When I receive a half-hearted guest blog from an author for Book Addict, I get extremely frustrated.

Typically, our guests are booked at least two months in advance – with a few exceptions. Authors have plenty of time to write up something fun and fresh for our audience well before their blog date – and submit it on time.

I won’t say that these authors are lazy – though on bad days the thought does cross my mind. (Hey, I’m human!) With virtual book tours, Facebook chats and other social media marketing ventures clamoring for an author’s attention, some are simply too overbooked to do a good job at anything they do for marketing.

However, this is no excuse for the growing problems with guest blogs sent to book bloggers. There are some common mistakes I see from newbie and seasoned authors alike, on my blog as well as others. The guest posts are:

• Too short. Do you really think you can create an interesting, must-read piece in two paragraphs, three sentences each?
• Too long. Guest blogs are not novels. Stick to 1,500 words or less, unless your blog host gives you a word count.
• An extended synopsis. Readers don’t want something they can easily find on your book jacket. Don’t try to dress up your synopsis, either, by writing one or two sentences to make it look like you actually did some original work. Readers – and blog editors – see right through that.
• A sales pitch. People tune out sales pitches on radio, TV and the Internet. Do you really think they will want to read when they see a hard sell in your post? I certainly don’t – and I refuse to post them at Book Addict. If anything this tactic will push some readers away from your book. It will also put you on the blacklist with bloggers.
• Poorly crafted. Misspellings, poorly-conceived ideas, random punctuation, ramblings and other problems abound in some posts. At least take the time to read it a second time before you send – or ask someone else to do it for you – especially if you are taking medication for an illness at the time. (Yes, I have had authors (and publicists) send me items while they are recovering from surgery. DON’T DO IT.)
• Unbefitting the blog. I read some very interesting posts that are complete misfits for certain blogs. Research the blog to get some ideas of correct content. Run your ideas by the blog host if you are uncertain what fits.
• Too personal. Readers love personal posts, but sometimes authors can over-share. Be sure your personal topic fits your audience at a particular blog, or ask the blog host if the topic would appeal.
• Not publicized by authors. Blogs always publicize to their readers, but it is always a good idea to promote your posts on your forums, chats, social networks and listservs. Your fans are devoted and will likely stop by – especially if you offer a prize for commenting.
• Late. There is nothing worse than an author sending a guest blog the day it is to post. Like many bloggers, I have a day job. I cannot just drop everything to post it – though my guilty conscious will valiantly get me to try. You should send your posts at least one week in advance – two if at all possible. Better yet, ask your host for a deadline. This not only helps your blog host, but you can easily rewrite it if the topic doesn’t fit the blog.

Guest blogging is a terrific way to connect with fans and meet new readers on blogs. Avoid these common mistakes to earn a solid reputation with bloggers, who will be more likely to invite you back.

Tony Eldridge, host of the blog Marketing Tips for Authors, was kind enough to host me today at his blog.

Get the dish on topics to avoid during guest blogs – or better ways to approach them – in "Guest Blogging Topics to Avoid." Be sure to leave a comment and retweet.

Thanks!