AI for Copywriters: Responsibly Leveraging AI to Boost Productivity

As the demand for digital content grows, so does the need for efficient and effective ways to produce high-quality text at scale. Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly changing how we write and edit content, helping copywriters create more engaging experiences faster than ever before. 

These impressive experiences demonstrate how AI revolutionizes copywriting processes worldwide, allowing businesses to produce better results with fewer resources.

But what does that mean for copywriters? Will AI put them out of jobs? AI for copywriters is undoubtedly the immediate future, but you must understand it best to produce better content that will keep repaying you in the long run.

This guide will provide a comprehensive look into how AI can be used in copywriting—from understanding its benefits to exploring specific use cases to help you maximize this powerful technology.

How AI Copywriting Tools Work

AI tools use natural language processing (NLP) technology to generate high-quality content quickly. By analyzing a text corpus—an extensive collection of existing writing examples—the AI can learn how to write in the same style and tone as the samples. It can then create new, original pieces of writing that match the existing corpus. 

Using AI copywriting tools, you can create content in a fraction of the time it would take to craft an article by hand. The AI scans your inputs and pulls out keywords and phrases most closely associated with the topic. It then builds sentences around these terms, making sure they make sense grammatically and are free of typos.

Thanks to machine learning, the AI only gets more intelligent with time and learns from your feedback—the more you use it, the better the output will become.

Generative AI and GPT3

Copywriters know generating multiple copies on the same topic can feel redundant and boring. With AI, writers can now unshackle themselves from the mundane and explore new and imaginative ideas.

Generative AI, or GANs, is a machine learning algorithm that creates new data based on existing data sets. This type of AI benefits copywriters by generating multiple versions of the same text with varying degrees of complexity or accuracy. For example, a generative AI system could create hundreds of unique headlines or taglines for the same advertising campaign.

GPT3, (Generative Pre-Trained Transformer 3) is the latest version of OpenAI’s natural language processing platform. GPT3 takes the idea of generative AI and applies it to natural language processing by learning from a vast pool of online data sources.

This enables GPT3 to understand the context, intent, and meaning of written content to generate new text that is relevant and appropriate for the given task. This makes GPT3 an ideal tool for copywriters because it can create compelling and creative copy without requiring different inputs from the user.

What Outputs can Generative AI and GPT3 Produce for Copywriting?

Generative AI and GPT3 can create various types of content quickly, efficiently, and with minimal effort from the copywriter. Here are some outputs that generative AI and GPT3 can produce for copywriting: 

Automated Content: The most impressive output of AI tools for copywriters is automated content that can supplement copywriting projects, including blogs, web copies, product descriptions, YouTube descriptions, letters, etc. Writing blogs and web copies require expertise and can be time-consuming. AI tools minimize the workload by creating unique and accurate copies, requiring minimum input from the copywriter.

Automated Headlines: Generative AI and GPT3 can automatically generate creative, eye-catching headlines. This helps copywriters attract readers to their content quickly and effectively. 

Text Summaries: AI tools can create summarizations of longer pieces of text, which is an excellent way for copywriters to condense information into smaller, more digestible chunks.

Meta Details:  Generative AI and GPT3 are also great for generating meta details such as titles, tags, descriptions, etc. Meta details are more complicated than it sounds. Using AI tools can help copywriters generate meta details that are accurate, specific, and tailored to the content.

Calls-to-Action: CTAs are another output AI tools can generate. This helps copywriters entice readers to take further action, such as subscribing to a newsletter, registering for an event, or purchasing.

Data-Driven Content: AI tools can also produce data-driven content, including graphs, charts, and other visuals. This helps copywriters accurately explain complex topics in a more visually appealing manner. 

Ad Copy: Ad copies that are concise, engaging, and tailored to a specific audience are another output copywriters can produce using AI tools.

Social Media Content: Generative AI and GPT3 can create social media content. This includes captions, hashtags, tweets, etc. Using AI, copywriters, and agencies can reduce the workload to keep their profiles updated to focus more on more important tasks.

Rephrase Content: AI tools can also rephrase any content. This helps copywriters create unique content while preserving the content’s original meaning.

Can GPT Content be Detected?

Copywriters using AI until recently didn’t have to worry about their content being detected. But with the lightning-fast development of GPT tools, AI detectors have also been introduced by organizations, firstly by Open AI, to detect plagiarized content generated by GPT technology, though they are not particularly proficient. 

In a recent development, Google announced upgrading its algorithms to detect GPT content. This will be done through an AI system that can recognize the telltale signs of generated content and will then flag any articles as “GPT-generated.” Google plans to use this tool in its PageRank algorithm, which ranks webpages for search results.

The surmised result is penalization from Google and possible sanctions from other organizations, such as universities and publishing houses. While advancement in accurate detection is slow, copywriters and agencies must be extremely careful when using GPT technology to write content or risk being penalized for plagiarism. 

