Tips on writing blog posts

So this post is some specific tips for those starting to write “meaningful” blogs, specifically in the world of digital and tech.

FYI I’m no wordsmith nor do this for a living; but I am both a mentor and someone who adjudicates on community awards (part of which is reviewing content such as blogs).

1 Pick a topic where you have something to share (knowledge or an opinion)

Sounds obvious, but pick something where you can add your own thoughts too. Don’t just copy something others have done, or repeat whats in the sales brochure. Be different and show your passion.

Also don’t worry about “others” knowing more than you. There will be lots of others talking about similar subjects, but remember that they are talking about their experiences and knowledge, where as you will have your own view point. Often you will find that you can connect with these peers through comments supporting each other, whilst letting the reader access that hivemind of content.

2 Set an objective

This one is a key one. Take a step back and think what is it you want readers to come away with. It could be things like:

• Understand how to use a feature
• Demonstrate the value of doing a task
• Awareness of the benefits of a tool/ process

Keep reminding yourself of this when writing and reviewing content. Basically don’t waffle on stuff that does not address this objective.

3 Write the content whilst in the thick of it

So when is the right time to write content? Simple answer is when you are actually doing that work. So if you want to write about an A/B test, do it whilst doing the test. If you want to write about new features of a content editing tool, do it whilst trying said features out.

You don’t have to publish it there and then, but it is so much easier to throw content down, grab screen grabs, record guides there and then rather than to rehash it all again once you have finished.

A really obvious one, is to write a post when you are building a presentation deck. Then when you present (be that a conference or meetup) you can have a link to share which will include more info to complement the talk.

4 To polish or not to polish

Personally I think the quicker you can get the post out the better. Granted it’s good to get one or two people to read it over first, but normally your first attempt is the best one. You can often over think things and restructure the article over and over again. But the longer you leave it going live, the less impact it will have ultimately.

5 Tell people

This game is all about people who know you and who you know. So share wide. Have a game plan, so your socials, slack groups, peer to peer networks.

And get specific too. You have picked a topic/ objective so focus on these when networking. Dig into SEO and hashtags and find what is working and attack these.