As you consider that there are millions of people on the net who are attempting to influence visitors with their wares, it is vitally important that your site offers something out of the ordinary. Simply because your site is beautiful doesn't mean it can do well on the Internet for contrary to popular belief, what the site says is far more important than how it looks. Good copy sells.

As an example, a recent visitor named Sharon at www.impulse-getaways.com wrote me asking for help with getting visitors to her site. When I reviewed the site, I found it well written and very attractive to the eye but a couple of things were missing. First the words didn't grab my attention. There are probably thousands of people who would enjoy taking advantage of the service, but the copy doesn't reflect the excitement of this type of business.

When I visited subsequent pages such as the different lodges, I was more excited. If I were in the market for a trip to South Africa, I would be a bit more inclined towards using the services if the site content was more exciting. I recommended to Sharon that she reconsider the copy by making it more enticing.

In contrast, another visitor named Gordon at www.ballantineshotels.com offers a site that demonstrates what I'm suggesting. His resort focuses on a retro theme and his copy plus several good pictures demonstrate what his resort is all about.

Although the hospitality industry has been suffering as of late, Gordon told me that his site attracts loads of visitors through the Internet. He mentioned that he asked a particular guest how he found the resort and the gentleman told him he found him via the Internet. When Gordon asked him why he chose to stay at the Vintage Palm Springs resort the guest replied, "Your high-speed, well-written site encouraged me."

Another site that shares important facts and details in an effective way is from Catherine at www.hostelworld.com. Catherine wrote to ask me what I thought of her site which is a definitive travel guide offering tips on the best youth and international hostels, events and festivals including tours and activities worldwide. I found the site very well put together in addition to providing excellent information for those traveling around the world.

Although there is not a lot of copy, one particular expression says it very well. "Use our secure online reservation service to guarantee there's a bed waiting at your chosen destination." I found that to be a friendly and encouraging way to get visitors to use their services.

In closing there are few important points to remember when writing content for your web site.

1. Great Copy must have an intention, so know what you want to achieve.
2. Web Copy must be exciting and interesting so that it encourages people to read further.
3. Good copy must demonstrate something beneficial to the reader.
4. Try using less verbiage with more impact; be sure to add some pizzazz to your site.
5. Use crisp, clear communication and short paragraphs with bulleted points.
6. Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through.
7. Write with enthusiasm.
8. Make your site easy to read and easy to navigate.
9. Be sure to address important points clearly.
10. Don't hide contact information or make it hard to locate.
11. Include testimonials.
12. Make sure there are no errors.

Whether you are designing a new web-site, or revamping one that is already online, the content of your material must be offered in such a way as to appeal to your target market. Regardless of the service or product, it is wise to put attention on what you are ultimately trying to communicate. Put yourself in the place of your visitors.

What do they want to see and what would they like to know right off the bat? When choosing your words make them as appealing and professional as possible. And finally, check carefully for errors. When your web site is complete proudly share it with the world.

Copyright © 2004 - Charlene Rashkow. - Reprinted with permission. Charlene Rashkow brings 15 years of experience as a Writing Stylist and Author to her creative efforts as a freelance business writer/consultant. She has successfully helped companies and individuals reach their objectives by writing outstanding press releases, bios, articles of interest, business plans, resumes, web site content and all other forms of marketing material. She is the author of "Moving on Up: Success on the Internet." www.AllYourWritingNeeds.com.

Larry's Book Store - Authors/Speakers Book Shelf

Authors & Speakers Articles MENU

Authors/Speakers - Part 1

Relationship books by Larry James:

How to Really Love the One You're With:
Affirmative Guidelines for a Healthy Love Relationship

LoveNotes for Lovers:
Words That Make Music for Two Hearts Dancing

Red Hot LoveNotes for Lovers (Career Assurance Press).

Author Larry James is a professional speaker. He presents "Relationship Enrichment LoveShops" nationally for singles and couples. More About Larry James

For a personally autographed copy of Larry's books, or for more information, please contact: