You've decided to write a blog. You have a lot to say. There's information floating around inside your head that you need to impart and a blog is the way to go, right? It could be -- if you do it correctly.  

Remember, when someone comes to your blog they'd like to be entertained or informed. They may not always want to learn but if you're writing a blog about... well, "how to blog," or "how to groom a dog," or "how to make the best cup of coffee" then it's your responsibility to teach them what you say you're going to.

Okay, so let's get started. Writing your blog isn't necessarily about you; it's about the information you can impart. For example. "This morning I brewed the best cup of coffee and this is how I did it." Sure, you could start that way but why not draw the reader into your how-to by writing it like this; "Want to learn to brew the best cup of coffee (or groom your dog, or give a mani or pedi -- you get the picture) then let me tell you how... "

Have your blog post be about them. Have the reader follow along feeling as if you are speaking TO them not AT them. And yes, you could be oh-so-wise in your how-to techniques and that's evident because of the expertise you bring to the subject, but again, make it about the reader.

Let's say I want to teach you how to write a query letter. I could talk about my amazing query letters, the kudos they've garnered, the paychecks they've brought to my mailbox, etc. But that would get old quickly for the reader who likely wants to learn to do his or her own kick-butt query. I'd be better served -- and so would my reader -- by telling him or her the techniques I used for penning that query letter and how they can incorporate what I am saying into their own work.

Yes, it's good to have examples and to let the reader know that if they follow your instructions they, too, might have the same level of success, but remember to make the blog post about the audience. Let them walk away with hints and tips you've imparted rather than feeling they have to cheer for your success but have no idea how to emulate it.

Post by Robbi Hess