Lessons Learned (thus far)

Besides providing information and support in dealing with the loss of a job I also agreed to post my learning experiences in authoring a blog for the first time.

Here are a few of the more "technical" aspects I've learned just in three days.

1. How to set up the blog using the provided template
2. How to add images (and where to look for images)
3. How to find and add widgets (like the Dilbert widget along the right side)
4. I've even started to learn, through trial and error editing, how to edit the html code that builds the blog and its pieces
5. Initial blog promotion - I've identified sights where you can upload the blog and make it more visible like Technorati
6. What RSS means (Really Simple Syndication)
7. How to make the blog available via RSS through FeedBurner

And, here are a few of the "softer" things I've learned along the way.

1. Be careful - the blogging effort can be addictive and can be a distraction from the primary effort of looking for a new job
2. Blogging can be somewhat cathartic - providing an outlet for your emotions
3. When developing new posts - slow down, remember to spell check before you hit "Publish Post"

The final few lessons... for now -

• learn to keep the blog posts short (tough to do at times)
• there is so much more to learn
• read what you post (listen to your own advice)
• read other blogs, see what makes them appealing

Coming In The Days Ahead:

• More on dealing with the emotions of a job loss and the job hunt
• Taking time to celebrate. Yes, even at a time like this are things to be celebrated.
• Viable, validated sights for online or telecommuting work alternatives
• Making the most of the time you have available