IBM is encouraging its 320,000 employees to start blogging and have even written up a policy for them. If you want to see a good Corporate Blogging Policy, here is a an example. It is based on common sense, good etiquette, and giving back to the community. It’s about being transparent, honest, fair, respectful, and not infringing on anybody’s copyright or breaking confidentiality.

So if you have staff who want to start blogging on behalf of your company or who may end up, inadvertently or not, representing your company, a blogging policy is good protection.

I particularly like these bits from IBM’s Corporate Blogging Policy:

Be who you are
Some bloggers work anonymously, using pseudonyms or false screen names. IBM discourages that in blogs, wikis and other forms of online participation that relate to IBM, our business or issues with which the company is engaged. We believe in transparency and honesty. If you are blogging about your work for IBM, we encourage you to use your real name, be clear who you are, and identify that you work for IBM. Nothing gains you notice in the “blogosphere� more than honesty – or dishonesty. If you have a vested interest in something you are discussing, be the first to point it out. But also be smart about protecting yourself and your privacy. What you publish will be around for a long time, so consider the content carefully and also be judicious in disclosing personal details.

Speak in the first person
Use your own voice: bring your own personality to the forefront; say what is on your mind.

Respect your audience and your coworkers
Remember that IBM is a global organization whose employees and clients reflect a diverse set of customs, values and points of view. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, but do so respectfully. This includes not only the obvious (no ethnic slurs, personal insults, obscenity, etc.) but also proper consideration of privacy and of topics that may be considered objectionable or inflammatory – such as politics and religion. If your blog is hosted on an IBM owned property, avoid these topics and focus on subjects that are business-related. If your blog is self-hosted, use your best judgment and be sure to make it clear that the views and opinions expressed are yours alone and do not represent the official views of IBM.