NRN guide to blogging

A blog is an online article written from the author’s perspective on a topical issue or one specifically relevant to newly registered nurses (NRNs). It’s usually around 300-500 words.

The blog should be the original work of the contributor.

Before you start:

1. The first rule is to be absolutely clear about the point of your article. If you’re planning one about an overseas placement, for example, is your aim to be purely descriptive – this is how they nurse in Ghana – or do you want to explain how you changed your practice as a result? A bit of both perhaps. Either way, make sure you know the key messages you want your reader to take away.
2. Know your audience. Who are you trying to reach? Is it fellow NRNs? Final year students? Mental health nurses? Nurses at all levels across all specialties?

• Author’s full names and job title.
• An engaging title that succinctly summarises your blog.
• Short sentences and paragraphs.
• An authentic voice – yours. Write in the first person, not as part of a group.
• A punchy introduction that pricks the reader’s interest immediately.
• An informal style.
• A point. Have something to say and don’t rant aimlessly.
• Context – something about you.
• Where do you work? Why does this topic interest you?
• A beginning, a middle and an end – take your reader on a journey.
• A supporting image where possible.

• Being boring, waffling or stating the obvious.
• Blogs should not contain content that could be considered offensive, abusive, derogatory or potentially defamatory.
• Being too clever or patronising.
• Don’t write too generally. Remember your audience and write in a way that speaks to and engages them.
• Long sentences and long words, particularly management speak and jargon.
• Too many links – one is ideal.
• References – you’re not writing for an academic audience.
• Over-using exclamation marks!!!!

• Start blogging!
• Email your blog posts, or any ideas you want to discuss, to the RCN’s marketing department: marketing@rcn.org.uk
• Don’t forget to include a two sentence biography about your work and a photo.
• We’ll provide you with feedback and upload the finished article once approved.
• Your approved blog post will be published on our NRN blogs page. Please share the link with your NRN colleagues via your social media channels.