Hey friend,
You've likely
heard the usual advice for creating engaging blog content, or any content for that matter:
- Write compelling headlines.
- Use storytelling.
- Make it scannable.
- And so on.
While those techniques are important, today, I want to share some next-level strategies for truly connecting with your audience through your writing.
1. Wise mentor? Relatable peer? Quirky friend? Use that
voice.
Your writing voice is like your content's personality. It should be unique, recognizable, and consistent across all your content. Think about how you want to come across to readers.
Are you the wise mentor? A relatable peer? A quirky friend? Use language, tone, and even punctuation that reflects that persona.
For example, if your brand is fun and energetic, you might write casually and conversationally, with lots of exclamation points and emojis. If you're more of an authoritative expert, your writing voice might be more polished and professional.
2. Admit you're not perfect: Show vulnerability.
Sharing personal stories, challenges you've faced, and lessons you've learned helps you form an authentic connection
with readers. It shows that you're human, just like them. Don't be afraid to admit past mistakes or struggles — it makes you more relatable.
Blogger and business coach Melyssa Griffin does a great job of this. She often shares vulnerable stories about her entrepreneurial journey, like the time she invested tens of thousands of dollars in a project that totally flopped. Her openness is one reason her audience trusts her and keeps coming
back.
3. "Dialogue" with your reader.
Write your posts as if you're having a one-on-one conversation with the reader. Use "you" language to speak directly to them. Ask questions, even if they're rhetorical. Anticipate and address their objections or FAQs. Here's an example of what I mean:
"Now, you might be thinking, 'But won't appearing vulnerable
make me look unprofessional?' I get your concern. But when you share authentically and tie what you share to a lesson learned, vulnerability actually increases your credibility because people see you as relatable and honest.”
See how that text acknowledges the reader's potential doubts and directly responds to them? That's the kind of "dialogue" that engages readers. It’s like you speak, then imagine the reader responding, and then
you speak again.
4. Expand statements into visions that evoke emotion.
We humans are emotional creatures. We're wired to connect with and remember things that make us feel something. So don't just inform your readers—make them FEEL. Use vivid language, paint a picture, tap into their hopes, fears, dreams and challenges.
For instance, instead of
plainly stating, "Decluttering your home is important," paint an emotional picture:
"Imagine walking into your home and being flooded with a light and peaceful energy. That’s what happens when every object you display is intentional and cherished. It’s the power of decluttering."
Emotions are why people keep telling us to “use storytelling.” Stories stir
our feelings in ways plain facts can't. I'll dive more into storytelling in a future email.
5. Love dogs? Postcards? History? Reveal yourself.
Don't be afraid to let your unique self—your interests, perspectives, and, yes, even quirks—shine through in your writing. Readers will connect more deeply with you if they feel like they're getting to know a real person.
- Obsessed with your dog? Share a funny story about their latest antics.
- Collect postcards? Tell readers about one of your favorites. (By the way, I collect postcards! Check out my postcard blog: The Laptop Traveler.)
- Love obscure historical facts? Occasionally weave one into a post.
Revealing slices of who you are is a powerful way to bond with readers who share your interests and values.
The bottom line? Your blog—all of your content—is so much more than words on a screen. It's a vehicle for building relationships and loyalty, which is why I teach techniques like these—to help you develop a genuine connection with your audience.
I'll be back next time with tips for enhancing your blog posts through visuals because, as the saying goes, a picture's worth a thousand words.
Until then, I encourage you to experiment with at least one of these techniques in an upcoming blog post, a social media post, or an email.
Talk soon,
Renae
P.S. If you’ve been with me for a while, you might remember my old program, Blog Your Brilliance. I’m toying with bringing it, or something like it, back to life. Would you be interested in my one-on-one guidance for your blog? Or even a group blogging program? I once ran a tremendously fun 30-day blogging challenge, too, in case that sparks your interest. Let me know!
