry. If someone takes the time to criticize you then you must have done something right in catching their attention. Besides, you don’t agree with everyone about everything when you have discussions with people. So why should a blog be different in that sense?

Finally, get started with low expectations. If you plan on five posts per day you will set yourself up for fast mental burnout. You’ll spend a lot of time worrying about making sure you get your posts written. And the fun of communicating with the world in a new way will soon turn to dread. Don’t let the tail wag the dog. Let the ideas flow naturally. Sounds very new age, doesn’t it?

Early in the process you want to figure out your level of enjoyment for the process. You want to learn a few things. You want to have some time to find your voice. And I find its easier to do all of these things if you’re not worried about the world watching you. So that’s why I say to keep a low profile. This initial stage can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. Once you know that this blogging thing is for you then you can start promoting your blog to the world.