Where to Start? Tips for Writing Commercial Copy
Commercial writing (also called copywriting) is a career field that can offer it all: exciting potential for growth, plenty of freedom, and solid job security. You can look forward to something different virtually every single workday, and enjoy the flexibility to pursue a professional path that’s aligned with your interests and passions.
There will always be a need for skilled copywriters. In fact, just today, you’ve probably already read the work of several copywriters without even realizing it. But how do you get a job as a copywriter? Well, the most important thing you’ll need to know is how to write commercial copy – and we’ve put together a useful list of tips to help you get started.
How to Write Commercial Copy: Copywriting Tips
One of the main reasons that commercial writers are in such steady demand is that copywriting is a skill – and not everyone has the training, drive, or ability to do it. And like many jobs, working as a copywriter means constantly learning, growing, and honing your skills to stay on top of your game.
The best way to get a job as a copywriter is, to begin with, specialized education, such as a diploma program specifically tailored to the field. By attending a digital media school and studying commercial writing, you’ll be able to build a critical foundation of experience and knowledge. Depending on the program you choose, you might also have the opportunity to pursue internships in the industry.
In addition to a career-focused education, there are also a handful of go-to tips that can help you write high-quality copy that will wow prospective clients, employers, and your target audience.
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Clearly illustrate how you (and the client you’re writing for) can solve their problem.
Whether you’re writing an advertisement for social media, a blog article, or a brochure, you’re generally aiming to connect with potential customers (on behalf of the client/brand/business). And in order to capture their interest, it’s important that you demonstrate why this particular piece of copy is worth their time – in other words, what do you have to offer them?
When the goal is to gain a person’s business, you need to show: a) why they should be interested in the product or service, and b) what need/want the product or service will serve for them. In other words, what problem are you solving?
So, when you’re writing ad copy, focus on the solution that’s being presented. And then, do your best to make it extremely clear that your solution is the best option for the reader’s problem – even if it’s a “problem” they didn’t know they had until now!
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Incorporate emotional triggers.
Some people will see your copy and already have an end goal in mind, but others are just casually browsing. For those readers, you’ll need to find a way to “push” them to take action (contact a company, make a purchase, etc.).
One of the most effective ways to do this is by using emotional triggers. For example, if you were writing an online ad for a hairstylist, you might include something like: “Have a fantastic hair day, every day!” People would see this and experience an emotion, the desire to have the confidence that a good hair day can offer. Your copy is telling them that if they choose this stylist, they can have that positive feeling on an everyday basis – and that’s pretty persuasive.
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Make it about the customer, not just about the product/business.
There are plenty of ads out there that focus on telling people how amazing the brand or business is. But unfortunately, those ads usually end up blending together – and often, they come off as inauthentic in the eyes of potential customers.
Instead of talking all about the brand, tailor the copy to how the product/service will improve the reader’s life. Personalize the copy, using “you” to address the reader and taking a tone that’s well-suited to the content and purpose.
For example, which of these ads do you find more compelling?
- Brand XYZ has created an office chair that’s better than any other option out there, beating our competitors on price and quality. Buy our chair now!
- When you’re working from home, a comfortable and supportive office chair makes all the difference. Learn how you can create a healthier, more productive working environment with the office chair by Brand XYZ.
Odds are, you were more interested in hearing about the office chair from the second ad, because it was centered on your needs and how the chair would contribute to your quality of life.
Learn How to Get a Job as a Copywriter When You Study Digital Media Production
Whether you want to write radio commercials, print advertising, or corporate blogs, studying Digital Media Production can be the first step towards an exciting and successful career. At the BeonAir Network of Media Schools, with campuses located in Miami, Chicago, Colorado, and Ohio, our Digital Media Production programs offer an in-depth education that can empower you to pursue your professional dreams.
Discover how to break into commercial writing when you apply to attend the BeonAir Network of Media Schools’ campus near you!
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