SMSMAN's blog

Unveiling the Scented Symphony: Exploring the Most Popular Candle Fragrance

Candles have been an integral part of human history, providing both illumination and a soothing ambiance. In recent times, the world of candles has expanded beyond their utilitarian purposes to embrace a plethora of captivating scents. Among the vast array of options, one particular fragrance has risen to prominence, becoming the undisputed favorite among candle enthusiasts.

The Allure of Vanilla: A Timeless Classic

In the world of candle scents, vanilla stands out as a timeless Apothecary classic that never seems to lose its charm. The sweet, comforting aroma of vanilla has a universal appeal that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. Its versatility allows it to complement various settings, making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and celebration.

Comfort and Coziness

One of the key reasons behind vanilla's popularity is its ability to evoke a sense of comfort and coziness. The warm and familiar scent wraps the room in a welcoming embrace, creating a serene atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether it's a quiet evening alone or a gathering with loved ones, the comforting notes of vanilla effortlessly set the mood for relaxation.

Versatility in Pairing

Vanilla's versatility extends beyond its standalone appeal. Candle makers often blend vanilla with other fragrances to create unique combinations that cater to diverse preferences. From vanilla and lavender for a calming effect to vanilla and cinnamon for a hint of spice, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability ensures that vanilla remains a staple in the world of scented candles, offering something for everyone.

Nostalgia and Sentimental Value

Another factor contributing to vanilla's popularity is its association with nostalgia and sentimental value. Many people have fond memories associated with the scent of vanilla, whether it's the comforting aroma of baked goods or the subtle fragrance of childhood treats. Lighting a vanilla-scented candle can transport individuals to cherished moments, adding an emotional depth to the overall experience.

The Science of Vanilla's Allure

On a scientific level, the appeal of vanilla can be attributed to its impact on mood and emotions. Studies suggest that certain scents, including vanilla, have the power to positively influence our psychological well-being. The sweet and familiar fragrance of vanilla is believed to trigger the release of endorphins, creating a sense of happiness and relaxation.

 

Conclusion: Vanilla, the Undisputed Favourite

In the vast and fragrant landscape of scented candles, vanilla emerges as the undisputed favorite. Its timeless appeal, comforting aura, versatility, and ability to evoke nostalgia make it a go-to choice for candle enthusiasts around the globe. Whether you're seeking solace, celebrating a special moment, or simply adding a touch of warmth to your space, the sweet embrace of vanilla is sure to elevate the candle experience to new heights.

The Infamous Boat Trip Of Nha Trang, Vietnam

Do the Nha Trang boat trip.  Do the Nha Trang boat trip!!”

There’s something that I’ve learned in my months on the Southeast Asia Backpacker Trail — if several people fervently tell you that you have to do an activity, you do it.  No questions.

So as soon as we rolled into Nha Trang, Vietnam’s most popular beach resort town, I knew that the boat trip would be part of our itinerary.  But I had no idea how bizarre it would turn out to be!

The boat trip usually costs about $9.  Because it was Tet, Boat Tour the peak vacation time for the Vietnamese, the price rose to $9.  But considering that the trip included visits to three islands plus lunch, it was still a good deal.

Are these trips popular?  God, are they ever. There were literally dozens of boats making the same trip as us that day!  There were backpackers, but also Vietnamese families and tourists from other Asian countries.

Snorkeling in the Corals

I’ve never seen a coral reef. Crazy, I know! So, I was more than happy to jump out into the water during a thunderstorm to see the marine life. As soon as we anchor, hundreds of colorful fish surround the boat. Getting up close and personal to them via a snorkel is an unforgettable experience.

Phileh Lagoon

One of my favorite parts of the boat trip is this gorgeous lagoon. Swimming in crystal clear waters sheltered by the forested limestone cliffs is an absolute dream.

My Experience with the Phi Phi Islands Boat Tour

This entire boat tour experience was a bittersweet one for me. While it was an unforgettable experience seeing the beauty, there were many portions of our day that contributed to my overall negative opinion of the tour.

In the months leading up to our Thailand trip, we made multiple attempts to book a private boat tour in Phi Phi but we never confirmation from any company. Figuring we would try to find something once we arrived we did just that at our accommodation check-in. They offered to book a half or full day tour with U-Rip. We were all for it, paying the 1600 Baht ($50) per person right there and reserving it for our second day on the island.

