Journalist Turned Food Blogger: An Introduction to Food Blog Writing

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Before I entered the world of food blogging, I began writing professionally as a journalist some 18 years ago. I still write on a freelance basis today as well as tutor and mentor others in writing. As someone who has worn both hats, I’ve learned that blogging and journalism have a lot in common, but they do have their differences too.

Because of my background, I’m often asked for writing advice. Therefore, I decided to start a food blog writing series as a helpful tool for other bloggers, both current and those starting a food blog. Each post will focus on a different area of writing.

This series is for you if…

• you’ve always thought about starting a food blog but haven’t because you have no idea what to write about.
• you are passionate about food and sharing your recipes but don’t consider yourself a “writer.”
• you’re already blogging about food but get stuck on what to write in your posts to go along with your recipes.
• you simply want to brush up on your writing skills and technique.

Now, just because I’m a professional writer and have been labeled a “grammar nerd” by friends and family, that doesn’t mean I don’t make mistakes. Everyone does. We are only human after all, which leads me to today’s topic…

The Human Connection

One way food blogging is different from other types of blogging is humankind’s innate response to food. How do you think the term “food porn” came about? It’s simple..we love food! We don’t hear about fashion porn or tech porn, so why food porn? Well, because food makes us excited!

But once you’ve enticed your readers with your hot steamy pan of desire, how do you keep their interest and keep them from running off to the next decadent delight?

You do it by creating a connection, a bond between you and your audience that leaves them wanting more.

Show them you’re human just like them, and not some robot that generates recipes with a push of a button. Be relatable. Let them hear your “voice.”

Stand Out from the Crowd with your Voice

Your unique voice is what allows you stand out from the crowd. Readers become familiar with you and feel as if they know you on a personal level. They may also be inspired to check out older posts or perhaps your “About” page to learn more about you because they felt a connection…a human connection that is! And of course, the ultimate goal is to get them to come back.

For example, here’s what one reader commented on a blog post of mine back in 2015: “Hi Sherri, I am new to your blog. I have a few dietary restrictions and am happy to see things that will work for me! Yay. I totally love your writing voice. Looking forward to reading more.”

That totally made my day. I even wrote that in the comment back to her. 😉

Aside from perusing my blog to get a feel for my voice, here are a few more blogs to check out: Peas and Crayons, Cotter Crunch, Ambitious Kitchen, How Sweet Eats, Beaming Baker and Food Faith Fitness. At the time this post was written, these bloggers (in my opinion) have been successful at displaying a writing voice that is all their own and connecting with their readers. 

Tips for finding your writing voice

When you are writing, ask yourself:

• “Do I talk like this? Does this sound like me?” 
• “Is this a blog post I would read?”
• “Who am I writing for? Who is my target reader? What is he/she interested in? Would he/she enjoy this post?”

So, remember…

Don’t be afraid to open up. It’s human nature to want a peek into others’ lives. If it weren’t, reality television wouldn’t be so popular!

But at the same time, you are writing a blog post, not a memoir. So, it’s important to find the balance between making a personal connection with your reader and giving them what they came for – the recipe. 

Be sure to write with your own voice, not someone else’s. I will talk more about this in my next post on being an authentic blogger.

Until next time, happy writing!

Get more food blog writing tips

Blogging and Authenticity

Developing the Story Behind the Recipe

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