How to Write Effective Copy

Most businesses use copy every day. From writing effective marketing emails to putting up content on their website, it is essential to write persuasive copy to sell your products and services online. When you can write engagingly and persuasively, you harness the ability to convert your readers into customers.

We’re running through a few top tips on how to write effective copy so you can do just that.

1. Don’t “Sell”

In today’s digital world, customers value authenticity and genuine marketing so, avoid sales pitches as much as possible. Think about what people want, and then write your copy to encapsulate that. For instance, consider their troubles and goals, and if you write in a way that they understand you are aiming to help them with these rather than throwing offers of low prices at them, they are more likely to read your copy.

2. Use Power Words

Power words are effective words that can be incredibly persuasive when it comes to writing. Copyblogger found that the top 5 power words are the person’s name (like in the subject heading of an e-newsletter), free, because, instantly and new. Using just one of these captures attention because it shows to the reader that you are targeting them personally with what they are searching for.

Words such as ‘instantly’ make us feel that we are getting a fast reward, activating centres in our brain. Use words such as this if you feel you can solve your customers’ needs quickly, efficiently, and effectively.

3. Make It Emotional 

Writing copy with the reader's emotions in mind is a great way of ensuring your copy is successful - after all, we don't want to read something if we don't feel like it has us in mind. Using emotional words that conjure up images in a reader’s minds can be incredibly persuasive. The best way of doing this is to put yourself in the reader's shoes. For instance, if your audience is looking to order food, creating an emotive image using words describing the flavours, textures, smells, colours, and so on of the food can create an instant craving for the product.

To round it up, the best way to write effective copy is to keep it simple, use powerful words and get in touch with emotions. Following these top tips should spark interest in your products and services and lead to increased sales! We hope they help you! 

Written by

Adam Carter | Head of Products

Adam has been leading the Product team for over 18 years, during which time he's built up an enviable reputation as one of the industry's most trusted authorities on promotional merchandise. As well as supplier relations, product sourcing and pricing, Adam is also responsible for ensuring our promotional merchandise is presented on the website in the most effective manner. His expertise makes him the go-to person on the team for spotting merchandise trends and he's highly experienced in identifying the best branded products to meet our customers' needs. When he's not working, Adam enjoys travel, electronic music and all forms of cinema.

Connect with Adam Carter on LinkedIn Connect with Adam Carter on LinkedIn

Colour Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Blue Promotional Items

Colour Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Blue Promotional Items

With Blue Monday in sight, there's no better time to take a moment or two to think about the colour blue in all its glory. Because it's really not all bad, despite the n

Why Promotional Products Work: The Value Of Merch For Your Brand

Why Promotional Products Work: The Value Of Merch For Your Brand

Okay, we might be biased but there really is no denying it: promotional products are an incredibly powerful tool for any UK business. Whether you're a start-up looki

How To Keep Your Promotional Merchandise On Trend In 2019

How To Keep Your Promotional Merchandise On Trend In 2019

Every business strives to remain current and promotional merchandise is no different. Consumer trends are constantly changing, 2018 saw the rise of the fidget spinner, b

Revealed: The Best-Selling Promotional Products Of 2023

Revealed: The Best-Selling Promotional Products Of 2023

It's safe to say that 2023 has been quite the year for Total Merchandise. Over the last 12 months, we've hit some major milestones, grown our team, hosted our fi

The Power Of Promotional Paper Coffee Cup Sleeves

The Power Of Promotional Paper Coffee Cup Sleeves

Whilst a hot cup of coffee is a daily saviour for people across the UK, singed fingertips are a decidedly less desirable side-effect of the morning caffeine fix.  W

Promotional Merchandise Statistics: What’s Working in 2025?

Promotional Merchandise Statistics: What’s Working in 2025?

As digital marketing channels become more saturated, branded merchandise continues to stand out by offering something tangible and lasting. Whether given away at events, sent in

10 Exciting New Merch Ideas To Have On Your Radar This March

10 Exciting New Merch Ideas To Have On Your Radar This March

As we step into March, it's the perfect time to refresh your promotional strategies and stay ahead of the curve for the upcoming spring season. Whether you're pr

The TM Edit: 9 Must-See Spring 2025 Merch Ideas For Your Brand

The TM Edit: 9 Must-See Spring 2025 Merch Ideas For Your Brand

The days are getting longer, the birdsong is getting louder and one thing is becoming increasingly clear - spring is nearly here. If you're looking for a Q2 refresh