Instantly Improve the Impact of Your Text Through Editing
Some people can sit down and write effective sales copy as
easily as you or I might write a shopping list. However, the
majority of us have to work a little harder than that to come up
with text that will be effective. The one thing that every
single one of us has in common is the need for editing each time
we write something. None of us are perfect and mistakes happen.
The whole purpose of basic editing is to simply correct those
common errors.
Why should you bother to edit your text? You edit because even
simple errors can reduce your sales. Spelling, grammar and other
types of mistakes can distract your readers and hurt your
credibility. If your readers notice these errors, they may
assume that you are equally sloppy in the way you provide your
service or put together your product. The really sad thing about
losing sales because of these kinds of errors is the fact that
they are so simple to fix. Let's look at the two most common
writing errors that are made. Spelling - This is by far the most
common, simplest and easiest error to find and correct.
Certainly, if you use any of the popular word processing
programs, like Microsoft Word, then you need only remember to
run a spell check after you finish writing. However, these spell
checkers are not perfect. For instance, if you wrote, "He stood
buy the river" when you ran a spell check it would not find any
error in that sentence. The word "buy" is a real word, even
though it is not appropriate in this sentence. So, go back and
read over carefully what you have written. Most likely you will
be able to spot any errors the spell checker missed.
Appropriate choice and use of words. All of the words that you
write must be clearly understood by your readers, or you will
have wasted your time in composing the text on your site. For
instance, the use of slang terms may not produce the response in
your readers that you had intended. Some people (especially
people in foreign countries) may not understand the slang word
and thus it becomes a distraction. Others might be offended by
the term, in which case they will be less inclined to purchase
from you.
Also, when you are writing text for the web, especially sales
letters, keep your wording simple and direct. It has been said
that journalists write at the 6th grade level. They do this so
that their writing will be understood by a greater number of
people. The best thing to do here is write in brief sentences
instead of complex ones. Use simple, everyday words, not big
words. Do not use technical terms unless you absolutely need to,
and then be sure to include an explanation of each term.
You've taken the time and effort to put together your sales
letter and web pages. However, if your visitors are not reading
your text, they are not likely to make any purchases. Using
simple and focused text will get them interested and keep them
reading. The time you spend eliminating these common writing
errors will pay off in sales and profits.