Ericka Lewis
Head and shoulders, knees and toes? What makes a good blog post?
Many a-word have been uttered to impart wisdom on creating the perfect content. We've sorted out a few of the best ones and broke it down to create the framework of a good blog post. Here are the 24-36-24 of wonderful blog posts, summarized by brilliant quotes from brilliant people!
1. "Without strategy, content is just stuff, and the world has enough stuff." - Arjun Basu, Author
Before you can write a good blog post, you first have to devise a strategy. What is the purpose behind your article? What reaction are you trying to elicit from your audience? Who are your prospective audience? Don't go to battle unarmed. Know what you want your blog post to accomplish, and plan a solid execution.
2. "Nothing speaks to everyone. And trying to is going to make you fail." - Brian Clark, Copyblogger
So you know who your target audience are and you're ready to make sweet love to them with your awesome blog post. Awesome. But here's something you should always keep in mind when you're writing a blog post -- stick to your niche.
Sometimes, the hard part about being creative is organizing the grand encompassing ideas you have swirling in your head. Trust me when I say, failing to learn how to zoom in on your target audience will hinder your blog post from taking flight. Don't try to please everybody. Stick with an audience, stick to an angle you want to take, and stick to your guts.
3. “A great headline mixed with a lame opening is like inviting someone into your house, only to slam the door in their face as they approach.” - Brian Clark, Copyblogger
People have short attention spans. Getting them to hang around and click on your blog post is in itself, a grand accomplishment. Don't lose your potential readers by following up that super awesome title with a, well... A "meh" of an introduction. The first few paragraphs of your blog post should give your readers a reason to keep reading. Be creative and engaging, know what you are talking about, liven up your writing with a little personality, fascinate your audience with a unique voice and give them a glimpse of the value your blog will be imparting.
4. “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” - Oscar Wilde
In a day and age where everyone is excitedly sharing their thoughts in the ever-saturated world of digital content, it is important -- Nay, it is absolutely necessary, to be original. So relax, baby. Just breathe in and be yourself. Add a little personalty to your blog post, no matter how technical it may be. Let your content standout from the usual humdrum of the same old stuff in your industry.
Challenge yourself and explore your creativity. Think of ways you can recreate a spin on topics everybody in your industry are talking about. Don't be a parrot. Think from the readers point of view and consider whether or not your ideas will captivate the curiosity of your audience.
5. “Good content isn’t about good storytelling. It’s about telling a true story well.” - Ann Handley, MarketingProfs
Off to the body of your blog post. Is your content backed by facts? No matter how original your ideas are, you have to think about the credibility of what you are writing.
6. "A picture paints a thousand words." - Anonymous
Don't forget to insert an image that will catch the attention of your audience. Human beings are very visual, take advantage of this fact. Strike a good impression by using relevant images that will add to the curiosity of your prospective reader. Bottom line: Make me want to click on that post.
7. “Content is fire, social media is gasoline.” ~ Jay Baer, Convince and Convert
Don't let the fruit of your creative genius disappear into oblivion. Take advantage of social media channels! Be proud of your work and share away. Engage with your audience and prospective readers. Start a conversation about your blog post and consistently follow-up. Don't be afraid of criticisms -- remember the adage, "to each his own." You can learn a lot simply by listening to what your audience are saying.
Blog writing is both an art and a science. Captivate your audience by sharing valuable content that make a lasting impression. There is always something to take away from everyone's words and experiences. Let these quotes inspire you to create a wonderful blog post.
Image Credit: Steampunk Family the von Hedwigs