The Website Workshop is a free learning hub for business owners, freelancers, and marketers who want to improve, fix, or grow their websites.
When it comes to building a great website, design gets most of the attention — but words are what really make people act. The way you write about your business shapes how visitors see you, trust you, and decide whether to take the next step.
That’s where content and copywriting come in. Together, they form the voice of your website — informing, persuading, and guiding visitors through your pages. Whether you’re writing from scratch or refreshing old content, here’s how to craft words that work.
1. Know Who You’re Talking To
Before you write a single word, you need to know your audience.
Ask yourself:
Who are my ideal visitors?
What problems do they have?
What do they need to know or feel before they’ll take action?
Your goal is to write as if you’re speaking directly to that person. Avoid writing for “everyone” — it’s better to connect deeply with your specific audience than vaguely with a broad one.
Understanding your visitors’ goals helps you create content that feels relevant, useful, and personal.
2. Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features
Many websites fall into the trap of listing what they do — but forget to explain why it matters.
Visitors don’t buy services or products; they buy solutions. Your copy should highlight the benefits behind the features.
For example:
❌ “We offer responsive web design.”
✅ “Your website will look great and work perfectly on any device — so you never lose a customer to bad design.”
See the difference? One lists a feature, the other explains the value. Always ask yourself: What’s in it for the visitor?
3. Write for Humans (and Search Engines)
Good website copy strikes a balance between readability and SEO.
Start by identifying one main keyword or phrase for each page, then use it naturally in:
Page titles and headings
The first 100 words of your content
Image alt text and meta descriptions
But remember — you’re writing for people first, not algorithms. Search engines reward content that’s clear, valuable, and relevant.
Avoid keyword stuffing and instead focus on creating well-written content that answers real questions and builds trust.
4. Keep It Simple and Scannable
Website visitors don’t read word-for-word — they scan.
Break up your text into short paragraphs, use bullet points, and write descriptive headings. Keep sentences concise and to the point.
Try this simple rule:
Write short. Cut unnecessary words.
Write clear. Avoid jargon and buzzwords.
Write direct. Speak to your reader using “you,” not “we.”
For example:
❌ “We provide digital solutions that enable businesses to achieve scalable outcomes.”
✅ “We help your business grow online with smart, practical website solutions.”
Clarity always wins.
5. Tell Your Story
People buy from people. Use storytelling to build connection and trust.
Share why you started your business, what drives you, or how you’ve helped others succeed. Real examples, testimonials, or case studies make your website more relatable and authentic.
Even small details — like a friendly “About” page or a clear “Meet the Team” section — can make a big difference in how trustworthy your brand feels.
6. Always Include a Call to Action
Every page should have a clear next step.
Whether it’s “Get a Quote,” “Book a Consultation,” or “Download Our Guide,” tell visitors what to do next and make it easy for them to do it.
A well-placed call-to-action (CTA) can turn casual visitors into loyal customers. Keep your CTAs short, direct, and benefit-driven:
“Start Your Free Trial”
“See How It Works”
“Let’s Talk About Your Project”
7. Review, Edit, and Improve
Great copy isn’t written — it’s edited.
After writing, step away for a bit, then come back and read your content out loud. You’ll quickly spot clunky sentences or unnecessary words.
Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway App can help you refine tone and clarity, but nothing beats a human review. Ask someone unfamiliar with your site to read it — if they understand your message instantly, you’re on the right track.
In Summary
Good copy turns browsers into buyers. It’s not about fancy words — it’s about clear communication, empathy, and persuasion.
When your website content speaks directly to your audience’s needs, highlights your value, and guides them toward action, it stops being “just a website” and becomes your most powerful marketing tool.
The Website Workshop Tip: Design attracts attention — but great copy keeps it. Start with your words, and build everything else around them.