How Google Treats AI Content

Google has long been a leader in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) space. They have used AI to develop smarter search algorithms that make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for and create virtual assistant products like Google Assistant and Google Home. But how does Google treat content created using AI?

Google looks for quality in any content, regardless of whether AI or humans produced it. As such, it is important to ensure that any content produced with AI meets the same standards as human-generated content in terms of accuracy, relevance, and originality. 

Google also looks at how users are engaging with the content generated by AI. If an AI-generated piece of content resonates more with users than one created by a human, Google may give it higher rankings in its search engine results pages. 

Overall, Google encourages using AI to create content as long as the quality is maintained and users find it valuable.

Top 3 AI Tools for Copywriters

Jasper

jasper ai

Jasper is an AI-powered assistant that helps copywriters increase their productivity by helping them complete tasks like content outlines, writing, and editing. This tool offers various templates, from blog posts to web copies and Amazon product descriptions to company bios and Ad copies.

Jasper uses inputs from the copywriter, including brief descriptions, tone of voice, keywords, and target audience, to produce accurate content within seconds. It even provides real-time feedback and suggestions on improving the content, which can help save time while editing.

CopyAi

copy ai

Like Jasper, CopyAi is a great AI-powered tool that helps copywriters quickly create engaging content. It uses natural language processing and machine learning to generate compelling headlines and write entire pieces of content in seconds.

CopyAi also has built-in features such as topic suggestions, an auto-outlining feature, and customizable templates, making it easier for copywriters to produce high-quality content.

ChatGPT

chat gpt

ChatGPT is an AI-powered tool focusing more on conversational content than the other two. It uses NLP and machine learning to generate both written and spoken dialogue, mimicking human conversation. With ChatGPT, copywriters can create chatbot scripts for customer service, marketing automation, and more.

Pros and Cons of Using AI Copywriting Tools

We’ve discussed how AI can help copywriters speed up their processes. But AI’s assistance doesn’t come without drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons of using AI copywriting tools.

Pros

Here are the pros of using AI copywriting tools:

  • AI copywriting tools can help you create content quickly, allowing you to produce more in less time.
  • AI copywriters can better mimic your brand’s style and tone, which is especially helpful if you have multiple writers contributing content.
  • AI copywriting tools can help create more consistent content in terms of quality and cohesiveness.

Cons

Here are the cons of using AI copywriting tools:

  • AI copywriting tools have difficulty understanding context, so they may be unable to use language accurately in ways appropriate for the audience you’re trying to reach.
  • AI copywriting tools can be expensive, so if you don’t have the budget to invest in one, it may not be a viable option.
  • AI copywriting tools rarely produce grammatically and statistically accurate content, so editing and proofreading become crucial for copywriters.

Will AI Replace Copywriters?

The idea of Artificial Intelligence (AI) replacing copywriters is a scary thought for many. After all, copywriters have been creating effective copy for years, and it’s not something that can be easily replaced by technology. However, many believe that the future of AI could make it possible to automate certain aspects of the job—particularly regarding research and data analysis. 

As it stands, AI will not completely replace copywriters. While AI can automate specific tasks, it will still require the creative input of a human being to produce a compelling copy. A computer may be able to pick out trends from data and suggest content ideas, but it’s still up to the copywriter to craft a compelling narrative. 

Copywriters are also invaluable when it comes to understanding their target audience. AI can identify trends in a database of customer data. Still, it can’t anticipate how consumers react to different messages or what language will be most engaging. The ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions is something that AI can never replace.

The future of AI and copywriters is uncertain, and the extent of AI’s automated machine learning is yet to be seen. For now, copywriters are here to stay even as AI advances. While automated processes and machine learning can help speed up certain aspects of the job, the human element remains essential for crafting effective content.

Key Takeaways

As more AI copywriting tools become available, it’s essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of using them in your workflow.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind regarding AI copywriting tools:

  • GPT and generative AI can produce various types of content, including blogs, web copies, ad copies, headlines, CTAs, product descriptions, and so much more.
  • AI-generated content can be detected, but Google does not penalize it if content demonstrates EEAT and adheres to Guidelines.
  • Human copywriters are still essential for creating emotionally-charged brand messages that resonate with the target audience.
  • While AI can help speed up certain aspects of the writing process, the human element is still crucial for producing effective copy.

Becoming a Content Writer: 6 Tips for Freelancers Getting Started

Becoming a Content Writer

As a content writer, you have the power to influence and engage an audience through your writing. Whether you’re writing blog posts, articles, web copy, or even social media content, your words can make a difference.

This explains why over 5,785 content writers are employed in the United States. Many believe that the industry is highly saturated, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for new content writers to join the field.

In fact, as more and more businesses turn to content marketing, the demand for content writers is only increasing. Research shows that out of the 1.9 billion websites in 2021, more than 600 million were blogs.

This means there are plenty of opportunities for content writers, especially those just starting out. This article highlights the six essential tips for becoming a content writer and getting started in the industry.

