Yesterday we shared the blogging philosophies of Mitch Joel, the man behind the blog Six Pixels of Separation.
Today I’d like to talk a bit more about blogging by sharing eight tips you should keep in mind when it comes to crafting and creating content for your online platforms.
1. Be passionate about your subject
It’s important that you have a passion for the subjects you are writing about on your blog. By writing only about topics that interest and inspire you, you’re sure to craft informative and enthusiastic blog posts that are sure to inspire and engage your readers.
2. Conduct research
Even if you think you have a solid base of knowledge on a particular topic, you should always conduct research and gather further information before beginning to write a new blog post. You want to present your readers with the most thorough and complete information possible. So be sure to always carry out in-depth research before drafting any new content.
3. Keep up to date
You should always keep up to date on your areas of expertise. Subscribe to news channels, blogs and websites on the subjects you speak and write about, as well as on any other topics that interest you. And stay tuned to current events. Online audiences want to be kept abreast of the most current knowledge, information and news about any given subject. If your audience finds your content stale or boring, they are likely to switch to another web source with more up-to-date information. Providing the latest information about your areas of expertise will help you keep ahead of the competition.
4. Use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation
It’s extremely important that you pay attention to the language you use in your writing. The proper use of grammar, spelling and punctuation helps you generate credibility. Nobody wants to read an article that is rife with spelling errors or typos. By writing in a clear and concise manner – and by paying attention to your grammar and spelling – you demonstrate your intelligence and attention to detail.
5. Develop a writing style
It’s important to develop a writing style of your own. People will appreciate your writing if it has its own unique tone and flair. It will set you apart from the crowd. Even if you’re sharing the same information as other writers, the words you choose and the way you express your ideas can make all the difference.
6. Set goals
Before writing an article, you should develop a list of goals and objectives. You should have a clear idea about the return you are seeking from your work. You should know what reaction you want from your audience and craft your content to achieve those outcomes.
7. Identify your audience’s expectations
Put yourself in your readers’ shoes and think about what they want and expect from your content. Determine what your readers already know and what they want to learn more about. Why do they come to your website? What knowledge can you provide them? Knowing what the readers want and expect from you will help you provide your audience with the right type of content.
8. Predict any problems or questions your audience might have
A little research and brainstorming will tell you what issues or questions your audience might have with the content you’ve created. Predicting probable questions and then answering those questions within your content will help you solve your audience’s problems in advance.
What steps do you take when crafting and creating content for your website or blog? Share your blog writing strategies with us here or on our Facebook page. To your blogging – and speaking – success!
