Be it a website, blog, fan page, or other, you have limited words to tell your story. Here are 10 things that will help you write better content:
1. Everything starts with good grammar and punctuation.
Nothing’s worse than finding the right product on Amazon with a bad product description. Consider re-reading text aloud to catch errors. I use a proofreader – an invaluable resource.
2. What’s the big picture?
Are you entertaining, selling something, or just passing along information? A product description can be dry & technical, but come alive when told in the voice of users. Being clear about the desired outcome makes step three easier.
3. Explain exactly what you want the reader to do.
If the goal was to sell, good content would provide clear instructions on how to buy.
4. Know your audience.
Some situations need a more formal tone; others benefit from something more casual. The kind of tone depends on the audience and purpose of the writing.
5. Keep it simple.
(this was a hard one for me). Sentences and paragraphs should be short and concise. Think twice before using slang – words in the digital world last a long time.
6. Less can be more
Just as keeping words and sentences concise, the same holds true for the overall paragraph. Longer is not necessarily better.
7. An active voice strengthens writing
“I caught the ball.” has more impact than “The ball was caught by me.” Active voices engage readers.
8. Culture impacts how we write.
“We should have a pow-wow about that” may refer to a quick business meeting in some circles, but to a Native American it may be denigrating. Be familiar with the cultural norms of the people you’re talking to.
9. Know your client
– this could have easily been mentioned first.
If you’re paid to do a job, it’s important that content reflects their tone & values.
10. The current environment may impact your content.
You don’t create in a vacuum. During a pandemic isn’t the time to joke about viruses. Where appropriate, noting current events can lend relevancy to your writing and possibly avoid embarrassing missteps.
Reaching people with your message is harder than ever in today’s world of clicks, tweets & posts. Writing clearly & effectively…and with purpose, will help you connect with the people you want.*
Organiksol Marketing is an accomplished, collaborative & innovative marketing team recognized for driving sales and engagement. Using our experience with musical instrument manufacturers, record labels, non-profits, artists and entrepreneurs, we “speak” the customer’s language like few can. By focusing on their values, likes & dislikes, we implement strategies, campaigns and content that emotionally connects with customers to get results. Read more on What we do.
Organiksol Marketing – we naturally grow business
*Thanks to “Grammar Your Dictionary” & the Indigenous Corporate Training Blog, “Culturally Offensive Phrases“
