What are the common mistakes you see novice copywriters make with the first paragraph or two? And what advice would you give?

All The Best. Jerry.

Thanks for sharing your ideas on this blog. I’ve just started reading it, and I have to say it seems packed full of million dollar ideas and advice. Dr. Kilstein recommended this site on the AWAI Students’ Forum, and I’m still trying to learn from all of the big players in copywriting.

That being said, I must say that you’ve touched on a subject I’ve often had trouble with. That is, I have so many different projects going on at any given moment, it seems overwhelming at times to finish any one of them.

I’ve got several Web sites under development (I’ve designed quite a few from an “engine” perspective..that is, the back-end database engine and the code to make it all work). It comes down to the point where the site is fully functional, except for the majority of the copy and layout.

Bottom line is I need to focus my efforts on the other side: selling the site and it’s product/service. You could have the best service in the world, but if nobody knows about it or just aren’t convinced (or even if they are convinced but still don’t purchase it), then all that work was for nothing.

I don’t take this challenge lightly, but I do intend to make a good return on my investments.

Your post has inspired me to take some time off from tweaking the code or database optimization and work on my copy to get some of these things finished.

After all, every day I delay is another day of lost profits!

Warm regards,
John

Driving to completion… action over perfection… Those are 2 of the most powerful mindsets for success in marketing.

Matt G

Something I’m noticing more and more (particularly in print) is Question & Answer copy. Instead of a standard salesletter, or advertorial, the copy is more of an “interview” that ends with information on how to “find out more” or “get a copy” or whatever. Can you comment on this type of copy?

Particularly, can you share any experiences with this type of copy? Any likes or dislikes about it?

Would you ever use this type of copy in direct mail, or just magazines/newpapers?

Cheers, and hit ‘em straight!

Steve Hogan

Here’s something I’m hoping you can share your opinion on…

The “average guy” vs. “the expert”.

In many ads in my swipe file….the “main character” of the sales letter is portrayed as an everyday human being…….as in…

“desperate nerd from ohio”….
“one-legged golfer”….

…and the ad typically goes on to share something amazing discored by ordinary Joe.

And yet, one of the most powerful elements of persuasion is “Authority”.

My niche market has no well known “Authority”. I have the opportunity to come in and claim that spot as the “expert” in my niche (and back it up with the secrets I know). My knowledge is not based on any formal education…..just from my own years of experience and research.

..but I can also just be the average Joe who is sharing an amazing discovery.

It’s kinda like choosing to be the “Butch Harmon” of my market….vs. the “One Legged Golfer” of my market.

It “seems” like it’s a no-brainer. I’d rather be the expert…..but sometimes I feel too close to my project and need the perspective of someone else. (And of course…testing will answer all questions)

Thanks!
Michael

4 days of golf? You’ll be exhausted when you come back.

We’re waiting for you to post your scores. (LOL)

Is OHP sending a crew to follow you around and shoot a video?