I'm reading a book called Blog Marketing, by Jeremy Wright, and it's been a very good read and has really helped me think about what I see out in the blogosphere.
The book is aimed really at businesspeople (or association executives, ha!) who are considering the blog as it relates to their particular organization. Targeting the book at this audience makes him be really clear about what a blog is and what types of blogs--and bloggers--you see out there. So I would really recommend this book to someone who's asking what's up with blogs (assuming they really want to know).
Here's a summary of the blogging personality types:
The Barber. The barber is a wise person whom people look to for serious reflection and to find a correct conclusion on an issue. "The barber serves as a pundit or analyst or perhaps an adviser."
The Blacksmith. Like the barber except he/she works inside a company and hammers "industry and opinion through the company forge.
The Bridge. "A bridge blogger is a person who makes connections, influences, and helps bring people together."
The Window. "A window blogger is similar to a blacksmith blogger in that he typically works inside a company and uses his experience to frame his opinions." Difference between the two is that the window blogger talks about stuff inside and outside the organization.
The Signpost. Doesn't share opinions, just interesting tidbits.
The Pub. Brings in people from all over to talk through an issue in-depth. Very community-oriented.
The Newspaper. Sticks to the facts.
The chapter breaks these down in very great detail and talks about how people mix it up.
