You’ve discussed scope and design and now your web development project is underway. Now, your web developer is asking you to provide the website copy for the pages on your website. You have two options: hire a professional copywriter or do it yourself.
If you choose to write your website copy yourself, it’s important to understand that time is of the essence. Your web development project depends on the timely delivery of your copy. It’s time to get to work.
Common Web Writing Hurdles & How to Get Over Them
Uh-oh. It’s that dreaded blinking cursor. That, along with the following, can cause hurdles that may seem insurmountable at first.
Have no fear—we have some solid tips to help you get past the top web writing hurdles that often get in the way of our clients completing their projects.
1. Web Copy That Sounds Nothing Like You
When you’re so close to your business, it’s easy to start overthinking everything—even the words on your website. You may start trying too hard, resulting in detached copy that sounds nothing like you. Don’t worry, though; it’s fixable!
- Lose the jargon. Even though you’re an expert in your field, you don’t have to use industry jargon to solidify that fact. Plus, your audience won’t connect with words they don’t understand. Keep it simple instead.
- Write like you talk. Your web copy should be conversational. Write the way you talk to ensure your authentic and unique voice shines through.
- See your audience as your friend. How do you talk to a trusted friend? Your audience will better connect with copy that feels like it’s coming from someone they already know and like. Don’t be stuffy, be relatable.
2. Fear of Writing About Yourself
It’s common to struggle when it comes to talking or writing about yourself. Here’s a little secret that may help you get past this one: Your site’s not about you. Your web copy is for your audience. Although it’s your business, look at your copy through the eyes of your customer.
What do they need to know? What answers do they need? Taking this perspective will remove the pressure, allowing you to focus on serving your audience.
3. The Big Lie of “No Time”
We often trick ourselves into believing we don’t have time to do the things we need to do because we simply don’t want to do them. But for your website to move forward, writing copy is a must. That’s why it’s important to make the time.
- Set goals. Chances are there’s a deadline for your copy if you’re working with a web developer. Take some time to set actionable and attainable daily and weekly goals to help you finish your copy. Don’t forget to reward yourself, too! Incentives can go a long way in helping you complete projects like these.
- Schedule time for writing. Treat writing time each day as an appointment and schedule it like you would other tasks or meetings. Try your best to carve out an hour or two each day to complete your project.
- Set an alarm, reminder or notification. After you schedule your writing time, go ahead and set an alarm on your phone or schedule an email reminder to ensure you’re pulled in on time—and that you stop on time.
How to Beat Writer’s Block & Get Back to Writing
Even business owners who jump the big hurdles deal with the occasional writer’s block. It’s best to keep a few tips up your sleeve for when you need a quick dose of inspiration as you write your copy.
- Eliminate distractions. It’s hard to focus on writing when your phone is chiming, or your email is growing right in front of your eyes. As you write, eliminate your distractions by closing your browser and silencing your phone.
- Stay inspired. What inspires you? Whether it’s a photo of your kids, soft music, or the outdoors, surround yourself with what inspires you. Inspiration always jumpstarts creative thinking—the enemy of writer’s block.
- Change your environment. Try going to your favorite coffee shop or take your writing outside. Changing your environment breaks the cycle you’re in, often breaking thoughts free.
- Take a breather. If you’re struggling, it’s okay to take a break. Take a walk around the block or sit and do a few deep breathing exercises.
Great Websites Depend on Compelling Copy
As you sit down to write the copy for your website, you may experience some hurdles that look too big to jump over. After all, “you’re not a writer.”
The truth is, though, you don’t have to be an award-winning writer to create compelling copy for your website. All you need is some good advice and a solid plan of action.
To learn more about the importance of website copy or for help writing yours, send us a message.
