Blogging, undoubtedly, is in most cases more for the writer than the reader. A blog is an expression of thoughts to be shared from his writer, but what is generally more important to the blogger is having a forum for self-expression of his words, of his mind and off-course his heart too. Readers however are a definite plus to this, and so this article shall explore tips on how to attract the elusive e-readers and how to them into your convert loyal readers.
Elements Of Blogging
Two important elements are frequency and contribution. If you do not maintain the frequency to provide regular updates and contributions to your own blog, you will lose your audience and loyal readers, as there will be nothing for your readers to read and watch. Writing 3-4 posts a week is a normal thing for bloggers but yes, don’t consider it as a compulsion on you unless you can generate that much.
As most blogs are opinion-based, having a comments section is an important feature, as just as it is important to the writer to express their opinion on the topic, it is as important for the reader to express their views as well.
If your blog is of a personal nature, then try to use terms other people may be searching for, for example, teenagers in particular would respond well to a blog that they can relate to. A non-judgmental and consistent voice is an absolute prerequisite, as are writing about things that affect you, but also others.
Make Your Presence Felt
If your blog is more informative than chosen topics you find important, what you can write about easily, or even controversial, as that will bring in loyal readers with strong opinions, who will most likely leave comments, and urge others to read what you post. Do not be controversial for the sake of it – calmly express your own views on things likely to start a discussion, whether that is politics or Lady Gaga or Barack Obama.
You must have your own opinion and be well-informed on the subject you choose. Do not be offended and snappish if people disagree with your opinion, as this will make you less attractive as a writer – acknowledge that everyone has different opinions, but stick to yours and welcome them too.
Are You Following Them?
By following bloggers you admire and can relate to, you are likely to generate followers who will be interested in your work and in your blog. Finding your niche and target audience is as important with a blog as with any other type of writing.
This may sound simple to more professional writers, but aesthetics do matter. If your blog is unorganized, bare, and unattractive, the likelihood is that potential readers will dismiss your writing before giving it a chance. Human beings are shallow by nature, so if your blog is pleasing to the eye, contains photographs and images to accompany your stories, and is clean and easy to navigate easily; the more likely it is someone will take the time to read it. It’s like how a person dressed in a sharp suit with a polished accent is more likely to be listened to than a scruff with a strong accent. Right or wrong, that is just how it is.
Length of posts is as important; 500 -1000 words are optimum, any shorter won’t seem worth reading, and any longer would be seen as daunting and too much time consuming.
Most importantly, despite the need for frequent updates, make sure you actually have something compelling to write about. The better your writing, the more passion you have for your subject, the more loyal readers you will have and the more successful your blog will be.
photo credit: susivinh