Columbia University published the results of its recent survey of 1,202 journalists and producers working at newspapers, magazines, online publications, wire services, TV and radio outlets across the U.S.

The study revealed that 79% of journalists and producers use blogs regularly or daily for their reporting duties.

Journalists and producers use blogs for:

• Finding story ideas 53% of the time,

• Researching and referencing facts 43% of the time and

• Finding sources and guests 36%.

In addition…

68% of journalists and producers believe blogs are becoming a more powerful tool for corporations and businesses seeking to inform consumers.

Consumers, buyers, decision-makers and the media all depend on blogs. Are you blogging yet?

We would love to hear from you. What are your thoughts on the importance of blogs? Why have you started blogging? Or why haven’t you started…what’s stopped you from blogging?

If you are a talented, enlightened leader helping people and businesses solve problems, make decisions, create and live from Love and Light in the highest good for all…we want you to click here to apply to be a blogger in the Keyboard Culture Blog Community.

• Another 55% said bloggers are important to the future of American journalism

• 74% said citizen journalism will play a vital role (blogging is the most used type of citizen journalism)

Consumers are also taking bloggers' words before they buy.

In a MORI survey in November 2006:

• 33% of respondents said they decided not to buy a product after reading a negative blog post

• 52% said they were persuaded to buy after reading a positive review on a blog

How about joining the blogsphere as the Expert in your field? You can add to the conversation and could have thousands of readers and supporters for you and your message.

Do you think your message could help others? If so, consider applying to become a Keyboard Culture Blog Community Expert.

Blessings of Love and Light,

Lori Prokop