The 3 C’s of Writing Powerful Content

Content is king. Blah, blah, blah. We’ve heard it before. But what does it mean to you? How does that statement impact your writing? 

Whether you are writing a new blog post, a bylined article for a trade publication or a speech, follow the 3 C’s and you’ll have the magic formula to engage your audience. 

The 3 C’s are Clear, Concise and Compelling. 

1. Be clear. Clarity is a beautiful thing. If you are confused when you write, you can’t expect people to follow along with you. Before you begin to write, jot down your purpose and main message. Consider your theme and a real-life example to include that helps bring your message home. 

2. Be concise. I’m convinced our entire society has Attention Deficit Disorder. We are bombarded with information, images and messages–most of which we didn’t ask for and are irrelevant to us. Getting people’s attention and keeping it is a real challenge. Especially when it’s the written word. That’s why it’s critical to write with precision. If people are confused, you will lose them. Don’t be concerned about word count and how long or short your material is. Simply make your point, and be done. Respect the fact that most people are overwhelmed and rushed. Keep in mind, the phrase I hear so often these days –”I am crazy busy.” People who are “crazy busy” will appreciate concise.

3. Be compelling. The one significant quality we share as human beings is that we have emotions. Emotions connect us with other people. When you write, be willing to share a human experience (story) that reveals an emotion. People love great stories. They can be extremely compelling and powerful. Take your audience on a  journey with your words, story and message. Pique their interest so they feel like they are reading a famed novel that they can’t put down. Help them to hang on every word and image. 

If you’re like me, your early childhood memories from when you are 4 or 5 years old are being in your pajamas at bedtime, safe with the people who loved you the most and you ask them to read you a story. It may have been Donald Duck, a classic fable or a Bible story. It takes you on an adventure that captivates your imagination, heart and soul. It can move you to laughter or tears. 

Consider what stories, movies, shows and articles grab your attention. You’re sitting in your den flipping through a magazine or channel surfing with the remote. You stop at something that captures your attention. What prompted you to stop? 

When you think about it, something there was clear, concise or compelling.  

 
(Photo Credit: Pictures by Anne)

Tagged as: articles, audience, content, emotions, speeches, stories, Writing