What Does Becoming a Content Writer Entail?

female entrepreneur

Content writers are required to write various types of content, depending on their industry. This includes anything from web copy and blog posts to social media content and product descriptions.

No matter what type of content you write, your goal will be to engage and influence your audience. This means that your writing needs to be compelling, interesting, and easy to read.

To achieve this, you need to have a deep understanding of your audience and what they’re looking for. You also need to be up-to-date on the latest trends in your industry so that you can produce relevant and timely content.

The 4 Main Types of Content Writers

The following are the four main types of content writers, based on the type of content they write:

becoming a content writer

Web Content Writers

Web content writers are responsible for writing the content that appears on websites. This includes anything from website pages and blog posts to product descriptions and landing pages.

To be a successful web content writer, you need to have a good understanding of SEO and how to use keywords to drive traffic to your website. You also need to be able to write engaging and compelling copy that will encourage your website visitors to take action.

Technical Writers

Technical writers are responsible for writing various types of technical documentation. This can include user manuals, how-to guides, and white papers.

To be a successful technical writer, you need to have strong research and writing skills. You also need to be able to understand complex concepts and communicate them clearly and concisely.

Mass and Media Content Writers

Mass and media content writers are responsible for writing content for mass media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, and television.

To become a mass and media content writer, you need to have strong writing and editing skills. You also need to be knowledgeable about the latest news and trends in your industry.

Ghostwriters

Ghostwriters are responsible for writing content that is published under someone else’s name. This can include anything from articles and blog posts to books and even speeches.

A successful ghostwriter needs to capture their client’s voice and style. They also need to be able to adhere to deadlines.

Becoming a Content Writer 101

The following are six essential tips for becoming a content writer:

freelance writing

Choose a Niche or Field

One of the first things you need to do when becoming a content writer is to choose a niche or field. This can be anything from fashion and lifestyle to business and finance.

No matter your chosen niche or field, make sure you have a good understanding of the industry before you start writing. This will help you produce better content that is more relevant and engaging to your audience.

Create an Outstanding Portfolio

Another important tip for becoming a content writer is to create an outstanding portfolio. This is a great way to showcase your writing skills and abilities to potential clients or employers.

Make sure that your portfolio includes various writing samples so that people can better understand your range and style. You should also include any relevant information about your education and experience.

Prepare for Rejection and Embrace It

Unfortunately, not every piece of content you write will be a winner. So, you must prepare yourself to be rejected by clients or editors.

Don’t take rejection personally, and always try to learn from it. Use feedback to improve your writing and ensure you don’t make the same mistakes twice.

Don’t Stop Writing

Even if you’re not getting paid to write, you mustn’t stop writing. The more you write, the better you’ll become at it.

Starting a blog is a great way to keep improving your writing skills. This will give you a platform to share your thoughts and ideas with the world.

Develop a Solid Understanding of SEO

To be a successful content writer, you need to develop a solid understanding of SEO. Whether you’re writing for a client or your own blog, SEO is essential if you want your content to be seen and heard by people.

Make sure you research the latest SEO trends and practices to apply them to your writing. This will help you get more traffic and exposure for your work.

Learn How to Cold Pitch

One of the best ways to get clients is to learn how to cold pitch. This involves sending a potential client an email or message outlining your writing skills and why you’d be the perfect person to write for them.

A great cold pitch will include a few writing samples relevant to their business or website.

Using an email finder tool is an efficient way for content writers to reach out to new prospects without having to spend hours looking for contact information manually. With a well-crafted message and some attention to detail, this method can help expand your client portfolio significantly!

Key Takeaways

Content writers are responsible for writing and publishing content across various platforms. There are different types of content writers, including website content writers, technical writers, mass and media content writers, and ghostwriters.

Remember the golden rules of becoming a content writer:

  • Choose a niche. This can be anything from business and finance to fashion and lifestyle.
  • Create an outstanding portfolio that showcases your writing skills and abilities.
  • Be prepared for rejection and use feedback to improve your writing.
  • Don’t stop writing, even if you’re not getting paid.
  • Develop a solid understanding of SEO so that your content can be seen and heard by people.
  • Learn how to cold pitch potential clients. By sending a well-written email or message, you can get them to hire you to write for them.

Average Cost of SEO Services in Canada

SEO is critical for any business that wants to be visible online. In fact, 93% of all online experiences begin with a search engine, and 75% of users never scroll past the first page of results.

If you’re not investing in SEO, you are not only missing out on potential customers but also at a competitive disadvantage. But how much does SEO cost? 

This is a difficult question because so many variables are involved. The cost of SEO services will depend on the size and scope of your project, as well as the experience and expertise of the service provider.

This article will explore the average cost of SEO services in Canada.

Cost of SEO in Canada: Common 4 Common Pricing Models

The following are the most common pricing models for SEO services in Canada:

Hourly Rate

The hourly rate is the most common pricing model for SEO services. This pricing model is based on the number of hours required to complete the project.

