So you are a copywriter, but you have doubts if you are “good enough.” Thoughts run through your mind of, “What if no one wants to read what I have to say? How do I make my writing catchy or thought-provoking?” Let’s face it, if you look online it seems like copywriters are a dime a dozen but you know you have what it takes. You just need to land some jobs and know you will stand out if you put in the effort. Below I’m going to offer some tips that if you follow, since you are a respectable copywriter, simply by doing these straightforward tasks people will think of you when future assignments are available.
One of the best points to think about before staring any project is to put yourself in your visitors’ shoes and make sure your headlines are catchy and your content is unique. Is your writing boring or too general? Are you just going through the motions to put the product into print? If you are ready to use the expansive English language correctly, write to your ability and with inspiration, and identify yourself with a broad range of people, use these tips and your audience is sure to follow:
- Write in the active voice. When you use the active voice, the subject performs action instead of being acted upon, which makes it powerful. Sentences that follow this format are easier to understand and are more interesting. For example:
I ran the obstacle course in record time. (active)
The obstacle course was run by me in record time. (passive)
- Remember the important details. Who, what, when, where, why, and how are imperative to use for all copywriting. They make your copy real, concrete, and trustworthy.
- Learn to write strong headlines. If your headlines don’t tempt your visitors to click and read further, your copy is useless. Below are some resources for writing headlines that grab attention:
How to Write Magnetic Headlines
How to Write Headlines That Work
- Be original. Search for memorable phrases, better words, and newer language. Use a thesaurus or dictionary. Even if only subconsciously, people will recognize better writing.
- Reread long sentences and shorten them. When you use long sentences you lose your reader. It takes too much effort and they’ll leave.
- Realize that your first draft is that – a first draft. Do not expect perfection the first time around; it isn’t possible so don’t make it a goal and set yourself up for disappointment.
- Make sure of your facts. Just like the song, “He’s making his list and checking it twice…” Your facts need to be correct so check them and check them twice. If your facts are not correct, what does that say about you and your business, and your ability to follow through on important details?
These are just a few tips for copywriting, but the key ones I think are significant for people starting out in the profession. What copywriting techniques have worked for you? Have you learned other systems for copywriting that make you feel like the “respectable copywriter” you strive to be? I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences so please comment below.
Until later,
Colleen
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]http://yourliteraryprose.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Colleen-use.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]M. Colleen Wietmarschen has owned and operated her own business since 1996. Within three years she was managing a multi-six-figure business. She is a published author and an award-winning writer and loves working with anyone who wants to grow their business, wants help creating a professional image for their business through writing, marketing materials, PR, etc. Colleen believes the written word is still important when conveying your professional image; no matter what. In January 2014, Colleen and Amy Ostigny joined forces and opened The Strategic Connectors, Your Mental Rolodex – connecting you in all things for business and life![/author_info] [/author]
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