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Using An Avatar When Blogging

This post was most recently updated on March 26th, 2014

My AvatarI find that many bloggers get stuck when trying to come up with things to write about on a regular basis.  I’ve found that using an avatar when I’m blogging really helps a lot.  

 

An Avatar is simply a representation of your audience. 

 

It’s a profile of the person that is most likely to need your help.  When you put content on your blog that is specifically geared to solving this person’s problems, and answering all of her/his questions… you are really writing to your entire targeted audience.

 

Even if you don’t quite know who your audience is, it helps to create an avatar.  This helps you define who you are writing to.

 

I did created an avatar a long time ago and wanted to share this little secret nugget with you in this short video:  

 

 



So here’s how it works:

 

Start off by making a list.

What does this person need to know?

Is this person a new blogger? Intermediate?

How much money does he or she make?

What is their education level?

Where do they live?

Are they married or single?

What is the passion and goal of this person?

How much time, effort and money does this person spend assimilating information related to your niche?

What are the biggest obstacles they face that you can help them to overcome?

 

This is just a tiny sampling of what your profiling list could look, but I’m sure you get the picture.

 

Speaking of pictures, it’s actually a great idea to have an image of what your Avatar looks like.  This helps you visualize who you are writing to when developing blogging content.

 

Want to know what my Avatar looks like?

 

Well, after developing a very long extensive list of characteristics I wanted to embody in my Avatar, I went over to the free version “zwinky dot com” and created her.  I know from my own analytics that I attract more women then men.  I also know that the age group I deal with mostly is 30 to 50.  So here she is:

 

My Avatar

Notice the background.  

 

It is springtime and she just loves to work outdoors under a blue sky and beautiful flowering trees.  She is dressed  semi-conservatively but still relaxed.  Of course she has a dog because she is a loving, giving woman.  I did her make up and hair so she was not too done up, but more casual.  I compiled this image with a long list of specific needs and voila!  

 

She is my inspiration!  I have been using her for a long time when I write a post.

 

What’s important, here, is that you want to learn to write to one specific person… your Avatar.  When you write to a general audience, your message gets confused and rambling, often off point and irrelevant. 

 

When you write to this one person as if she were your only audience, you are writing effectively to everyone who reads your article, watches your video or views the images you’ve posted.

 

Now it’s your turn.

 

What is your inspiration?  Who do you write to when you are blogging?  Please share in the comment section below

Thanks and be blessed,

-Donna

 

Please note there is a Captcha at the comment section.  It’s a good idea to copy your comment so it won’t get lost.  Sorry for the inconvenience. 

 

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

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83 Responses to Using An Avatar When Blogging

  1. Mark
    Twitter:
    July 16, 2016 at 2:52 am #

    Thanks for helping simplify a very important process Dona!

    And once a specific profile of our ideal individual prospect
    is firmly established, it is definitely far easier to focus specifically on them.

    And the proven, and incredibly simple process you have shared for
    accomplishing that Donna, has definitely made doing so whole lot easier!

    It’s so much easier and likely, to accomplish a clearly defined goal!Thanks!
    Mark recently posted..Five Simple Things A Really Close Friendship Can Teach You About Successful Blogging!My Profile

  2. Kimsea Sok
    Twitter:
    April 18, 2015 at 2:28 am #

    Donna, thanks for sharing…!

    Actually, I know that using avatar image is benefit for blogging because it is the best way to build brand image and make readers recognize us.

    However, I don’t know that it is so important like what you mentioned about..! 🙂 LOL.

    Actually, I use my wedding photo for my avatar image because I love that photo. I want to keep a good memory with my wife.

    I know that may not good avatar image that build a good branding of my business, but I have no plan to change that.

    Thanks for sharing..! That was a lovely tips for me..! 🙂
    Kimsea Sok recently posted..How to Start Best Small Business With BloggingMy Profile

  3. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    December 29, 2013 at 4:16 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    This is an excellent idea that I think I will try. I’ve been using my best friend as my person I write to but she really is not interested in anything on the internet, so it’s a little hard to get her to relate.

    Creating your own person is genius.

