1. Highlight a common problem
People read content for the value it offers. For business blogs, that usually means a solution to a problem. By highlighting a pain point in your introduction, you immediately grab the readers’ attention.
2. Tell readers what to expect
When you agitate a pain point, you start a ticking clock. If you don’t tell your audience how you will help, they’ll quickly lose patience and bounce.
3. Explain the benefits
Some people read a blog post because they want to learn something that will help them to improve their lives. Whether it’s instructions on how to make pancakes or a guide on how to increase customer retention, your readers want results.
4. Ask a question
When you ask a question in your introduction, you invite the reader to ponder an answer. You actively think about the topic from the outset.
5. Take a stand
Conflict is the essence of drama. Anyone who has studied storytelling knows the importance of confrontation in creating tension and engaging an audience.
6. Use a quote
Quotes can be a great way to lend credibility and create a compelling lede. A quote can back up your thesis and provide a framework to structure the rest of your content.
7. Write the introduction last
The introduction is the first thing your readers see, but it often should be the last thing you write for two reasons.