Whether you run a blog or a website, it is likely that you have heard the saying ‘content is king’.  Most people think about the search engines when they write – which keywords should I use?  How often should I use them?  How many posts do I need to place on my site each week to keep Google happy?  What should be your priority however, are you readers.  If you can write a popular article or blog post your readers will return.  They may even subscribe to your website or share your article with their friends.  So what can you do to make an article popular?  Let’s take a look.

Write in Simple Language

Unless you run a blog or a website that is purely aimed at an educated reader it is best to write in simple language.  Research has shown that by using the vocabulary of a 5^th grader, you have a better chance of your article being shared on social media sites, whereas writing in anything higher can alienate your readers.  Even if your primary reader understands what you are saying, many won’t share your article if they think their friends won’t understand what you’ve wrote.  So keep it simple, not fancy.

Use the Word “You”

A great way to keep your reader engaged from start to finish is by writing as if you are talking to them directly.  The best way of doing this is by using the word “you”.  Not only does content sound more personal but it also encourages people to continue reading what you have to say.  The longer someone continues reading, the more likely they are to share your words with others.

Write Unique, Detailed Posts

There is so much information online nowadays that people are always on the lookout for something unique and different instead of something that has been re-written from somewhere else.  One of the best ways to achieve this is by going into detail when it comes to your content.  If you know what you are talking about, your readers will pick up on this instantly.  On the other hand, if you are as far away from detailed as you can be, your readers won’t trust you and won’t be prepared to share what you write with their friends.  Give your readers a reason to keep visiting your website or blog!

Back up What You Say

If you are going to make a point that is “out there” then make sure you back up what you say.  There is nothing worse than reading a blog post that has a number of outlandish statements just for the sake of it.  You don’t have to make your readers agree with you, but by saying what you think and backing it up with evidence or facts, you are showing that you know what you are talking about.  If you are an authority figure on a subject you can also mention this on your website – trust is everything when it comes to the online world.

Care about Your Readers

And finally, the most important thing to do is care about your readers.  If you’re not writing for them, what’s the point?  If someone takes the time to comment on your blog or email you about your website, take the time to thank them or respond.  This only takes a couple of minutes and can make them feel like they have received a truly personal service.  Plus, once you do this, they will be more than happy to share what you have to say – making your article even more popular.