Do business bloggers suffer from Rodney Dangerfield syndrome? Getting “No respect, no respect at all?”

Yes, according a recent survey of ten well-read bloggers by the Ten Company and Gotham Research Group.

These bloggers working for top tier national, regional and trade outlets said they believe that chief executives don’t take them seriously enough. They said there is a lack of appreciation for their power and potential influence. They also said they feel that companies are slow to respond and public relations staff are too controlling.

As a veteran journalist, I can tell you this is not new.  It’s long been an issue for reporters. It is probably a challenge that dates back to the ancient scribes. Sometimes it’s because of the media outlet for which they work. Sometimes it’s because the reporter lacks creditability or respect. Sometimes it’s because companies simply don’t recognize the importance or potential of good media relations.

Based on the survey, the Ten Company and Gotham Research Group urge companies to be more open and responsive to bloggers. Given the growing popularity of blogs and the large number of readers, the bloggers are correct. Companies should to take bloggers seriously.

At the same time, companies should have sensible media policies that include ways to evaluate and handle requests for interviews and access. This should include honesty and openness. Doing otherwise can seriously damage a company’s reputation in the long run.

The onus is on the blogger, as it is on the traditional journalist, to establish credibility and a reputation for accuracy and fairness. This doesn’t mean not taking a stand on an issue or having an opinion, but it does mean giving the reader enough information so that they can evaluate and make their own judgment.

A distinction should be made between business news bloggers and those blogging for other purposes. Not everyone wants or needs to have access to company executives. It will be helpful in the long run if you know why you are blogging and what you want to accomplish.

If you are having a hard time getting started or keeping on track, or if you want to bolster your blog, join the “90-day Blog Challenge” and commit to blogging at least once a week starting in April and running through June. Send me an email or leave a comment.