The Secret Of Writing Persuasive Web Content
Writing persuasive web content covers a wonderful variety of
writing techniques. You can use different voices, humor,
inspiration, or sales copy. Every web page should have a
purpose: To familiarize, to inform, or to call the reader to
action (click to the next page, join a newsletter, buy a
product, or sign up for a mini-course.)
The writing style or technique you use for each web page should
be "in tune" with the goal of that page. And the one key to
writing persuasive web content -- and ultimately a successful
web site -- is this: Understand Your Readers.
Website owners and writers understand the purpose behind most
websites is to generate income.
It is a well-known fact that the majority of web readers are
seeking information. These readers likely do not know that most
web sites exist to make money.
Think Like Your Readers
When you understand this one aspect, then you will succeed in
writing very effective and persuasive web content. Think like
your readers, who probably have reached your site looking for
help, reinforcement, or how-to-do-something. Great persuasive
web content isn't a sales pitch. It's much more far-reaching
than that.
When a reader lands on your web page full of friendly, useful,
and legitimate content about their search term, he or she will
begin to trust and believe in you, the website author. Keep the
elements of good web writing sharp: Familiarization,
Information, and Action.
Write so your readers feel familiar with your site. Speak
directly to them. Help them know where they are on the website
with clear navigation. Establish rapport with your readers by
showing them you understand their concerns. Let them know how
and why you have the means to help them. When your reader feels
comfortable and familiar with you, they will spend time reading
about your product or service.
Write pages full of interesting, easy to read advice, facts, and
information. There is no better way to show your credibility to
your readers. Surprise them with the latest updates and breaking
news about your subject. Give them new perspective for them to
sink their teeth into.
Keep It Real... Readers Will Detect When You Don't
Your readers need to know you're legitimate ... and you prove
this to them with your knowledge and fair assessments of your
product or service. Never stop working to establish trust with
your readers.
Persuasive web content always leads to action. Make the desired
action clear and easy for your readers to respond to. A
complicated response process makes for a miserable failure!
Write pages that use understandable links and simple buttons for
readers to click.
Be honest at all times with your implications, too. If you're
retrieving their email address with the intent of sending
newsletters or product updates, say so right up front. Never
manipulate your reader in any way.
Writing great persuasive web content appeals to the reader's
intelligence and true needs. Never disrespect readers by
appealing to fears and insecurities. Too many web writers have
tried this and failed.
Remember that you serve your own interests best by serving your
reader's interests. That is the mark of a truly legitimate web
site where persuasion begins naturally and becomes dynamic. The
results you see will be remarkable!
Copyright 2006 Trish Andrews