6 Ways to Create Compelling Blogs

The goal of a blogger is to create compelling content that educates and entertains.

Bloggers want to keep readers coming back for more—especially if the blogger works hard at creating captivating blog posts.

6 Ways To Create Compelling Blogs

1. Write with a compelling voice that makes the reader feel as if they're having a great conversation with the writer.

If you talk to the reader, not talk at them, they're more likely to read the post, not just skim the copy. Like Jared Polis said, "For me, blogging is just like talking."

2. Punch up the copy with something unexpected.

Something unexpected might be a quote that emphasizes the point, like the quotation from Jared Polis that I used above. Or it might be something that makes the reader think like what Warren Ellis said, "I think blogging is a muscle that most people wear out."

You could use a startling statistic or fact, anything that amuses the reader or inspires deeper thinking.

3. Use numbered lists.

Number those items!

Readers love this because psychologically they feel as if they're getting step by step help in an area—and they really are. People like reading lists for information.

4. Use metaphors and similes that speak to the audience's cultural experiences.

I often use a baseball metaphor because I love baseball. Just about everyone understands a reference to "hitting a home run." Sports allusions are great for male readers, but female readers understand them too. Sports are part of our cultural background. Don't be afraid to use sports, literary, political, or whatever-floats-your-boat metaphors and similes.

5. Reference what others have done. 

Why re-invent the wheel? Point your readers to other blogs that contain information that will help them. Acknowledge the body of work that has already been created. Give links if possible. Honor your fellow writers.

6. Feel free to blog about subjects many others may have already addressed.

Different writers can, and do, present the same information in many different ways.

Maybe you've read 100 articles on writing, but article number 101 is the one where you really "get it."

The way you write about something may be the way that speaks to someone who desperately needs to understand the information you offer.

Takeaway Truth

To be a blogging success, keep these 6 tips in mind as you plan and write your posts.