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Making Content More Accessible

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Lynn Gaertner-Johnston Updated on

A graphic showing various aspects of a blog

Have you noticed any changes lately in the layout of this blog? Take a moment to scan the screen and see whether anything looks different.

If you are a regular reader, you may notice subtle differences. I took the advice of my talented blogmaster, Kevin Segedi of Little Black Umbrella.

I asked Kevin to recommend ways to improve the accessibility of the information on my blog. Kevin suggested that I include in the top left corner the information that people might be looking for, such as my contact information, “about” information, and ways to subscribe to the blog’s feed. Readers do not need to search the screen for that information; it is all grouped in one place at the top.

Kevin also made the brilliant suggestion to include the phrase “Search This Blog” in the search box, rather than beneath it. This placement of the phrase makes it clear that the Google search stays within Business Writing blog.

Another change is in the category headings, which now appear in a bigger font and with initial capital letters rather than all caps. People who study comprehension have learned that it is easier to read Writing Resources than WRITING RESOURCES, and Recent Posts than RECENT POSTS.

We made other small changes in a few lines here and there to make reading, scanning, and finding information easier.

Have you updated the appearance of your blog, brochure, reports, emails, or newsletters lately? You may want to ask someone to review them and make recommendations, as I did with Kevin.

One thing you can consider is adding video content. There are many benefits of adding video to your blog post. One is that it can help you increase your backlink potential by making the post a more shareable form of content.

A graphic of a camera to indicate video content

Richard Horvath, Owner and President at TheeDigital writes:

“Video marketing is just as important for your search engine optimization (SEO) and brand awareness as the written content on your website. Honestly, it might even be more important. Current trends show that video consumption has never been higher, and the value it provides to your business cannot be overstated.”

You can use an online video platform such as Wave Video, where you can create from scratch or merge/edit existing videos, to get started.

As the way we process information evolves, I know we will be adding more video content going forward. Will you?

Please share any insights on formatting and reader accessibility.

Lynn
Syntax Training

 

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By Lynn Gaertner-Johnston

Lynn Gaertner-Johnston has helped thousands of employees and managers improve their business writing skills and confidence through her company, Syntax Training. In her corporate training career of more than 20 years, she has worked with executives, engineers, scientists, sales staff, and many other professionals, helping them get their messages across with clarity and tact.

A gifted teacher, Lynn has led writing classes at more than 100 companies and organizations such as MasterCard, Microsoft, Boeing, Nintendo, REI, AARP, Ledcor, and Kaiser Permanente. Near her home in Seattle, Washington, she has taught managerial communications in the MBA programs of the University of Washington and UW Bothell. She has created a communications course, Business Writing That Builds Relationships, and provides the curriculum at no cost to college instructors.

A recognized expert in business writing etiquette, Lynn has been quoted in "The Wall Street Journal," "The Atlantic," "Vanity Fair," and other media.

Lynn sharpened her business writing skills at the University of Notre Dame, where she earned a master's degree in communication, and at Bradley University, with a bachelor's degree in English.

5 comments on “Making Content More Accessible”

  • Lynn, I thank you for making a favorite place to visit even better. You give the reader a sense of respect – for yourself and for the reader along with the feeling that in the small things there is hope for the world.
    The Writing Resources are a joy – but I can’t handle more than one new site a week to explore as it is almost like going into the proverbial candy store. Keep up the good work.

  • Sue, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment.

    I am touched by your words “in the small things there is hope for the world.” I hope you and I are correct, and I am very grateful for your taking that message from my work.

    Thank you.

    Lynn

  • Become known as a powerful resource for others. When you are known as a strong resource, people remember to turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people, etc. This keeps you visible to them.

  • Lynn,
    I appreciate the changes on your site. You have really made it user friendly and more enjoyable to follow. I look forward to seeing what’s in store for your fellow business bloggers.

Comments are closed.

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