    Have a Happy New Year. Monna
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Make 2014 Your Best Year – No ExcusesMy Profile

  4. Angela McCall
    Twitter:
    December 15, 2013 at 11:15 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    What a cool idea for an Avatar. 🙂

    You know way back when I was blogging in Livejournal, we have these avatars which they called “user pics” that we use each time we make a post. I’ll show you the examples here:

    Well, I’m no longer in livejournal but moved to insanejournal. But it’s the SAME caliber. I used to have a COMMUNITY that just promotes banners and avatars like these in exchange of linking back to my community, so other people can see it and expand the community as well. Those were the days when I used to do this just for FUN. It was fun creating all kinds of avatars and banners for our journal’s front page.

    Anyway…just stopping by quickly to say hello. Have a nice evening girl…

    Angela
    Angela McCall recently posted..Don’t Reinvent The WheelMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 16, 2013 at 4:23 pm #

      Hi Angela,

      Well that sounds like loads of fun! All that creativity! I find that since I’ve used my gal sometimes I even talk to her out loud lol!

      It’s like brainstorming with her in mind. Thanks for sharing your experience.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Partner, Pal and ProductMy Profile

  5. Willena Flewelling
    Twitter:
    December 15, 2013 at 5:19 am #

    Years ago my daughter wanted to be a writer. A very good one she would make too… she’s a great story writer. She would cut out pictures of people of all ages, and houses and pets, etc., and put them into a file folder. Then she would choose one that best fit a particular character, as a visual to help her write the story. I thought it was a great idea.

    But I never thought of doing it with my blog in mind. Great idea, Donna!

    Willena
    Willena Flewelling recently posted..No Cookie Cutter CopyMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 15, 2013 at 7:33 pm #

      Hi Willena,

      Sounds like your daughter created an Avatar before it was invented! It is a great help when writing our blogs.

      It is even better when we are writing to our customers and/or clients!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Partner, Pal and ProductMy Profile

  6. Rachel Lavern December 12, 2013 at 8:19 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I love the idea of having my avatar top of mind when writing and creating. actually used that writing technique a while ago, but since working with my current business, started changing my message and have not yet had my avatar designed although I do have her descriptors written down. It keeps us from getting distracted.

    Love your avatar 🙂
    Rachel Lavern recently posted..12 Days to Get Your Online Biz Booming: Day 1My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 13, 2013 at 11:29 am #

      Hi Rachel.

      You said it all…this helps us from being distracted! I’m glad you know the technique. We must have had the same “trainer” a while back lol.

      Glad you have those descriptions written down!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Awesome Bloggers of 2013My Profile

  7. Yorinda Wanner December 11, 2013 at 2:40 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    you are providing great suggestions for creating an ‘avatar’.

    Thanks for the link to actually create a picture of it!

    So far I have not really narrowed it down when it comes to writing a post.
    When I come across information which inspires me I end up sharing it in the hope that more people find it and it helps them in some way.

    Your post made me think of how I could apply what you are teaching.
    I love your questions!

    Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!
    Love and Light!
    Yorinda
    Yorinda Wanner recently posted..Unlimited Possibilities and ImaginationMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 13, 2013 at 11:26 am #

      Hi Yorinda,

      I usually do the same thing and write what I’m inspired to. But this little trick comes in handy sometimes to visualize your audience.

      Plus…whatever you are selling, it is good to go through the process of lists and visual avatar that represents who needs your product or services.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Awesome Bloggers of 2013My Profile

  8. nick catricala
    Twitter:
    December 9, 2013 at 6:53 pm #

    Donna,
    now I know what you were saying when you created many videos.. they are all lined up for your great blogs.. that is wonderful.

    Thanks you for sharing your doing about Avatars…. you are very diligent, I was told to do that more than once by professionals, well, I still did not do it 🙂

    Your little cartoon avatar is such a great idea, as you were saying how you create it, my mind went when you were a child and paying with dolls haha 🙂 Of course I did not know you then, but that what come up and you know what? That is why you probably are doing so great because some ideas and training come from back then.. correct?

