Anatomy of an Effective Blog Post

By Andrea Reindl - Dec 20 , 2011

Do you think you’d be more comfortable trying to set up a Starbucks on the moon then write a blog post? You’re not alone! The first few posts are sheer terror, but blogging becomes more bearable after you’ve published your first few. Before long, it’s actually fun!

That being said, let’s start at the beginning. Here’s a few steps to writing a great blog post.

#1 — Pick Your Topic

Keep it small. Keep it simple. Keep to one point. We’re all busy, and a focused blog post will go a long way in building trust with your audience. Taking on a big topic from the outset is like carrying too many groceries at once — you’re likely to drop something. The same is true with a blog: too many topics, too big a subject and you make not make the point you set out to make.

#2 — Know Whom You’re Writing To

This might seem a no-brainer, but most people are confused at first about their target audience. The more clear you are about your target market is (right down to personality types) the easier it is to write to them.

#3 – Write From Your Heart

Over-thinking what you’re trying to say and finding fancy language in which to say it will likely leave you frustrated and ready to throw your computer against the wall. If you tap into your message from your heart and start writing as simply as possible – be yourself — I promise, it will flow much smoother.

#4 – Write, Then Edit

Go ahead and get your ideas out. Write and write, then edit what you’ve written. When you edit you’ll find you can string all the thoughts together in a much more organized manner. No writer writes perfectly the first time out. Editing is a vital part of the process. Write, walk away from it, then go back and edit. (It’ll take you a long way!)

#6 – Add Links

Now that you’ve written a post you’re proud of be sure to add active hyperlinks. Hyperlinks provide your reader with supporting evidence and answer the questions the reader is asking as they are asking them. It will build trust with your audience and they will know they can come to you for the information they need.

#7 – Add Images to Prove Your Point

Visual hints make it easier for your reader to draw their own mental image and get excited about what they are learning. If you’re telling a personal story, add personal images. If you need stock images, those can be found all over the place both free and paid. Keeping your posts lively with images will keep your readers coming back.

#8 – Ask an Engaging Question at the End

Keep it simple for your audience to interact with you. Always end with a call to action question that puts the conversation back in the hands of the audience.

As you write and find community through blogging I’m sure you’ll find it very rewarding. Following a simple template will help you keep the content flowing and have you on the top of rankings before long. Hope this helps you understand the pieces of a blog post.

Do you have a formula that works for you? Please share.