This pricing model is best suited for small projects with a defined scope. It gives you more control over your budget and allows you to scale the project as needed.

The average hourly rate in Canada is anywhere between $50 to $250 CAD.

Project-Based

The project-based pricing model is based on the scope of work and results achieved. This pricing model best suits larger projects with a defined scope and measurable objectives.

It’s important to note that the project-based pricing model is often more expensive than the hourly rate. This is because you’re paying for results, not time.

The price varies depending on the size and scope of the project. But the average project price in Canada is between $1,000 to $30,000.

Monthly Retainer

The monthly retainer is a recurring fee that’s paid every month. This pricing model is based on the scope of work and results achieved.

This pricing model is best suited for long-term projects with a defined scope and measurable objectives. It gives you more predictability over your budget and allows you to scale the project as needed.

The monthly cost of SEO services in Canada can range from $500 to $15,000 CAD per month.

Performance-Based Fee

The performance-based fee is based on the results achieved. This pricing model is best suited for larger projects with a defined scope and measurable objectives.

Performance-based SEO providers only get paid if they achieve the desired results. As the pricing model is results-based, it’s often more expensive than the other pricing models.

Performance-based SEO services in Canada are completely up for negotiation. The final price will depend on the project’s size, scope, and objectives.

What Determines the Cost of SEO in Canada?

Several factors determine the cost of SEO services in Canada. These include:

Your Business Goals

The cost of SEO services will depend on your business goals. If you’re looking to increase brand awareness, your SEO project will be different than if you’re trying to increase web traffic or sales.

Similarly, if you want to increase your web traffic, the timeline for achieving results will also affect the cost. So, if you want to increase web traffic in the short term, it will be more expensive than if you’re willing to wait for results over the long term.

Your Industry and Competition

Your industry and competition will also affect the cost of SEO services. If you’re in a highly competitive industry, it will be more expensive to achieve results than in a less competitive industry.

This is because it takes more time, effort, and resources to rank highly in a competitive industry. Similarly, if you have a lot of competitors, it will be more expensive to stand out from the crowd.

Your Website’s Condition and Size

If you have a large website, it will take more time and effort to optimize all of your web pages. This will increase the cost of your SEO project.

Similarly, if your website is in bad shape, it will need more work to be optimized. This includes fixing errors, improving site speed, and increasing the overall quality of your website. All of this work will increase the cost of your SEO project.

Content Creation

Creating original, high-quality content is an important part of any SEO project. This includes creating blog posts, articles, infographics, videos, and more.

The cost of content creation will depend on the content’s length, format, and topic. But the average hourly rate of a content writer in Canada is C$24.63.

Backlink Building

Backlinks are links from other websites to your website. They help improve your website’s authority and ranking in search engines.

The cost of backlink building will depend on the number of links you need and the quality of the websites linking to you. On average, businesses in Canada pay $50 to $500 CAD per link.

Word of Caution: Avoid Cheap SEO Services

There are a lot of cheap SEO providers out there that offer low-quality services. While it might be tempting to go with the cheapest option, it’s important to avoid these providers altogether.

Low-quality SEO can do more harm to your website than good. It can result in your website being penalized by Google or even banned from search results altogether.

It’s also important to remember that SEO is an investment that takes time, effort, and resources to see results. SEO is not the solution if you’re looking for quick traffic, sales or signups.

Key Takeaways

SEO can help you achieve your business goals, increase web traffic, and stand out from your competitors. It is an investment that offers high returns. When done correctly, it can help you achieve your business goals, increase web traffic, and stand out from your competitors. Working alongside an SEO agency is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your SEO project.

It’s also important that you stay away from cheap, low-quality SEO providers. They won’t do anything about your website except cause more harm than good.

To recap, there are four pricing models for SEO services:

  • Hourly rate is the most common pricing model and averages $50 to $250 CAD in Canada.
  • Project-based, typically used for larger projects, can range from $1,000 to $30,000 per project.
  • Retainer-based, a monthly fee averages $500-$15,000/month.
  • Performance-based, a results-based pricing model, can vary depending on the goals you want to achieve.

If you’re ready to invest into SEO, contact us today for a free consultation. We work with Canadian startups and can help determine if SEO is the right fit for your company.

10 Software Review Sites Every SaaS Should Be On

As a SaaS, you know that reviews are important for your business. Not only do they help new users decide if your product is the right fit for them, but they also give existing customers a way to provide feedback and let you know how you’re doing.

But with so many review sites, it can be tough to figure out which ones are worth your time. To make things easy, we’ve put together a list of the best software review sites every SaaS should be on. Let’s get started.

Why Your SaaS Should Be on Software Review Sites

If you’re running a SaaS business, getting your name on software review sites is essential.

Why?

Because potential customers are looking for information about the best software solutions available, they’re more likely to source and trust reviews from respected third-party platforms.

Appearing on these sites can also help improve your search rankings since many are high-authority websites that are well-indexed by Google and result in powerful do-follow backlinks.

