To the point: Why concise writing is key to your business

People have very short attention spans these days. To make sure they sit up and take notice of you, your marketing literature needs to be absolutely spot-on.

To achieve this, you need to make your writing as concise and clear as possible. No waffle, as your readers will switch off or fall asleep. You need to tell them just what it is you sell or what service you offer. Dress it up a bit to make it sound interesting, but stick to the point!

Tips:

  1. Define the purpose of your writing. Just what is it that you want your customers to know? If you don't know, then neither will they! Grab a cup of tea and have a good old think about it. Scribble down some bullet points.
  2. Decide on the format. Is the copy for a website, brochure or press release? The medium will define the style and content.
  3. Rip it up and start again... Once your thoughts are all down, have a bash at writing, then walk away. What changes can be made? Pretend you're the customer and see if you understand what you've written.
  4. Remove any niggly bits. This is where the copy has to be trimmed into shape (a bit like topiary). What bits aren't really necessary at this stage? Are the long words or flowery expressions essential? Are there any repeated words?
  5. Avoid cliché. By getting straight to the point and avoiding tired, well-known phrases you'll keep the attention of your reader.

If all of this makes you want to hide under the duvet, then don't be afraid to ask for help! Not everybody is good at writing and it's always a good idea to get a second opinion. This is where a copywriter can help you out!

By keeping your copy punchy and to the point, people will come to you rather than your competitors.

To make your writing sell you need to:

  1. Define the purpose of your writing (new product, re-launch, etc).
  2. Establish what format the writing is in.
  3. Never go with the first draft.
  4. Remove any unnecessary words.
  5. Give it time to sit before finalising.
  6. Avoid run-of-the-mill phrases.
  7. Ask a copywriter for help!

If you like what you've read and want to find out how I can help you, then please contact me. I work to your requirements and I'm not scary, I promise!

 

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