Since my string of realizations over the weekend, I began exploring the web looking for ways to further develop my writing, increase my blog and website traffic and increase my page ranking. This search led me to find Blogher, an internet community and blog directory for female bloggers. They are particular about which blogs they list, which is the sign of a great directory and community. So, of course, I applied.
Turns out that they are so particular about which blogs they list, that I didn’t make the cut. I was briefly derailed by the trauma of only making the cheerleading B squad in high school, however regaining my footing I realized that not all was lost. Unlike poorly documented code errors, Blogher gave me a reason for the rejection. Consistancy. The concept of consistency actually responds to my original quest in its entirety. If I was more consistant with my writing, I would be a better writer. If I posted more consistantly on my blog, I would have more traffic and comments and thus higher page ranking.
This little gem fresh in my mind, I realized that there would be no point in being consistant if I didn’t have great blog posts. I did a bunch of research, prompting me to create this How-To.
How to Write a Great Blog Post:
For search engine optimization (SEO):
- Before you start to write, think of search terms (keywords) relevant to the topic of your post.
- Use a descriptive title that includes these keywords
- Use keywords relating to your post topic (in a format natural to your style) throughout your post
- Include links and trackbacks (Refer to Yaro’s post to further your understanding of networking your blog on the web)
- Include images tagged with keywords - google refers to the words to contextualize the photo
- Create tags related to your keywords
For the reader:
- Decide on an original angle for your topic and stick to it; one post, one point.
- Start with an attention grabbing introduction.
- Write from your point of view, about your experience, using your words and examples.
- Choose an appropriate style and stick to it. Avoid stream of consciousness structures, present tense and passive voice.
- Use excellent spelling and grammar appropriate to your style. Avoid separating the subject and verb, misuse of punctuation and excessive use of adverbs or adjectives.
- Include an image, lists, quotes, and frequent paragraph breaks. All of these tools break the monotony of continuous text.
- Write concisely using elevated and uplifting language - aim for 500 words or less.
- End with a memorable conclusion that reflects your intro.
- Print out your work and review it with a critical pen before you submit.
- According to Networkworld, the best time to submit a post is Thursday, mid afternoon, and the worst is Monday
May you be inspired to create great blog posts!
Over and out.