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Here are some simple tips to writing effective sales copy.  Continue reading →

Here is what happens if you leave out benefits in your copy….NOTHING.  Many times copywriters will mistakenly list the features instead of benefits.  As a consumer you want to know how a product or service is going to help you, how will it make your life better, right?  Continue reading →

Subheads serve a purpose in your copy.  They help allow your reader to stay focused on what you have to say and keep their interest.  I like to think of it as chapters in a book.  It provides structure but it also serves a hidden agenda.  Continue reading →

Don’t underestimate the power of the P.S.  The reason it’s important is because many people when reading a letter will quickly jump down to the bottom to see who it’s by.  You have the opportunity to grab their attention before you lose them by adding a strong P.S. Continue reading →

Having a guarantee shows your confidence in what you’re offering. You want to remove as much of the risk from your clients as possible. You want to offer a strong compelling guarantee. Depending on your guarantee, it could mean the difference between good response and a great response. Continue reading →

During economic hard times, people tend to reduce or stop their marketing efforts.  It’s my belief that direct marketing should continue especially during slow economic times.  You may need to change the message to meet the changing times but the principal remains the same. Continue reading →

If you’re doing direct mail marketing then you need to be able to cut through the clutter.  And what I mean by that is how can you get your message to stand out against all your competitors’ direct mail marketing pieces?  Most direct mail advertising makes it appear that they are chasing the client which means they will be less trusting of you and less receptive to listen to your message.  So therefore they will be more likely to avoid you.

So how do you turn the tables around and make them want to chase you?   If you can accomplish this, they will be much more open to your message and will be more receptive to what you have and they will want to deal with you.  By using a powerful direct mail marketing piece you will increase your chances tenfold. Continue reading →

Good sales copy has many components.  I’ve outlined the blueprint of what goes into a good sales letter below.

Attention Grabbing Headline

The headline is the most important part of any sales letter, online or offline.  The headline is like the cover of a book, if it’s not appealing then it most likely not going to be picked up and opened.   It’s similar to the curbside appeal of a home on the market; if it’s not appealing, you’re not going in.  It’s similar to the first impression of someone you meet; if they don’t make a good one, you’re not giving them your time and attention.  Continue reading →

Example of a Timely Sales Copy Headline

Here is a great sales headline that was used during Governor Rod Blagojevich and his attempt to sell Obama’s Senate seat to the highest bidder.  It was placed by a furniture store in Illinois.

The furniture company launched the ad campaign after the scandal broke out.  This is a great example of how to use breaking news in the sales headline of your marketing.  Whether you’re in the market for furniture or not, it most likely will capture your attention.  I would venture to guess that you will pay this store a visit if you’re looking for a new sofa or even on the fence about getting one.

If I would alter anything about the ad it would be to change the following:

Since they are running this ad in local papers, I would take out the cities that are not in driving distance.  You don’t need Birmingham, Al, Atlanta, GA and Illinois locations all running in the same ad.  In Illinois I would take out Birmingham and Atlanta as and replace it with a coupon.  Have the coupon state “Bring this Coupon in and receive up to 50% off.”  Place a deadline in the coupon.<-->