Tips for Creating Engaging Content
In the age where Buzzfeed listicles dominate and memes have replaced words, it’s difficult to figure out how to create blog content that will keep a reader engaged past the title. The good news? We have some tips on how to hook those readers in and keep them coming back for more.
1. The acronyms are actually important.
The digital age is filled with talk of the almighty SEO, or Search Engine Optimization. The lofty air surrounding SEO engagement is actually pretty vital to a blog or really any digital marketing campaign. Keywords lie at the heart of SEO optimization. They’re the main points of your content and will help Google guide potential readers to your site. This is not to say that you need to throw a million keywords in your blog so that the actual points are muddled with Google-nonsense. The reason why someone clicked on your post was because they were interested in the title and/or topic, so make sure you deliver on that promise.
2. Images, Images, Images
Unfortunately, most people won’t stick through text-heavy content. To get people to keep reading, come up with creative subtexts, organize the information into bullet points or lists, provide links to other sources, and include those images and/or videos. In this article by The Guardian, research shows that videos are the way of the future, so partner with YouTube and start cranking out interesting clips to accompany your blog posts.
3. Give your readers something in return.
Sure, the information that you’ll be providing is a gift enough, but sometimes creating even more engaging content means providing the readers with something tangible. Perhaps for a share, your reader can download some cool treat (i.e. white paper, ebook, video) that relates to the blog content? Creating contests will also help boost your fan base. People love to compete, and what better way to get your business out in the virtual sphere than by having people share your information for a prize?
4. Grammar is actually important!
Play with words to make your copy more lively and fun to read. Know when to be direct and when it’s proper to be passive. Depending on your company, some topics should be said in a more approachable manner with suggestions rather than rules. As we’ve been doing, use the second person to talk directly to the reader. Yes…you! Keep your tone of voice in mind when creating content as well. Nothing will put a reader off more than an unfriendly or rude tone.
5. Literally engage your readers.
Listen to what your audience is saying about a particular product/trend/whatever your business does, then try to get them to respond on your blog. Ask questions. Be inviting. Encourage comments.
6. And your point is?
Throwing out lots of jokes and using fancy jargon may be great for some circles, but when it comes to getting people to engage with your content, stick with what appeals to a broader population. If your witty title talks about how to create engaging content, for instance, than what follows that heading should be all about that topic. (Are we doing okay?) It’s also a good idea to follow current trends. Entrepreneur says it best, “Specific triggers get more people to share our content, spreading our message, gaining traction, winning customers and beating the competition.”
Written by Jeremy Miller with Boost by Design.