Here’s a basic mindset formula for writing sales copy

by SARubin

OK, so the other morning I had a few minutes to spare, and I decided to cruise one of the marketing forums I sometimes visit.

On this particular morning, a newbie marketer asked a question I’ve seen more than once, about writing sales copy.

Well, like I said, I had a few minutes to spare. So this time I answered the call and tried to help this guy out with a quick (beginners) primer on the mindset you should have when writing sales copy.

And even though I only gave the guy a basic answer, I still think the answer might serve anyone who has a similar question.

So I’m posting it here for your enjoyment? (Education? Advantage? Benefit?)

Anyway, here’s the exchange that took place (slightly edited, to remove the askers personal info)…

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Syntax and Context in copywriting _ part2

by SARubin

In a previous post, we talked about “syntax” in copywriting. (In case you missed it, you can read it here)

For the rest of us, here’s a quick reminder… syntax basically refers to the order of the words we use in our communication.

Example: “the dog bit the boy” compared to “the boy bit the dog.” Same words… different order… very different meaning. (especially if you’re the boy, or the dog)

This time we’re going to continue with the topic of “context” in our copywriting.

Context simply means the situational concept that surrounds and encompasses the entirety of the message.

(wow, there’s a couple big words in that last sentence. So what do you say we simplify it, with an example of what we’re talking about. OK?)…
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Syntax and Context in copywriting _ part 1

by SARubin

So, the other day I was having a little chat with a friend of mine (who’s also a writer) And after a couple beers, the conversation came around to the topic of syntax, and context in writing.

(yeah, I guess that probably makes us a couple of nerds. But this is the kind of stuff we’re interested in. And the small talk usually ends up turning to advertising, and copywriting)

So here we are…

Anyway, I thought I’d share the highlights of our conversation with you.

If you’re interested… then read on.

If you’re not interested… then I guess you can go nerd out somewhere else?

First, let’s start with a quick definition, just to get the ball rolling…

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Pre-suppositions in copywriting – an intermediate lesson (for beginners)

by SARubin

OK, I already know some of you more intelligent, and experienced copywriters, understand what pre-suppositions are, when it comes to persuasive copywriting?

So this lesson is for the less experienced sales writer, who wants to “up their game.”

First, let me start with a short and sweet definition, just to get this party started…

For the sake of this post, a pre-supposition (when it comes to copywriting) is basically the same thing as pre-framing or “priming” the next thing you’re about to say, to put your reader in the right state of mind.

(Yes, I can already hear the grammarians among us screaming “that’s not the true definition of a presupposition!”)

Well, maybe… maybe not. But I write copy designed to sells things, not to impress my English Lit. Professor. So this is the definition we’re going with for this post.

A pre-suppostion is often used to subtly achieve acceptance, and pre-dispose your reader to an idea, so they’re more open to believing the next part of your message.

OK, I’ll admit that definition might sound a little confusing. So…Would you like to see an example of what I’m talking about?
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This should always be your main focus when writing a sales piece

by SARubin

This short, but powerful post is about what our main focus should always be when writing a sales piece .

I decided to write it because there was thread on one of the forums I sometimes visit, from someone who wanted advice on how to increase donations to her crowdfunding page.

One of the replies that came from a member of the forum contained the following passage…

[Quote]

In addition to the feedback you have already rec’d, my opinion for faster fund raising results is to refocus your campaign on the traffic that comes there, and of course, the SOURCE of this traffic and I think they are more interested in your goodies at the different levels.

Crowd fund raising investors, outside of family friends, want to see what is in it for them,

[End Quote]

^^^ I just want to say… That contains a brilliant bit of advice right there!!! ^^^

I’ve told people this, over and over (and over again). Sometimes they get it… More often, they don’t…
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