Newborn Blogger

I'm new to blogging and I am curious as to how I should get started. I have been told by some important people that I should blog and - as an novice blogger - I need a launchpad. If I could get some tips from experienced bloggers, I would appreciate it. I hope to allow myself time in the future to blog at a minimum of once-a-week. I look forward to establishing myself as a credible voice in the blogging community.

Thanks.