As I mentioned the other day, I’m planning on tackling some of the writing prompts that have been prepared for this month’s NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month) challenge theme of Connect. I thought today’s question was rather interesting, and would love to hear your thoughts on it as well!
What do you think makes people connect with a post or a blog in general?
Well, I can’t really speak for anyone else, but I can tell you a few of the things that, combined, entice me to want to connect with someone via their blog.
- An engaging writing style that draws me in, makes me want to read more, and moves me in some way (perhaps to laugh, to think, or to act).
- Topics that interest, help, or speak to me.
- Consistent attention to detail such as spelling, punctuation, grammar, formatting, layout, and effective use of graphic elements. I believe that presentation is just as important as the words themselves, as a sloppy, mistake-filled post can actually distract the reader away from what the writer is trying to say (if not away from the blog entirely).
- A sense of sincerity and authenticity, where it’s clear that posts are a true expression of the writer’s personality and outlook.
- A voice that communicates honesty, openness, and vulnerability without crossing over into off-putting TMI territory. (It’s a fine balance!)
Photo credit Sean McGrath
So there you have it! Looking back at that list, it seems as though whole posts could be written about each of those items – I might just have to explore some of them in future!
In the meantime, though, I can pretty much guarantee that your list will be completely different from mine. So tell me all about it.
What makes you connect with a post or a blog?
Please share!
Twitter: ellytreehugger
July 9, 2015
Great post Laurel as it is a very good question to think about and explore! For me, some of the reasons are similar to yours in terms of writing style, being interested in and/or able to relate to the topic of the blogger’s post, short(er) posts rather than long drawn-out ones as I am too busy/on computer too much – I am guilty of long posts when I first started out as I had no clue! 😉 (and I had to google TMI by the way!). Also, ones with pics/photos rather than only text and ones that I can easily read in a nice-sized font (not too small as I have seen, though on rare occasion), and a colour and background easy to read (some are quite challenging on/for the eyes!). That’s all I can think of at this early hour! 😉 <3
elly stornebrink recently posted… Quote Challenge Day 1: Quotes are mine!
Twitter: alphabetsalad
July 11, 2015
I totally agree about the short rather than long posts. Generally if I have what feels like too much to say in one, I’ll split it into two and share it over a couple of days.
Laurel Regan recently posted… Photo Friday: Patterns
Twitter: nabanita21
July 9, 2015
Well, you seemed to have covered most of the points… I guess topic, clarity, wavelength and also knowing the person helps… Moreover, at times it’s just curiosity.. On others being part of a blogging community also becomes the reason…
nabanita recently posted… #MondayMusings Change & Life : Companions Forever
Twitter: alphabetsalad
July 11, 2015
That’s true – I’ve met some great people through blogging communities!
Laurel Regan recently posted… Photo Friday: Patterns
You have covered almost the points out here. But another thing that helps me connect with a blog is simplicity and a neat template. Templates that throw ads on my face every time I visit a blog is such a turn off.
Soumya recently posted… 12 Things In A Woman’s Closet That Will Never Go Out Of Style
Twitter: alphabetsalad
July 11, 2015
Yes, I agree – focusing on the post itself is what’s most important.
Laurel Regan recently posted… Photo Friday: Patterns
Twitter: miss_teerious
July 9, 2015
All the points you mentioned above work for me too, especially the topic, writing style and the blogger’s own “voice”. I can live with minor grammar/spelling mistakes if the message is clear.
Chicky recently posted… Quote Challenge – Day 2 of 3
Twitter: alphabetsalad
July 11, 2015
Mistakes do happen! Minor ones don’t really bother me either (though I confess I do notice them!).
Laurel Regan recently posted… Photo Friday: Patterns
Twitter: awellstyledlife
July 9, 2015
All the points you made. Plus if they tickle my funny bone 🙂 I’d never heard of that blogging challenge. I’ll check it out!
Jennifer recently posted… Seduction of Meditation: And it’s Benefits
Twitter: alphabetsalad
July 11, 2015
It’s a fun challenge!
Laurel Regan recently posted… Photo Friday: Patterns
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