Need a copywriter - Retail website

3 replies
Hello,
I feel incredibly out of my depth here, as I've never really looked into what a copy writer does, nevermind wanted to hire one, so go easy on me.
I'm an English/Law student, so writing, especially for websites has always come relatively easy for me and I feel that I can write to a reasonable standard. However, I've now come to realise that this 'standard' is in a different league to copy writers who seemingly sell the product through mere text.
Anyway, on with the request;

I am launching an online retail website in male fashion. I feel that I need someone with an outside perspective to write the 'About us' page as in this instance, I'm too close to the company and can't express what I want.
This page really sells the company and its products by stating what the company does and how it should appeal to our target market.

The page will be rather short, I'm looking for a few lines per paragraph, with say 3 paragraphs, although I'm sure this will depend on the writer.

In terms of budget, like I said at the beginning of the post, I have very little knowledge of copywriters. I've read a few threads but can't seem to find any for web pages rather than sales letters or emails.
I do have an idea of a realistic budget, but I'll let the quotes come in.

I'd prefer English to be the first language but isn't essential.

The deadline can be discussed with the chosen copywriter.

Also, any tips and advice for looking/choosing the right copywriter would be appreciated.
Regards,
Patrick
#copywriter #retail #website
  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    You're treading on dangerous ground attempting to sell
    fashion with a "warm and fuzzy" about us page.

    Just kidding.

    A lot of websites for this sort of things make some dumb
    mistakes with positioning... all sorts of pretentious, egotistical
    and inappropriate ideas get thrown around about why people
    would want to do business with you.

    One non-client of mine wanted a warm fuzzy "village" feel
    for his website selling.... wait for it...


    ...granola.

    Anyway - I've written this elsewhere, but I'll say it
    again. The only reason anybody buys through the mail
    is because the vendor offers a lower price/better value,
    more convenience than other options, or exclusive
    product or service he simply cannot get easily elsewhere.

    All other appeals like "we're a cool company", "we recycle"
    and so forth are weak, weak thoughts compared with
    the primary drivers of personal gain and convenience.

    Call up a few writers on the forum or something. Your
    "about us" page won't make or break your site - your
    fundamental proposition of offering value, convenience
    or exclusivity will.

    Today convenience is almost a moot point with the internet;
    ordering from many sites is very easy so the points of
    competition you'll be reckoning with are pricing and
    exclusivity.

    If you don't have those working in your favor your "brand"
    may make you proud, but it won't make you much of
    the green stuff.

    My number's on my site in my sig. Call a few folks and
    work with somebody who seems sincere about helping you
    get something real going.

    Cheers
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  • Profile picture of the author Matt Willard
    To what knowledge I have, copywriters use words to communicate the benefits of the products and services they are trying to sell. With benefits, it lets the potential customer understand how this product/service can benefit him. But I'm sure someone else on here can explain it better

    EDIT: Okay, Loren did. Forgive me-Quick Reply wasn't as quick as expected!
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  • Profile picture of the author 12holger34
    Hi Patrick,
    I like the idea and comment of Matt. You don't need a copywriter for the introduction of your website. Later if you want to get traffic and you want to publish articles about your products and service, than it is important to have someone , who is able to help you. Copy writing is very time consumption, but a successful tool to get traffic to your website.
    Cheers
    Holger
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    Check out my website I created with Jimdo.

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