My Experience Embarking on the Boat Tour

The next morning comes and it’s storming like crazy. I consider trying to reschedule for our third day but I think maybe the storm will clear up. Meeting at our hotel’s reception office, I’m surprised to find multiple other parties of people. We were under the impression that we booked a private tour. Maybe they’re on a private tour too?  Walking about 15 minutes with our guide to the south side of the island, we come to our final meeting place.

Would I Recommend?

Being completely honest, I would recommend an all day boat tour but I would NOT recommend the U-Rip company. I also wouldn’t recommend doing a group tour.

Reasons Not to Use the U-Rip Company
  • Communication about where exactly we were going all day was close to nil. Half the day was spent sitting on the boat waiting to see where we were going next and without any clue about when we’d arrive.
  • The itinerary was changed multiple times without our knowledge.
  • Stopping at different places, we could swim for maybe 5 minutes before the guides ushered us back onto the boat.

HOW DO YOU FIX A DRIPPING TAP

A Five-Minute Read

How do you fix a dripping tap is much easier than you think.  Before we get into how to fix this problem that almost all households face.   We will do our best to inform you the reason why if you are experiencing a dripping tap, this should not go unnoticed and fixed as soon as possible.

Did you know that a dripping tap can waste vast amounts of water?  Experts state that single dripping tap from one tap can expel a drip every second.  Wasted water adds up to 21 litres of water per day.  Adding that all up, that is a whole lot of water being wanted per day and can add up to hundreds of pounds extra spending on your water bill per year.

Difference Between Leaking and Dripping Tap

People often confuse the two, however, a leaking tap is one that can spring a leak from any part of the tap, which includes the sprout, the handle or the body. Should you have a dripping tap, however, this normally drips from the sprout (that’s the place where the water comes out for novices like you and me).  Now that we have cleared up the difference, let us get stuck into how to fix this.

Different Types of Taps or Faucets For Our US Cousins.

Usually two different types of taps or faucets for our 24 hrPlumbers in Leytonstone E11 American neighbours across the pond.  There is the monobloc tap, i.e: one tap with two separate handles for hot and cold mixing.  This can further be broken down into monobloc tap with ceramic cartridges or one with a rubber seal/washer.  Then we have the tap handles that are separate i.e: one for hot and the other for cold.   

Either of the two is considered to be traditional taps.

Let’s Get Started

You are going to need a set of tools to get this drip under control.

Tools Required

These are the most common tools required by you to get started. If you are like the tool enthusiasts, this is the point you go for your tool chest, but for most of us, the list below are the tools required.  Regarding the others and you know who you are, if you don’t have any tools then you have to ask a neighbour.

  • Screwdriver
  • Adjustable spanner
  • Washer or replacement cartridge
  • WD40 or an alternative
  • Lubricant
  • PTFE tape
Here We Go

The first and most important thing to do is to turn your water off.  Want tips on how to turn off your water via an isolation valve, please see our previous blog.  Wouldn’t want to leave this on then we would have a bigger problem on our hands. Since you have now managed to turn off your water supply, remove the defective area that is dripping, which could be either the ceramic discs or the washer.  Sometimes because the area may have been dripping for weeks/months limescale can build up.  Spraying it with WD40 to help loosen the tap parts up.  Wait for a little time to pass, 5 – 10 minutes, before attempting to unscrew the tap parts. At other times, you may need to spray some other lubricant on the area in addition to WD40 to loosen it up.  Leave this for at least 30 minutes longer. Having now managed to remove the defective part,  you will then be able to see what part needs to be replaced. If the defective part is held in by a screw, remove the screw. More than likely it will be a washer or a cartridge that needs to be replaced.

Let’s Get Stuck In

Go ahead and replace the part that needs replacement. Unlike most of us who have never done this before, it will seem a bit overwhelming but hang in there because it is not as bad as it seems and if you have got this far, you are nearly done. All geared up and ready to go but you do not have the replacement part at hand.  Don’t stress, just nip out to your local hardware store and purchase the replacement part.

Estudi Tur Costa: Incubator for Creativity

Tucked away in the heart of Ibiza, known for its breathtaking landscapes and laid-back lifestyle, is Estudi Tur Costa. This gallery is an incubator of artistic imagination and source of inspiration, inviting art lovers to explore creativity in all its depths.

Estudi Tur Costa is more than just an art gallery. It is a place that makes the Mediterranean come alive – not only through the surrounding nature, but also through the artworks on display. Each work here tells its own story, a story of creative journeys and artistic experimentation.

We at OneVillasIbiza greatly appreciate the immense beauty of the local art and culture. This is why we recommend that our guests also visit Estudi Tur Costa during their vacation.

