merkal2005: Hi Saedel, please tell us about yourself. Which planet are you from?

Saedel: I'm originally from the Philippines, and worked there as a Programmer. I'm now living in NJ, USA teaching Computer subject and Math in a Catholic Elementary School. On the side, I'm a tech person in our community here.


merkal2005: What does Saedel mean? How did you name your blog?

Saedel: My name Saedel is combination of my father’s (Delfin) and mother’s (Susan) name. I share personal experience with other people to give tips, opinions and observations. Thus, giving the readers a tour of my planet.


merkal2005: How did you discover blogging?

Saedel: I discovered blogging several years ago (2002), but it was more of an online diary (xanga) and I didn't fully understand the concept of monetization and internet marketing. I grasped blog's potential this year (2007), hoping to share personal experiences and make a little money on the side.


merkal2005: What do you do to increase your blog's traffic?

Saedel: Initially, I self-promoted to DIGG, Reddit, and other sites. But after I learned blog ethics, I stopped doing it, and only submit post to BloggingZoom - a Digg-like post submission dedicated for bloggers. I also comment on other blogs and email relevant articles to some friends. I also read SEO tips and apply it to my site.


merkal2005: What are your 2008 goals? Do you have any suggestions to new bloggers?

Saedel: For 2008, one of my goal is to gain more readership and increase traffic. I also plan on writing paid reviews on a regular basis. My suggestion to new bloggers is to be patient, take baby steps because most of the things can't be accomplished overnight. Write good and useful content if you plan to have a long term monetization plan.