You didn’t take on your career to write blog articles every other day, but you did take it on to reap the rewards of helping people out. The thing is, writing a blog gives you the opportunity to reach out to potential clients and let them know that you are there to help them. Over time, your articles can build up such a strong presence that they bring a lot more qualified traffic to your website than many paid advertising campaigns. And paid campaigns stop, when you stop paying.
Keep it simple, but make it worthwhile
Your audience doesn’t need to learn how to do your job. Simply answer questions they might ask you. Guide them through what happens when an issue arises, or how they can be in a better situation. Show them that you know what they should or shouldn’t do. By the end of your article, your readers should be feeling like they have achieved something.
Building your article
1. Decide what you are writing about
Knowing what you are going to write about can be half the battle. But once you do know, it’s smooth sailing. If you are well prepared with an editorial calendar and any blog ideas you have collected along the way, you’re more than ready for the next step.
2. Create a strong headline
A strong headline is the most important single element of your article. This is what prompts your audience to start reading your article. Fail that, and your content is a waste of time. Have a look at “How To Write A Powerful Headline” for more information on creating headlines.
3. What will your readers get out of your article?
Jot down the end result you think your reader should expect. How will they be better off? What will they be inspired to do next? This helps you to focus on pulling together relevant information that will be of the greatest value to your reader.
4. List your sub-headings
What are the important points or steps that will guide them to the end result? Not only will chunking things down make the task of writing a lot easier, but sub-headings will make your article more readable. Basically, more people will read it to the end.
5. Get your document ready
At this point, you should be ready to open up a fresh document in Word, Google Docs or your preferred software. Ready?:
- Start it with your powerful headline,
- add your chosen sub-headings, and
- dive right in…
6. Write your introduction
A powerful introduction will drive your readers down the page. It will expand on the headline and promise the reader something worthwhile in a way that appeals to them emotionally. I recommend reading the Coschedule article, “How To Write Irresistible Blog Post Introductions That’ll Keep Your Readers Reading”.
7. Fill in the gaps
Fill out your sub-heading sections. You don’t necessarily need to write them in order, but focus on one at a time. If relevant, add any helpful resources, images and links. Check facts and back up your information with examples. This can reinforce your message and make your content more engaging.
8. Wrap up your story
Your message is reinforced by recapping the highlights of your article, and how they can help your reader’s situation. Suggest how they can apply the information or what step to take next. Always finish off with a call to action. You might like to say something like:
- Leave a comment below
- Send a question via email
- Call a phone number
- Download a free resource
9. Review, edit, review and edit again….
Come back later and have another look – in a few hours or the next day. Running a fresh eye over it makes it easier to spot text that may need a little tweaking or correcting. Read your article out loud and see how it sounds. Does it flow smoothly? Are you speaking to your preferred prospects? You may find yourself struggling to meet the 30 minute time slot, especially at first. But follow these steps and you will find each article a little easier and faster. Keep up the practice and you will have it down pat in no time!
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