You need to write a blog post. But, how do you start?
Better yet, how do you finish? There are many specific ways to proceed, but
here’s a quick 6-point checklist, to make sure you’re blog post has what it
takes to succeed.
First, be original. If you think about it, you’ll
usually be able to come up with a unique thought or angle to talk about. It
might help to do some research into your subject, to find out what people
aren’t talking about. Even if your subject is well-worn, finding an original
angle can make an old idea seem new to the reader.
Second, create an attention-getting headline. This is
the factor that gets your reader “through the door”, so to speak. It helps if
the headline communicates that the blog post is original and useful. The
originality attracts the eyes. Communicating usefulness attracts the mind. You
also want the headline to be specific to what the blog post is addressing. If
it seems too general, the reader won’t connect their own interests to the post.
The headline should also give a sense of urgency. You want the reader to “click
now”. If it seems like something they can come back to, they might leave, and
just forget about it.
Third, provide a solution to a problem. Most of your
readers will be there for a certain reason. Connect that reason to your blog
post. Once that connection is made, offer proof that the blog post’s subject
solves the problem. This could come in the form of an example. Even if there’s
not a “problem”, per se, that the post addresses, there should be a takeaway
for the reader articulated in the post.
Fourth, give actionable information. Whatever
information is provided by your blog post, it shouldn’t be too vague. Describe
and action the reader can perform. Tell them how to use the information that’s
provided. These things might not be obvious to the reader, so make sure it is
communicated clearly.
Fifth, tell a story. Narratives will always resonate
with humans. Stories have evolved as the favored way in which we transmit
knowledge. Just keep in mind that it’s not enough to tell a story. You have to
tell an interesting story. Telling a boring story is just as bad as spitting
out a stream of data. For an engaging story, focus on the human element. People
love people. So, introduce a character, give them a problem, then show the
subject of your blog post solving that problem.
Sixth, tell them what to do. A good call to action
makes is what gives your blog post the ROI it needs to be successful. It’s best
to go into the project knowing what you want the reader to do. Do you want them
to buy something, click on something, or go somewhere? Whatever it is, make
your call to action clear and concise. Tell the reader what to do, and how to
do it.
Those are the six ingredients of a good blog post.
Start with an original thought. End with a call to action. In the middle, throw
in an appealing headline, provide a solution to a problem, make the information
actionable, and tell your reader an interesting story. These things will guide
your blog post to success.
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