Old-School Journalism Tips for Online Writers

Before joining mStoner in January, I spent most of my communications career in the world of newspapers. The smaller newspapers in my home state of Vermont comprise the majority of print media outlets, and many publishers here are still trying to figure out exactly where social media fits into their operations. For many of them, online and social media writing is relatively new.

Now, I work in an industry that’s largely web-based and lives on social media. In my current job, online writing and content management are daily tasks. It’s easy to think that these two seemingly disparate parts of my career have nothing in common. But, it turns out there are some old-school journalism tips that are helpful with social media and web writing. Here are some examples:

• Use an active voice. Simple, direct language makes your copy better and easier to read. Tweet this: “We launched our new site today,” versus this: “Our new site was launched today.”

• Remember your audience. If your audience can’t relate to your content, they won’t read it. Period. Your readers’ needs should drive your every word.

• Verify or duck. This is a favorite from an old editor friend of mine, and it’s still really handy in the social media and web writing world. If a deadline is approaching and you can’t verify a particular detail in your writing, then duck; get rid of it. Most times, you’ll be able to fill the void with other content that is undoubtedly true and fits the context.

• Find a hook. Whether you’re writing an article, blog post, or a tweet, the language has to grab the reader’s attention. Use snappy action words, such as join, watch, hear, or go. And, if you know your audience well, you’ll know the language that resonates with them.

• Tell good stories. A compelling human interest story will always draw a reader’s attention. Whatever the context, readers thirst for good stories, and it’s a writer’s job to supply them.

Below, you’ll find some resources to help you apply these tips in your work. Happy writing!

• Social Media Storytelling 101: How to Start if You’re Still New, by David Murton
• Tips to Write Your Most Popular Blog Post, by Stephanie Strazinsky
• Before You Target Social Network Users, Consider These 4 Points, by Cara Pring
• Webinar: What Do I Say? Content Ideas for Social Media, by Susan T. Evans