The Inspiring World of Estudi Tur Costa

Upon entering Estudi Tur Costa, you immediately feel the villa hire ibiza tremendous peace and creative energy. The walls are lined with artwork ranging from abstract compositions to realistic landscapes, all inspired by Ibiza’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Each artwork expresses the artistic vision of its creator and takes visitors on a journey through color, form and emotion.

The gallery is also a bustling workshop where artists hone their skills and invite visitors to become part of the creative process. Through workshops and live demonstrations, you’ll get a rare, inspiring look behind the scenes of the artistic making process.

Dive into Creativity

In addition to being an art gallery, Estudi Tur Costa is also an ode to the Mediterranean, where the sea, sky and land come together in a symphony of colors and textures. The artists exhibiting at the gallery draw inspiration from Ibiza’s rich history and create impressive works that greatly appeal to visitors.

A work of art at Estudi Tur Costa also usually tells the story of its origin, from the initial concept to the final execution. These types of stories enrich the experience of the viewer, who can feel a personal connection to the art. It is this deep engagement that sets Estudi Tur Costa apart as a center for art.

OneVillasIbiza’s luxury vacation villas are a great base from which to explore Ibiza’s unique treasures, including Estudi Tur Costa. Local experiences and cultural enrichment are an important part of many people’s vacations. That is why we always invite our guests to immerse themselves in island life and find inspiration in Ibiza’s beauty.

Synergy between Art and Nature

The proximity of the sea, with its ever-changing colors and moods, is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for artists in Ibiza. This deep connection to the natural world reinforces the philosophy that art is always born from the environment in which it lives.

Estudi Tur Costa’s artworks all bear witness to this. This unique relationship between art and nature is also reflected in the gallery’s commitment to sustainability and respect for Ibiza’s natural beauty – an example of harmonious coexistence.

Looking Through Other Glasses

At Estudi Tur Costa, each artwork is an invitation to view the world through a different lens. Here, the artists not only share their visual creations with visitors, but also the stories, emotions and philosophy behind their work. This gives visitors a rare glimpse into their artistic inspiration.

At OneVillasIbiza, we encourage our guests to immerse themselves in the local culture, which includes Estudi Tur Costa. Our luxury villas are a perfect base to explore the vast wealth of Ibiza’s artistic landscape.

Videoslotsgames – The Birth of A Trustworthy Gambling Site

Videoslotsgames was created by several online casino players that were on a quest for a quality gaming experience. Over the years of playing, we often found ourselves checking out websites that we didn’t know whether they were safe. 

After a while, we noticed that there are plenty of scam platforms looking to prey on gamers. So, we set on a mission to make sure that we would protect every member of the iGaming industry. That mission had the following priorities: 

  • Review the security of online casinos 
  • Write all info regarding their license
  • Write comprehensive game guides 
  • Cover the latest news in the iGaming industry 
  • Keep in touch with players and offer aid whenever they need 

Now, you must wonder, what makes us different from videoslots other review platforms? Honesty, for one. Transparency and care, as well. We are not here to give you senseless and useless information. We understand the struggle of finding a reputable casino where you can play without worrying about hacks and scams. 

We are also members of the community. As such, we want you to learn how to play the best games and register at top-rated platforms without any difficulties. 

Read Our Honest Casino Reviews

Online casino reviews are the best way to get familiar with a certain gambling operator. They provide you with all the information that you need regarding available games, bonuses, payments, customer support, etc. Of course, we cannot leave out the legal status of the casino. 

We make sure to check out every well-established and new operator on the market. We register accounts for a more hands-on experience and collect data. Then, we analyse the data and put it in our honest and unbiased reviews.

How We Review Online Casinos?

If you’re wondering how we review online casinos, we are more than happy to explain the process. Everything revolves around an unbiased approach. If the casino has a certain flaw, we make sure to expose it. That is the best way to help you figure out whether you should choose that particular site as your next gaming destination. Here’s what we pay extra attention to as well. 

Licence Accreditation and Security Software

First things first, every online casino must have a license. We cannot stress how important this feature is. A license means that the operator’s activities are under the watch of a regulator. That way, if the site breaks the law, it will have its license revoked. 

Additionally, if you have a quarrel with the online casino and it doesn’t want to show you respect, you can always reach out to the licensing authority and present your issue to them. The authority will review and investigate the matter. 

So, having a license is not just about legality, it’s also about player protection. With that being said, a casino is considered legal if it has a license from the likes of the UK Gambling Commission, the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen), the Malta Gaming Authority, the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, etc.  