If you’re still not convinced, here’s a few key benefits of building a presence on software review sites:

1. Reach More Potential Customers

As we mentioned earlier, people searching for software solutions will likely visit software review sites as part of their due diligence. If you’re not listed on these sites, you’re missing out on valuable exposure to your target market.

2. Get an SEO Boost

Many software review sites are high-authority websites that are well-indexed by search engines. Getting your SaaS listed on these types of sites can help improve your SEO and get you more organic traffic from potential customers searching for the types of solutions you offer. Many of the software review sites in this article offer do-follow backlinks from listings, sometimes even more than one (for pricing pages, product demos, etc). Software review platforms are a key element of SaaS SEO, regardless of the size of your company.

3. Build Trust and Credibility

When potential customers see that your SaaS is listed on respected third-party review sites, it can help build trust and credibility for your brand. This is especially important if you’re a relatively new company just starting to get noticed in the marketplace. Having a healthy number of reviews on your listing will also push you through the ranks, positioning your brand alongside your largest competitors.

4. Get Helpful Feedback

In addition to providing valuable exposure and SEO benefits, appearing on software review sites can also provide helpful feedback from customers and potential customers. These sites usually include user-generated reviews and ratings, so you can get an idea of what people think about your SaaS and what areas you need to improve. You could also use reviews and feedback from these sites as a form of social proof on your landing pages, email marketing campaigns or social media.

Top 10 Software Review Sites SaaS Companies Should Be On

Now that you know how important it is for a SaaS to be on software review sites, you should know which sites are worth the effort. Hundreds of options are available, but only some sites yield significant results.

Below are the ten best software review sites SaaS companies should be on.

Capterra

capterra software review site

Capterra is a great resource website that allows you to compare software products side-by-side. You can read reviews from other users, get pricing information, and see screenshots of the products in action.

In addition to being a valuable resource for finding software, Capterra also offers a variety of helpful articles and guides that provide valuable insights. These can help businesses learn more about choosing the right software and how to get the most out of these products.

G2 Crowd

g2 crowd software reviews

G2 Crowd is a household name and an excellent resource to help you narrow down your software options. This platform provides user-generated reviews of software products, so you can get an idea of how the real audience feels about a particular program before making a purchase.

The nice thing about G2 Crowd is that it covers a wide range of software categories, so you’re bound to find something that meets your needs. Since the reviews are based on feedback from actual users, you can trust that they’re honest and unbiased.

From basic to the most complex software, G2 Crowd has covered it with spot-on reviews to help you find the best solution for your business needs.

Sourceforge

sourceforge

Sourceforge is a great place to start your search if you’re looking for a SaaS software solution. With over 500,000 software reviews, it’s one of the largest and most trusted review sites on the web.

What sets Sourceforge apart from other review sites is its commitment to unbiased, honest reviews. Its team of experts test and rate each software solution on a variety of factors, so you can be sure you’re getting an accurate picture of each product.

Another benefit of using Sourceforge is the ability to filter results by price, features, or user rating. This makes it easy to find a SaaS solution that fits your specific needs and budget.

TrustRadius

trustradius

TrustRadius features over 700,000 verified user reviews and ratings from software users. The reviews are verified and vetted by the site’s team of moderators. This ensures you get accurate information from real users, not fake or biased reviews. 

Another reason to consider TrustRadius is that it offers in-depth feature comparisons of different software products. This can be helpful if you’re trying to decide between two or more options. 

TrustRadius is also a great resource for authentic software reviews, as it verifies them through high-authority sites such as LinkedIn.

GetApp

getapp

GetApp is a software review site that reviews thousands of software products in-depth. This means you can easily find the right software for your business without having to wade through endless marketing material.

GetApp is completely impartial—they don’t accept any advertising, so you can be sure that their reviews are honest and unbiased. This is vital when making such an important decision for your business.

What sets GetApp apart from other software review sites is that they provide software recommendations for small to medium-scale businesses. So if your SaaS company’s target audience falls in that window, you should consider listing your software on GetApp. Additionally, GetApp’s review posting time is quicker than a lot of paid review sites.

FinancesOnline

finances online

FinanceOnline has a wide reach and is visited by a large volume of potential customers every day. Their team of expert reviewers is well-equipped to provide detailed, unbiased reviews that can help improve your product’s visibility and credibility. They also rate each SaaS with their own SmartScore, a quantitative software ranking.

Partnering with FinancesOnline can be a beneficial way to get your product noticed by the right people.

Clutch

clutch b2b software reviews

As a SaaS provider, you know that online reviews can make or break your business. After all, 95% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase, and 49% of them trust those reviews as much as personal recommendations.

That’s why it’s important to make sure your company is listed on Clutch, the leading B2B software and service review platform. With over a million verified reviews and an average rating of 4.9 stars, Clutch is the go-to source for buyers looking for information on software and service providers.

