5 Ways To Make Content Sparkle

I'm always telling authors to start blogs because a good blog is a great marketing tool for a published author.

Here are 5 ways for a writer to create content that educates the beginner AND entertains the pro thus keeping both the beginner and the pro glued to the page or the screen.

1. Write with a compelling voice that makes the reader feel as if they’re having a great conversation with the writer. That way, they read the words, not skim the copy, because they’re afraid they’ll miss something entertaining.

2. Punch up the copy with something unexpected. Quote a source that might be a surprise, i.e. Shakespeare, or toss in a humorous quotation, something that will pull a grin from the reader.

3. Use numbered lists. Readers love this because psychologically they feel as if they’re getting step by step help in an area. Even pros will read lists because they’re always looking for new ideas. Both groups are right. Sometimes, another writer’s numbered list really knocks the old ball over the fence!

4. Use metaphors and similes that speak to the audience’s cultural experiences. In #3 above, I used a baseball metaphor because it’s springtime which is baseball season and just about everyone understands a baseball home run. Sports allusions are great for male readers, but female readers understand them too. So don’t be afraid to use sports, literary, political, or whatever-floats-your-boat metaphors and similes.

5. Reference what others have done. Don’t be afraid to refer to what others have written on the same subject. Acknowledge the body of work that has already been created. Give links if possible; share that link love. Honor your fellow writers.

Don’t be afraid to tackle a subject that’s been done over and over because the way you write it may be the way that speaks to someone who really is looking for an answer. That’s content that works in every way.

Takeaway Truth

Always remember that different writers present the same information in different ways. Maybe you’ve read 100 articles on a particular subject, but article number 101 is the one that really explains it so you finally understand.