Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Matt E. Stevens who's blog is Prune Juice Media
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
I hope to meet other like-minded bloggers and media personalities while learning helpful information to grow my platform.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I have always loved having a voice in media. That, combined with my love of news and politics, made starting a blog a pretty easy decision. For me, there is something special about sharing my ideas in cyberspace and people connecting to them. I don't need people to always agree with me. I just like sparking good conversation and healthy debate. You do not see many African-American men doing this type of work regularly.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
I'm always interested in meeting other political bloggers at the BWB conference, even though we are few and far between. But, I have learned some awesome information about running a site from big names in other categories such as fashion, humor, and technology. So, I always keep my eyes open to meet people of all backgrounds with helpful tips.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
My best tip is for bloggers to discard their conventional thinking about promotion and the daily activities for their blog. Our blog sites are not typical products of corporate America. The rules are different. Don't be afraid to take risks even in the face of seemingly impossible odds. Use social media heavily, travel, network, develop cool partnerships, etc. The greater the risks, the greater the rewards.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
I definitely see myself having a strong(er) voice in the media in the next five years. That doesn't necessarily mean it will be through my blog, but perhaps through a bigger outlet. I'd love to see my blog reaching a wider audience in the next five years if it stays in its current form.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Active followers are always great to build an audience. So far, several bloggers have used their social media and websites to mention my work to their followers. That type of organic recommendation is great. Many of the followers have hung around for long haul with me because of this exposure.
Do you have something to offer bloggers to help them take their blogging to the next level?
My background is in media/public relations. I can help bloggers understand how to promote themselves to outlets and how to package themselves as potential experts.
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