A blog is an online discussion where entries are made in journal style and displayed in real time. Individuals respond to questions and comments posted on the blog, generating a live discussion.

The term comes from “web log,” which became “we blog,” and then “blog” when the “we” was dropped.

Why should I participate in J-Biz Blogs?
To engage in a J-Biz online discussion blog is to engage in a discussion with fellow jewelers across the country. The J-Biz blogs offer the opportunity to learn from your peers, gain knowledge and exchange ideas. You control the content, comments, and topics discussed – those issues that are most important to you as an independent retail jeweler. In doing so, Jewelers of America -- through its J-Biz educational initiative -- will listen to what you need and develop dynamic learning modules to connect you to the most relevant business building tools for success in the 21st century.

How Do I “Blog”?
Contributing to the blog is simple.  First time commentors: When you see a topic you would like to discuss, click on the title or question.  Then click on the “Subscribe to Blog” link. Fill out the form with your email, user name, and password.

When you click finish, you will be taken back to the main “comment page” – click on “Add Blog Comment”….and start commenting.

You can change your typeface, bold, underline, insert a picture, or web link (but you need to know the web address, i.e. http://www.jewelers.org). Remember to hit "finish" so your comment posts to the blog comment page. For long comments (more than 200 words), it is best to type it in Microsoft Word and then copy and paste it into the commenting box.

What is “Subscribe to Blog”? Do I have to subscribe?

By subscribing to the blog, you are simply creating a user name and password – to make future commenting faster for you. Each comment is attributed to your user name, which helps limit false or obscene commenting. Providing your email allows J-Biz to notify you of new blog comments. Jewelers of America and J-Biz will keep your email private.

 Blog Guidelines:

• All comments should be written with civility and respect. As a representative of the jewelry industry, be courteous to your peers in this online forum.
• When presenting your opinions, comments, criticisms – maintain a professional tone and voice.
• Try to keep your comments to about 200 words. This isn’t an absolute — sometimes we have a lot to say and need to say it — but it’s a good target. As a general rule, if you have to scroll to read a comment, it might be too long. You know that guy who talks and talks and never lets you respond? Don’t be that person.
• Do not post material that is unlawful, abusive, defamatory, invasive of another's privacy, or obscene to a reasonable person. Offensive or questionable comments will be removed by JA.
• Read your comment again before you make it permanent. We all make mistakes, but spelling, punctuation and grammar are signs of courtesy to the reader.
• When using or quoting material from another website or publication, be sure to reference it by citing the to the original web address (if possible) and using quotation marks.
  

How will I know if someone has commented to a topic?
When a new comment is made on one of the topics, you have the option to receive an e-mail alert. When you subscribe to the J-Biz online blog, you choose how often you would like to be notified: immediately, daily, or not at all.