Stop Writing, Start Talking

Engage more readers by treating your writing like a conversation

One of the most difficult things about writing is finding the balance between a high-quality story that is of interest to you while still creating content that keeps your readers wanting more. You can’t please everybody, but you do want your writing to attract a broad group.

When you really break it down, writing an engaging story is just like having an impactful conversation with someone. The better your conversation, the more likely you are to connect with that person. Here are some tips on how you can approach your writing more like a conversation that will draw an engaged audience.

Relate to your reader

You know when you strike up a conversation with a stranger and the two of you just ‘click’? Normally it happens when you realize you like the same hobby, you share a favorite restaurant, or you can relate to something that the other person has experienced. The more they get to know you, the more likely you are to bond.

You want to create the same thing for your readers, a moment where they feel like they ‘click’ with your story. To do this, you need to prioritize being personable in your writing. The more you can convey yourself as a real person, rather than just words on a screen, the more likely your reader is going to relate to an aspect of your story.

Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability

The deeper a conversation goes, the more likely you are to connect with someone on an emotional level. Think back to a conversation you had with someone who really let their walls down and opened up to you. Your connection to that person was likely strengthened if you could empathize or relate to the emotion and experience they were conveying to you.

The absolute best stories are those that speak for the reader. An author who isn’t afraid to show emotion in their writing opens the door for readers to relate to an experience without having to show vulnerability themselves. Whether you are reading a story or listening in conversation, it’s comforting to relate to someone’s emotions without having to express the emotions yourself.

Keep interest high with fewer words

In conversation, people appreciate when you are mindful of their time, and writing is no exception. Meaningful conversations can be achieved in a succinct amount of time; you don’t need to carry on for 30 minutes to connect with someone. You’re more likely to lose someone’s attention if you start to ramble.

Keep this in mind when you are writing; just because a story is lengthy does not mean that all of it’s content is meaningful. Try to use the fewest words possible to articulate your message, takeaways, or ideas. The more long-winded a story is, the more likely a reader is to lose interest.

Add value to the person you’re connecting with

Above all else, your most meaningful conversations are those that leave you walking away with new insight, advice, or a lesson that adds value to your life. If a person spends the entirety of a conversation going on about themselves, you’ll probably walk away feeling like you didn’t gain anything from the encounter.

If you’re writing is all about you, it may be what’s narrowing your audience. This doesn’t mean that you absolutely cannot write about yourself, rather you need to be mindful of how you are portraying your story. Find ways to phrase your personal stories that makes your reader feel like you are teaching them something, rather than just telling them about what happened to you. Just like in conversation, you have to find ways to talk about yourself while still being mindful of the person you are talking to.

No matter the topic you choose to write about, treating your stories as if you are conversing with your reader will create more opportunity for people to connect with your work. By decreasing personal barriers and finding ways to ‘click’ with your audience, you’ll see an upward trend in your reader engagement.