Ten Pointers for Writing Better Copy
If you want to have a go at writing the content yourself, but are not sure where to start, have a quick read of these ten tips. Following them will help you on your way.
1. Focus and Objective
Before you put pen to paper, or hands to keyboard, decide what it is you want the reader to remember after they've finished reading. Stick to this and check as you go along that you've stayed on topic.
2. The All Important Headline
Catch the reader's attention with a short punchy headline, in bold, which explains what you are going to tell them. Follow it up with a related opening line. Avoid cryptic comments. Some people may get it, but others won't so you have lost those people before you even start.
3. Create a Need
This is the reason why they should read on. Let the reader know how their life will be made easier by reading what you have to say. In other works, explain what problem you are going to solve for them.
For example, if you look at the opening paragraph to this page, you will see that in just two sentences I have acknowleged your need for guidance on writing copy and told you that I will fulfil this need with ten tips to help you put it together.
4. Don't be Tempted to Include Too Much Detail
Save the small print for later. You can tell the prospect all that detail once they contact you with an enquiry. If you are not writing the annual report, keep the content to broad overview. Also, try to limit each sentence to 25 words maximum.
5. Use Examples
Including stories demonstrates the point you are making and gives you credibility. In point three, above, you can see that this has been done by refering to a paragraph within this page.
6. Avoid Jargon
The reader may not understand industry terms and abbreviations. If you do feel you have to use these, don't assume that everyone has your level of expertise and do explain what they mean.
7. Call to Action
If you only pick up one thing from this page, it should be this one. Rememember the call to action.
Even if the rest of the content is poor, if someone is looking for the widget you sell, let them know how to buy it from you. Then you still have the chance of selling your widget to the customer.
8. Proof Read
Actually, proofread is one word, but it always looks wrong to me! Check grammar and spelling. Getting this right reflects on the quality of your service. Ask someone else to proof read your work too as they often see mistakes you missed even though they are staring at you.
When you ask someone to proofread, why not also ask them what they think the point of the text is? (See point one). That way, you will also find out if you are conveying your message correctly.
9. Cliff Hangers
Encourage people to come back and read again by including a cliff hanger. This can be done on blog pages, e-mailings or newsletters by telling them what they will read next time.
You can see this in action on Michelle's blog . Scroll down to point six on the blog post indexed here which actually states that further details will follow on the next post.
Make it easy for them to find you again. When you look at the same blog post, you will see a subscribe window on the right side of the page.
10. Have a Go!
If you find you are still putting off writing your copy, don't have time or if you are not happy with what you've written, ask a copywriter.
Call Michelle on 0780 350 3147.
Find more detail on Triple M Copywriting's Blog
For reader friendly information on writing successfully, in simple English, visit the blog. Here you can learn 'how to' write for both online and printed material. Have a browse around now or scroll down to choose posts on specific topics.
Recent Posts
Copywriting for Your Website
Building a website is like building a house. It's far more effective if you plan and execute the project in the right order. Read the five bricks needed for building a website. As well as providing a copywriting service, we can help you find designers, web developers and seo specialists who we have worked with and trust.
Press Releases and Articles Explained
Traditionally both are used in printed media, but now also form an important part of web presence strategy. Appreciating how they differ is useful when ensuring they are used correctly. Understand the distinction between press releases and articles.
We can set up a blog and write updates to raise the web profile of your company. Take the next step and call (0113) 289 2208 or send Michelle an email.
