|
I Don't Like to Write: The Importance of Informative Articles on Your Website
How many times have you heard people say, "I don't like to write, I'd rather talk?" When it comes to the Internet this train of thought must go! New websites are constantly being added to the already thousands upon thousands indexed on the web, which in turn makes competition fierce in attracting new visitors and potential customers. Writing and communicating information is essential in marketing a website.
NOTE: Word of mouth is KEY, and goes without saying in marketing a website when in direct communication with people. Getting the word out and handing out business cards with the web address will get peoples attention and their focus tuned into your website.
Writing articles frequently for your website will keep visitors coming back for more. Information is what fuels the World Wide Web and an information packed article is sure to be bookmarked for future reference.
10 Tips for Writing Articles on the Net:
1. Having a catchy title is important. You must also think about a subtitle to explain the articles' content further.
2. Write your article the way that you speak, leave out the slang unless you are making a point and cannot do without it. Find your own style of expression - your creativity.
3. Reading books, e-books, articles and all other available literature on your topic [theme] will keep you updated on your subject matter.
4. Have a theme [topic] and stick with it. Do not use the same [noun, verb, adjective or adverb] more than once in a sentence.
TIP: Keep a thesaurus handy to help in words you may tend to repeat.
5. Cliché's are out. It's like taking a shortcut and not using your creativity to the fullest. A Cliché now and then won't hurt, but working towards text that is fresh, colorful, and specific is key. Examples below:
- a leap of faith
- go for it!
- a dime a dozen
- rule of thumb
- coach potato
- the man upstairs
- knock on wood
- time flies
6. Proofread your text and make sure the grammar and spelling are correct. My husband is excellent in helping me proofread my text. Sometimes we do not see our own mistakes readily and need a proofreader to assist us.
Tip: Do you have a dictionary? Keep it close at hand for quick reference.
7. Add a few interest points to the article such as: [a photo, graphic, tips, links, quotes or maybe a numbered list].
8. Short paragraphs are best. Today people do not have alot of time to read wordy text. Work towards clarity, simplicity, and condense if at all possible.
"Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it...and, above all accurately so they will be guided by its light." -Joseph Pulitzer
9. End with a summary, which encourages your reader to seek out further information on your topic.
10. Avoid plagiarism; give credit to your sources.
Sources:
1. The Writers Rules, by Helen Gurley Brown. Editor-in-Chief of the International editions of Cosmopolitan, New York, NY 1998.
2. Writers Inc., by Sebranek, Meyer, and Kempner. Wilmington, MA: D.C. Heath and Company 1996.
Great links for writing tips:
1. Pagewise Hobbies: writing articles
2. Briskey How to use FREE articles
3. Creative Pursuits Reststop Writers' Newsletter
In summary, writing articles for your website do not necessarily have to be your favorite pastime. You will find that they are a tool in marketing your website effectively. Research some articles on the Internet to help you. It is very important to put pen to paper or your fingers to the keyboard and begin. Let your words flow from your spirit deep within you. Watch your style and expression blossom.
"Be yourself. Above all, let who you are, what your are, what you believe shine through every sentence you write, every piece you finish." -John Jakes
Your desire to write and get noticed can be launched by submitting articles to your local paper, church publications, or art councils. Keep a positive attitude and submit articles often. It may take awhile to get your article published so be patient. Go for it! [A cliché ? just one]
Copyright © Copyright © Lora Rozkowski. Lora is an author and owner of two Christian businesses. For more information send an email or visit our website. Reprinted with permission.
|
