5 Simple Ways to Open Your Blog Post With a Bang.

What’s the second most important part of your blog post after the title?

I feel it is the headline and the opening paragraph.

Just imagine how disappointed you’d be after crafting a killer headline for your post, only to lose readers with an opening that failed to carry the momentum. A great headline mixed with a lame opening is like inviting someone into your house, only to slam the door in their face as they approach.

I have seen so many people start a blog to share their experiences in their passionate fields. But the energy and enthusiasm with which they start does not last too long as they fail to attract new visitors. So, here are 5 ways to open your post that will capture the reader’s imagination and pull them deeper into your content.

1. Quote a Shocking Statistic

Starting off with an interesting news is a great technique. People love being provided with interesting data, but only if it is unique or even shocking. The statistic should also be directly relevant to the point of your post as well. This point should not be confused with a Link Bait.

2. Ask a Question

Opening your post or closing it with a question creates curiosity and gets the reader thinking. Thinking equals active engagement with your content and that’s a very good thing.

3. Share an Anecdote or Quote

Anecdotes are quick stories that can make people laugh or immediately establish the main point of your post. A nice quote from a recognizable authority or famous person can also work wonders when holding attention in those crucial opening seconds.

4. Use an Analogy, Metaphor or Simile

Analogies, metaphors and similes are the best options available when it comes to telling a story in a single sentence. This is a great way to capture a reader’s attention and also provokes the user to connect the sentence with their life, signaling complete involvement in your content.

5. Force the reader to act

Forcing the reader to act is a good way of engaging them throughout. Act does not necessarily have to be an action. There are more powerful things you can ever do as a writer! Activate the mind’s eye of the reader by using words like “Imagine” or “do you remember when,” etc.