There are many different elements that go into writing the perfect piece, but the one thing that matters above all else is projecting your own voice. It’s what makes you stand out from the crowds. Finding your voice can be the difference between readers recognising your writing and being instantly at home with your piece, and feeling like they’re reading just another article on the internet. In this post, we’ll bring you the best tips on turning up the volume – and making sure your voice is heard.
1) Don’t force it
It can be oh-so-easy to fall into the trap of forcing a voice that isn’t yours into your writing. You may be eager to make your mark on the writing world, but if you haven’t taken the time to develop your own style organically, you could end up with some seriously bad writing. Sit back and think about how you want to come across to readers. Are the words you put down really yours, or do they sound like someone you’re struggling to be? Slow down and let your own natural voice bloom.
2) Mimic the writers you love
Think about all of the books you read growing up. Was there a certain style or tone that you adored? What about the blogs and articles you read now, are there some writers that leave you desperate for more? Kick back and read through some of your favourite pieces. Think about the way they’re written, and how you might like to use those techniques in your own work. There’s a reason those writers struck a chord with you – use it to influence your own voice.
3) Speak the language of your audience
It’s all too easy to forget who you’re speaking to, when you’re not actually “speaking” to them. Remember that many of your readers are at a grade-school reading level, and the rest probably don’t want to wade through a 500-word post where you got a bit over-enthusiastic with the thesaurus. You want everyone to understand, absorb and enjoy your writing, so keep your voice clear and direct.
4) Ask yourself questions
This one’s important. The quickest way to finding your voice is to figure out what you want from yourself. Here are some great questions to ask: Is this how I talk? How do I want other people to see me? How is my voice different? Is this something I would read?
5) Know why you write
All the exercises in the world won’t make it easier to find your writing voice if you’re not sure why you’re writing in the first place. A strong sense of purpose is what gives your writing a great foundation to build on. If you know exactly what your motivation is, you’ll quickly find a natural rhythm and flow The direction in which you want your voice to go will become clear – all you’ll have to do is give it a little push. Once you’re over that ledge, you’ll find that your words are punching with passion, and the voice you’ve been trying to find will be loud and clear.
Finding your voice isn’t always easy, and everybody has their own secrets for successfully making themselves heard in their writing. If you’ve got a top tip to help writers put a piece of themselves in their work, let us know in the comments below.