    Donna, your great message could not be any clearer… now that I am shamed for not doing it YET… perhaps is time to get going and do something in that direction haha 🙂

    Thanks so much for adding yet another great lesson on what is best to do in this profession.

    _nickc
    nick catricala recently posted..Pay attention at the Message NOT at the MessengerMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 13, 2013 at 11:24 am #

      Hi Nick and Thank you!

      It is important to know who you are writing to. It helps with keeping on track with your blog posts.

      I learned this a while ago and implemented it right away. I found that It helped me personally. Plus it was fun! It directed me to fine tune what I was writing.

      Another thing this is so useful for is when you are selling something. You have to imagine the people who need your product. You can narrow it down to those that need the “ANSWER” you are providing to them.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Awesome Bloggers of 2013My Profile

  9. Shelley Alexander December 8, 2013 at 8:28 pm #

    Donna, I love the idea of creating a avatar and using her/him as your inspiration for your blog posts! I was thinking before in trying to reach a certain group of people with my message but pinpointing it down to this level of detail sounds much more effective. I am going to put this concept to work in my blog! Thanks for the great advice!
    Shelley Alexander recently posted..12 Tips for Staying Healthy and Stress-Free during the Holiday SeasonMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 10:06 pm #

      Hi Shelley,

      I’m sure glad you liked this idea. When trying to reach a certain group, it is always good to write a list. A long one, and keep checking it. You will come up with new ideas all the time.

      Then transfer all this into an avatar.

      Have fun!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  10. Kyle Nelson
    Twitter:
    December 8, 2013 at 6:29 pm #

    Donna this is a great way to get over that writers block. I have never heard of this way but i love the idea in order to get over the writers block that we all can go through sometimes. I am going to give it a try!
    Kyle Nelson recently posted..5 Productivity Tips for EntrepreneursMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 6:50 pm #

      Hi Kyle,

      When you go through all the steps of writing that list and thinking it through and then have some fun creating an avatar, YES…..it does help writer’s block!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  11. Sue Bride
    Twitter:
    December 8, 2013 at 6:13 pm #

    What a wonderful idea, Donna and I am going to try to visualize my main reading audience too. I write a lot of tutorial type posts and it may help me write more conversationally rather than talking “at” people.

    I often write posts in response to questions and on those occasions, I imagine myself talking to them, at the same time realizing that if they need to know something then others will too.
    Sue Bride recently posted..How To Avoid Breaching CopyrightMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 6:49 pm #

      Hi Sue,

      You tutorial posts are absolutely wonderful! And yes, it is always great when we get inspired by questions from our readers.

      You are on the right track. Maybe using this method could help a little. I learned this a long time ago and it helps me focus on my audience plus explain things in a more “friendly” way sometimes.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  12. Emmanuel
    Twitter:
    December 8, 2013 at 6:35 am #

    Knowing your target audience is indeed very paramount. I have learnt something new as well just as Ngah said.

    Thanks for this interesting piece.

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 1:34 pm #

      Hi Emmanuel,

      It is so important to keep in mind our target audience in all facets of business. From blogging to selling a product or service, we need to focus on who needs what we offer.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  13. Marty Diamond
    Twitter:
    December 8, 2013 at 2:28 am #

    Loved the video – fantastic to put voice and personality with your picture. I’ve used avatars in writing for clients but never thought to use one for writing for the blog. It’s a great idea – can absolutely see why/how it works – makes it so much easier if you feel like you’re writing to someone instead of an audience – makes the writing more interesting, personal and useful – because you’re actually having a conversation with a real/virtual person. Great idea!
    Marty Diamond recently posted..Let’s Talk About FormsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 1:33 pm #

      Hi Marty,

      It sure is great when you have your target audience in a form of an avatar. We always have our audience in our mind, but writing that list and getting into the process, you will notice that there may be more traits that you want to appeal to when writing.

      Then creating a representation of it makes it stand out in your mind and focus.

