Part 1 - Beginners tips for copywriting

How to get to boss level with drafting content

So, you wanna be a copywriting wizard, huh? Well, guess what? You don't need a gazillion years of experience or a fancy-pants degree to rock at it... although, let's be real, it wouldn't hurt. But hey, if you've got a way with words, can feel the vibes of your readers, and are willing to put in some elbow grease, you're golden!

This nifty blog is here to give you the scoop. And hey, did you catch the cat-themed vibe? Meow! Bet that's what lured you in like catnip? That's one secret crafting killer copy. Reeling 'em in with a snazzy hook and steer 'em to your site. Then, it's all about keeping 'em glued from one paragraph to the next, until they're hitting that sweet call-to-action button.

Afterall, folks these days have the attention span of a goldfish on caffeine - about 45 seconds, to be precise. Stick around for some top-notch tips to keep 'em hooked and your bounce rate as low as your last pair of low-rise jeans!

Write in plain English

Ever met those big wigs in the office who sprinkle long drawn-out words like confetti? Oh, you know the ones... Strutting around like peacocks, feeling on top of the world after crafting an epic email that could give Shakespeare a run for his money. Sure, it might earn them some brownie points internally, but when it comes to the real MVPs - your customers - it'll have minimal effect

When it comes down to it, your end-users just want to know: "What's in it for me?" So, cut the fluff and get straight to the point in a language that's easy to understand.

Write like you're shooting the breeze with a buddy. Throw in some metaphors and similes for good measure.

Use "you" more than "me" or "I"

Focus your content onto your reader as they'll be all ears if you make it all about them. Cut down on the "I's" and increase the mention of "you's". By giving your visitors what they want, you'll have them hooked like a cat chasing a laser pointer. Thus increasing the likelihood of maintaining their investment of time on each page.

Remember, people need to identify with what you're telling them. They will care more about their own experience than yours.

Instead of:

"'I find my cat likes those cheesy treats at night and leaves me alone when he eats"

Try something like this:

"Is your cat always bothering you at night? Try feeding him some cheesy treats and enjoy the rest you deserve"

Use AI - But not too much

Artificial intelligence isn't some evil Skynet ready to take over the world. Nope, it's more like having a nifty sidekick to jazz up your writing and make it pop! A good platform will help you fine-tune your content to hit the right notes. Whether you want it to be all confident, informative, assertive, or just plain friendly, those magical internet bots can really add some fairy dust to your content.

But hey, don't go all in on the AI train. The smart move is to brainstorm your ideas first, then let the bots do their magic before giving it that final human touch. Think of it as your trusty assistant for boosting productivity, not a sneaky shortcut to skimp on the hard work.

Try not to repeat words

The same word can appear confusing and tiring to your reader if it's repeated in a sentence. The last thing you want to do is to turn them off and make them leave your webpage.

For example

"The cat likes catnip, cat treats and going through the cat flap before having a cat nap on the cat bed"

Did you see how burdensome that was? Synonyms are your friend. Notice in the redraft below it is easier to read now that a few words have been replaced.

The kitty likes catnip, and little treats before going through the cat flap and enjoying a snooze on his bed.

Consider your choice of images

Copywriting doesn't begin and end with text. Your choice of photographs also plays a role. Give your content a bit of flair with the right images. You will benefit massively if your consumers can see themselves in your comms. Choose your main images with the human element so that your readers can identify with your products and services. Remember to depict your audience's demographic where you can and be mindful of diversity - This stuff does matter and really makes a difference.

Stock sites are a godsend for this task. If you're on a budget, there are loads of free versions across the internet.

The best bit of advice to offer would be to practice, practice, practice! Let's say it again... Practice! Your brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it'll be. Put it to the test regularly, and you'll be a Bonified wordsmith.

Stay tuned for additional cat-themed tips on copywriting next week

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