Much of the writing online seems to cater to middle school kids, which is appropriate in terms of readability. Research belongs elsewhere. So, how can we draw in surfers, capture their interests, and succeed in selling products and services?

1. Take it easy on the language

Online readers seem to be in a tearing hurry. Words catch eyes or eyes catchwords, we do not really know which. A few seconds is all there is to capture attention. Like gunfire, let it be short, sweet sentences, half-sentences too, individual phrases, and words placed separately. A personalized language that appeals to feelings and emotions would draw the readers in. Avoid difficult words and complex sentences. Several online tools like the Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease score would help simplify approaches. Use dictionaries.

2. Pictures and imagery attract a lot of attention

Statistics reveal that images rule our lives and that includes television screens and camera phones. Most articles carry pictures to drive home the meaning. Yet language too is often pictorial and carries images within words that liven up the proceedings. Scatter thoughts and ideas in meaningful imagery like being in the middle of a lonely island to indicate a tight spot.

3. Action words indicated by strong verbs carry the message

Avoid those passive constructions. While avoiding the complicated, use strong verbs like rushed instead of ran. Speed up the meanings and actions by reinforcing what you say in a sustained manner. Make sure that readers understand each bit of meaning, precisely worded.

4. Aim keywords at SEO and establish links

Research reveals the most common phrases surfers use to find websites. Something like ‘travel by train’ perhaps. Web content writing should contain the kind of language surfers would use. That helps to rise in the search engine rankings with better chances of visibility. If you write about hunting, do some keyword research. Linking to other websites, articles and research papers brings an element of seriousness and a networked feel.

5. Establish happy writing with a sharing theme

As we see so commonly in social media, liking something results in sharing, and most pictures, videos, and writing reflect a happy attitude. Let the profuse writing be pleasing, flowing like the river with goodness and vitality.

6. Conclude with a parting gift

Whether it is a call to action or sharing a little secret, the conclusion should contain a farewell gift as we see in many parties, cute tokens of happiness. Writing with feeling can end with a sweet parting message. It could be a link to know more. Say it with flowers.