Below are my favorite tips writing blog posts.
1. Length: Not too long, not too short
Write posts that are long enough to deliver value and have character, but not so long that it’s intimidating or overly time consuming to read. Get to the point, but make sure you’re adding enough character and detail. I usually aim for about 700-1200 words. Sometimes more sometimes less.
2. Attention Grabbing Title
The title is often the first thing a reader sees when deciding to read a post. If the title is interesting and attention grabbing it is more likely to get clicked. Use a unique title that clearly explains what the blog post is about and what value the reader will get from reading it. If you have a blog post about gardening, don’t title it “gardening.” Instead title it something like “How to Start a Garden in Your Own Backyard.” Titles that start with “how to” or “# tips” are very popular.
3. Deliver Value
Blog posts, and all forms of content marketing, should deliver educational or entertainment value. The more value your readers get, the more likely they are to return for more, engage with you further, potentially buy your product, or share it with their friends.
4. Show Character
Authenticity is a great trait to have. Share your unique opinions. Share your stories and experiences. Don’t be afraid to use slang, jargon, or less than perfect grammar if it adds the right character. I regularly use ellipses and emoticons in my blog posts and email newsletters.
5. Use the Right Keywords
Use Google Keyword Planner and other keyword research tools to determine which keywords and phrases you should be using in your title and body. Using keywords and phrases that match what people are searching can improve your search ranking. You would be surprised that the words you use are not always the words people use when they search on Google.
6. Strong First Sentence
The first line can make or break a blog post. If it’s great, readers will be intrigued to keep reading. If it’s boring, they may lose interest and browse away.
7. Concise Conclusion
I sometimes include a bullet pointed list of the key takeaways from the post. It allows readers to get value from the post quickly and easily. A short paragraph with some closing thoughts may also be helpful.
8. Add Sub Headings
Including sub headings within a blog post helps to make it more readable and organized. Break up your blog post with a different sub heading to highlight and separate the main points or topics of the post. As you can see in this answer, I'e added a sub heading for each tip.
9. Ideal Frequency
You don’t want your readers to forget about you, but you don’t want them to get sick of you either. As your community grows larger and more engaged, they may want more frequent content. If your have an email list, you might not want to email them more than a couple times per week, as they could get irritated by receiving too many emails. I would recommend about once per week if you can.