Finding the Right Voice

A Niche Is One Thing, But...

Davida (DShensky) recently posted an article on her WA blog regarding her struggle to decide what kinds of articles to focus on for another website, Disability Rights Advocate. She had proposed writing for them as a contributior and they showed an interest. If you have ever visited any of her sites, read any of her articles or listened to her podcasts, you'll find a common tonality in all of her content. Dshensky has a distinct voice. This is why other site owners show an interest in her proposals.

I like to think I have a unique voice of my own. As to whether it has mass appeal, it's hard for me to be objective. I like to think I'm a pretty good writer, but as with anything, it's sometimes hit-or-miss, but hopefully always improving

My niche is Baby Boomers. As you may surmise, it is a rather broad topic, with lots of possibiites for sub-niches. Because of the broad range of topics I have to choose from, I have to wear a lot of hats. When wearing my "writer's hat"I try not to be boring, yet still be entertaining and informative when I write articles for my site. Remember, if you have to average 1500 to 2000 words, it's easy to get longwinded. You don't want to ramble on and on if it's not compelling your readers to read.

If I cull material from other sources, I must put on my "editor hat" and make sure that content from outside contributors fits in with my style.

I'm not kidding about this "hat thing", either. I literally wear several hats!

Yet, after a year and a half of building this particular site, I'm still in the process of finding the right "voice" for it. Your voice is what makes you stand out from the crowd when your niche is one of many in the search results. Why would anyone want to visit more than once if I don't provide compelling content?

Recently, I have decided to focus on just a few subniches within my main niche and in doing so, I will soon be making over my home page and paring down my menu. Sorry I can't be more specific right now; however, I'd just like to leave you with some food for thought...

When you write, are you aware of your "voice"? Can you put yourself in the reader's shoes and hear what they hear in their head as they read your articles? Do you write often? Do you write freeform and then edit or edit as you go? I would suggest the former. If you keep stopping to edit yourself, you may stand to lose some interesting ideas.

Do you have a lot to say about your chosen niche, but you're new at writing? Use the search bar to find "blog tips", or "writing tips for newbies". You can also search Google and Youtube for similar lessons, tips and ideas.

Just for a kickstart, here are a few links to member blogs within WA:

Blog Tips for Beginnersby kasotty

Learn to write a blog at Wealthy Affiliateby Loes

Blogging Tips For Newbiesby PjGermain

There are many, many more out there. Always be learning! Eventually, you'll find your voice.

Th-th-th-th-th-that's all, folks!