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Copywriting - What Is It & Why Do I Need It?


A dude in a shirt wondering "What is copywriting?" He doesn't know but he will if he reads this blog.

Everyone with an internet connection, a TV, a mobile phone, a radiogram, or eyes and ears interacts with copy on an hourly basis.


Yet most people are clueless as to what copywriting even is.


I'd never even heard the term until I read Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" in 2017, and even then, my understanding of this marketing science was limited to the words "copywriter" and "copywriting".


It wasn't until my career shift in 2020 that I learned what copywriting is, added it to my writing arsenal, and became obsessed with the psychology of advertising.


This blog will run through the basics of copywriting, what we do, why you need engaging copy for your business, and a couple of resources to get you started.


If you already know what copywriting is, there's nothing to see here.


Move along.


Bonus Tip! If you want all the benefits of exceptional copywriting for your business but don't have the time to learn the trade, gimme a shout, and I'll take good care of you.


What is Copywriting?

In the simplest terms, the most convenient definition, copywriting is the art of using as few words as possible to get people to buy your stuff or commit to your call to action.


Whether you use product descriptions on your website, digital or physical ads, or emails, copywriting aims to create content that resonates with the target audience and compels them to take action. 

What Exactly Does a Copywriter Do?


The Difference Between Copywriting and Content Writing

While copywriting and content writing may seem similar, they serve different purposes. Content writing focuses on providing valuable information and brand building while copywriting aims to persuade the reader to take a specific action.


Check out my t'other blog for a deeper dive into how these writing styles differ and which you need for your business.


Why is Copywriting Important?

Copywriting is a crucial aspect of marketing and advertising for more reasons than you can shake an Apple pen at. 


Here are the most important ones.


Exceptional Copywriting Grabs Attention

Market-weary consumers are bombarded with advertisements and marketing messages everywhere they go. As a result, it's essential to have copy that stands out and grabs the reader's attention. A well-written product description or digital advertisement can be the difference between rampant success and abject failure.


Top Copy Influences Consumer Behavior

Copywriting is all about persuasion. Using persuasive language and techniques, copywriters can influence consumer behaviour and encourage them to take a specific action. This could be anything from purchasing to signing up for a service or following a brand on social media.


Build Brand Awareness with High-Quality Copy

Effective copywriting can help build brand awareness and establish a brand's voice and tone. By consistently using the same language and messaging, a brand can create a strong identity and make a lasting impression on its target audience.


Tips for Writing Effective Copy

Now that you understand what copywriting is let's look at some tips for writing compelling copy so you can start improving your website, emails, and adverts.


Know Your Target Audience

The first step to writing effective copy is understanding your target audience. Who are you trying to reach? What are their pain points, interests, and values? By understanding your target audience, you can tailor your messaging to resonate with them and increase the chances of them taking action.


Use Persuasive Language

Copywriting is all about persuasion, and your language plays a significant role in influencing consumer behaviour. Use words and phrases that evoke emotion and create a sense of urgency. For example, words like "limited-time offer" or "exclusive deal" can encourage readers to take action.


Keep it Simple and Concise

The advent of TikTok, Insta-reels, and Facebook stories has reduced the population's attention to zero. To grab and maintain their attention, it's essential to keep your copy simple and concise. Use short sentences and paragraphs, and avoid jargon or complex language that may confuse the reader.


Use a Strong Call to Action

A call to action (CTA) is a statement that encourages the reader to take a specific action. A solid and clear CTA in your copy is crucial to guide the reader towards the desired action. Use action words and make the CTA stand out using a different font or colour.


Best Books on Copywriting

If you want to improve your copywriting skills, here are some of the best books on copywriting that you should consider reading.


"The Copywriter's Handbook" by Robert W. Bly

This book is considered the "bible" of copywriting and is a must-read for anyone looking to get into the field. It covers everything from the basics of copywriting to advanced techniques and strategies.


"Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This: The Classic Guide to Creating Great Ads" by Luke Sullivan

This book is an excellent resource for anyone looking into advertising copywriting. It covers the fundamentals of creating effective ads and provides real-world examples and case studies.


"The Adweek Copywriting Handbook" by Joseph Sugarman

This book is a comprehensive guide to copywriting and covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques. It also includes tips and tricks from some of the most successful copywriters in the industry.


Key Takeaways

Copywriting is a crucial aspect of marketing and advertising that often goes unnoticed. The art of crafting persuasive and compelling written content aims to persuade the reader to take a specific action. 


By understanding the basics of copywriting and implementing effective techniques, you can create copy that resonates with your target audience and drives results for your brand.


If you want to take your copywriting to the next level and skyrocket your business, consider hiring a freelance copywriter to relieve the burden of creating content. 


With expertise and experience in the field, a top-level copywriter can help you create high-quality copy that captivates your audience and maximizes your conversion rates. 


Don't underestimate the power of professional copywriting in elevating your brand and achieving your marketing goals.


Request a FREE quote today for all your copy needs.

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