Most of us know what a “fluffer” is because we weren’t born yesterday. For those of you who don’t know I’ll give you the run-down:

Fluffer – A hired crew member of an adult film to keep the male participant “engaged” before he has access to the real thing.

I tried putting that in a nice way.

Why am I discussing that over here at HR Virtual Cafe? Good question.

For the past several months I have been taking a step back and looking at the things I’ve got in my hand (ahem) and really trying to cut out those things that (a) are robbing my time (b) not part of my strategic approach to where I want to go (c) not making me money (d) getting in the way of my work and life and I’m trying to prioritize.

That being said, I’ve often wondered if my writing and my blog are somewhat looked at as a “fluffer” to the real pros out there who are writing great content and changing the world. Or, am I only taking up space and wasting my time.

My hope is that I’m providing somewhat great (and entertaining) content AND steering folks over to the other bloggers and pros out there who are doing an extraordinary job!

Here are a few things to consider when thinking “You may just be a Fluffer” in the blogging world:

• Are you writing consistently? Some say the rule of thumb is 2-3 times per week – others say “Only write when you feel inspired or have something great to say.”

• Are you providing real-life problem solving to your readers / potential readers questions and dilemmas? (Dwane Lay has caused me to rethink my blogging strategy)

• Are you staying up-to-date with current and real life issues in your industry that should be addressed? It’s important to always be learning. There are great bloggers and authors out there who I continue to learn from every day. Face it, you don’t know everything and hearing other people’s experience and perspective is a great learning experience.

• Are you simply writing to entertain or to change the world? We all need a little distraction and entertainment too!

• Are folks coming back for more of you? Are you constantly “raising the bar” (pun intended) with your posts or are you stuck in a rut of nothing to say? If you are, take time away from your writing and work – take a walk, read a book or another blog and gain a new perspective. That usually helps. If not – give it up.

If you’re writing a blog simply because some guru told you that you needed to start a blog and you’re not passionate about what you do – it may be a good time to rethink your strategy. Not everyone should blog.

There was a time when I was hearing from every “Tom, Dick and Harry” out there that everyone needed to have a blog. We’ve seen this over and over but if it doesn’t align with your strategy, you don’t have a knack for writing, the end doesn’t justify the means, then maybe you should find something that you are better at – and get to it!

One day you may visit this blog and find “page not found” – but for now, I’m fluffing for the smart guys!

Here’s a great new list for you – just put out by Laurie Ruettiman “HRBN 40 under 40” – check it.