Are you using a Call To Action?

Blogging can build SEO and can build your network. But it also can be used to generate business directly by using a Call To Action, or CTA.

What are Calls To Action?

A Call To Action is clickable piece of content, either a button or a link, that invites and encourages readers to do something specific, such as going to your website.  

• The simplest Calls to Action ask readers to comment on the blog. Ending a blog with "What do you think?" or "What would you do?" is one way to do that.
• Other CTAs are hyperlinks to other content that you might be interested in, encouraging you to remain on the site longer.
• Often, CTAs ask readers to connect with you on social media by following you on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, etc.
• CTAs may ask readers to share content on social media using Click To Tweet.
• Through CTAs, readers can be asked subscribe to your blog or join a mailing list.
• Many CTAs offer an opportunity for readers to ask a question like "What's my home worth?" or to vote on a poll.
• Downloading a free ebook or signing up for a free trial are common CTAs that not only spread your content but also allow you to capture contact information. 
• CTAs can be specific to the type of reader. You may have a different CTA for existing clients than you do for leads. 

4 Steps to Writing a Strong CTA

To be effective, your Call To Action must have three things:

1. It must remove risk. People will not click if they think they're going to be billed or harassed by nonstop spam emails or phone calls. To do this, offer a free sample or to specify "no obligation." I've seen CTAs that tell the reader they have "Nothing to Lose!" "Try" is less intimidating than "Buy."
2. Be compelling. This offer has to be worth any perceived risk. Offer a trial membership with full temporary benefits. Offer an ebook that contains information the reader wants and can't get anywhere else. Offer content so important and so interesting that readers want to subscribe or follow you on social media. Offer a discount to a purchase in the future or make the offer personal - "Find out what your home is worth," for example.
3. Tell people what to do. "Click here" or "Call today" are examples.
4. Encourage immediate response. "Limited time" or "While supplies last" are common.

Here's our Call To Action for this blog post. Comment below and tell us what CTAs have you seen that you like or that you dislike?