Dear Hivers,
I want to talk about the Hive Basics initiative.
If you have been following me, you know I have spent hundreds of hours creating content. Even turned into an addict. And I continue to spend countless more hours writing exclusive guides — hoping that it impacts at least one person.
Turns out, some of the articles have impacted hundreds of people.
In fact, Dan’s new initiative is all about compounding this impact. It takes everything to the next level. So now, rather than one or two people writing, we have an army of Hivers creating articles.
In short: There are 8 topics in the Hive Basics initiative. The mission is create these articles. And then share them.
As visible in my introduction post, I love such missions. Producing valuable content has been my goal since day one.
Now I wish to expand on this initiative by sharing some unwritten rules. This is to encourage everyone to think outside the box.
First, the mission is to get new people on Hive. However, browsing through some of the articles — as a blogger and an editor — I believe we can try something new.
Because we don't want dozens of articles that looks and says exactly the same thing... in the same way, right?
So before we go there, let's start with the basics:
#1: Simplify anything technical
As these guides are written, make sure they are simple.
Years ago I picked up a 500-plus page book to strengthen my vocabulary. And then I started throwing around big words.
Big words that ONLY I understood.
Never. Do. That.
Always make sure your words carry a simple meaning. Build them in a way so that anyone can understand. So that anyone can see it clearly. And understand it by glancing one word after the another.
Like I am sharing this information — without using any complicated words.
So when you are writing your Hive Basics guide, scan for anything technical. And then simplify it. Make them relatable by using common words. And most importantly, start sharing stories.
#2: Share Simple Stories
Next time you are out, try this: when you listen to your friends, what do they share? They always share a story. And as you write these Hive Basics guide, try sharing a story.
Most of the time, these stories emerge from our past. So start thinking of your past — an experience or an event — and then write them down. Then add them into your Hive Basics guide.
People always remember stories.
Stories can be simple. In fact, I just talked about the about the 500-plus page book. It didn't have any action. Or drama. Just a simple story.
#3: Experiment on social media
Once the guide is published, not just share but try something new while sharing.
For example: Only recently, I have started publishing my Hive articles on Twitter as a tweetstorm (these are Twitter threads).
And the last one was super-successful with 250+ engagements.
To know more about tweetstorm, check out these articles:
So when you are sharing on Twitter, try this format.
On the other hand, if you are not on Twitter, consider experimenting on any other social media platform. We have so many other tiny platforms — where we have thousands of potential future Hivers.
These were some of my thoughts for anyone going forward with the Hive Basics initiative.
Like anything we do in life, the focus should be to create a timeless guide. Your guide should not be read for a day and forgotten. But remembered for months and cherished.
Let's make this the best year — with Hive!
Cheers,
Sid
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I agree, using unnecessarily obscure words can be somewhat egregious.
Stories on the other hand are just fabulous!
Metaphors and storytellings are rarely used in technical guides.
And I see what you did there!
lol the word power one is really funny.
I too have one of those. I am going to write all of my comments on your posts using that book.
Haha! Oh please. What a terrific book they suggested us.
I am glad I pulled myself out of that world.
😄
...but that slice of ambrosial pizza from last week really does look . :)
Looks delicious? Mouth-watering? Haha!
Using simple words is key in any attempt to get your message through people. I think that using fancy words can only show the lack of connection the author has with his audience. If you can explain it to a child and he gets it, then it's good to go.
Addicted to writing.... That is not necessarily bad, especially if it helps getting things out.
Hive is a great community, I hope it will grow at the level that it deserves
Your stuff reminds me of https://waitbutwhy.com/
You are next level.
Haha! You are very sweet. I really feel like starting the next waitbutwhy. Cheers!
yes, start a waitbuthive
I refer my learned friend to my previous comment