Zen…

Wikipedia defined it as “process of writing words that promote a business/ person/opinion/ an idea. Could be a plain text/ radio or tv ads. The purpose of these marketing copies/ promotional texts is to persuade the listener/ reader to act – buy a product/ subscribe to a viewpoint…”

Copywriting can be ; a body copy/ slogans / headlines (eg article headlines) / direct mail pieces (normally used in email marketing) / tag lines (eg headline – Art of blogging sub headline – for bloggers who aim to inspire.)

It also contributes to words and ideas used to print ads, billboards, commercials, newsletters etc.

When it comes to copywriting, your words should be able to change the thinking/ attitude/ beliefs/ behavior of your target audience.

It must seek attention, sustain interest, create urgency (desire) and lead your audience to action (conversions)

Quick tips and techniques

Techniques;

1. Use buzzwords and action words eg: place your orders now, gain instant access, shop from the best, click here.

2. Use alliteration (repeating sounds pleasing to the ear …) : Best Buy, bold and bright brew, Coca Cola etc.

3. Imitate formal speeches : point and kill, pick and choose.

4. Punctuation and grammar: Save your spot fast.

5. Say the most with your headlines : 3 reasons why you shouldn’t eat seafoods.

6. Appeal to your readers self interest by making them a promise: if you’re reading this guide, it’s because you registered for the class via the flyer that says “creative writing 101 – Learn all the basics!” Your interest is in learning how to write especially understanding the basics.

7. Keep your headlines 5 – 8 or 9 words long.

8. Try adding the brands name to your headline, it gives out more credibility eg Krispy Kreme…

9. Entice your readers with your headlines but don’t give out the entire info on the headlines.

10. Less is always more, use familiar or simple words.

11. Your sub headlines should only enforce your headlines eg headlines- write a best seller with these editing tips. Sub headlines- learn from a professional. Sub headlines are more useful when the body of your copy is very long.

12. Your body copy should be in present tense, use singular nouns/ verbs, use active verbs, your readers should be involved make sure it’s relatable.

Tips ;

1. Be precise: your message more important.

2. Don’t use too much vocabulary or ambiguous words, it won’t sell.

3. Don’t use cliches, always bring something fresh to the table.