Sunday, January 27, 2008

Attract more clients, with this simple copywriting model

Writing compelling words is a key component of client attraction. The internet has given us the ability to create websites, e-newsletters and blogs. We can upload articles and content as often as we choose. If this material is poorly written, however, it may do more harm than good.

Copywriting is the focus of Stage 6 of my book, 'How to Get Clients to Come to You'. Within this section, I describe the 'AIDCA' system. This stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, Conviction, Action.

AIDCA is a process. It can convert a casual reader into someone who wants to write out a cheque with your name on it. If you understand the process, you will get better results. This can have a direct impact on the holidays you take, the state of your pension fund and how soundly you sleep at night. =)

Potential clients are inundated with thousands of marketing messages every day. So it is vital to get their Attention. Once you've done this, you must spark Interest in what you're saying. As soon as you have their interest, the next step is to generate Desire to learn more about your products / services. The prospective client then needs to have Conviction that you're a credible supplier, before they take Action, i.e. contact you.

AIDCA can be used within virtually any area of your promotional mix. For example, your website homepage, a direct mail letter or an invitation to an event.

Here is the sequence:

Attention = The headline
Interest = Your product or service
Desire = A compelling offer
Conviction = Proof
Action = A call to action!

AIDCA is a great model for generating more response. And response is what we want, isn't it? =)

If you feel that your 'marketing words' could do with an overhaul, you are welcome to get in touch with me. My services include:

A) Editing (giving you feedback)
B) Copywriting (doing it for you)
C) Teaching (how to write like a professional)

If you are interested in how I can help you with copywriting, check out 'Services', within my website.

All the best, Nigel.

Monday, January 21, 2008

Making your website a client magnet

Wouldn't it be nice to attract a swarm of interested prospective clients...who are beating down your door in their eagerness to talk to you?

When it comes to internet marketing, it's easy to get caught up in 'hits', 'unique visitors', 'bounce rates' and other esoteric forms of measurement. Personally, all I care about is how many sales enquiries I am getting from my site. How about you?

Here are some ways to attract that swarm...
* Figure out where the itch is, amongst your clients.
* Write about the itch - as well as the ways to scratch it.
* Write articles, for your site. Then place these articles on other sites (with links back to you).
* Produce a monthly e-newsletter. (The effort is worth it!)
* When you write, pack in keywords and phrases.
* Upload new content regularly, for the hungry search engine spiders.
* Have a Links page. Link to relevant websites. Ask them to link back to you.
* Blog as often as you can. Amongst other things, this will help your search engine rankings. It will also generate content which you can use within articles etc.
* Encourage feedback on your site. Feedback is a gift, which can help you to improve your results.

I wish you all the best with your marketing and client attraction!
Regards
Nigel