When it comes to how much content to provide, what I usually tell people is this:

Your content should engage your reader by giving them enough valuable information that they’ll realize you really do know what your talking about. Plus, you’ll start building your credibility and trust with your readers.

And a great way to do this is by providing free tips that explain the necessary steps to do something.

It also should come across that you care enough about them to help them solve their problems.

But even though you tell the steps they need to do, you don’t want to necessarily tell them how to do it in detail.

Why?

Because that information is your bread and butter, stuff you normally charge for. Think about it – If they could easily do it themselves, they wouldn’t be reading your tips to begin with.

An example:

If you were a car repair shop, you might write a blog post about why a Honda Prelude owner should follow the manufacturers recommended maintenance schedule and replace the timing belt when they say to. Because if you don’t, you run the risk of blowing the engine, causing over $3000 of damage.

You’d go on to say that your shop regularly performs this service for Accord owners and offer a special price, and display a happy customer’s testimonial.

What you wouldn’t want to do is write a blog post or article that describes the step-by-step process of how you actually change the timing belt. you want them to pay you to do the work, but you still provided them information that could save them $3000.

If you’re giving too much away for free, your readers won’t have to call you to help them, so if your conversion rates are low or dropping, you’ll see a decrease in prospects contacting you.

Anyway…this might not be a perfect example…but you get the drift…

Contact me if you want more information.

Merrill

What are some examples of “telling too much?” How will I know if I’m falling into this trap?

Great thought-provoking blog post.

Roger