Game Library 

What’s the point of claiming lucrative bonuses if the game library is not per industry standards? The reason why we pay extra attention to the games is that they are the centre of entertainment. A reputable casino should have the best titles from the world’s most respected providers. 

In terms of diversity, we always want to see online slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, baccarat, and live games. Special categories such as keno, instant-win, scratch cards, bingo, and lottery are more than welcome. 

Is it important to wash your car?

Regularly washing your car interior and exterior has many benefits beyond looks and helps protect your vehicle in the long term. Read on for more information.

What are the benefits of a car wash?1. Protect your vehicle paint, finish and metal

Regular washing helps protect your car’s paint, finish, car wash and metal. It prevents damage from dirt, dust, bird droppings, road salt and other harmful substances. Washing your car helps eliminate these corrosive elements and protects the metal components. 

2. Maintain clear visibility for safe driving

Clean windows, mirrors, and lights are essential for driving safely. Regular car washing ensures clear visibility, which is crucial for your safety and others on the road. Using window wipers improves visibility temporarily, but it’s not effective for cleaning windows or removing stubborn dirt. 

3. Improve fuel efficiency

A dirty car can have slightly increased aerodynamic resistance, which may affect fuel efficiency. Cleaning your car regularly can improve its aerodynamics, leading to better fuel efficiency and potential cost savings. 

4. Enhance overall appearance and personal satisfaction

A clean car demonstrates attention to detail and leaves a positive impression in various situations such as when going to work, on a date, or attending an event. It can also contribute to a send of pride and make you feel good about vehicle ownership. 

5. Improved interior hygiene and appearance

Germs and bacteria can quickly build up inside your car without you even realising. Cleaning your car’s interior regularly can prevent damage to your carpet and seats, keeping them in good condition and contribute to better hygiene for you and your passengers. 

6. Save money on repairs:

Wash and maintain regularly to catch problems early and avoid costly repairs in the future. For example, washing your car may reveal minor dents, scratches, or paint damage that can be addressed promptly. 

7. Protect resale value

A well-maintained, clean car tends to have a higher resale value. Potential buyers are often more willing to pay a premium for a vehicle that has been properly cared for and looks good. I If you want to sell your car soon, think about using a car valeting and detailing service. It can make your car look like new again.

Do car wash brushes scratch your car?

Yes, a car wash brush does have the potential to scratch your car if it is not clean and used incorrectly. The quality of the brush and how it is used will depend on the type of car wash you choose, e.g. automated vs. hand car wash. We suggest using skilled mobile car detailers who come to you and take great care when washing your car.

Even with careful washing, there is still a possibility of scratching the car. This is especially true when there is a significant amount of dirt or debris present. Regularly washing your car and checking it for any imperfections is key to maintain the quality of your paintwork. 

How often should you wash your car?

Generally speaking, you should wash your car every two weeks to keep it clean. Ultimately the frequency depends on various factors, including your local environment, weather, and how often you use your vehicle. We’ve put together some general guidelines to help you.

Washing your car based on the weather

The weather can have a significant impact on the level of pollutants and dirt building up on your vehicle. 

How often should you wash your car in winter?

Rainwater can contain pollutants and contaminants that, mobile car wash when left on your car’s surface, may lead to paint damage over time. Similarly, road salt used in snowy conditions can be corrosive, so it’s advisable to wash your car after exposure. Regular cleaning is also important for safety to ensure your headlight and taillights give you the best possible visibility. Washing your car every two weeks can help keep your car in good condition. 

How often should you wash your car in summer?

In summer if there are very high temperatures the sun could damage the paint on your car. If you drive in an area of high dust and pollution this can also add build up which can damage the finish over time. Maintaining your car with a wash every two weeks is just as important as in winter months. Adding a wax treatment can help protect your car surfaces for longer. 

How much you use your car impacts how often you should wash itLow car usage, less frequent washing

If you do not drive frequently and live in a moderate climate your vehicle will usually be less exposed to contaminants. In these situations, you could wash your car once a month. 

High car usage, more frequent washing

If you use your vehicle very often and have regular harsh weather it is advisable to clean your car more regularly. At least every one to two weeks is recommended. 

Regular maintenanceQuickly remove bird droppings, tree sap and other contaminants

If you notice bird droppings, tree sap, tar build up or other contaminants, clean them off promptly. These contaminants can damage the paint if left for an extended period and leave marks on your car that are hard to remove. It’s a good idea to keep some bird dropping wipes or car surface wipes in your glovebox for easy cleaning when you need it. For harder to remove deposits you can buy specific sprays to help loosen dried on contaminants or opt to book in a valeting service for your next car wash. 

