The below list of best practices is based on what nonprofit blogs do right and what tactics they use to grab readers attention in the ever growing blogosphere.

• The use of pictures, videos and audio files create an interactive and lively space.

• A conversational writing tone is used to encourage dialogue.

• Blogs that link to other relevant blogs and Web sites seem to offer a more community-oriented site.

• The frequent use of an organizational logo and the inclusion of an about page on a blog, which includes a brief description of the organization establishes brand recognition.

• Clearly indicating a comment policy on the site and moderating comments especially on sites dealing with sensitive issues maintain credibility, accountability, and steer a blog in clear direction. This has proved to be successful for Girls For A Change and Easter Seals Camp ASCCA.

• Including subscription services to your blog helps keep people updated and informed of what is going on at the organization.

• The best blogs frequently update and post to the site. This keeps information fresh and interesting.

• Nonprofit blogs that are open to a fervent discussion and debate are lucrative, such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Center for Global Development.

• Keep it simple and try not to take on more than the organization can handle. Nonprofit blogs that are simple and focused on a particular topic are easier to manage and create a niche of like-minded readers and constituents.