Writing Compelling Website Copy: A Guide for Authors and Creative Thinkers
Introduction:
Writing copy for your website should be a breeze for a talented writer like you, right? But let's face it, it's not always as easy as it seems. Crafting website copy requires a different set of skills compared to writing books. That's why I've put together a blog post and a downloadable guide just for you. It's packed with top tips and valuable advice to ensure that your website is working its hardest for you!
General Insights:
My Number One Tip for Writing Your Website: Less is Absolutely More!
When it comes to writing for your website, remember that people tend to scan over paragraphs of text. Short and impactful copy is the way to go. Capture your readers' attention with concise and compelling language that gets straight to the point.
Emphasize Important Points with Bolding and Headings.
To bring attention to important points on your website, make use of bolding and headings. However, use them sparingly. If everything on the page is screaming for attention, nothing will stand out. Remember, a wall of text is very boring.
Break Things Up with Visual Elements.
Don't be afraid to break up your content with photos, icons, or other interesting design elements that relate to your text. This helps to add visual interest and keeps your readers engaged. Take inspiration from your favorite writer websites and see how they have presented their content in an engaging manner.
Bullet Points and Lists for Clarity.
Feel free to use bullet points and lists to break up information into digestible chunks. This not only makes it easier for readers to skim through but also adds a sense of organization and clarity. Presenting information in a structured format enhances readability and ensures that key points are easily understood.
Keep Your Website Pages Simple and Focused.
Consider how many pages you really need on your website. Remember, less is more! If you have too many different pages linked in your navigation, readers may become confused or overwhelmed. Instead, focus on the main aim of your website and direct as much of its content as possible towards that goal. I recommend having three core pages besides your homepage: About, Books, and Contact. You can also consider adding a Blog/News or Event page if it aligns with your goals. Best is to keep it a maximum of five pages.
Pay Attention to Spelling and Grammar.
Spelling errors and bad grammar can be a major turn-off for visitors to your website. Make sure to proofread your content thoroughly and consider getting another set of eyes to review it as well. A polished and professional website is essential for making a good impression.
Effective Linking for SEO and Authority.
Linking is important for search engine optimization (SEO) and building authority for your website. Be sure to include both external links (to other websites) and internal links (within your own website). This will help search engines crawl your site efficiently and improve your domain authority.
Additionally, encourage other websites to link to yours by sharing it with the world. Ask your agent and publisher to add a link to your website on their pages about you. Regularly link to your site from your social media accounts, and whenever you do a press article, request that it includes a link to your website at the end.
Conclusion:
Crafting compelling copy for your author website doesn't have to be daunting. By following these simple guidelines, you can create content that captures the attention of readers and showcases your unique writing style.
Remember, less is more! Keep paragraphs short and impactful, using bolding and headings sparingly to emphasize important points without overwhelming the reader. Break up text with visual elements such as photos or icons that complement the content.
Bullet points and lists are great for organizing information and making it easier to skim through. Keep your website pages simple and focused, directing the content towards your main goal. Pay attention to spelling and grammar to maintain a professional image.
Effective linking within your website and encouraging external links can improve SEO and build authority for your site. Finally, let your unique voice shine through in your writing, reflecting your style as an author.
By implementing these tips, you'll create a website that captivates readers, leaves a lasting impression, and helps you connect with your audience on a deeper level. Happy writing!Download the complete guide!
Download the complete guide.
I'm Marianne, a branding and Squarespace website designer catering to creative entrepreneurs (aka creative minds) I'm a Canva lover and dedicated business enthusiast. Through designing several websites for authors, I noticed a significant need for tailored guidance on website design, strategy, and content within the creative niche.
I trust this guide will be of assistance!
