5 Tips for Making Your Blog Posts Stick
I subscribe to a lot of blogs that I love to read on a regular basis. They range in topic from online marketing and web strategy to dog rescue and advocacy. But there is one thing they all have in common – sticky content.
Sticky content is created from a mashup of valuable information in an easy-to-read format that makes you want to return for more.
By creating content that is sticky you are increasing your readership through RSS and email subscriptions, as well as having your posts shared and referenced by other bloggers. All of this equals more visibility and more traffic which are critical to the success of any marketing effort.
To make your blog posts more sticky here are five tips:
1. Keep it simple
Don’t use elaborate words when simple ones will work. Your audience will be more impressed with your clear, easy-to-read communication style than the scope of your vocabulary. Also refrain from tackling complex subjects or processes. Instead try video or motion graphics to clearly illustrated your point.
2. Write about your passion
The best blogs are written by people who truly LOVE what they do and the topics they are writing about. People who are forced into blogging about topics they could care less about usually don’t last long. They either get bored and give up or commit to posting half-hearted posts. You know your organization and industry better than anyone else. Use your expertise and personal experience to provide valuable insight to your audience.
3. Know your audience
Contrary to what you feel, your blog is not about you or your company. It’s about your audience. Learn everything you can about your audience and their likes/dislikes and communications styles so that you can connect with them in a way that makes sense. When writing a post, ask yourself will my audience find this valuable? interesting? entertaining?. If not, don’t write it. Or, save the idea for later when you have more time to tailor it to the specific needs of your audience.
4. Blogging = creating relationships
As a social media tool blogging is meant to build relationships between the writer and the audience. Think of creative ways to engage with your readers through feedback, surveys, or contests. When you do have readers comment about your posts, be sure to thank them for their comment. Use this as an opportunity to further open the communication door. One of the best ways to get new readers and comments on your blog is to follow other blogs and provide valuable feedback.
5. Color outside the lines
It’s hard to be original. Strive to create posts that are thought provoking or take a different angle on a a commonly discussed subject. Don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun!
