If your blog disappeared tomorrow, would anyone notice? If your answer is no, then check out this article sharing eight simple yet powerful tips for better blog writing by Saads Abrahams from media update.
Writing a blog is an art; your writing needs to be catchy yet informative and unique but simple. Whether you are writing for a company, a publication, or your own personal blog, the right approach can turn casual visitors into loyal readers.
So, if you are ready to create blog content that attracts readers like a bear to honey, then check out these tips that will transform your work.
1. Make Your Headlines Irresistible
Your headline is what will make people click on your blog post. A great headline isn't one that is cryptic or clickbaity; it is one that clearly communicates what the reader will get out of your blog post.
Your title is your first impression so make sure to keep it:
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clear
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concise, and
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to the point.
A good thing to keep in mind when writing your blog post headline is that it should promise to answer your readers' questions.
2. Start with a Hook
Your introduction needs to grab your reader's attention immediately — open with a shocking fact, a question, a bold statement, or even a relatable confession, something that stops your reader in their tracks.
A good introduction does these three things quickly:
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it outlines the theme of the blog post
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it explains what the reader will be able to achieve, accomplish, or learn from the post, and
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it indicates why the reader should trust the author/blogger.
Think of your hook as your blog post's handshake: firm, confident and intriguing.
3. Write for the Reader, Not for Yourself
When writing, it is easy to get into the habit of just pushing out what you want to say (and yes, your opinion is important), but you need to remember that you are writing for your reader.
Always ask yourself, what does your reader want to learn, feel, or do after your post?
4. Keep It Scannable
Digital text is read differently from print text. Readers tend to scan and skim webpage copy rather than sit and read it word for word. That is why you should make use of the following:
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Remove any unnecessary words. Compact writing reduces verbal fat and promotes more concentrated reading.
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Vary the lengths of sentences and paragraphs to provide visual interest. Similarly sized bits of text cause visual fatigue in the reader, increasing the likelihood of shallow scanning.
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Use formatting wisely. Bold or italicise words to highlight the most important topics. Use bullet points and numbered lists to help readers organise concepts.
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Leave some spacing. Cluttered pages also cause concentration fatigue. Leave a blank space around your text to highlight your words.
5. Use Storytelling
People remember stories over stats — so, make sure your blog post tells a compelling story to your readers. A personal anecdote or a fictional scenario can breathe life into your post, as well as help build a memorable connection with your audience.
6. Add Value With Every Post
If you are publishing just to push out content or to hit that deadline, you are doing a disservice to your blog. Always make sure your content adds value to your readers; ask yourself, "What will someone get out of reading this post?"
Your content should either:
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inspire
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inform, or
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entertain.
7. Use Visuals Strategically
Visual content is processed much faster compared to text-based content. So be sure to add images, infographics, or videos to your blog post when and where you can.
If you can add in your own original images to your posts, that would help add a touch of personalisation to your content. Remember that visuals also assist in boosting your SEO and engagement!
8. Edit Ruthlessly
Finally, and most importantly, edit your work — ruthlessly. Take out anything that isn't adding value to your work, shorten any long-winded sentences and read your work out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or grammar mistakes.
Writing a great blog post isn't about being perfect — it's about being clear, relevant and human. The more you do these, the more you'll feel your voice and your value. And remember: blogging is a conversation. So, talk like a human, write with purpose and hit publish.
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*Image courtesy of Canva