Clutch’s ratings are based on in-depth phone interviews with real customers, so you can be sure they’re accurate and trustworthy. Clutch covers over 7,000 companies in 500+ industries. Buyers can easily find the right provider for their needs. While this is a smaller platform, it has a savvy audience with high buyer intent, making it an underrated place to drive new signups. It’s free to create a listing and you could see a major boost in business in no time.

Trustpilot

trustpilot

Trustpilot is a valuable resource for SaaS providers. By providing accurate and up-to-date information about your software on Trustpilot, you can help potential customers make informed decisions about whether or not to use your product. You can also build trust and credibility with potential and current customers alike by actively responding to customer feedback on Trustpilot.

It offers high-yielding features, such as claiming reviews on your website to add transparency and value. Trustpilot also provides tools to detect spam and suspicious emails to your customers to protect them.

Software Advice

software advice

Software Advice is a trusted resource for software reviews and comparisons, helping businesses find the right solutions for their needs.

If you’re a SaaS provider, Software Advice can help you get your products in front of potential customers who are actively searching for new solutions. They only work with verified buyers; you can be sure that the leads we generate are high-quality and sales-ready.

Software Advice stands apart by offering a sorted list to customers based on their interests. This acts as middlemen for the buyer and seller. As a Saas provider, not only can you get quality reviews from users, but also get potential leads on a pay-per-lead basis.

PCMag

PCMag

PCMag is a highly respected and well-known source for software reviews, and their ratings are generally reliable. They accept and curate detailed reviews, verified by their expert team. PCMag categorizes reviews to make them easily accessible and offers insightful data for each product.

PCMag has a large audience, even compared to others on this list, so appearing in their reviews can help increase visibility and exposure. It is a popular destination for IT solutions and trusted by millions of users worldwide

Key Takeaways

Software review sites play an important role in SaaS SEO and have many other benefits when listings are filled out properly. If you’re not already using software review sites to market your SaaS business, we hope this post has convinced you of the benefits and encouraged you to try it. It’s a great way to:

  • Reach more potential customers
  • Build trust and credibility for your brand
  • Stay ahead of the competition.

Our top three picks for best software review sites include:

  • Capterra
  • G2 Crowd
  • TrustRadius

Persuasive Writing Techniques You Can Implement Today

Rule 1: Hit Them With The Hook

A-hem alright. Here it goes…

Good copywriting is essential for a successful marketing campaign. But what, exactly, makes good copy persuasive? And how can you use those techniques to achieve your goals?  

Don’t you wish everyone would just think what you want and agree with you?

Do you ever feel like persuasion is an art form that’s impossible to master?

Before we begin, you should know the two hard truths about the art of persuasion: 

  1. Some people are inherently more persuasive.  
  2. Mastery comes from practice and experience. 

Some say the pen is mightier than the sword, and there’s a lot of truth to that. So, we’re sharing the persuasive writing techniques we use at SpacebarCollective with you. Here, you’ll learn how to write copy that influences action and blog content that drives conversions.

What Is Persuasive Writing?

Unlike styles of writing meant to share information, entertain or describe a subject, persuasive writing is a form of argumentative writing that delivers logical arguments with emotional appeal and influences the audience to agree with a particular point of view. In persuasive writing, the language and tone tend to be conversational—a strategic tactic intended to build a more personal relationship between the author and reader. 

Persuasive writing techniques focus on experiences that appeal to emotions. From beauty magazines raving about the latest and greatest anti-aging regimes to fitness publications pushing 14-day diets, persuasive writing is omnipresent.  

Modes Of Persuasion

There are three modes of persuasion, according to Aristotle’s Rhetoric: ethos, logos, and pathos.

Ethos (ἦθος) is the persuasive appeal to the character or credibility of the speaker.

Logos (λόγος) is the persuasive appeal to reason or logic.

Pathos (πάθος) is the persuasive appeal to emotion 

Ethos 

Ethos is one of the three main modes of persuasion, pathos, and logos. In rhetoric, ethos is the persuasive quality of a speaker or narrator that makes them trustworthy or credible to an audience. 

Anyone can write something persuasive, but not everyone can exude ethos. Simply put, ethos is the credibility of the writer. To have ethos as a writer, you must first build credibility with your audience by proving that you’re an expert on the subject matter at hand. Once you have established yourself as an authority, your readers will be more likely to trust your opinion and be persuaded by your argument. 

An author or speaker’s use of ethos can involve emphasizing their own good character (e.g., saying that they are honest, ethical, etc.), expertise on the topic at hand, or good intentions (e.g., saying that they only want to help the audience). When used well, ethos can be a potent tool for persuasion; it can decrease an audience’s trust in a speaker or writer when used poorly. 

Logos 

There are many different ways to think about logos in persuasive writing. On a basic level, logos uses logic and reason to make your case. This approach could involve referencing facts, data, statistics, expert opinions, etc., to support your argument.

