5 Blogging Questions with James Higginbotham of Agile Ministry

Here’s his answers:

1. Why (or how) did you start blogging?

I first started with a Blogger account, but the topic I chose didn’t have a built-in audience for it, unlike church or technology-related blogs. After leading a web/technology ministry for 5 years, I learned how to build and manage a team of volunteers. I noticed other leaders struggling with the same issues and wanted to help them by writing about what I learned. I also wanted to take a stand for the overworked volunteers that were burned out and leaving ministry (or even the
church). After reading some great church blogs from people such as Terry Storch and Tony Dye, I decided to jump in to this great community.

2. What subject do you post most about?

I speak on volunteer management and leadership, as well as simple project management techiques for ministry leaders. I have a passion to train the next generation of lay leaders and staff on how to create a healthier volunteer environment. Too many people get abused due to
poor management and being overworked. Often, they are overworked to the point where they may even leave the local church (I did). My experience of being a software architect and team leader, mixed with the passion for volunteering and volunteers, makes my blog a unique mix.

3. What are your favorite blog tools?

I use Dreamhost for my hosting service, which provides a one-click install of Wordpress. After creating a blog, I immediately setup Feedburner using the Wordpress Feedburner Plug-in. I use tools such as Technorati for watching incoming links so that I can post a thank you comment when someone links to one of my posts. I don’t always have time to do this, but I try to whenever time allows. I also use Google Analytics to track what my visitors want most, and it helps with incoming link monitoring as well.

4. How often do you post?

There are two primary schools of thought: post at least daily or post weekly. While some blogs benefit from posting daily, my time is limited so to put more thought into my posts. I generally post weekly. I usually have a series or theme at any given point, so that helps me to stay on schedule. I sometimes will post more if I have something on my heart that my readers would enjoy. I personally don’t like to monitor blogs that post daily, unless they consider their blog a
full-time venture.

5. What one piece of advice would you give for prospective blogging pastors?

Start your blog with the target audience and end in mind! Are you trying to reach the lost, your church members, or fellow pastors and staff? Once you figure this out, start blogging on topics of interest to you and them. It can take a few months to get into the rhythm, but as you start to get a few posts, you will find your voice. I found early on that by focusing on one thing, both you and the audience will be happier and learn more. Ask yourself, “If I were a busy [pastor,
staff member, lay leader], would I find this blog useful enough to give my time to reading this blog?” If the answer is ‘no’, then reconsider your blog’s purpose.

[ Read all the previous posts in the “Blogging 101 for Pastors” seres here. ]

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October 22, 2006 · Filed Under Church Marketing

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