The average attention span of an adult internet user is surprisingly low, at a dismal 8 seconds. This applies not only to TV viewing but also to reading, browsing the web, or even checking emails. As per research, an average professional checks his email 15 times daily, or every 37 minutes! This implies that as a blogger, it is imperative to use effective techniques to create that perfect blog post. It’s not an easy task, but here are a few time-tested tips to hook them right away.
7 Tips to achieve the perfect blog post
There are thousands of blogs on the web on every possible topic. So, as an avid blogger, how do you ensure that your content is not just average? Read on for some crucial elements that you must incorporate.
Craft a Captivating Headline
A headline needs to be persuasive, especially the first few words. Some ways of achieving this are:
Use Numbers for Better Clarity
A common trick but very likely to work with the target audience. For instance, “Earn $50 for just listening to music!” and “3 secret tips for improving your eyesight”. Digits are more eye-catching than plain words. Digits are likely to motivate the reader to go deeper into the article. Additionally, graphs should be added for better data representation.
Do Keyword Research
To increase the chances of visibility among the readers, use the necessary keywords. Semrush, Ahrefs, and Google Search Console are some of the excellent search tools that can help narrow down the best keywords for your blog.
Keywords should be used in the headline and in a planned manner for a perfect blog post. This would lead to a higher ranking in the SERPs and higher visibility. So, spend a few minutes on keyword research before starting the post.
Use a controversial statement or unusual words
Being different helps! A statement like “Don’t do the laundry” may be used for an innovative dry clean service. Or, “Ditch the greens” for a just-launched health supplement. These anti-normal statements will most likely stop the reader in his tracks and make him read deeper.
Pack In a ‘Benefit’ For The Reader
A perfect blog post should have usefulness for the reader. For example: “How to look great from 9 am to 9 pm? Or, “Rustle up the yummiest coffee without a blender.” These tips not only sound different but are relatable to his everyday life.
Keep The Headline Short and Striking
An 8-12 word headline is adequate even for the most impatient of readers. Lengthier than these may not rank high on search sites or may be skipped by the user from the first line itself. If it’s too short, you miss the mark. So pack in the punch in those 8-12 words, ensuring the usage of keywords.
Create an Engaging Introduction
This is the most important ‘hook’ that persuades readers to stay on your page. The introduction is not only facts and figures. It can be a small personal anecdote related to your post that creates a visual story in the reader’s mind. At other times, starting the introduction with a well-known quote may also work.
A tricky but fun technique is to use humour. However, ensure that it connects with the audience. An effective strategy is also rooted in using a popular fad or practice of the current times. This could be related to lifestyle, hygiene, or even self-care. The particular fad or new practice should link to your blog and create an interest in the reader’s mind.
Using any one of these methods for the introduction is sure to create a perfect blog post.
Also Read: Mastering the Art of SEO Content
Visuals and Audio Clips Add the Punch for a Perfect Blog Post
A blog post without a visual image appears boring and incomplete. Not only does the visual add an appeal, but it keeps the reader hooked. Ensure a main image at the beginning, along with a few smaller visuals interspersed. Try to balance these with the written content to not distract the reader.
Additionally, an audio clip also helps, as some readers can prefer an auditory reach. Audiovisuals can, therefore, create the perfect blog post and leave a memorable impression in the reader’s mind.
Do Have Clickable Icons
A blog post without share buttons can feel like a cake without the icing. As a writer, you want your story to be shared, and what better way than through the readers who connect with your post? Include distinct icons near the header on the side and next to the conclusion to pave the way for those shares.
Improve Readability by Adding Subheadings
This may well be one of the most important points for the perfect blog post. Today’s reader, with a limited attention span and a lack of time, wants points “listed” distinctly. Thus, following H1, H2, and H3 norms in a blog post is essential. Additionally, listicles can be used where possible. Vary the font size for the headings and subheadings, and use bold where necessary. Following these nuances will make posts easier for the reader to go through, and he is less likely to skip your page.
Stick to the Ideal Word Count
How long should a perfect blog post be? A word limit of 1500 to 2500 words has a chance of being ranked higher and shared more than a post of a lesser number of words. Go beyond this limit and you risk the chance of your post going to oblivion. So keep a check on the words.
Conclusion
Do round up the points you discussed in the post and provide a conclusion. The perfect blog post should have further links to your other posts. These could be of similar interest or offer further understanding to the reader. In the process, increasing the chances of having more followers.
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