Creating Characters and Finding a Voice
Who are your favorite characters from literature, television, or film? There’s no wrong answer; it can be anyone.
Writers always want to create characters who are compelling and exciting. A good character doesn’t even have to be likable. Some of the best stories feature flawed main characters that you love to hate, but you can’t stop reading their story. Characters whom you identify will always be the ones that stick with you.
Fiction isn’t the only place where creating characters is essential. In non-fiction, a storyteller still needs to find their subject’s voice. And that’s necessary for short-form writing, too, like blog posts.
Your blog isn’t just selling the products or services you provide: it’s selling you. Your blog needs to feature your voice. How do you find your voice and begin creating characters if you’re not a writer? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Describe Yourself in 3 Adjectives
Hmm, let me think. I think if I were to do this for myself, I would be:
- Quirky
- Funny
- Helpful
And yes, you can have different adjectives that describe you when you’re in public versus when you’re in private. The key here is to choose the aspects of yourself that will be essential for your brand.
How Do You Talk?
I remember the first time I took on a writing project in a new workplace. I finished the assignment and gave it to my supervisor. The first thing she said after she read it was, “You write as you talk.” And honestly, I’ve never heard a better compliment.
Even in informative pieces like this, if you’ve ever had a conversation with me, you might read it with my voice in your head. That’s the kind of personality that needs to be in your blogs.
Free Write
Here’s a great way to get into your mindset as a writer, even if you don’t write much. Just grab a notebook and a pen or pencil and start writing. It doesn’t matter what you write about; write anything that comes to the top of your head. It doesn’t have to make sense or tell a story.
When you’ve filled an entire page, look back at what you have. What phrases or ideas can you pick out that feel like you? This is an excellent start to understanding your voice as a writer.
List Your Favorite Cultural or Artistic Influences
Sometimes you can discover your voice by looking at the people who have influenced you. What writers do you love? What artists do you have on your wall? What TV shows or movies do you watch. It doesn’t have to be limited to artists. Any cultural or artistic figure you follow and admire can be added to your list of influences.
Of course, the idea is not to copy someone else’s voice, but you can use these examples and pull inspiration.
Work with a Professional
if you’re cringing every step of the way looking at these ideas to kickstart your writer’s voice – creating characters and thinking it’s a waste of time, don’t do it. A blog writer can work with you to develop the voice and tone for your branding.
One of the first things I’ll do when we begin working together is set up a time to talk. I try to put myself in your shoes and see how to describe yourself and your business. Your blogging voice will evolve as we work together and get more comfortable.
Consultations are free. Take an hour to focus on your business. Let’s talk to you about your innovative leadership goals and how DPEG Marketing Company can help you stay ahead of the curve. We build custom websites and create original content. Contact us.
Written by Laura M. LaVoie
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