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Sometimes writing, for print or for the web, can be a daunting task, especially if you are not an experienced writer. Here are some tips for helping you when it is time to write your site content.
Keep it simple and short
Outline the basics of your topic. If you already have printed promotional materials, look at the text and try to pare it down to the essentials. It is easier for your web site visitors to read bulleted lists, so consider taking a paragraph and creating a list from it. And be sure to leave out flowery wording; it is wasted on the web.
Tackle the text in pieces
Thinking about creating content for your whole site can be overwhelming. Take it page by page and set small goals. Using a site map can help because it provides an outline for what content you need and how it will be displayed to the user. If you don’t have a site map, think about writing the old-fashioned way: write an outline! An outline is a great place to start and helps organize your thoughts, and eventually your site, so that you can begin writing each page.
Consider your audience
Because users tend to scan text, make every word count. What are the essentials? If you had only three things to say to a potential customer, what would they be? Targeted, purposeful content gets the message across successfully.
Don’t worry about getting it right the first time
When you decide to write your content, let the words flow! Your first draft doesn’t have to be what appears on your site. You can always edit your writing to make it web-friendly and more concise. Try sitting down and writing whatever comes to mind about your topic. Then you can use that to choose what is most important, and it may spark more content ideas.
Hire a professional
If you are short on time, consider hiring a professional to help you develop content for your site. There is nothing wrong with consulting an expert!