Have you ever wondered what the difference is between copywriting and content writing?
Blogs have come a long way since the late 1990s, their place no longer reserved as the online diaries of travellers and artists. A blog is, quite rightfully, recognised as a must for any business, small or large, who wants to connect with their customers and consumers.
If you’re blogging, I applaud you! I still believe it’s the #1 way to increase your digital presence and cement your brand’s place in a crowded online market place. But here’s the thing… When you craft your blog posts are you content writing or are you copywriting? And what exactly is the difference?
Copywriting has a specific purpose of selling an idea, product or service. That’s why a great copywriter will place emphasis on an article’s attention grabbing headline and include a killer call to action at the end of the post.
Content writing is used to educate and inform a potential customer. A good content marketer will craft an article that’s chock full of valuable information that their website visitors can’t wait to read and are dying to share.
But here’s the important thing… Copywriting and content writing shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. Your blog posts needs to include elements from both to be truly effective.
Content without good copywriting won’t convert.
You need those attention grabbing headlines to get good click through rate when you share your blog articles socially.
Here are my top three tips for writing headlines
- Write the copy first, then create the headline!
- Make sure your headline includes a benefit for your audience.
- Don’t try to be too tricky or clever with your headline… Your blog post should do what it says on the packet!
You need that clear call to action so your visitors know that the next step they should take.
Here are my top three tips for creating strong CTAs.
- Start with a verb… Buy, Book, Subscribe… The list goes on!
- But add a little excitement… Buy Now – Delivery is FREE!, Book your Session – Start your Transformation!, Subscribe Now for Inspiration!
- Make your CTA clickable. Nothing is more annoying than deciding you want that newsletter, only to discover that you then have to search for the sign up form.
Copywriting without great content is just advertising.
These days we just don’t want to be sold to! We want to make our own informed decisions about where we spend our hard-earned money. Creating great content with free, valuable information is an ideal way to build trust and credibility with your consumers.
Here are my top three tips for writing great content.
- Solve problems, answer questions.
- Be unique and be you.
- Give your audience something to ponder… Leave them asking themselves a question. My question for you is… Do you have the time to learn how to craft compelling copy, or would you rather concentrate on your core business and let me help secure your place online?
At KateCoote. we combine strategic copywriting with great content to ensure our clients find their clients. Contact us to find out how we help.