      Plus it is a heck of a lot of fun!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  14. Cherrie Bautista December 7, 2013 at 11:36 pm #

    When I read the title, I got the impression that the avatar is suppose to be my own avatar. Like my goals, purpose, inspiration, etc. in an image. As I was reading through the article, the avatar referred to was not me but my target audience, which makes sense, now that I’m thinking. It embodies the profile of the clients I want to attract and work with. Haven’t really thought about doing it this way, but having a visual representation is really cool. Thanks, Donna!
    Cherrie Bautista recently posted..Inspiring Kids to Have a More Meaningful ThanksgivingMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 1:30 pm #

      Hi Cherrie,

      Avatars are usually used as a representation of ourselves. But I learned this “trick” a long time ago.

      The more you write on your list who you want to attract and work with the better. Take a few days to do it! Then go over and have fun creating that avatar.

      When you look at it you will remember all the stuff on your list.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  15. Dr. Erica Goodstone
    Twitter:
    December 7, 2013 at 11:17 pm #

    Donna,

    I created a male avatar, thinking I was creating an avatar of my reader, but it turns out the avatar was my own profile. And then when I pasted the code onto my web page or post, the image that appeared was just the words Zwinky.com. Had enough technical issues this week, so I will try this again in a few days.

    Warmly,

    Erica
    Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..Your Heroes – How They Affect Your Relationships TodayMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 8, 2013 at 1:27 pm #

      Hi Erica,

      Sometimes that happens and when it does, I take a screen shot of it and then post it.

      Having issues too so I do understand. Glad you had fun with the Avatar!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  16. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    December 7, 2013 at 4:51 pm #

    What a wonderful idea Donna!! I love this post and got a lot out of your video to! Thanks for sharing.. Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..Wealth Without RestrictionsMy Profile

  17. Susan Neal December 6, 2013 at 2:13 pm #

    This is a lovely idea, Donna – but does this mean you write more for girls than boys?

    I always write my posts as if I’m talking to just one person, but I think I’d find it difficult to narrow a visual impression of my readers down to just one image – will have to have more of a think about this.

    Love your cartoon, by the way 🙂
    Susan Neal recently posted..How Keeping a Journal Transformed My LifeMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 7, 2013 at 3:22 pm #

      Hi Susan,

      Because of my stats, I have learned that I do get more women then men coming into my “fold” so I created a woman. Plus there is an actual person I have been coaching for a long time and she has given me so many ideas of the “pain” of blogging.

      That’s why my avatar is a she! I can relate more even when I know I am writing to the she and he!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  18. Arleen
    Twitter:
    December 6, 2013 at 12:16 pm #

    My inspiration for writing and trying to come up with ideas are the wonderful people that comment on my site. They keep me going. I don’t get the one liners. Great Post.

    I sell promotional products which is my main thought when writing a blog. I try to use analogies in everyday life that relate back to my business. If it relates to my business it will relate to anyone who has a business.
    Arleen recently posted..Rejuvenate Your Mind and Body to Get Back to BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 7, 2013 at 1:10 pm #

      Hi Arleen,

      I too get inspiration from my comments. Don’t you just love when someone asks a question or gives more juice to a blog post?

      I just love the way you blog because the analogies you use helps people relate.

      Keep it up, you are a fantastic blogger and businesswoman!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  19. Sue Price
    Twitter:
    December 6, 2013 at 2:28 am #

    Hi Donna

    I love this idea and had never heard of anyone doing it before. I love the cartoon idea.

    And I love your video too. Great to see you doing more these days.

    Sue
    Sue Price recently posted..Tony Robbins: 10 Day Challenge and ValuesMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 7, 2013 at 1:00 pm #

      Hi Sue,

      Seems like we are the video queens these days lol! I learned using an avatar a long time ago and wanted to share it with my readers.

      I’ve had some people ask me “who do I write to?” So voila…

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  20. Disha Sharma December 6, 2013 at 1:54 am #

    Hi Donna Avatar is a important part of Blogging industries. I noticed & read some important tips for Avatar ! Avatar must be clear & face must show clear in picture that Audiance can see. So this kind of great tips but thanks any way for sharing some unique point of avatar 🙂
    Disha Sharma recently posted..Packing Tips that Can Make a Trip Less HecticMy Profile

  21. Barbara Charles
    Twitter:
    December 5, 2013 at 9:51 pm #

    Well, I left a long message but then the captcha thing got me as I hit return and lost my message….anyway…

    Thanks for the link to creating an avatar. Love the idea of writing to your avatar who represents your niche. Very creative and novel idea.

