Archive for the ‘Copywriting’ Category

Free quotes!

I recently saw a sign that said “Free Quotes” and I had to wonder if anyone has ever actually charged (or paid for) a quote. I doubt it, but then it got me thinking about some of the things I’ve seen on signage, ads and packaging over the years. The phrase “New and Improved” is a perfect example. It’s improved? Really? How is that possible if it’s new? If you’re going to make a statement, make sure it’s relevant, but more importantly, that it’s necessary. If something goes without saying, let it.

Do you know what sucks about your marketing?

It could be any number of things, but quite often it’s the fact that most people fail to use powerful headlines. So what’s the secret to a powerful headline? Well, shock value can obviously play a part in it (proven by the fact that you are here reading this), but if you want to be a little more subtle with your message, you could simply tailor it to be unexpected rather than shocking. Another technique is to phrase your headline as a question instead of a statement. Leave the cute and funny headlines to other people, since it usually doesn’t work.

Copyright infringement

Since we’ve been discussing blogs a lot recently, it’s probably a good idea to dispel many of the myths regarding copyright and copyright infringement. Because of these myths, many bloggers have accidentally (and sometimes intentionally) put themselves or their company in violation of copyright laws. This should help you avoid ending up in that situation. Myth 1: I can use anything that doesn’t have a copyright notice ? That is incorrect. Anything from writing, to art to music is protected upon creation and the creator does not have to file for copyright protection, or even put a notice up. Myth 2: Since it’s online it’s public domain and I can use it ? That is incorrect also. The internet is just another medium, like television or radio, for people to transmit their message. Content on...

Graphic design to get their attention, copywriting to keep it

If you’re planning on growing your business, you know that you’re going to have to market it in some way. This will almost always require something that people will look at, whether in print, on the Internet, on television or some other medium. With that in mind, it’s important that you know the role that the two key aspects of any visual marketing tool play. Graphic Design is best used to get your prospect’s attention. A professional designer knows how best to utilize layout and color to evoke a certain feeling or emotion as well as directing attention to particular information. Copywriting is best used to clearly communicate your message and provide details. A professional copywriter will tailor your text to effectively communicate with your target audience while creating a powerful call to action. It’s...