Words are hard.
Sure, “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson was written in six days. But that feat required Mr. Stevenson to write 4,482 words per day. Again, writing isn’t easy, but things worth doing rarely are.
Writing for your business is worth it.
We can promise you this: writing content for the web will benefit your business. You might be staring at a blinking cursor, staring down a 500-word blog post project. It can be difficult to pull yourself away from thoughts like, “I’m not a writer,” or, “Where do I even begin?”
We’ve been there (and we still have our moments). Thankfully, over the years, we’ve discovered a few copywriting hacks that can help. Let’s get those words out, so you can start developing little masterpieces of your own.
Can’t Find the Right Words? Use These 7 Copywriting Hacks.
1. Create an Outline
Before you start writing, take some time to create an outline of your project. This works on any type of writing project, from blog posts to website pages. A simple outline will include the main points you want to make and what you want to cover under each.
After you complete your outline, you’ll have your project pretty much complete. All you need to do is fill in the details.
2. Record Yourself
If you find it easier to speak than to write, this is the hack for you. Using your phone or computer, record yourself talking about your topic and what you want to cover. When you sit down to write, play your recording back and transcribe your main points and thoughts. Want an even bigger shortcut? Send your recordings to Rev.com to have them transcribe for you.
3. Have a Conversation
Ever talk to yourself? It’s okay to admit it here (we won’t tell). Take a moment to pretend as if you were talking to a friend about your topic. Write down that conversation and let it inspire you.
4. Think About Your Customer’s Emotions
What emotions do you want to evoke from your audience as they read your content? Hope? Happiness? Fear? Jealousy?
Brainstorm words and ideas that might spark these emotions. For example, if you’re writing a service page for your website, how might your customers feel if they need that particular service? How might they feel once they find you?
Writing with your audience’s emotions in mind can inspire you and your audience. It’s a win-win.
5. Start With the End
Some authors say they often start with the ending of their books and work backward. If you’re writing a website page or blog post, start with the call-to-action. Now, what do you need to write to get your audience to follow through?
6. Consider the Purpose
What’s the purpose of the content you’re attempting to write? When a piece has a defined purpose, you’ll find it easier to write. Answer the question, “What needs to be included in the piece to fulfill its purpose?”
7. Write a Draft
Sometimes, all you can do is push through. Just start writing to create a first draft. It can be messy. It can be absolutely disastrous. First drafts often are.
Once you’re finished, go back in and delete what doesn’t work and keep what does. The resulting content will be a second, much better draft.
The Greatest Website Writing Hack: Reach Out for Help
Perhaps the best hack you can have in your arsenal is asking for help. Do you have questions about your website copy? Need someone to step in and get the words down for you? Send us a message—we’d love to help.
