Over the last few years I've seen friends who blog (admittedly the subject matter being close to that of their work) being encouraged by their managers and boss

Over the last few years I've seen friends who blog (admittedly the subject matter being close to that of their work) being encouraged by their managers and bosses to do so - sometimes scheduling days into their working week just to blog. Whilst their regular 'work' may need to be covered, often the blog brings opportunities for guest posts on other sites and invitations to conference panels or speaking. This is turn is bringing in enough new business to justify and encourage their 'online celebrity'.