Content Writing Tips
Ever wondered why some articles captivate you while others barely get a glance? The secret lies in crafting compelling content that speaks directly to the reader.
Most people can write content, but only a few can create compelling content that captivates readers. Writing persuasive content isn’t as simple as it seems, which is why companies often hire professional writers to make their content go viral in digital media. For busy entrepreneurs, hiring staff or outsourcing content writing can be more cost-effective than writing it themselves.
Professional writers are expected to produce clear and engaging content. This supports crucial aspects of marketing campaigns like SEO, customer education, and increasing click rates and conversions. Let’s explore some essential content writing tips that every writer should follow to create content that leads to conversions.
Avoid Big Words
Using simple language is powerful. Technical writers sometimes prefer large, important words over short, simple ones, but this can frustrate readers. Plain English is appreciated and easily understood, even by school-level students.
Use Shorter Sentences
Shorter sentences are more appealing and easier to understand than longer ones. A good test for sentence length is the “breath test.” Read the sentence aloud at normal speed and volume without taking an extra breath. If you run out of breath before the end, the sentence is too long. Split it into two or three shorter sentences.
Be Specific
The internet is full of information, making it crucial to tailor content to the user’s needs. Be clear and specific. B2B customers seek detailed technical information. Instead of saying something is fast or slow, specify how fast or slow it is.
Write Shorter Paragraphs
Long, unbroken blocks of text can be intimidating and boring. Breaking up your writing into shorter sections or paragraphs makes it easier to understand. Short sentences are also easier to digest.
Use Active Voice
Active voice expresses action directly, making your writing more direct and vigorous. “John is listening to music” is more engaging than “Music is being listened to by John.”
Create a Killer Headline
Your headline is the most crucial part of your promotion. It grabs attention and makes readers want to learn more. A strong, specific headline will entice your audience to click through and read more.
Make a Killer Hook
A hook promises something intriguing to the reader. It should be in the first paragraph and can be an interesting quote, fact, or statistic that draws attention and encourages readers to continue.
Focus on the Prospect First
In marketing, the customer is king. Start with the prospect’s concerns, needs, and aspirations. They care more about what your product can do for them than the product itself.
Highlight Benefits
Features are the attributes of a product, but benefits are what those features do for the customer. Highlighting benefits is often more important than listing features.
Highlight the USP of the Product
A strong, recognizable unique selling proposition (USP) can make or break a business. Leverage your USP in your overall marketing strategy to stand out from competitors.
Use Social Proof
Social proof, like customer reviews, provides evidence that others have benefited from your product. This makes your advertising more convincing and effective.
Establish Value
Convince customers that your product’s value far exceeds its price. Show that the benefits are worth their hard-earned money.
Request Action
Tell your readers what to do next, whether it’s requesting a free estimate or visiting a showroom. Clear calls to action are essential.
Offer a Gift
People love free stuff. Offering a gift can increase response rates, such as a bonus report with a magazine subscription.
Create a Sense of Urgency
Successful salespeople know the importance of closing the sale immediately. Use deadlines and limited-time offers to create urgency and prompt immediate action.
Make Content Easy to Understand and Share
Even the best-written content needs to be easily readable and shareable. If your content is difficult to read, it won’t be shared or read widely. Ensure your content is engaging and easy to share to reach as many people as possible.
Conclusion
Great content writing involves more than just stringing words together. It requires understanding the audience, crafting engaging and specific content, and prompting readers to take action. By following these tips, you can create compelling content that not only captures attention but also drives conversions and engagement. Happy writing!