Words matter. Here are 5 Examples of Words You Should Use (and Words to Avoid!) when trying to engage your audience.

When you are trying to build a thriving community around your news or content, the language you use can be the difference between a silent audience and an active, contributing one.

Here are 5 Examples of Words You Should Use (and Words to Avoid!) when trying to engage your audience:

📷  Instead of: "Send us your photos..."
Try: "Share your photos..."
(Why? It's about community, not just your inbox.)

🗞️ Instead of: "Submit your news..."
Try: "Tell us what's happening in your neighbourhood..."
(Why? More inviting and emphasises local relevance.)

🗨️ Instead of: "Comment below..."
Try: "Join the conversation..."
(Why? Framing comments as part of a larger, valuable discussion.)

👮 Instead of: "Report an issue..."
Try: "Share what needs our attention?"
(Why? Empowers residents and emphasises problem-solving together.)

🧑‍💻Instead of: "Visit our website..."
Try: "Explore what's new..."
(Why? Focuses on the benefit to the reader, not just driving traffic.)

Small changes in language can create a more welcoming and participatory environment for your audience.

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Train your audience to contribute and engage with your newsroom so it becomes the new normal. Here are your reader call-out ideas for August.