The first step in getting people to read your blog is an effective and enticing headline. Creating a powerful conversation starts with your opening line. The secret of creating a “sticky headline” starts with just three words – and these three words are the secret to making your message matter.
If you want to create engagement – and really capture the imagination of your reader – you’ve got to create a headline that’s unexpected and intriguing. Here’s a fresh perspective on keeping your message fresh online.
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Once upon a time, two people were having a conversation.
So many times, we concentrate on the content of our stories – what we’ve done, what we’re doing. It’s like a verbal status update, or a resume review. Perhaps you’ve experienced this kind of laundry list communication, in a presentation at work. (I know I’ve been guilty of this one!)
Accomplishments, features and benefits don’t mean a thing, until you get your audience involved.
Next time you write your blog post, think about what you would like your listener to do or say when you are done. Consider the “Tell me more”, and focus on the outcome.
People want to know more about what you are going to do than what you have done. Your reader wants to know what action you are going to take. Your experience and accomplishments only serve to support what you might do next, so it’s time to stop living in the past and get your audience involved in your story. What are you going to do? Even better: What are we going to do together?
Change your story, and change your results. Focus on:
What you would like to create or change, with the help of your reader or audience
The action you need, for the results you want – again, phrased in terms of the person in front of you
Consider how your idea can improve the status quo for your audience: How do things get better, when you get going?
What are you going to do for your reader?
By focusing on your listener, you take your attention off of your astonishing accomplishments or fantabulous product benefits (yawn). Create a conversation by creating a connection – a connection that engages your audience in your story. That way, you put your attention where it really matters: “Tell me more”.
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For more information on how to create a powerful message, check out my latest book: The NEW Elevator Pitch
With a seven-step process for building your personal story, and a series of exercises designed to accelerate your communication skills, you will have the tools to influence the people that matter most to you. The old-school, in-your-face sales pitch is dead, and the elevator platform has been replaced with the social platform. Millions of messages bombard us every day, so your story has to be strong or it’s lost in the noise. Whether you tweet it or tell it, you owe it to yourself to get confidence, command and control of your message – wherever your elevator takes you.
Tell me more are some very powerful words. I think some people hear it way too infrequently. It really does keep a conversation moving and shows people that you are listening and care. Love this post.
@susansilver Susan, thanks for your comment - I agree. When someone says, "Tell me more", they are interested. They want to hear more from you, and the conversation has really begun. Ultimately, that simple exchange can be the start of something great! Recognition is the key: showing that you're listening is the first step. Thanks again for taking the time to look over my post - much appreciated
