The weblog went in a decade from little-known online diary to powerful platform for self-publishing, self-expression to potential newsmedia category killer. Whether you know it or not, bloggers probably are having an impact on your work and your organization. In this workshop, learn to:

Pitch bloggers and publicize your work online

Evaluate when, whether, and how to set up your own blog (for free or close to it!)

Identify the elements of an effective blog

Write clearly and for the largest audiences online

Connect and network to build your blog audience

You probably already know something about the upfront investment required to pitch journalists. Now, learn to use this Web 2.0 tool to engage current audiences as well as cultivate new ones. It's fun!

Trainer: Andrew Huff is editor and publisher of Gapers Block, a Chicago-centric web publication he co-founded in 2003. The site has a volunteer staff of around 75, and has received accolades ranging from top news-reporting blog in Chicago Magazine's recent "Best Chicago Websites" feature to being named one of the best city blogs in Forbes.com's "Best of the Web."

In addition to Gapers Block, Huff has been blogging since 2001, and is now a full-time professional blogger after 10 years in public relations. Blogging clients have included American Express, Starwood Hotels, A&E television and Kenneth Cole. Huff lives in West Rogers Park with his wife and two cats

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