Writing web content can be tricky. There are all kinds of points to remember and errors to avoid. For your convenience, here are 25 of the best tips on how to write content for websites that will keep your Internet audience coming back for more.
How to Write Content That Zings
1. Consider your audience.
Who are you writing for? Writing a blog post aimed at teens is very different from writing for young professionals. Know your audience and write to them.
2. Write a catchy headline.
Everyone reads the headline, but according to Kissmetrics blogger Zach Bulygo, only 20% will read the rest. If the headline is attention-grabbing, there’s a better chance that you’ll entice more readers to stay with you.
3. Think about visuals.
Fonts, font sizes, and colors should be readable with plenty of contrast so they’re not a headache to decipher.
4. Use photos.
The right picture can help illustrate your words or make a concept you’re explaining much clearer.
5. Use your own words/ideas.
You have a unique point of view; don’t rehash what everyone else is saying. Find your own angle.
6. Organize your blog posts.
A post organized into chunks is much easier to read than a wall of text. On that note…
7. Use sub-headings.
Sub-headings help delineate your points and break up your writing into readable chunks.
8. Use lists.
People often don’t read web content in depth – instead, they scan. Lists are easy to read quickly and perfect to keep impatient people on your page.
9. Stay on topic.
If your blog is about pets, don’t write content about mountain lions. If your business sells children’s toys, it doesn’t make sense to write about exercise equipment.
10. Create a meta-description.
This is a brief description of your site’s content (in 160 characters or less). A good meta-description will help you look better in search engine results.
11. Edit and revise.
Errors, typos, and poor grammar/spelling look unprofessional.
12. If needed, get a good editor.
If you’re not good at editing your own writing, enlist a friend or hire out for help.
13. Make sure your facts are accurate.
You want to be a trusted source. Don’t claim anything you can’t back up.
14. Credit your sources.
Especially provide sources for direct quotes and statistics.
15. Link to outside sources.
Don’t just mention your sources, link to their websites.
16. Use a call to action to engage readers.
This can be anything from a question to a poll to asking them to follow a link.
17. Write simply and clearly.
Don’t use long, obscure words where you don’t have to.
18. Make it easy to read.
Short sentences and simple vocabulary are best.
19. Be an expert.
Use your particular know-how to teach your readers something. However…
20. Don’t patronize.
No one likes to feel like they’re being preached at.
21. Be engaging.
If possible, write directly to your audience. Write in first person and don’t be afraid of using “you,” “I,” “we,” etc.
22. Keep your content updated.
If relevant, revise any outdated information or facts.
23. Write regularly.
This keeps your site fresh and your content revolving, which is more engaging than a site that’s been gathering dust for months.
24. Invite feedback.
Let your readers know you’d love to hear from them. Be open to comments and criticism. This cultivates a friendly vibe and gives readers a way to engage with you and build relationships.
25. Set goals.
How many posts do you want to publish in a month? Do you want to get readers commenting on your posts? Set writing goals and work toward them.
Follow these tips on how to write content for an Internet audience, and you will surely see an uptick in visitors and reader engagement. Be natural, be creative, edit well, and have fun.
Now you know how to write content, but do you have the time?
You can have all the writing talent and know exactly how to craft excellent web content, but if you don’t have the time your site will suffer. If you need to spend your time and energy on managing other business responsibilities, contact Thrive and we’ll keep your site regularly updated with fresh, relevant content!