    Love it.
    Thanks for the share.
    Barbara Charles recently posted..Change Is Inevitable -Growth Is Optional – Adjusting To Life ChangesMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 6, 2013 at 10:35 pm #

      Hey Barbara,

      Sorry about this captcha….it is there temporarily because someone hacked into this blog and is spamming me. It is a little quick fix for now until I straighten the whole thing out.

      Lesson Learned: It happened to me so many times before on other blogs so I got into the habit of copying my comment because I’ve lost many too.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  22. Jeanne Melanson
    Twitter:
    December 5, 2013 at 9:17 pm #

    Who do I write to? Oh goodness … I have quite a broad range of topics on my blog, so it depends on the topic and a lot of how I feel at the time. I often think of someone in particular when I write, whether it’s a personal friend or a family member, or merely someone I met off the street once. I write with them in mind, knowing that somewhere out there, is someone with similar interests that will be touched by my post. Thanks, Donna. You touch me. 😉
    Jeanne Melanson recently posted..How Nervous Illness Can Bring About Other Diseases, Anxiety, DepressionMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 6, 2013 at 10:33 pm #

      Hi Jeanne,

      I often do that myself. I have a client with a problem, or notice someone asks a question and boom…there’s a post!

      I am a bit visual, so I like looking at my avatar because she encompasses many needs that people have.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  23. Jeevan Jacob John
    Twitter:
    December 5, 2013 at 7:30 pm #

    Great idea, Donna 🙂

    It certainly helps to visualize our readers, and of course, images can be more powerful than words (or thoughts) themselves.

    I don’t particularly visualize my readers, I visualize myself. I talk to myself a lot, and I write as I talk (to myself, not to others). Of course, this means, I have to be careful not to write unnecessarily – keep it simple and easy to understand 😀

    Anyways, I appreciate you sharing this technique, Donna 🙂 Thank you!

  24. David Merrill 101
    Twitter:
    December 5, 2013 at 2:01 pm #

    This is a really important step to take when you’re doing business online, because our readers, visitors, even customers are so often a “faceless” crowd.

    When we take the time to really identify with them on a personal basis, we take our blogs and our internet marketing to a whole new level… a relationship level.

    Creating an Avatar as you suggest, Donna, is simple, yet an incredibly effective means for connecting with your otherwise faceless followers.
    David Merrill 101 recently posted..Sales Funnel Part 3 | OTO ProductsMy Profile

  25. silviu December 5, 2013 at 12:27 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    This is something unexpected. I understand this avatar like a way to visualize your target market. It is kind of psychological aid, a trick that helps you become more creative. Or maybe it is more than that.

    The only thing I didn’t understand is … what do you do with the avatar after you create it? You put it on the desktop? Print it and put it somewhere where you ca see it ?

    This post was very, very … pleasant. It created a kind of summer atmosphere and reminds me of that “Too cute” series.

    Have a wonderful day
    silviu recently posted..Blog Comment Ingredients: How to Add Flavor to Your Post?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 5, 2013 at 3:36 pm #

      Hi Silviu,

      I have kept her on my desktop for such a long time. It took a lot of work to define my target audience, well that is the one I wanted to work with.

      Then creating her, in the “Spring time” atmosphere where things are new and blossoming makes me think of people starting new things in their lives…that psychological suggestion.

      There is so much I put into this imagery that it does help me keep on point.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  26. marquita herald
    Twitter:
    December 4, 2013 at 10:04 pm #

    Great topic Donna. Authors use a similar technique when working with a target audience to come up with a reader profile, but it is really all the same thing with just different labels. I think without a reader in mind it becomes far too easy to stray from your core topic, so this is wonderful advice.

  27. Gladys
    Twitter:
    December 3, 2013 at 10:47 am #

    Hello Ms. Donna
    I hope you had a great Thanksgiving Day!

