“Once you get people laughing, they’re listening and you can tell them almost anything” – Herb Gardner. You have written a catchy title now you have to keep the reader’s attention with a solid welcoming introduction. As I said in the last post, only 20 percent of the readers continue after the title. You certainly don’t want that number to drop. So here is the answer to creating a fun and exciting introduction.

Just as with the title, the introduction paragraph has to be interesting. Look at it as if you were introducing yourself to someone you fancy at the bar or night club. How do you want to be perceived? Interesting, funny, smart, these are all attractive qualities, right? The same applies to writing an introduction. You want to make it alluring to captivate the reader so that they will want to finish the article.

Try opening up with a quote as I did in this article’s intro. Think of it as your icebreaker. Quotes can project the qualities we are looking for in an intro paragraph, all in one line. Easily snagging the attention of the reader. Be sure to make the quote relevant to the subject of the article. Select short and to the point quotes, to keep a nice fast pace flow for the post.

Put yourself out there. Show some personality or share something personal to connect with the reader. Don’t dig too deep, and it must relate to your focal point. Most people out there have the same problems in life and can relate to one another’s experiences. If you have an uplifting or fascinating story to share, all the better. Everyone loves to hear true tales of life’s adventures. They can be inspiring, so much so they can will a reader to read on.

Start with your end. Much like the abstract portion of a scientific paper, you can give the reader the most important information first a.k.a. the results. Blog readers read at high speeds so you got to give them the info they want first or they will lose interest just as fast.

In conclusion, give your opening paragraph attractive qualities (funny, smart, and interesting). Quotes are always a good way to start, as long as they are relevant. Readers love a good story, one that inspires and connects with the reader. And finally, put your most important information first to hold the readers interest. Use any one of these techniques and you are sure to write a great intro.

Queen of the Machine for Viral Solutions LLC

“If a brand genuinely wants to make a social contribution, it should start with who they are, not what they do. For only when a brand has defined itself and its core values can it identify causes or social responsibility initiatives that are in alignment with its authentic brand story.” ~ Simon Mainwaring