How I Write So That You'll Read Me

I'm blessed by you. I know this. It's not easy to earn someone's attention. Especially over and over again. I cherish and value your attention, which is one reason among many why I never do silly things on April Fool's Day. Your trust matters a great deal.

But how do I earn your attention over and over again? It's not my clever paint-spattered robots. That's for sure. I can share a few thoughts on this that might be helpful for you.

First, I Write As If I Have Something Useful to Share

The great Tony Khan from public radio around here in Boston said that was the secret to his legendary voice: I speak as if I'm talking to one person whom I love dearly, and that I have something that's important for them to hear and understand. That was how he got people to listen to him. You just felt so warm and appreciated and somehow "heard," even though Tony was talking to us. (You can listen to a sample or two. See what I mean?)

That's how I write to YOU. I think, "I hope you find this interesting and it sheds light on what you're doing right now." That helps guide my words.

Second, I Value Your Time (Brevity)

I write usually around 500 words. I know you're rushing around, and you're sneaking by here in between two tasks. If I write 500 words, then you'll read it because even if you're a slow reader, that's about 4 minutes. I try to say the thing I'm saying, and then get out. We don't have time to linger.

Third, I try to Make A Point

This one's so obvious. But we both know that sometimes, people try to get you to read their thing ONLY so they can sell you something. Other times, people are just writing to hear themselves think. I try extra hard not to do that here, or if I know that's what I'm doing, I warn you. Thus, you can know that I'll always do my best to give you something useful.

Moreso, though, I try to be really clear on the point, so that you walk away from the article with what I intended you to pick up.

Lastly, I Write For Your Growth

My goal with everything I put here is that YOU get something of value out of it. Why? Because I benefit when you succeed. At work, doubly so. Because I count on your success to go towards me being able to get a pony some day. But even if you're not lucky enough to work for Appfire with me, I still write with your growth in mind.

That's what I do to ensure that you'll read what I share. I share something useful, briefly, to the point, and with your goal in mind.

Easy. Right?

Chris...