    This is great for all types of people. The Avatar can inspire and create a vision of who your audience will be. If it’s 100 people, that is great, but if we reach one person, that is what is all about.

    Visualization is a key in bringing the image from your mind to a reality.

    Thank you Donna for inspiring us and teaching us of all the great things out there.

    Gladys posted…Keys To A life of Success
    Gladys recently posted..Keys To A Life Of SuccessMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 4, 2013 at 2:24 pm #

      Hi Gladys,

      I have visualized a lot of people and this avatar represents them all. The funny thing is the good old law of attraction always steps in.

      So far so good, I have open minded, kind people that I work with.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  28. James December 3, 2013 at 6:46 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Wow, what an interesting post. I never knew one could create an avatar. Secondly from my designing point of view, I usually see the use of avatar as simply a graphical representation of artistic work, never knew it can be used as source of valid inspiration for content generation.

    I’ve learnt a valuable information this afternoon.

    Thanks Donna for sharing this tips, it will sure help me during my quest for a new blog post.
    James recently posted..7 proven steps to protect your wordpress website securityMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 1:25 pm #

      Hi James,

      Glad to know you were inspired by this post. Yes, many think of avatars as artistic work or just something to play with.

      But, used for focus, It sure does help!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  29. Lori Gosselin December 3, 2013 at 6:21 am #

    Hi Donna!
    This is a great idea! Especially when you are so clear about who your audience is – or is this what helps you to be clear. I’m so with you on the value of writing as if you are writing for one person. We are, essentially, one person at a time. It’s a clever idea to create an avatar to represent your audience, and no small task!

    I’ve found that after 3 years my blogging is evolving to an interesting place. An inspiration comes to me and I feel it’s important to get it out there. I don’t even know why but I’m going with the idea that it will be important to at least one person – that person! I trust my intuition more and more and though carefully considering what I publish, go with what comes to me if it feels right.

    Do you find your blogging style has evolved over time Donna?
    Lori
    Lori Gosselin recently posted..How Do You Get Into the Christmas Spirit?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 1:18 pm #

      Hi Lori,

      Trusting your intuition is the BEST thing of all! I usually do that a lot. I created this Avatar to keep focused when I write so I don’t get off on another tangent!

      Yes, I have found that my blogging style has evolved over time Lori. When I started, it was so confusing. But then, with all the education I’ve learned along the way and implemented it, I like to share it with others.

      Have a blessed week,

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  30. Nate Leung
    Twitter:
    December 3, 2013 at 12:14 am #

    Hey Donna!

    This is pretty darn cool. This post made me look at an avatar in a different light! I’ve always looked at avatars as a graphic thing but didn’t stop to think how much of an impact it had on who I’m writing for. This makes perfect sense! Thank you so much for sharing. Have a great week ahead Donna!
    Nate Leung recently posted..Online Tips: How to Stay FocusedMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 12:22 am #

      Hi Nate,

      I learned this little trick a long time ago and use it all the time. So I decided to share it!

      I’m working with lots of new bloggers and when I told them about this they were so excited.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  31. Corina Ramos
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 10:33 pm #

    I really love the idea of having an avatar to use as an inspiration as the person we should write for.

    My inspiration sounds like your avatar. While I was watching your video and you describe how you created her, I think I’d have a lot of the same features as you such as age, being a loving,caring person, and wanting to stay or work at home.

    Thanks for sharing this idea with us and for the site to do it on.

    P.S. I could use someone to use my face as their avatar to write about HTML too :).

    Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving! Have an awesome December Donna!
    Corina Ramos recently posted..A To-Do List For Personal DevelopmentMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 12:16 am #

      Hi Corina,

      Our description of who we want to attract is similar. I think it is because we are comfortable with that kind of person. It makes it so easy to work with people when we fine tune what we want to attract.

      That law of attraction sure goes hand in hand with this one!

      Yes, Thanksgiving was great and my December plans are going well.

      Same to you girl!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  32. Reginald December 2, 2013 at 9:59 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Thanks for writing this. Found this on the net 🙂

    When I write, I always try to be myself; asking myself what my readers want to read. Since blogging is free, why not share information right?

