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How To Write A Blog That People Will Read
Some writers love writing their author blog, some writers hate it. Either way, it can’t be denied that a great author blog can increase your readership and boost your book sales.
Of course, writing an author blog is only helpful if people are actually going to read it. Obviously, if it’s something you enjoy doing then that’s great. But many authors get frustrated as no matter how much time and energy they put into writing their blog no one ever seems to subscribe.
However, there are some blog writers are astonishingly well read and have avid followers who will never miss a post. Getting to that stage takes time and effort, but it’s not rocket science, and it’s actually not that hard to do.
So how do you write a blog that people will read?
Firstly why not think about the kind of content that you like to read? What makes you subscribe to someone’s blog, or read someone's newsletter? Do your research. Make a list of blogs that inspire you and you enjoy. What are they about? Why do you like them? Get specific. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel here. Chances are if you particularly love a blog, that’s the kind of blog you would like to write yourself. So take inspiration from others and start there.
You have to write about things you are interested in. That’s why so many lifestyle blogs become very popular - essentially it’s just one person writing about the things they like, and the things that they think other people will like too. It’s as simple as that.
However, your blog has to offer the reader something. This is very important. If your writing comes across as self-obsessed and vain, no one will want to read it. Be genuine and passionate but carefully consider what each piece of content is offering the reader. It must have value. If a blog teaches them something, inspires them in some way, motivates them or advises them then they will appreciate that information, and keep coming back for more.
Be natural. As long as you don’t sound too ‘know it all’ or professional no-one is going to mind too much if you miss a comma here and there. Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to make it so. Think about how you have a conversation, sometimes you stutter, sometimes you forget the word you are trying to say - your friends forgive you, and if you can draw readers in and make your writing feel personal, they will start to feel like friends too.
Be patient. It takes time to grow a following - you’ve got to be patient and not expect things to happen overnight. Keep producing high quality, valuable, interesting content in a consistent way and readers will begin to follow you.
Engage with your readers - if someone has taken the time to follow you remember to thank them. Do this personally - don’t just send an automated message. If you show that you care about your readers and know how valuable they are, they are more likely to remain loyal to you.
Try to keep posts upbeat, positive and humorous -but above all human. People identify with people so just be you and you’ll get there in the end!