4 Ways To Write Compelling Content
Content is everywhere. It’s used to sell things, help with problems, and even entertain. Whatever you’re writing content for, you want it to be interesting enough to hold your reader’s attention. Here are four tips for creating compelling content.
1. Hook readers with your headline
Your headline is what your readers are going to see before anything else. If they aren’t drawn in by the first few words, the rest of your content will go unread. How can you make a title more interesting? Use words that evoke emotion. Words such as “fun,” “easy,” “energize,” “empower,” and “delightful” will make your reader want to read more. Also using numbers to let the reader know exactly how many tips you’re offering to help them solve their problem. For example, “6 Sneaky Ways To Get Your Child To Do Chores” is sure to attract readers who have this exact problem. You’re offering solutions they need.
2. Keep it short
Compelling content doesn’t have to run pages long. Don’t worry about writing 1,000 words if you can say what you need to in 650. The tighter you can write, the better. Most people are crunched for time and would prefer to read fewer words. You don’t need to explain the same tip in four different ways. If you describe it well enough the first time, that’s enough.
3. Be unique
If your readers are looking for advice on how to do something, chances are they’ve read at least one other piece before yours. If they immediately notice your ideas are similar, they probably won’t finish reading. How can you make your content unique? Don’t be afraid to be controversial. You might offer a piece of advice that few others would give. You don’t always have to go along with the most popular tips and opinions in an attempt to avoid upsetting people. If you are willing to say what others are afraid to, you’ll intrigue your readers.
4. Know your audience
It’s important to know for whom you’re writing. If you try to write for everyone, your content will fall flat. You might appeal to one person in one paragraph, but lose them in the next. If you’re writing about fitness, write two or three pieces instead of one piece. You can write for men, women, and trainers. Each audience has their own needs to which you can cater. The tips you would give a newbie to the world of fitness isn’t the same advice you’d give to someone who hits the gym four days a week and lifts 225 pounds.
5. Offer research
You don’t have to provide links or quotes from experts to every point you talk about, but one or two wouldn’t hurt. That will show your readers that you do know what you’re talking about and you have the research to back it up. If you can link readers to another source of information that they can use, they’ll appreciate not having to do the grunt work themselves.
Content is meant to draw readers in and provide them with the information they want or need.