    Yes! It sounds naive but hey, the most important part is to help around.

    Appreciate the kind share!
    Reginald recently posted..How To Configure CloudFlare Page Rules?My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 12:08 am #

      Hi Reginald,

      I do too. Blogging is all about sharing our knowledge. We need to share the best content we can..and you do it so well.

      Sometimes I have to remind myself of who my target audience is and need to keep that in mind.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  33. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 9:16 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    You know what! I headed right over to Zwinky to have a look, and was stuck there for over half an hour, dressing my girl up…lol…what a fun and cool site 🙂

    Never heard of it before, or perhaps because I’ve never had any problem writing ever because that’s all I have to keep doing, whether it’s for my clients, when I follow a set pattern based on what they need, or whether it’s for my blog.

    I think when I write, my readers are always on my mind and I’ve always visualized them and thought of how they would take the post, what I write should help them, and mostly my posts are either inspired by what questions they’ve asked, emailed, messaged, or then what inspires me to write – again, for them.

    But this is surely an interesting way to have an avatar up right in-front of you for those who have a problem while writing, or those who need to write for someone and this ways, they get inspired.

    Thanks for sharing. Have a nice week, and a lovely month ahead 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..5 Best Ways to Find Love That LastsMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 10:23 pm #

      Hi Harleena,

      He He Zwinky can be fun! Glad you tried it out. As a professional writer, I’m sure you have no problem to bang out an article!

      But for the rest of bloggers, especially new ones, this is a great exercise to do so they can fine tune their audience.

      Even great to use as a marketing tool. “Who will buy my stuff?” Getting very fine tuned in that aspect works well to.

      Have a great week!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  34. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 9:06 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Seeing who you want to reach is the first step in reaching them. Such is the power of visualizing. We see our ideal life in mind then set about making that vision a reality through our actions.

    This is why your avatar approach is amazingly powerful; it is literally a predictor of your future, who you are attracting to your blog now, and in coming days.

    Thanks for sharing!
    Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Make Money Online: 4 Reasons Why Insomnia RocksMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 10:20 pm #

      Hi Ryan,

      I know my Avatar so well, she is like a student to me. I look at her sometimes and ponder “What do you need to know today that I can teach you?”

      An idea will pop into my head….well sometimes many lol. And there I go!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 1:07 pm #

      Yes Ryan,

      I did the visualizing, then the list, and fine tuned it all. Then I put it all to someone I can actually see.

      It is like visualization on steroids lol.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  35. Bren December 2, 2013 at 7:22 pm #

    Love the new hair color Donna! I love using avatars. I love the custom one I had for Titan and I on Pibbles & Me. Too cool, right? For me an avatar is almost a brand or logo. Thanks for sharing this!
    Bren recently posted..A Time to be ThankfulMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 3, 2013 at 1:05 pm #

      Thanks Bren!

      I like the color too but not the cut. Since I moved, I’m still searching for someone who knows how to cut it a little more stylish grrrr..

      Anyway…Avatars can be used as a brand or logo, but here, I created it so I could have her on my desktop and write to her.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  36. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 6:46 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    That’s very cool and I’m sure this can help some people who are a bit stuck when it comes to writing.

    I guess when I write I see my audience in my head, and since I’ve been doing this for ever, it’s seem to be working for me.

    I like how you went into the details and even giving her a pet. I’m not surprised it’s dog because you’re a dog person 🙂

    I can certainly see how creating a person as you did, can help many people, so thanks for sharing this, Donna 🙂
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..It’s Not What You Do But Whom You KnowMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 10:11 pm #

      Hi Sylviane,

      As a professional writer you don’t need a little trick like this! Yes, it is already in your head.

      You have been writing for such a long time, you have your own tricks of the trade that you graciously share with us on your blog. And I’ve learned so much from you!

      Of course I gave her a dog being a dog person. I would imagine yours with a cat on a leash he he he.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  37. sherman smith December 2, 2013 at 6:37 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    I have been seeing a lot of people using avatars lately on facebook but I never realize how much it can help target your audience.

