Advice to bloggers, writers: Respect readers and language

Write with respect, and avoid unwarranted nastiness.

These were part of a list of things to watch out for in writing, which Sun Star Cebu editor-in-chief Isolde D. Amante yesterday shared in a meet-up with 30 bloggers and fellow journalists who discussed how to improve online content.

Amante, one of four speakers, said using correct grammar draws in more readers.

“Write with respect – respect for the language and respect for your readers,”she said.

She went on to say that it’s also important to “laugh at yourself” once in a while because mistakers will be unavoidable.

Her list of suggestions include: Avoid overwriting, excessive self-consciousness and lack of facts.

She encouraged everyone to try “free-writing” wherein one writes nonstop for 10 minutes without any inhibition.

“It’s also important to gather writing tricks,” she said, like using a highlighter to note striking phrases or sentences, or writing them down for future reference.

Gerald Yuvallos, founder of istorya.net, emphasized the importance of building a community.
“Don’t burn bridges, be friendly,” said Yuvallos.

Other speakers were Max Limpag, co- founder of Innopub media, and Nick Wilwayco, public affairs senior manager of Smart. Limpag encouraged journalists to learn how to code and use html.

The meet-up was held at the Coffee Bean Scent and was sponsored by Smart Communications.

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