If you write it, will they come?
They may, but if you don’t satisfy readers’ thirst for engaging content, they won’t come back and they won’t encourage others to visit your site or blog either.
1. Taking the pulse
What does your target audience care about? What are they most interested in? Give your readers what they want and they will keep coming back.
2. Sweating the title
A catchy headline will lure eyes and make them read on.
3. Not baiting and switching
The headline shoud reflect the overall theme of the post. Don’t sell a false bill of goods just to get eyes.
4. Feeding the crowd
Post weekly to keep your audience satisfied and interested. If too much time elapses between your posts, readers will forget about you.
5. Keeping it short
Most blog readers only stay on the same story for about 96 seconds. Keep that in mind and cut to the chase quickly. Blog posts need not be lengthy; 300 words is a good guideline.
6. Breaking it up
All content should be easy on the eyes. Include lists, bullet points, images, headings and subheads to break up the text.
7. Asking for feedback
Respond to any non-spam comments to keep the conversation flowing. People love to chime in, and through their comments, you learn more about who they are and what they want. (See commandment No.1)
8. Linking out
Link to other blogs and news articles that support or illustrate your points.
9. Not shying away from controversy.
It’s OK to be provocative sometimes, as long as it is done in a tasteful and professional way that does not undermine your credibility.
10. Not being self-serving or overly promotional.
Overselling is a big turn-off to readers. A blog should be educational in tone first. Then you can soft sell readers on who you are, what you do, and why they should care.