    This really simplifies who you really want to target. When I first started blogging, everyone on the internet was talking about targeting a specific audience. If you’re a newbie, you won’t know quite who that is LOL.. This is where the avatar comes into play.

    If you can just target that one person, you will definitely boil down the confusion. I’m sure that a lot of people will be able to relate to the avatar which is the main point of it. The more people that can relate, the easier it is to focus on that specific audience! Thanks for sharing this great idea!

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 10:08 pm #

      Hi Sherman,

      Avatars are used for many things. When I learned how valuable creating one for my personal “audience” who I write for, I was hooked.

      Although it took lots of time writing that list and fine tuning my audience, it was all worth it.

      Then playing around with the details of the character gave me more food for thought. It went from just anyone to a specific human being.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  38. Kumar Gauraw
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 5:57 pm #

    Wow Donna! I didn’t think of it until now. This is a very interesting concept and may be, I should think about getting one for myself.

    However, I need to think about it, meditate over it and get the idea clear in my mind before I jump onto it. It’s a new thing and a fascinating one 🙂 Worth thinking about it…

    Thank you for making me think!

    Regards,
    Kumar
    Kumar Gauraw recently posted..12 Powerful And Easy Ways To Speed Up Your WordPress WebsiteMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 9:55 pm #

      Hi Kumar,

      This is something that does take time and meditation. When done correctly, you have to put a lot into it.

      There is a broad scope of readership, but out of it all, you have to fine tune it down to the most basic needs.

      It took me a week straight writing my list. I was very serious about this when I first learned about it.

      Now, She is like a best friend I know well and it makes it easier for me to write.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  39. William Butler
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 4:42 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Hope you’re well and that your week is off to a wonderful start.

    I like your “secret.” It reminds me of when I was broadcasting, that we knew who our CMA was (Central Market Area). My demographic was Becky, age 32, mother of 2, so when I broadcast, I imagined having a conversation with Becky in the broadcast booth.

    Many times, as in the post I created on loneliness, I have a specific person in mind. But it is so general as to allow any reader to take the place of objective observer.

    I like the avatar. Can I take that puppy for a walk? 🙂

    Kind Regards,
    Bill
    William Butler recently posted..10 Ways To Overcome Loneliness & Have A Happy LifeMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 4:53 pm #

      Hi Bill,

      Thanks for that share! It’s so important to have a particular person in mind when we are communicating or teaching something.

      Becky sure did help with that one!

      Yes, you can take that puppy for a walk anytime. lol

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  40. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2013 at 3:50 pm #

    Thank you for sharing this Donna. When you told me about this last week on my blog I felt so silly that I hadn’t done this myself. As I mentioned at that time, Frank Kern had shared this with us years ago but he wanted us to visualize our perfect prospect and I wasn’t very good at doing that myself.

    This little cartoon avatar is a fabulous idea so I appreciate you sharing this with us and the program you use. I’m putting this on my agenda for this week. Better late then never right!

    Thanks again and great message.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..How To Get Noticed In A Sea Of BloggersMy Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 3:53 pm #

      Hi Adrienne,

      Yes, I learned this one a long time ago from Frank Kern myself. I always have her up when I’m writing because I put so much time into her personality, where she is in life and where she wants to be, etc.

      I know her like she is a real person. So when I write, I look at her and think of what does she need to know that will push her to her next level.

      It’s also a lot of fun creating one!

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

  41. Ngah Benoit December 2, 2013 at 3:24 pm #

    I just learned something new today about using your avatar. I usually just try to visualize a particular category of people I want to target with my post and do it. After reading this post, I have definitely learned so many new things which I am going to implement and make a successful blogging career. Thanks for sharing
    Ngah Benoit recently posted..December Love, You are Your Santa Claus!My Profile

    • Donna.Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2013 at 4:41 pm #

      Hi Ngah,

      Using an Avatar makes it so much more easier that trying to visualize a particular category of people.

      Once you create that Avatar, all that you “visualize” write down on a list, keep writing, and you will be surprised how much more will come.

      Then create it .. take your time. So now it can be a quicker way to have that category in your mindset.

      -Donna
      Donna.Merrill recently posted..Using An Avatar When BloggingMy Profile

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