Logos can also be thought of as the internal consistency of your argument. In other words, all the various components of your proclamation need to fit together logically for it to be effective. If there are weak links or contradictory statements, your argument will likely fall apart. 

Logos also has to do with the clarity and structure of your writing. Of course, sometimes people aren’t open to persuasion, no matter how logical your argument is. There’s not much you can do in those cases but stand your ground. 

Pathos 

Pathos is a rhetorical device that relies on emotional draws to persuade an audience and create an emotional connection to them to get them to agree with your point of view.

Pathos can be used in several ways, but some common strategies include evoking intense emotions (fear, love, anger, sadness), using personal stories or anecdotes, and playing on people’s sympathies. When used correctly, pathos can be a powerful tool for persuading an audience. 

Let’s Talk About Tone

Tone in persuasive writing is essential when trying to express a point of view. It allows the writer to connect with the reader and create a shared understanding. Tone in persuasive writing is key to getting your readers on your side. You want to sound like you understand and relate to their point of view because you share the same concerns. 

writing tone

The tone of a piece of writing is typically determined by diction or choice of words. Diction can be formal, informal, objective, or subjective. The level of formality is usually decided based on the audience for whom it’s intended. ie: A letter to a friend would have a different tone than a letter to a boss. 

The tone can also be affected by its purpose. Writing meant to inform will have a different style than a piece planned to entertain. Tone can also be affected by the author’s point of view. For example, an author trying to persuade readers to take action on an issue will likely use a different tone than an author providing clear-cut information.

The tone should be appropriate for the audience and the purpose of the writing. 

Tone can mean the difference between your words being interpreted as an order rather than a plea for help. So it’s crucial to find the right balance.

For example, a persuasive essay about human rights violations might use a tone of distress and urgency, while a notice about recycling might use a more conversational, laid-back projection. It’s essential to match the tone of your words to the topic at hand and be consistent throughout the entire piece.

Persuasive Writing Practices: The Basics 

Persuasive writing will make a point and persuade readers to take action. These timeless writing methods can help you create compelling copy that elicits a response by appealing to the human senses.

Start Strong  

A hook is a sentence in your introduction that captures your reader’s attention and makes them want to keep reading. The persuasive writer should present their opinion with a declarative statement that clearly expresses the point of view. Start with facts, research findings, or other evidence to support your thesis.  

To write a persuasive hook, you’ll need to think about what interests your particular audience and find a way to make that enjoyable to them. You might highlight an unusual or surprising statistic, share an emotional story, or pose a provocative question. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s relevant to your topic and catches your readers’ attention.

Directly Address The Reader 

When you’re trying to persuade someone of something, it’s best to speak directly to them. After all, you want your argument to resonate with your audience and convince them of your point of view. By addressing the reader directly, you make them feel like you’re speaking specifically to them, which can help increase the effectiveness of your argument.

When you address the reader as “you,” it also creates a sense of connection and shared experience. You’re no longer some anonymous person on the other side of the screen – you’re a real human being with thoughts, feelings, and experiences relevant to this particular issue. And that makes your argument feel more important and worth paying attention to.

Vocabulary Matters

The words we choose can significantly impact whether or not we can persuade others to see things our way. 

Think about it this way: if you’re trying to convince someone to vote for a particular candidate in an election, you will want to use language that evokes positive feelings and paints a picture of a bright future. 

It’s usually a good idea to use positive language when trying to persuade someone of something because it makes the argument sound more optimistic and less confrontational. For example, suppose we want to argue that something is good for us. In that case, it’s more persuasive to highlight what’s “healthy” or “beneficial” instead of focusing on negative aspects with words like “unhealthy” or “detrimental.”

Similarly, using concrete and specific details instead of abstract generalizations or absolutes will help make your argument more believable. You want to use clear, concise, and direct language in persuasive writing. That means avoiding jargon, clichés, and flowery language. Jargon is a specialized language that a particular group of people only understands. Clichés are phrases that are used so often that they have lost their impact.

persuasive writing

Active Vs. Passive Voice 

Writing in an active voice is usually more persuasive than in a passive voice. 

Here’s an easy example:

Active voice: “I am writing an article on persuasive writing.” 

Passive voice: “The article on persuasive writing is being written by me.” 

Frequently, passive voice can make your writing sound vague and confusing. Using an active voice is direct and clear; readers can easily follow what you say. 

An active voice can help create a sense of urgency or excitement around the topic of discussion. Often, this technique can compel people to take action. There are times when using passive voice is appropriate. When you want to soft-pedal the subject of the sentence, or when the person or thing doing the action isn’t known.  

Aim To Show An Understanding (of both sides!) 

Showing you understand both sides of an argument shows that you’ve done your homework and are committed to finding the best solution. It also makes your argument more believable. This should go without saying, but, whatever your position is on a particular topic, research both sides of the debate before forming an opinion. It’ll make your writing dynamic and, in turn, more compelling. It’s necessary the audience feels more like you’re offering credible information and assistance than trying to push an agenda. 

