My path to Direct Response
I was “persuaded” to write for my high school newspaper by an English teacher tasked with overseeing it. Either she saw some journalistic potential in me… or was stretching to find someone to write the sports page. Being an athlete at least I'd know the subject material.
Turned out I was quite good at it. In fact I received a State level award
for sports writing.
Naturally, those looking out for my best interest – also known as parents
and teachers – were goading me to go into journalism.
In my last year of high school I elected to take an intro Psychology course. While I enjoyed writing, delving into how people think and what motivates them to do things – and not do things – was a rabbit hole of fascination to me. And down it I dove.
Rather than heading off to college in pursuit of a journalism degree, I signed up for a degree in Psychology. (Much to the dismay of those looking out for my best interest ;) )
So what can you do with a Psychology degree anyway? Well not a whole lot I suppose.
I worked in a couple of sales jobs and a number of analytical and tech jobs all involving writing to some degree. Then one day I was introduced to Direct Response copywriting and Wham! I had a love–at–first–sight moment.
Direct response is a perfect blend of research, writing and psychology
to me.
Being a tad bit of an over–achiever, I spent countless hours studying
copywriting, sales, on and off–line marketing, persuasion and psychology.
I’ve studied – and continue to study – classic masters and modern
day wizards.
My expertise is in connecting with readers emotionally and leading and motivating them to willingly take the desired action. I'm not keen on hype, trickery or manipulation. Just leaves a bad taste in the readers mouth, increases dissatisfaction and returns and decimates repeat buying and referrals.
With all the advertising noise, reader skepticism and avalanche of choices,
hype and me–too messages get only a paltry response. Copy that’s
clear, authentic and persuassive matched to the right market does connect and
drive response.
It also inspires loyalty, repeat buying and referral buying.
Here’s what a few people have said about my copy…
I’m in the top 5 for a few search phrases and have never had to pay for
traffic. In fact, I don’t spend any time or money on marketing. I’m
booked solid with a waiting list and turning away more people than I take.
The website completely pre–qualifies people so I don’t have to.
I frequently get compliments on the web copy. I’ve even noticed a couple
of competitors have ripped some of it off.
Sandy Der, owner Nutrition Consultant
and Personal chef company
I read your copy twice last night before I turned in … I kept smiling
as I read each page, with an occasional audible "Mmm!" and 'Wow! This is really
something!'
It’s the best damn thing I’'ve ever read!
It’s truly amazing … and its stuff that I’d NEVER have thought
of writing but, interestingly, it is exactly what is true and I never would have
thought to say!
Niiiice! Thank you!
Dave K, Real Estate coach
It’s great and I’m really pleased!!
I thought the last section was a really strong way to close. Thanks!
Dana Arkenzadah, owner Professional
Organizing company
510.282.1795
Patti {AT} NeedCopyWriter.com
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