is there a right and wrong way of bleeding the system
Yes most definitely.
Do the front brakes first - with the front jacked up, bleed the front circuit (nipple closest too you) on both sides first and then do the mixed circuit (nipples furthest away) again on both sides.
With the car then on the ground do the rears - as a note to anyone replacing the rear pads - when the pistons are screwed back, the lines on the brake pad face of the piston should be facing upward, so that all the air can be bled out.
I would also advise brakes to be bled every time pads are changed - air tends to get in, not always but some times.
No real need to load the rear, just bleed them and you will be alright.
Oh .... and be careful you don't shear the bleed screws, use heat if necessary and clean the threads thoroughly.
Hope this helps.