Keen to write your first blog post but not sure where to start? Here are a few tips that produce great blog posts every time.
- Start with an eye-catching heading that captures the essence of your post. Make sure it addresses why a reader should read your post.
- Keep the content relevant to your readers. Don’t go off on a rant, unless that’s what your blog’s all about.
- Include a picture. It tells a thousand words. The best pics are of people and pets. A pooch in a pound is a good start.
- Get to the point. Your purpose should be clear in the first two sentences.
- Ask a question or have an opinion. Say something controversial. Just don’t be boring. Leave that to the pollies.
- Don’t write about yourself, unless it’s to make a point.
- Be human.
- Write short paragraphs and sentences. Don’t fluff around. You’re not writing Shakespeare here.
- Use short words.
- Keep it brief. Around 300 words is plenty. This post is 274 words.
- Add links to related posts, such as this one by Chris Brogan.
- Add tags. They group similar content and help people navigate your site.
- Make a pretty, sexy URL. A great URL will give web searchers a reason to click through to your blog.
- Be clear about what you want the reader to do next. Leave a comment? Call? You decide.
- Proof-read and run a spell checker. Your readers may be forgiving, but only to a point.
Feeling more confident? Then go, write your first post. Be sure to come back here and leave a comment and link to your masterpiece. I’d love to check it out.
Photo credit: Renato Targa on Flickr.
