With the new year comes a fresh start for the L&D Blog. In 2012 we were joined by dozens of guests sharing their big ideas, tips and tricks, and proven best practices. This year, that list will only continue to expand. At issue is that many community members I have spoken to don't think they have the time or have "what it takes" to write for the blog. So with that, I think it is time to dispel a few myths about the blog and where you fit into the community.

Myth 1: I've never blogged/published before, so I probably won't be considered.

The L&D Blog is a great way to gain exposure for yourself as a contributor to the learning field. The fact that you've never blogged or been published doesn't necessarily indicate that you don't have good ideas! Guest blogging here is a great inroad if you’d like to do more writing or contribute to more publications in the future.

Myth 2: I need to have Pulitzer-winning writing skills to write blog posts.

While writing skill is definitely important, it isn't everything. Information is the coin of this particular realm, and if you have good ideas and a willingness to share them with your peers, you are already off to a great start. We can help you with the word-smithing part.

Myth 3: I don't have time to post to a blog. I'm busy!

Most posts on this blog are extremely short and concise. The idea is not to write a book or to perform a time-intensive brain dump. Usually blog posts from guests run between 300 to 600 words. They can include graphics or charts, but this is not necessary.

Myth 4: To get people to listen, I need to sound like a scholar, and that's just not me.

Whether you are an actual scholar or a practitioner who "fell" into the field, your posts work best when they get people talking and sharing in the comments. So whatever your point of view, a conversational tone encourages this kind of interactivity. Write as though you were speaking to a colleague, because ultimately, you might be!

Myth 5: The blog belongs to someone else. I've been thinking about topics, but I'm sure "someone else" will cover them.

This blog belongs to L&D practitioners of all stripes. Whether you are an expert blogger looking to expand your reach, or a new practitioner hoping to share insights to get your feet wet, all are welcome. Think of participating as a step forward in your professional development, because it is! And no one can really lead that charge better than you can.

If you have ideas for a series of blog posts or just want to contribute one or two, let me know. I look forward to working with you in 2013!