Writing feature articles is both an art and a science. These long-form pieces are engaging, informative, and designed to captivate readers, but they also need to sell – whether it’s a product, an idea, or a point of view. So, how do you craft feature articles that sell and make an impact? This guide will walk you through the 7 essential steps to writing feature articles that resonate with readers and compel them to act.
Step 1: Choose a Compelling Topic
The first step in writing a feature article that sells is selecting a compelling topic. Your topic should be relevant to your audience, timely, and interesting enough to hold their attention. Think about what issues or ideas are trending in your niche, or what problems your audience is trying to solve. If you’re unsure, do some research – Google Trends and social media platforms can help you identify popular themes.
Tip: Always align your topic with your target audience. What do they care about? What challenges are they facing? Writing about something that resonates with them is the first step to creating an article that not only informs but also sells.
Step 2: Conduct Thorough Research
Once you’ve chosen your topic, it’s time to dive into research. Great feature articles are built on solid facts and insights, not just opinions. Make sure to gather information from reliable sources and, where necessary, conduct interviews with experts. The more data you have, the more authority your article will command.
For example, if you’re writing a feature on eco-friendly products, you might want to include case studies or expert insights to give your piece credibility. Research also allows you to explore the most effective ways to connect your topic to the product or service you’re promoting.
Tip: Always verify your sources to avoid misinformation. Trustworthy, high-quality research builds trust with your readers, which is crucial for selling.
Step 3: Craft a Powerful Lead
The first few sentences of your article, or the lead, are crucial. This is where you hook the reader. A good lead should be attention-grabbing and give a taste of what’s to come. It can be an intriguing question, a startling statistic, or a captivating anecdote.
For example:
“Did you know that businesses with a content marketing strategy generate 55% more website traffic? Here’s how writing high-quality feature articles can help your brand achieve that.”
Your lead should not only grab attention but also introduce the core message of the article. Make sure your readers understand what value they’ll get from reading further.
Step 4: Structure for Maximum Engagement
Good article structure is key to keeping your readers engaged. Start with an introduction, then move on to the body, where you explore your topic in depth, and finally, conclude with a strong, actionable takeaway.
Use subheadings to break up your article and make it easy to skim – a well-structured piece helps readers find key information quickly, especially in today’s fast-paced digital world. Include bullet points or numbered lists where appropriate to highlight essential tips or takeaways.
When structuring your article, also think about where to naturally introduce the product or service you’re promoting. Weaving it seamlessly into your content makes it feel less like a sales pitch and more like helpful information.
Step 5: Use Persuasive, Conversational Language
A conversational tone is key to writing feature articles that connect with readers. Avoid jargon or overly complex language, and write as if you’re talking to a friend. This makes the article more relatable and easier to digest.
Transition words like “furthermore, in addition,” and “therefore” can help guide your reader smoothly from one point to the next. When promoting a product, emphasize its benefits, not just its features. Use words that evoke emotion and clearly outline why the product is the solution to your reader’s problem.
Step 6: Add Visuals and Hyperlinks for Credibility
Feature articles aren’t just about text. Visuals like images, infographics, and videos can help convey your message more effectively. For instance, if you’re discussing a new tech gadget, include product images or demo videos to give your readers a better understanding.
Additionally, incorporating hyperlinks to reputable sources can enhance your article’s credibility. These links provide further reading for those who want to dive deeper and demonstrate that your content is well-researched. For example, linking to case studies or industry reports strengthens the article’s authority.
Step 7: Conclude with a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
A call to action (CTA) is critical to any article that’s designed to sell. Whether you want your readers to sign up for a newsletter, download a free guide, or buy a product, make sure your CTA is clear, actionable, and enticing.
For instance:
“Ready to elevate your writing skills and start creating feature articles that sell? Download our free e-book today and learn the top strategies used by professional writers!”
Always tie your CTA back to the value your article has provided. If your content is informative and helpful, readers will be more inclined to follow through on your suggestion.
Conclusion: Start Writing Feature Articles That Convert
Writing feature articles that sell takes practice, but by following these seven steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating content that informs, engages, and persuades. Start with a compelling topic, back up your article with thorough research, and don’t forget the importance of a strong lead and structured content. Use persuasive, conversational language, and don’t underestimate the power of visuals and links. Finally, close with a powerful CTA that encourages readers to take the next step.
By mastering these techniques, you’ll be writing feature articles that not only captivate your audience but also help drive sales and conversions. Now, it’s time to put these steps into action and watch your articles transform into high-performing assets!
