In this post, we’ll take a look at 5 powerful ways to use call-to-actions in your blog posts.
Most blogs will have some kind of primary call-to-action. A call-to-action, CTA for short, is defined as to what action is desired from a user. For example – After reading an article, what action should someone take next?
Today we’ll look mainly at using call-to-actions to motivate your blog readers to do four things:
Of course, the very first step to getting folks to do any of the five things listed above is not by starting with a call-to-action, but to actually create the kind of content that will compel them to want to take action!
I hope that made sense.
If you have a lot of useful and valuable content on your blog, getting readers to take action shouldn’t really be a problem.
OK, so that’s the content part covered. How do you use call-to-actions in your blog post content to achieve the five things I highlighted above?
Let’s take a look.
A funny old phrase to use, I know, but to me ‘content discovery’ simply means motivating your readers to explore more of your content after reading one post.
Your goal is to get your readers to find value in more than just one article on your blog, right?
Some ways to encourage visitors to dive deeper into your content is to add ‘related posts’ and ‘popular posts’ elements and widgets on your blog.
You can further encourage your readers to explore content by using a call to action message.
For example, don’t just add links to related posts at the end of your articles, instead describe the content of the post, tell your readers to check them out, and why you are recommending them to read it.
Here’s an example:
Check out this post I wrote on how to write actionable content for your blog; it’s packed with amazing tips.
There’s nothing more discouraging than seeing a blog with zero engagement unless you are not promoting engagement on your blog, or perhaps you’re pushing for engagement off-site (on social media). Or you may have comments turned off like I have on my blog.
However, if you are promoting comments and engagement on your blog and your posts show zero comments, then this will do very little to encourage others to want to leave a comment.
You need to add a call-to-action at the bottom of our post, kindly asking people to leave a comment after reading.
Here are some ideas and suggestions on how to do just that:
In addition to encouraging comments and engagement through an effective call-to-action, commenting on your blog shouldn’t be a challenge for your readers; it should be a simple and fun process.
This is one ‘call to action’ you probably don’t want to neglect, especially if your goal is to grow your readership and boost your blog traffic.
There are several call-to-actions you can use for directing visitors to your signup page.
Are you ready to take your blog to the next level? Download my free PDF Guide/eBook/product, the XXX here!
If you especially enjoy creating long-form content, consider adding a call-to-action half-way through your post content. Use quotes to make your message stand out.
Here’s an example –
Love what you’ve read so far? Subscribe to get notified of more awesome content like this.
First of all, ensure that you’re using social sharing buttons that make social sharing quick and easy on your blog.
Additionally, and if you use WordPress, of course, consider installing the SocialSnap plugin (Affiliate link), which includes a useful feature that allows you to add ‘click-to-tweet’ elements anywhere in your blog posts.
Don’t forget to add ‘call-to-action’ at the end of your posts as well.
If you don’t ask for people to share your post on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, chances are they may forget to do it.
Here’s an example of a simple call-to-action box.
Last but not least, call-to-actions are essential for getting folks to buy from you!
If you have an eBook or any other digital product for sale on your blog, you can’t expect folks to automatically remember to check them out or even make a purchase. You have to guide them.
What better way to do that than to use powerful CTA’s either in a message form or inside a button?
Here’s an example of a powerful CTA text within a button:
These are just some ideas on how to use effective call-to-action in your blog posts. Of course, there are many other ways to use them.
Remember, it all depends on what type of response you’re looking for from your audience. And your conversion goal too.
Experiment with a few on your blog. Harness the power of ‘asking’ people to take action when reading your content or finished reading your blog posts.
Keep them engaged on your site for longer, ask them to share a post or comment on one. Ask them to signup and join your email list.
Mention your products and use powerful CTA messages within your buttons and content.
You can even use video as a call to action. Video can be very personal and powerful. Just keep it short and sweet!
The best of luck.