Have you ever noticed that some writers are better at writing content for marketing purposes than others?
You may have heard of copywriters, which is someone who specializes in constructing letters, websites, and other marketing content for brands. But, did you know that there are levels of proficiency when it comes to writing marketing copy?
To better understand the skill sets and traits needed to become a successful copywriter, you need to know exactly what components make up good marketing copy.
In today’s world, digital marketing and content marketing are booming. According to HubSpot Blogs, 79% of businesses consider themselves digital marketing-ready. Naturally, content marketing is also popular – 69% of businesses consider themselves content-marketing-ready.
With so much talk of marketing content, you might be wondering what it means practically speaking. Well, let’s dive into the nitty-gritties.
Key Copywriting Components
To write high-quality, effective marketing copy, you need to adopt some proven copywriting strategies and tools. Let’s take a look.
First, you need to determine what makes up good marketing copy. What are the key components that will make your client’s products or services stand out above the competition?
Here are some of the most crucial elements that you need to include in your marketing text:
- A headline that will grab the reader’s attention
- An intriguing introduction
- Body copy that is both relevant and engaging
- A call-to-action (CTA)
- An incentive for the reader to engage with your content
- An indication that the article was well-researched (i.e. use of credible sources)
- Images and video content to further engage the reader
- A review of similar products (competitors)
- The article’s objective (i.e. what did you learn from the whole process?)
- Key takeaway (the takeaway message or main point)
- Additional notes
- An Out-of-Home link (affiliate link)
As you can see, these elements are pretty comprehensive. You will note that I’ve included the word “copywriting” in the list of key components above, but what is copywriting exactly?
As I mentioned, copywriting is the process of constructing written material — such as product descriptions, marketing emails, and articles — for the purpose of marketing.
Here are some of the things that you should avoid while copywriting:
- Using colloquialisms
- Rambling about your personal experience
- Writing for the sake of entertainment or to tick off a resume point
- Plagiarism
- Fangirl/boy fan fiction
- Low-quality image/video content
- Shopping for social media likes
- Overusing hyperboles (exaggerations)
- Unwanted plug-ins/additional software (spamming)
Now, you may be wondering what is the most effective way to learn how to write effective marketing copy. Well, if you want to become a successful copywriter, you need to learn from the pros. You can find several online copywriting courses that can help you get started. The best part is that these courses are usually less than 10 hours per week. So, you can fit them into your schedule.
How to Study For a Copywriting Test
You can use a number of strategies to study for a copywriting test. Here are just a few of them.
First, find out when the test is going to be. This way, you’ll be able to prepare for it. Second, look for practice samples online. Just remember that these are not actual test questions. They are meant to help you study for the test. However, you can use them as a rough guide for the types of questions that you will be asked.
If possible, take the test before you start working as a copywriter. The reason behind this is that you won’t be able to gauge how you are doing until you actually take the test. So, it’s best to do it sooner rather than later.
Also, make sure that you study in a quiet environment. This is especially crucial if you are a night owl like me. If possible, pull an all-nighter before the test and review as much as you can. Use a Study Hall, empty college classrooms, or even the bathroom if you need to study in private. Remember, you’re looking for quiet, so that you can maintain focus and learn effectively. Pianos can also be a helpful tool for studying – they help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Plus, there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting down to play a classic piece of music while you study.
Now that you’re feeling more confident, it’s time to register for the test. Good luck!