The short version of this is to put the highest quality content possible.

This is a list of best practices, so be ready for list.

Think Google. People used to come to the front page every day, like getting their paper at their doorstep. Now people go to Google to find out the news. Type in the question you want answered and see what’s there.

Write about what you know and stick to your guns. Write what you know and know what you write.

Create an editorial calendar and stick with it. This has been echoed by lots of people at the Thin Air Summit. Write out a calendar of content in advance, so you’re ready to write and you have the information you need.

Headlines should clearly state what the article is about. When people are on the web, it needs to be completely clear what the article is about. Avoid one word headlines and cleverness. The best headline writers are clear and clever. Good headline starters: How to, 10 ways to, the best… Deliver on promises. Bait and switch is for crooks.

Post frequently and regularly, posting content at the same day at the same time. writing too long is writing LAZY. Put your best stuff and make your point in the first 200 words, no one makes it to the end. Explain jargon. Use all the tools that are available to you. Be useful to your reader. Punctuation matters. Go through your old articles and clean them up. Avoid passive voice, write with authority. Avoid personal tirades.

Article ideas: write frequently and short. Write evergreen. Check out what other publications are writing, and write about it but don’t forget to link back. Sign up to be on a press release distribution list.
Post timely info. Late info doesn’t help. Posting a little something is better than nothing at all. Don’t take on too much with a post. Ask a question in your headline, answer it in the post. Use templates that work and stick with it. Stop using multiple fonts and colors. you don’t have to be profound with each post. Avoid obscure references, know your audience. Write a good lead.

Create good subsections that people will be able to find your content easily. Be useful.

Partner up! If not with other publicatons, then other bloggers.