One of the main questions we get asked when designing a website is: What should I say? Website copy is very important to guide your reader to find exactly what they’re looking for. Here are a few steps to get you started.
1. The first question you should ask yourself is: What are the goals for my website? Is it to sell a product or service? Get reader to sign up for my newsletter? Inform readers on my area of expertise?
2. Take a look at your current clientele and make a list of common traits: Age, sex, income status,family status, children, hobbies, etc. If you’re a new business, think about the traits of your ideal client. This will help you better target your content to attract your ideal client.
3. Make a list of topics that might interest your ideal client. And make a list of the biggest complaints they have when it comes to your particular industry.
4. Use your topics and industry complaints to find a solution or special benefit for your clients; a Unique Selling Position (USP). Create a statement that sets you apart from your competition. This USP could be a guarantee or service that none of your competitors are using.
Your USP should be the first thing your visitor sees when they arrive on your homepage. You only have a few seconds to grab their attention and keep them reading.
5. Tune in to WIIFM what’s in it for me. Visitors nowadays are looking for information about the product or service they need as fast as possible. You will need to answer their question as clearly and concisely as possible or you will lose them.
6. Headlines speak to your readers. Most visitors will scan the content of your website and if they don’t find what they’re looking for they’ll move on. The headlines should be right to the point and give them the information they’re looking for. Use bold text, different colors or underline words to guide them.
7. Write in a conversational tone as if you are having a one to one conversation with them. Your goal is to create a relationship with you reader and gain their trust.
8. Optimize your website. Include searchable keywords and targeted keywords in your web copy that will allow search engines to find your site. You should have a good list of SEO keyword by doing step 3 above.
9. Proofread your web copy. Errors in your web copy give the impression of being unprofessional or sloppy. Use the spell checker but don’t rely on it. Print a copy of your content. It’s easier to find grammatical or spelling errors on a hard copy. Have two or three other people proofread it as well.
10. Use effective navigation. Make it easy for visitor to find what they are looking for.
Now you have 10 tips on how to write your website copy. And remember if you’re still stumped consult a professional.
Fuller Online Solutions specialty is promoting your business online using social media, search engine optimization, Internet marketing, website design and Facebook fan page design. Visit http://www.fuller-online.com