However, with so many websites competing to be at the top of the search engine results, how do you make better content and copy that stands out?
We’ve listed several tips on how you can brush up on your content writing skills.
Know Your Target Audience
Like with everything else in marketing, always know your audience.
Who are you writing for?
If your readers are business people, then you might want to write about how they can generate leads and turn them into actual customers.
If you’re writing for a lifestyle website, then you can talk about the latest in the fashion industry. Or, you can even feature travel spots and how-to guides.
What’s important is that you provide value to your readers.
Create an Outline
In general, writing can take up so much time and effort.
So, before tackling any online writing task, make an outline first.
It helps you stay organized while writing so you don’t miss any important points- and helps you pin down the idea you’re trying to communicate.
Write an Attention-Grabbing Headline or Title
So, you’ve finally written a good article for your audience, but it’s still not getting enough views.
What’s wrong?
It might be your headline or title.
You want to craft one that catches your readers’ attention but stops short of revealing the entire story.
(Because why else would they read the whole article if the headline already gives it away?)
Further, keep your headline short and simple—at around 65 characters or 11 words max.
Write a Good Intro
Now that you’ve written a compelling headline, how do you urge your audience to continue reading?
Here’s where your intro comes into play.
Readers nowadays only skim the title before scrolling down. (Most don’t make it to the end of the article.)
The best content writers begin with an introduction that immediately grabs their reader’s attention.
To do this, you might want to ask a question, say something intriguing or controversial, or present the answers to a question your reader might have.
Think of Clear And Relevant Topics
Sure, you can write just about anything.
However, as an online writer, you want to produce content that resonates with your readers.
You need to ask yourself this question every time: what can your readers take away from your article?
What value does it provide?
As such, it’s critical to come up with topics that are relevant to your readers -and to the niche or industry you’re writing for.
Write Carelessly, Edit Ruthlessly
Finally!
On to the writing part.
Always do your research, especially about unfamiliar topics, so you can maintain authority and don’t accidentally peddle fake information.
Don’t forget to stay true to your brand’s voice too.
For instance, writing in a casual tone makes your articles come across as friendly and relatable.
Meanwhile, a more formal tone makes you appear more professional and trustworthy—which is crucial if you want to become an authority in the field.
More often than not, the active voice reads better too.
If you’re stuck, write whatever comes to mind. You can always edit later but you can’t begin if you’re looking at an empty page.
Just be mindful that no one wants to read huge blocks of text.
Don’t Forget to Include a Call-to-Action
Lastly, be sure to add a call-to-action (CTA) at the end of your articles.
What do you want your readers to do after they finish reading?
Do you want them to purchase your company’s products and services? Or do you just want them to subscribe to an email newsletter, perhaps?
Whatever it is, be very clear and specific—and provide links to make it easier for them.
Becoming an Effective Content Writer
Nobody becomes a great writer overnight.
Like any other skill, writing takes time and effort.
So, if you want to become an effective content writer, start writing now.
Practice daily, if you can.
Plus, read good, well-written material. A lot.
It’ll help you stay updated on current events (which might inspire your content) and even expand your vocabulary, which is important as a writer.
So, think you’re ready for the challenge?
If you’re a writer looking for online writing jobs, head on to Remote Staff. The company has a regularly updated job board, so you’re sure to find a role that suits you.
Remote Staff has also been around for 16 years (and counting)! The company has given countless Filipinos opportunities to work online.
Interested? Register today!
