So yesterday I talked about how ghostblogging and consulting were the two things that I was asked about most frequently. The third thing is website copy, especially “About Me” pages. People really have a hard time describing themselves, especially when it is intricately linked to what they do, or to what service they provide. More on this later.

But first, a quick overview of website copy. When you hire a copywriter to write website content for you, you generally hope to end up with content that accomplishes three things.
A) It should be engaging and readable.
B) It should promote your product, message, or services in a way you are comfortable with.
C) It should be reasonably search engine friendly. Although, as MenWithPens pointed out on twitter yesterday, if your copywriter is writing targeted copy like they should be, it will be search engine friendly naturally.

Most importantly, well written copy should sound like you on a rockstar writing day. If you a run a small internet based business, part of what you’re doing is selling personality as well as your product.

Now onto the issues specifically involving “About Me” pages. I know some incredibly articulate people who have a hard time talking about themselves. It’s natural, I think. And running an internet business makes it even harder, because you’re selling an image of yourself that is, in many cases, tailored for greater effect. I can’t tell you exactly how to do it, since I don’t know you (although, if you want a consulting session, I can probably help more!). I can give you some general tips though.
A) Think about the things you can say about yourself, both positive and negative. Are you a student? Is that an advantage or a disadvantage to mention? How do you feel about your gender being known? Your hobbies? This is actually a very philosophical process, believe it or not.
B) Write with your overall message in mind. Strong messages sell, and your about page, even though it’s personal, is still an extension of that message. You can use it to further promote your services without sounding like a jerk, I promise. This is a big fear my clients have, and I understand it. For the sake of analysis, I’ll break down mine quickly.
What can you learn about me from my about page, really? First, I have tattoos(They are of Ganesha and an Anais Nin quote, if anyone is intensely curious), so I probably won’t be very judgmental about anyone I work with. Secondly, I used to work for a non-profit. This shows writing experience and devotion to causes and ideas. And then, I throw my company mission/message in again, but in a more personal way. My page obviously isn’t the only way to do it, but it’s the way that felt right to me which is really important in the whole process.

Tomorrow, I’ll talk about managing email lists and how a copywriter can help generate more business that way.

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