What helped you relearn how to write for work?
I learned fast that in #productmarketing the formal writing I used throughout school doesn’t turn customer's heads.
Most of us were trained to write like that. Creative assignments to tap into the minds of journalists, marketers, and other professionals felt few and far between.
What if students were trained in academic, journalistic, AND marketing writing styles?
(Earlier exposure could be key. I didn't find marketing until the tail end of college, by mistake).
Three well-known but important copywriting shifts to make now:
Writing like you talk.
Writing in a conversational tone, similar to how you speak, has several benefits.
Clarity: Conversational writing tends to be more straightforward to understand. It helps convey complex ideas more simply, reducing the risk of miscommunication.
Accessibility: Writing how you talk makes your content more accessible to a wider audience. It can be particularly helpful for readers who may not have a strong command of formal or technical language.
Authenticity: Using a conversational style allows your personality to come through in your writing. It creates a sense of authenticity and genuineness, which can resonate with readers.
Reader-Friendly: People often prefer reading content that feels like a conversation rather than a formal document. It keeps readers interested and encourages them to continue reading, plus it makes the content more relatable and engaging, fostering a connection between the writer and the reader.
Cutting down the vocab
Because inserting a dictionary page of words into your work won't make you seem more well-read.
Simple vocabulary promotes efficient communication. Readers can quickly grasp the main points without having to spend excessive time deciphering complex language, making the reading process more time-effective.
While some contexts may require specialized or technical language, in many cases, using clear and simple vocabulary is actually considered more professional. It demonstrates an ability to communicate effectively and connect with a diverse audience.
Studying successful copy
LinkedIn, digital course resources, and books like Stephen King’s legendary “On Writing” are motivational places to get started.
Copywriting trends evolve, and successful copy reflects the current preferences and trends in the market. By studying it, you stay informed about the latest strategies and techniques in the field.
Successful copy is also tailored to its target audience. By analyzing what works, you gain insights into understanding your audience better, allowing you to create content that resonates with them.
Copy that drives action is a hallmark of success. Analyzing successful copy can provide insights into how to optimize your content for desired outcomes, such as conversions or engagement.
Let’s teach kids early on that writing looks like many, many different things! Who knows what future interests this will spark for them?