Retail Store Blogging - to host or comment?

A recent article from the USA Today highlighted some of the many retail stores that are setting up their own blogs. The companies included were BlueFly, eHobbies and GourmetStation. Setting up your own blog is a good idea if you have a steady flow of new products or the occasional clearance item to promote ... and you do, don't you? If not, then you have a lot more to concern yourself with than a blog.

You don't have to have your own blog to take advantage of blog-mania. Use blog search engines to regularly check on your company name and topics in your industry. When a blog entry appears that relates to you or your industry, make a comment on the blog! Make a useful comment and leave a link to your website.