So, How Do You Post?

The Evil HR Lady posted recently about blogging, noting that most of her fellow HR bloggers post under their names and not anonymously. 

I am one of those bloggers. The, really not so evil, HR Lady questioned if posting under our names kept us more honest. In reference to one of my posts in which I spoke positively about one of my union leaders, she wondered if my knowledge that he could find this post make me think about every word that I wrote.

Well, she made me think.  In response, I'd have to  say that I do think about every word that I write. I think about the message my words send and about how it will be received by my still evolving audience.  However, I do this not because my name is associated with the post, but because that is what I do and who I am.  I think - a lot.

I only started posting in October 2006 so am relatively new to the blogosphere. When I first posted, I did so anonymously. I did not know how this was going to go, had internet safety concerns in the back of my mind, and wanted to test it out before I jumped in with both feet. As I started getting the hang of it and more comfortable with the process, I added my name.

My intention is not to use the process or space as a means to slam anyone. My intention is to use it as a place or space to think through issues, share lessons learned, and gain insights from others. I do rant and rave at times and, when I do, I make it a point to not identify people. Not because my name is on the site, but because that is not what I or the site is about. It is a personal space to discuss professional issues (with a little bit of family intertwined), professionally.

Posting under my name was a conscious decision, a choice that I made. Others choose differently and I respect that. It is easier for me to relate to posts if I know a little bit about the person and can identify some commonality with me, my situations or my interests.  So, I find that the "About Me" sections are of more value to me than the names.

To two of my anonymous faves, Evil and Your HR Guy, keep up the great posts whoever and where ever you are.

Comments

[Evil HR Lady]

I think about every word as well. And like you, even if I did "come out" I would still not use other's names--or identify my company--without permission.

I hope that even though I am anonymous, that I represent situations fairly. It's who I am.

[Lisa]

You mentioned company and made me stop to think again (darn you!). I do indicate the organization I work for in some posts but wonder if I would have done the same if I still worked for a privately held company vs federal agency? Hmmmm.

You have a great perspective and a way of getting down to the absurdity of things that I enjoy. You make me laugh sometimes!

[Kris]

Lisa -

I think both approaches are right - yours is closer to mine. If you go the path of Evil, you have to guard it at all times, which she mentioned has a way of seaping out in her post.

Once you share your name, like both of us have, you are out. I was wringing my hands about the whole company thing yesterday, and someone pointed out it took them about 3 minutes to google my name and put it together with my company (thanks SHRM and ASTD!). So, I may as well loosen up and not worry about the name/company connection - as long as I treat it responsibly...

The biggest difference between named and anym. is the ability to be more cynical and edgy that Evil has. Putting my name on it and understanding that all have access to that makes me back off that angle - I can still be honest and edgy, but have to watch the edge. Too bad, cause I would rather write in an even sharper voice!

Keep blogging - Kris

[Lisa Rosendahl]

Now if I can just get my trackbacks to consistently work, I'd be in business!

[Kimberly Moritz]

I've been asked about this topic numerous times as I write openly as a school administrator. I think it's important to own what I say. My blog has led to four inquiries this year from other organizations asking me to interview for positions. If we're blogging well, thinking about audience and our message, that's the kind of attention it should garner. I just think if it has to be said anonymously, then maybe it shouldn't be said at all.

Also, there's that whole "cite your source" idea. If a blog is anonymous, it's just not as credible for me as a reader.