7 Important Writer’s Tips
Our WordPotential writers know how important it is to optimize your website and keep traffic moving back and forth. A website that is highly traveled is ranked higher by search engines and draws an even greater crowd. The secret to a successful website is all in the content and content is what it’s all about. Whether you’re a business, personal blogger, online marketer, or anything in between, you already know that content is the key to success on the Internet.
When it comes to content, there are some basic tips and rules that everyone should follow. Some of these may seem simple, but it’s often the simplest things that make a positive difference when it comes to writing and creating unique content.
When preparing fresh content for your website or other online materials, consider the following:
- Focus on keywords. You’ve heard it before and now you’re hearing it again so it must mean something. Always use keywords that your readers are most likely searching for in their online queries. Make sure keywords relate specifically to the article and the website. Include a keyword density of about 1-2%, or 1 keyword per every 80- 100 words of content.
- Use action words. Although it may sound easy, it is not always done well. Using action words spurs people to do something. Action words are motivational and encouraging. They create a feeling of energy and enthusiasm. Begin sentences with action words such as evaluate, examine, review, research, avoid, compose, identify, visit, or drive.
- Be as specific as possible. People search your content to quickly find valuable information, statistics, and data. Don’t use words that are not specific or that leave the reader wondering. Cite credible resources when appropriate and include links to authority websites where applicable. For example, a link to the American Cancer Society might be appropriate if you are talking about certain types of cancer.
- Create concise, easy to read sentences. People view content differently on the Internet than they do in offline materials. They skim the content on the Internet and seek information that is easily digestible and quickly identifiable. Make it easy for them to find what they want by writing shorter sentences and including only 3-5 sentences per paragraph.
- Keep content current. Don’t just write content frequently. Create content that stays current rather than dating an article, blog post, or other website information. When you cite statistics from “last year”, or include information about a hot topic or buzz word today, it may become obsolete quickly. Think about how you create your articles and make them seem as current as possible by staying away from information that “dates” the article unless it has some added value.
- Don’t push products in an attempt to sell them. Instead, focus on value and “what’s in it for them” when you create content. People searching online have a very specific need to be filled. They want to know how to do something faster, easier, and cheaper. Or they are searching for something specific. Sell value and products will sell themselves.
- Link deep within your own site. When you have more to offer, let your readers know. Link to pages deep within your site and draw them closer. Make sure you draw them to relevant pages and valuable information. Not only will this make your site ’sticky’ and keep them on your site, but it will bring them back more often too.
Writing for online readers is different than offline writing. Paying attention to some important tips and secrets about attracting and retaining your audience will go a long way towards success. “Word potential” is powerful when you choose active, relevant, and insightful words for your online content.
Let us know how we can help you create valuable content for your website, business, or personal needs. We’re here to make it easier for you to say what you want to say!