Protect your car surfaces

Applying a layer of wax during your next car wash is a good way to add some extra protection for your car’s paint work and enhance the shine. For longer-term protection consider using a detailing service to apply ceramic coating. This is a more advanced protective layer that protects your car against UV rays, mineral deposits, chemical damage and contaminants. 

Can you wash your car every week?

Yes, if you prefer to keep your car consistently clean this is the best option. If a car wash is carried out properly a wash should not damage your car, even if completed weekly. The Clean Me App can help you find a professional mobile detailer near you to wash your car on a date and time that is convenient for you. 

Mobile Car Detailing

Embark on a journey of automotive excellence with our marketplace of meticulously curated car detailing services. At Clean Me, we understand that your vehicle deserves more than just a routine cleaning. It deserves a rejuvenating experience that brings out its true beauty. That’s why we’ve created a marketplace of the UK’s best mobile detailers so that we can bring this experience to your doorstep.

Our Mobile Detailing Locations

Our marketplace of mobile car detailers operate in over 370 locations across the UK. Below, you can see a map of all of the towns and cities that our registered mobile operators currently provide detailing services in. 

Mobile Detailing Services With Clean Me

As Clean Me provides a marketplace of mobile detailers, the services offered car detailing can vary greatly depending on the detailer and the location of the customer. Below we have listed the services that are typically provided by our onboarded mobile detailers.

  • Full Exterior Restoration: Revitalise your car’s exterior with our full exterior restoration. Our expert technicians carefully remove contaminants, restore paint brilliance, and apply a protective finish for a show-stopping shine.
  • Interior Luxury Makeover: Indulge in opulence with our interior luxury makeover. We go beyond cleanliness, focusing on every detail to ensure your car’s interior reflects sophistication and comfort.
  • Paint Correction and Scratch Removal: Bid farewell to imperfections! Paint correction and scratch removal services are designed to eliminate blemishes, restoring your car’s finish to a flawless, showroom-worthy state.
  • Ceramic Coating Application: Experience the ultimate in paint protection with our ceramic coating application. This cutting-edge solution provides long-lasting shield against environmental factors, ensuring your car stays pristine for longer.
  • Convertible Top Restoration: Convertible owners, rejoice! Our convertible top restoration service breathes new life into your soft top, enhancing its appearance and extending its longevity.
  • Engine Bay Detailing: Ignite your engine’s visual appeal with our engine bay detailing. We carefully clean, degrease, and protect, leaving your engine bay looking as good as the day it rolled off the assembly line.
  • Leather Care and Conditioning: Luxury deserves care. Our leather care and conditioning service nourishes and rejuvenates your car’s leather interiors, ensuring a supple feel and timeless elegance.
  • Glass Polishing and Sealant: See the world more clearly! Our glass polishing and sealant service enhances visibility by removing stubborn stains and applying a protective sealant for a streak-free finish.
  • Plastic Trim Restoration: Bring back the vibrancy of your plastic trims with our restoration service. Fading and discoloration are no match for our expert technicians.
What is ceramic coating?

Ceramic coating, often referred to as nano-ceramic coating or simply “ceramic,” is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior surfaces of a vehicle. It chemically bonds with the factory paint, creating a protective layer on top. The primary purpose of ceramic coating is to offer long-term protection for your vehicle’s paint and other exterior surfaces. 

What does ceramic coating do and what are its benefits?Paint Protection

Ceramic coatings provide a durable, protective layer that shields the vehicle’s paint from various environmental contaminants, such as bird droppings, tree sap, road salts, bug splatter, and UV rays. This helps prevent oxidation, fading, and damage to the paint over time. 

Water Repellent

The coated surface has hydrophobic properties and makes it easier for water to bead and slide off the paint. This characteristic helps in preventing water spots. 

Chemical Resistance

Ceramic coatings offer resistance against harsh chemicals, including acidic substances found in bird droppings and tree sap. This resistance makes it less likely for these contaminants to etch into the paint. 

A Day in the Life of an Analytics Consultant in 2024

Hi! I’m Rashi, an Analytics Consultant from Chicago, working in the health insurance industry since 2021.

I joined my company as a data analyst and worked my way up to becoming an google analytics consultant. I interned for a year while I was in grad school (2020–2021) but this, was my first ever 9–5 job and it was nerve-wracking to find a place for myself in an ocean of professionals with a multitude of skills and talents.

