How to write great blog posts with these 10 tips

No matter the topic, bloggers want their posts to capture their readers’ attention. In seconds, a reader makes the decision to continue reading or to click away. These 10 tips will help you capture your readers’ attention and keep them engaged throughout your post.

  1. Solve a problem

Your blog post should solve a challenge or problem for your reader. Readers click on posts that will solve a current problem; people are interested in solutions. As wonderful a writer as you may be, people are only going to read something that is relevant to their lives.

2. Address one topic

You should address only one topic in your post. While it may be tempting to share all of your wisdom in one post, remember that you can write as many as you want in the future. The goal for a single blog post is to provide your reader with concise, captivating information.

3. Write relevant copy

Consider what is on your reader’s mind. What is he worried about? What is she mulling over on her commute? Write to them based on relevant concerns and the timely information they need.

4. Craft a great headline

Spending extra time on your headline is a wise investment. Your headline should be compelling and attractive. Think about including your post’s primary keyword and making it stand out. Offer readers a how-to, a numbered list, a call to action or a direct warning.

5. Include a subtitle

Creating a single-sentence subtitle can further compel readers by showing them the benefit of reading further. Readers want to know what they will get out of reading.

6. Hook readers with the conclusion

No need to save the best for last – give them the deliverable right away. They are reading your post for a reason, so make that reason clear.

     7.  Keep it to 400 words

Short and sweet wins here. The average reader spends 90 seconds reading a blog post. Keep it short and you’ll keep your reader engaged to the end.

8. Appeal to your reader’s eye

Nobody wants to read long paragraphs that run on forever. Your post should be broken down into bullet points, numbered lists and various headings. Make your post easy for readers to digest.

9. Provide links

Now that you have the readers’ attention, use it. Link to other blog articles, services and products. You’ve got them engaged, now get them to interact.

10. Create a call to action

Never end a blog post without a call to action. Ask your reader to do something. Don’t be shy. Ask them to comment, contact you or sign up.

Take these 10 tips and start creating more compelling blog posts today.

What tips do you have for creating more readable articles?

– Jason Mudd, APR, is CEO of Axia Public Relations. He is an Emmy Award-winning accredited public relations practitioner, speaker, author and entrepreneur. His public relations portfolio includes work for established national and emerging brands such as American Airlines, Budweiser, Dave & Buster’s, Brightway, Florida Blue, H&R Block, Hilton, HP, It Works!, Miller Lite, New York Life, Pizza Hut, Ray Charles, Southern Comfort, Verizon and more. Connect with Jason on Twitter at @jasonmudd9 and Axia Public Relations at @axiapr. Be sure to tweet and share your thoughts below. We’ll read and respond to each of them.