Blogs, websites, online newspapers, and online magazines are always looking for new content. Writing online articles writing can be very lucrative. Well written articles that grab the attention of the reader should have concise and clear wording, accurate information that will benefit the reader, and have a call-to-action. Before you start writing, organize your thoughts and create an outline of what you’re going to say. A standard article should be 500 to 800 words. Longer articles should be no more than 1700 words.
Subject Lines that Entice the Reader
Your subject line will determine if the reader wants to continue or move on to the next article. Make it powerful – ask a question, make a statement, and keep it short. You should always include keywords in the title as this gives the search engine insight as to what it is about. Don’t use a “bait and switch” title as readers will move on if the subject isn’t as promised in the title.
Make it Strong!
Your opening paragraph is just as important as the title. It will “hook” the reader into wanting more information. It entices the reader to continue reading. You should keep your sentences short and keep it to no more than 3 to 5 sentences per paragraph. Don’t write a novel – keep it easy for the reader to digest the information. I recommend making your article no more than 5 to 7 paragraphs; if you have more information, create a different article. I have written on topics that required a series of articles. I put at the end of the subject line “Part 1 of a series of 6” – yes, I have written a 6 part series of articles, and they have been read until the end!
Keep it Short and to the Point When Closing
Give a short summary of the article and keep it to no more than 3 to 5 sentences. I often end with a question to get the reader thinking and if there’s a comment section, encourage them to leave their thoughts.
Don’t forget to Proofread
Now that you’ve completed the article, give it a day before going back and reviewing it. Make sure it flows and there are no misspelled words or missing punctuation. My suggestion: let it sit one more day – and proofread it again – you’ll be surprised at misspelled words, sentence structure and other small mistakes you may have missed. If you have someone who can proofread it for you, even better. It’s always good to have a second set of eyes. You’ll be glad you did!
Barb Ferrigno
Concept Marketing Group
We are passionate about our marketing. We've seen it all in our 45 years - companies come and go but the businesses that are consistent, steady, and have a goal are the companies that succeed. We work with you to keep you on track, change with new technologies and business strategies and, most importantly, help you to succeed. It's not always easy, and it's a lot of hard work but the rewards are well worth the effort.