If you like to tell stories, being a writer could be the best job for you. However, there are certain rules that you need to follow to become successful in this field.
Online writing is different from traditional media. First, you have to understand that your copy will be competing with millions of content online and it's up to you to provide stories that are engaging and well worth your reader's time.
Nina Khoury of InlineVision.com provided a checklist of important rules that you have to follow, not just to make your client happy, but to help you become a compelling writer that employers would love to hire.
Here are some of them.
1. "Talk" to your audience.
You don't have to use the third person all the time. How do you chat with your friends? It has to be conversational, right? However, if your client demands a more professional tone, you should adjust and be more business-like. Otherwise, create your own voice and stick to it.
2. Don't be too complex. Go straight to the point.
The attention span of readers, especially those who read articles using their mobile devices, is short. You have to capture the attention of your audience right away, enough for them to stay and read on until the end of your article. While using flowery words may seem impressive, that's not the case online.
3. Do not write long sentences.
In line with the second rule, your readers do not have time to read kilometric sentences. You should have a brief, yet concise article. In news writing, for example, using the active voice is more preferred than the passive voice.
4. Use subheadings.
I don't know if it's just me, but I get a headache whenever I read copies with long paragraphs. Your article should be readable and easy to browse. If there's a subheading, chances are, you'll be able to grab your reader's attention right away - no need for Advil.
5. Always check your facts.
Your copy has to be original and it should provide the correct information - always. Never, ever plagiarize. Your credibility as a writer will suffer, and no one wants a writer who can't produce his/her own ideas. In addition, write for your audience first, then apply your SEO strategy. That way, readers will know that you're not just after their clicks, you actually want them to be informed.
6. Triple check article before publishing.
Don't forget to proofread. Look for spelling and grammatical errors. Yes, there's no such thing as a perfect writer, but hey, as a writer, you need to always deliver a great product - your content.