2007 Lens of the Year! (and what you can learn)

Howdy doodie, lensmasters!

In 2007, thousands of lensmasters created thousands of new lenses on thousands of new topics. From newbies to dedicated veterans, our Angels sorted through the best of the best that were developed last year and nominated 11 of their favorites to be in the running for 2007’s Lens of the Year.

Who was nominated, and who won the top honors? You can visit http://best.lens.ever.com to find out.

Winning contests is always a fun honor, but what makes a winner? Angels and top lensmasters know that these nominees all contribute a variety of traits to their lenses and Squidoo that everyone can appreciate.

1. They are passionate about their topic
Passion, passion, passion. It’s what oozes out of each of our top lenses. Our best lensmasters love their topics, and love to talk about them, share tips, research new resources, and teach others. When you’re passionate about your topic, you’re rarely at a lack for new ideas and engaging copy.

2. The lenses are in “learning order”
In grade school we learn the basics, and as we grow we learn the finer details. On our best lenses, lensmasters start out with an introduction to their topic that will have even the most novice reader saying, “Oh, cool! I get it!” Often left out, the introduction IS a very important component of your lens. Start with the basics, and build up on them.

3. They add new information often
Even static topics can be rejuvenated by adding new information you discover online, new research to back up old thoughts, or new theories that creative people are applying. Someone who loves Elvis will continue to seek out new information about him, even though Elvis himself is no longer around (or is he?) That new information could come from you!

4. They use appropriate money makers
Many new users test the water by adding money making modules. Our top lensmasters have monetization down to a science. They know exactly how to pull the most relevant products from our dozens of cash producing gadgets and create a great mix that keeps the reader guessing. A visitor may not need another Elvis t-shirt, but tempt them with a great deal on airfare to Graceland, and you have a winner.

5. They share and share alike
Top lensmasters know they can’t do it alone, and that when they share, everyone wins. How and what can you do to share your knowledge? Link to relevant lenses and websites. Join groups and participate on the headquarters. Us digg, del.icio.us, stumble, and other social networks. Direct visitors to websites where they can buy what they really want. You may not make money off every single click-out, but the reputation you’ll build will be priceless.

You many also notice that most of our nominees are active forum members and prolific lensmasters. This is no coincidence. In all walks of life, success breeds success. By hanging out with peers at the SquidU forum and building, building, building, you too will learn the hottest tips for developing the best Squidoo lenses out there.

What else are we learning from our top lensmasters?

1. It’s ok to be a little long
While some lenses are best split up, these lensmasters have perfected the balance of quantity with quality, and leave the door wide open for additional lenses to be built.

2. They love visuals
Great original photography is coveted eye candy. There are thousands of resources for getting free and low-cost photos that will add a mint to your lens. Or, try your hand at the shutter. (And remember those credits!)

3. Update and publish often
Readers are more likely to return to websites they know are frequently updated. With SquidCasts it has never been easier to keep your fans informed.

This entry was posted on Thursday, February 7th, 2008 at 11:45 pm and is filed under SquidU Review. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.