“Character, in the long run, is the decisive factor in the life of an individual and of nations alike.”
- Theodore Roosevelt

Every blog has its own voice, every blogger; his or her own character. Personally, I think it’s one of the key factors for the success of a blog. Perez Hilton wouldn’t be as popular if the blog sounded like something that came from a technical manual. I think you would all agree. Every word we, bloggers, put down on paper (or in our case, type on screen), reflects our personalities — or at least the personality we want to project for the sake of the blog’s image. You don’t put a smiley icon on a corporate blog or write dissertation-like posts for a personal one. You have to write using the voice with which your readers can relate. You have to catch the attention of the masses in your niche.

It’s the same thing with the old AIDA concept for copywriting: Attract attention, create Interest, provide Details, and call for Action. Of course, in a different context. However, I believe that just like writing sales copy, you have to think of ways for your blog to sell. Words are powerful — and I’m sure every person reading this blog knows that or else you wouldn’t be reading this at all! The way you write might make the difference between an interest and an actual sale. What I meant by that is — in the blogosphere, it’s a matter of being able to retain readers; you have to be able to convert one-time visitors to regulars. Ergo, treat every blog post like you would a sales pitch.

Now, let’s get back on track. There are many different voices/tones bloggers use depending on the topic of the blog.

Do you use:

1. Editorial tone

A wordy and opinionated individual would opt for this tone for obvious reasons. What better place to spark an intelligent debate other than the World Wide Web? You’re getting worldwide readership with people of different cultures hence the variety of answers would also be wide in range.

2. Conversational or friendly tone

Most common for the personal blog, of course. Though many other types of blogs also do employ this tone. I especially favor a conversational voice because you give your readers a chance to relate with what you write. A blogger with a warm and welcoming blogging style tends to attract others; which should be one of your goals as bloggers in the first place.

3. Snarky, witty, critical, sarcastic tone

Used by many celebrity / entertainment-related blogs. Readers love intrigue. They love drama and apparently, a tone which borders on the cruel. I tried adapting this tone before to no avail. I hope to be able to do so in the future though — after all, as a writer, I should always be challenging myself to do what I cannot.

4. Humorous tone

Need I say more? What’s better than a couple of good laughs per day? Same as what I said above, I don’t seem to be capable of writing a funny post. I envy those who can, I really do! I think being funny is a blessing which I haven’t been showered with. It’s always a pleasure reading comic blog posts and it’s one of my biggest frustrations to be able to write one.

5. Corporate / Legal /scientific tone

Used for blogs imbued with jargons used in their own niches. Of course, I can’t imagine anyone using such a tone for personal blogs.

Bottom line is, your blog, whatever topic it may be, has its own character and personality. No tone of writing is the same for two bloggers as no two blogs are identical. Seek which one works for you and polish it so that your blog would stand above the crowd. Just like what Theodore Roosevelt said, “character” is a deciding factor in the longevity of your blog.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 24th, 2007 at 1:00 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

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