Copywriting for Websites - Part 1

I've got a client with a relatively large site - 50 odd pages - that needs re-writing to a new format. We're bringing the site up to date and developing the calls to action. The client can write copy, but they are really busy and so far we've only managed to get some of the site wrritten.

Writing copy for websites is one of those skills that, I have to admit, I've always undervalued. Generally, I've advocated getting the client to write their own copy:

• they know the business, and are usually passionate about it
• they should know their customers
• they know what they are hoping to achieve

This week, I've been doing some research on what copywriting costs and how it "works" - I mean the process of getting it done rather than how the copy works.

What I found was I read a lot. And I kept reading.

Obviously, a top position in Google should indicate some of the world's best copywriters, but I was still surprised that I wanted to keep reading, that they maintained and managed my interest. Even if the site was poorly designed and unattractive I was still prepared to keep reading.

I'm nearly converted.

I've put this client in contact with a copywriter I encountered a few months ago and given them enough information about where we're going with the website. I'll let you know how it goes!

And the cost? - Pretty much every website I read used the "how long is a piece of string" analagy. Specifically for this project  - I'm not going to tell you - though it is a lot cheaper than a busy business owner not quite getting it done.