When used correctly, storytelling is a powerful copywriting tactic. But why do I say "when used correctly?" Because sometimes copywriters and clients use storytelling in the entirely wrong way. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are breaking down when and how to use this tactic. Plus, we're giving some examples of storytelling in … [Read more...]
Episode 196: 5 Email Copywriting Tests to Recommend to Clients (And Get More Work)
You don't have a crystal ball to predict the *exact* copy that will resonate with your client's audience. But, you do have a different tool that can help: A/B testing. A/B copy tests—comparing one element of copy to the same element with different copy—helps you learn what makes your client's audience tick. (For example, you may have two ideas for a subject line—how do … [Read more...]
Examples of Copywriting: What is Good and What is Bad Copywriting?
There are so many mediums for which you can write copy, there are probably more examples around you right now than you even realize! Emails, magazine ads, banner ads, product packaging: it's everywhere! Here's where you can start your search—and how to evaluate whether it's good or bad. Search online Start your search online (which you've probably done if you're … [Read more...]
Top Advice for New Copywriters (From Working Copywriters)
Copywriting is *so* much more than just words on a page. At its core, it’s about connecting people with the right solutions for their needs and wants, using messaging that truly resonates with them. (You’re basically playing Cupid—but with words instead of arrows!) And sure, there’s no denying that writing killer copy takes skill. But remember that no one is born knowing how … [Read more...]
How to Give Copywriting Feedback
We've said it once and we'll say it a million more times: giving and receiving feedback is a skill. And, it's a skill not enough professionals, copywriters or otherwise, workout enough. So, while it can sometimes be hard to receive feedback on our copywriting, we can take what we learn from how we receive feedback and incorporate it into how we give copywriting feedback. If … [Read more...]
Self-Edit Your Copywriting: Why It’s a Must & How To Do It
First things first: copywriters are not copy editors. Copywriters...well...write copy! Copy editors make sure any writing adheres to the client's style guide in addition to paying very close attention to grammar and punctuation. (It's why copy editors are crucial for content—there are simply more words on the page with content writing!) But you still need to self-edit your … [Read more...]
Copywriting Tips for Creating Ideas and Concepts That Stick
Every copywriter wants their ideas to resonate with the intended audience. But what makes some ideas resonate and leave a lasting impression? And what makes other ideas completely ineffective? As brothers Chip and Dan Heath say in Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, "you want to invent new ideas, not new rules." So, they've created a playbook that offers a … [Read more...]
How to Write Clear, Concise Copy
Whether you're brand-new to copywriting or have been at it for some time, you likely know that writing clear, concise copy is hard. It's why copywriters are paid so well! But how do you ultimately distill your message down (especially when you can think of five different benefits)? Our Book Club Pick This Filthy Rich Writer Book Club pick offers up some tips for … [Read more...]
What Makes a Good Call to Action (CTA)?
As a copywriter, the pieces you write will almost always include a call to action, or CTA. A CTA is the action you want a user to take. So, if you’re writing an email and the goal is to get them to buy a certain product, it may mean linking the text “shop now,” or even working with the designer to put copy on a button or include small arrows/carrots (>>) next to the … [Read more...]
How To Write Copy for International Clients
I probably don’t need to say it, but there’s more opportunity than ever to work with remote clients. (I guess that’s one small bright side to a pandemic, though the trend was definitely on the upswing before 2020.) Not only can you write for clients on the other side of your country, you can also write for clients on the other side of the world. This post explains how to do … [Read more...]