Content Marketing Tip #2 - How to Create Content for Real People

Have you read blogs or watched sales & marketing videos that sound like a regurgitation of Donald Trump's corporate-speak? If you feel turned off when you read content that's riddled with jargon and words that belong in a PhD dissertation, you aren't alone. The average content reader wants to read "real" information, and not be exposed to content that sounds like it was manufactured in a board room. You are a human being, and so are your readers. 

1. Find & Develop Your Authentic Voice - Don't copy other people's content style. Don't lecture or talk over people's heads (or make yourself sound or look better than other people). That's a given, but you would be surprised at how 'holier-than-thou' people come across in their content. I have opted-out of newsletters, blogs, and social media because of the condescending tone people use in their content. Be kind and respectful. It's about engaging with people, and not coming across as an egotistical windbag. 

2. Share Your Real Story - Be honest and authentic. When developing content, don't pretend to be something you aren't. Do you speak five languages? Did you serve in the Peace Corps? Are you a military vet turned entrepreneur? Your background and experiences are part of who you are and people are curious to know the "real" you. Don't be afraid to share who you are - both online and offline. 

3. Create Targeted Content That Real People Enjoy - Because you are interested in the technical aspects of how to build a website, that doesn't necessarily mean your targeted audience will enjoy content on this particular topic. Research topics and trends that "real people" enjoy. Don't create content for yourself -- develop content aimed at your target audience. You can still create content that interests you, but make sure the average person will enjoy it as well. Skip the jargon and keep it simple!

How to Pack Valuable Punch With Blog Posts

It's easy to get on a roll when writing blog posts. I definitely don't want to discourage you to share lots of valuable content - I'm all for blog posts that entertain, educate and inform! However, once you have found your blogging mo-jo you might get carried away with rambling sentences in blog posts. Remember that less is more. Here are four easy editorial blogging tips to help create content that packs a punch with your readers.

1. Think like a journalist and write your lede in the first paragraph. A "lede" summarizes your entire post and gets across your key point from the very beginning. Don't wait until the second paragraph to tell your readers what the post is about - you'll lose their interest quickly.

2. If you ask a question within your post title, then answer it within your post. For example, my blog title is 'How to Pack Valuable Punch With Blog Posts.' My content is answering that question so you, the readers, understand how to improve your blog posts to make them more 'readable' and valuable to your audiences. Make sure to summarize key points and don't leave them hanging - tie up your blog post with a short and concise conclusion. 

3. Do your research! Add credible links and resources to enhance and build your online credibility. This goes back to your company branding. Make sure the links support your content and add value to your blog posts. 

4. Use sub-headers, bullet points and lists. It's important to break up your content and use sub-headers, bullet points and lists to emphasize your main points. It also makes your content easier for your readers to understand. When people read run-on sentences and jumbled content, it only frustrates them and it's an easy way to turn off your readers.

Even if you add just one of these tips (preferably all four tips), you will pack a valuable punch with blog posts, Your content says a lot - it further brands you as an industry expert and professional resource to your blog readers.

Remember to say MORE with less! Please share your blogging tips - how do you create content that packs a punch every time?