Word Wise: Practical Writing Tips for Freelancers and Solopreneurs

In the video, the doctor placed special headphones on a baby with a hearing deficit — and the baby heard his mother’s voice for the first time. Smiles, giggles, and laughter punctuated the soundtrack. I leaned over and shared the video with my husband. He grinned.

I’d just consumed a piece of inspiration. It’s one of the 4 types of content in a magic mix that transforms strangers into loyal readers (and loyal clients and loyal customers).

Successful writers publish all four.

Why do I need to create different types of content?

Here’s a little secret: You may be sabotaging yourself …

• Not because your niche is crowded
• Not because of your writing skills …

… but because you’re writing the same type of content over and over.

Solopreneurs and small businesses shouldn’t just post one kind of content and call it a day.

Think of your content like a home-cooked Sunday dinner. If you only serve mashed potatoes, folks might love them the first time, but by week three, they are looking for a plate with a little more variety. The same is true for your audience — they need a mix to stay interested, connected, and ready to click.

There are 4 types of content you need to grow your following, much like the four food groups our bodies need to be healthy. A healthy content “diet” keeps your audience coming back for seconds and thirds. Leave one type out, and you’ll feel a little flat to readers — like a pie with no filling.

Here’s the breakdown.

The 4 types of content that turn strangers into loyal readers

1. Educational content: Show readers you know your stuff