Story Interruption: Rant, Observation, And Endorsment

October 18, 2009 | Posted by Mister P

A Rant, Observation and Endorsment… What are the Pros and Cons of each?

Loosely defined, a rant is an emotional outpouring of a negative energy, from a person who is fed up with a certain issue.

While an observation implies an objective third-party perception, which is emotionally distanced from the topic.

An endorsement is basically a sales pitch. It sells the positive aspects, the benefits of subscribing to a certain school of thought, buying a certain product, choosing a certain activity etc.

Typically a rant is very interesting and enticing to read, because it is so emotionally charged.
You as the reader, are drawn into the drama of the fight, of the putdowns, and the history or the story.
Because of this a rant is a very good way to get attention, and develop a quick following.

However, I consider a rant to be a dead end street. Think about the foundation or the source, the feelings and perceptions that a rant is built upon. Hate, frustration, disgust, anger, insecurity, and  conflict to name a few.

Now this doesn’t mean that getting attention through negative emotions is unsuccessful. Just look at a young child throwing a  temper tantrum. This is how you want to perceive, or think about a rant. Think: “short term gain.”

An observation is not generally thought of as an opinion. A comment from an unconnected source if you will.
A person making an observation typically does not gain anything, as there are unconnected to the topic. That’s why an observation relays a feeling of trust.
Adding to the feeling of trust, is the fact that most influential observations, come from an authority figures.

So the tough part about making observations, is about positioning. How do you position yourself as an authority figure? How do you position yourself as a nonbiased third-party?
The other negative about observations, is how do you make them interesting and fun to read?

When you are endorsing a product or an idea, it segues nicely into listing the benefits.
Now, benefits are positive, even if they are portrayed in negative light. (Think: avoidance of pain)
The general thrust of an endorsement is working to make something better… Improvement is a strong word that will resonate in the heart of almost everyone, thereby increasing your audience.

The obvious downside to an endorsement is the biased position you have, the gain you will get if your audience complies, subscribes to the way you think.
Another negative point is the possibility of rejection. (Boo, Hiss, Thumbs Down!) Who wants that?
Also the attention-getting factor is less powerful or slower than a rant.

As a blogger, as a copywriter, as a marketer, as an employee, as a parent, as a spouse, as a friend, or any other role you may have in life, you will convey your messages in a negative, neutral, or positive format. Typically we tend to use a combination of all three.

What kind of the ratios do you prefer? 

To Your Perseverance,

Mister p

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