About three years in the job, I have a good place carved out for myself, I have unique strengths and skills that I bring to the table, and a perfected-over-time 9–5 routine at workday. Each of my days at work looks very different and that is what I love about my job — no two days are the same, so I stay far away from getting bored or saturated.

Saying that my workdays look different, what I do, the tools I use, and the conversations I have in a day have a lot in common so, I can write up this blog about a day in my life as an Analytics Consultant.

Let’s peek into a Thursday of my life (usually one of my busiest days of the week)

[07:00 AM]: Rise & Shine

I am a morning person and highly energetic in the morning so I can take my own sweet time to get ready, have my coffee and breakfast, and make my lunch in the morning (because I hate eating leftovers at work).

[08:30 AM]: Leave For Work & Hope To Catch The Bus

I have to go to the office three days a week and I do Tuesdays-Wednesdays-Thursdays from the office, making them my most productive days of the week. I try to leave for work at 8.30 AM and it only takes me 15 minutes to reach my office (a luxury of life I will not give up).

What is analytics consulting?

Analytics consultants help organizations establish a data-driven strategy by transforming data into information to ensure competitive advantage, and operational excellence and explore insights.

Analytics consultants help companies in 3 areas:

  • Shape their analytics strategy including analytics organization, processes and tech stack
  • Which challenges do companies face in analytics?

    Organizations are rushing to generate actionable insights to help them make smarter business decisions and differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. 

    According to a survey conducted by McKinsey Global, challenges companies face during analytics projects can be grouped into the 3 top categories regardless of industry:

    • Strategy, leadership and talent
    • Organizational structure and processes
    • IT infrastructure

"Insurance securitization allows insurers to transfer underwritingrisks to the capital markets by creating tradeable financial instruments with cash flows tied to premium payments. Securitizing premium payments can generate upfront capital for insurers for regulatory compliance, funding operations, or reinforcing insurance capacity. According to Beinsure Media, insurtechs raised $14.4 billion across 644 deals in 2023, surpassing the total raised in 2021 by about 87% and reaching a cumulative ten-year total of $43.8 billion from 2012 to 2023. To put that in perspective, it took them seven years (from 2012 to 2018) to raise $15 billion. Assessing the consistency of policy language and coverageterms across an insurance portfolio is complicated, error prone, and time consuming, creating an opportunity for startups to automate the process. The inability for insurers to properly make these assessments could lead to productivity churn and increased business cyber risk. London was home to five insurtech unicorns—the same number as in the rest of Europe combined. Across the pond in New York, another global center of finance and insurance, just three insurtech unicorns are in operation. But insurtech progress isn’t limited to the nation’s capital. Indeed, insurtechs are based in every one of the United Kingdom’s regions and nations—and we estimate that two-thirds of the insurtech workforce is located outside London, thanks to hybrid work. Three UK insurtech unicorns are headquartered outside London."

How to Use Social Media to Promote Your Blog

Social media sites have exploded onto the online publishing scene over the last couple of years and can generally be divided into two types of site:

  • Social Networking Sites – where the primary activity of the site is ‘connecting’ with others. Some of the most prominent sites in this space are Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube.
  • Social Bookmarking – where the primary activity is the finding and sharing of web content through different systems of ‘voting’ on sites. Examples of this type of site are Reddit, Digg and Mix (formerly StumbleUpon).

The above two classifications of social media sites are fairly broad – in reality there are many different sites appearing every week, many of which have elements of both of the above as well as other features. On Twitter for example, by simply posting links, images, and content with your account means you’ll have technically bookmarked them and if you also ‘like’ certain tweets, you can find and go back to them in the future. Pinterest functions similarly.

The point of this post is not to define social media but rather to look at it as an opportunity to find new readers for your blog. The reason that I include it in this series is that over the last few years I’ve seen numerous blogs virtually launch themselves via social media sites.

The reason for their success is that social media sites are among the largest sites on the web at present (the volume of traffic that they do is mind boggling) but that by their very nature they are about helping people to discover new parts of the web (particularly social bookmarking sites) – and as a result they are used by people actively seeking web content.

As a result I would argue that social media sites are a logical place to position yourself as a blogger. Let me say it again:

Social media sites have a lot of traffic and they are used by people to find content – why wouldn’t you position yourself on them?

Qualification: let me qualify that last statement before going any further by saying that social media is not THE answer to finding readers for your blog. It is not enough just to promote your content on social sites – but it is one element that can help you find a lot of new readers.

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