When taking a position on a controversial issue, be respectful of different viewpoints. You don’t have to agree with other people’s opinions necessarily, but you should be courteous in how you express your own beliefs. Asserting your opinion while insulting those who disagree will alienate potential readers and make your argument less effective. 

If you can find common ground with the other side, your argument will have a more meaningful influence. For example, if you’re debating the merits of a new law, you could discuss how it would benefit the people in favor while also acknowledging the concerns of those who don’t support the legislation. This balance shows an equitable interest, making your argument sound (way more) credible. 

Persuasive Writing Techniques: Sales Tips

Persuasive writing for sales is all about having a conversation with your readers that guides them to see the value in what you’re selling, then persuades them to take action and buy it (or hire you, etc).  Not sure if your writing skills are pitch-perfect? Stick around, this section is for you.

Resonating With Emotional Problems

Everyone has problems they are trying to solve. Your goal as a salesperson is to assist people in overcoming one or more of those difficulties. After all., “there has to be a better way !”

Remember pathos? The most effective persuasion strategy is to start by connecting with your audience emotionally about their difficulties. When a writer empathetically describes a challenge the reader is going through, it pulls them in and prompts them to buy into the solution. People want to feel like you sympathize with their troubles.

For instance, let’s say you’re trying to sell a car to someone who doesn’t have a car. Hypothetically, you could tap into the reader’s emotions by highlighting and relating to the inconvenience of taking public transportation or walking in the rain. Then you state your solution, in this case, a car. Reminding readers of the difficulties they face without your product will likely influence someone to pay attention to your pitch.

Social Proof

When you’re trying to persuade someone, giving them social proof can be a powerful way to increase the chances that they’ll listen to you. In other words, citing examples of how your idea has worked for other people can make it more believable to your reader. This simply means citing external sources or examples to back up your argument.

For example, imagine you’re trying to sell a product on Amazon. You might include customer reviews on your page to show potential buyers that other people have been satisfied with the product. This is an effective form of social proof.

There are many different types of social proof you can use. You can cite experts, customer testimonials, statistics(more on that in a sec), or any other type of evidence that will support your argument.

By using social proof, you can help convince your reader that your argument is valid but it also allows readers to rationalize their behavior by giving them evidence that others have done the same thing. So next time you’re stuck at a key juncture in your writing, consider using social proof as a way to persuade your readers to take the next step.

Statistics 

There’s no denying that statistics can strengthen a statement by providing concrete evidence. When you include statistics in your writing, it makes your argument more convincing by lending credibility to your position. Additionally, statistics can help to illustrate the magnitude of the problem or issue that you are addressing.

However, before you go off and start throwing around compelling-sounding statistics left and right, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

When using stats to back up your claims make sure that the statistics you’re using are actually accurate. A lot of people try to fudge the numbers or cite sources that aren’t reliable in order to make their declarations sound more convincing. Don’t be that person. And, remember that numbers don’t lie, but people often do. Make sure to check your sources and make sure that the statistics you’re using are backed up by solid evidence.

Beware of using statistics out of context and interpret the data you’re using correctly. Just because a statistic looks good on paper doesn’t mean it actually supports your argument. Be sure to put the numbers into perspective and explain why they matter before using them in your argument. You need to be able to understand what the numbers are actually saying in order to use them effectively.

Focus On Benefits Not Features 

When you’re writing to persuade someone, particularly in sales, it’s important to focus on your unique selling proposition (USP). This is the one thing that makes you different from all the other options out there.

For example, maybe you have an unbeatable customer service record, or perhaps you’re the only company in your industry that offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re a food truck, you might highlight how your food is made from fresh, local ingredients. If you’re a consultant, you might talk about your unique approach to problem-solving. Whatever your unique selling proposition may be, make sure to focus on the benefits it offers readers. 

Rhetorical Questions 

Including rhetorical questions in your writing can help to improve the quality and clarity of your argument. When you ask rhetorical questions, you engage your reader’s minds by prompting them to think critically about the suggestion. Asking questions might also help explain vague points and ensure the audience follows. 

Including questions in your writing also benefits the development of writing skills by forcing you, the writer, to be more rigorous in your thinking. So, 

What questions do you want to answer in your writing? 

What conclusions do you want the reader to draw from your statement? 

What questions do you need to ask to lead the reader to the intended conclusion?

Answering those questions should help you understand how asking rhetorical questions can improve your writing. 

Still with me? 

Another way asking questions is used to persuade readers can frequently be seen in advertising. Take the P.A.S (Pain, Agitate, Solve) framework, for example. 

The PAS framework suggests that ads should initially focus on the pain points or needs of a customer, agitate those pain points, and then provide a solution in the form of the product or service. Often questions to direct the consumer. 

In the infomercial-esqe example below, the questions focus on the fact that a customer isn’t getting enough sleep. Additional questions agitate that stress. Then a solution is provided in the form of a handy dandy nostril separator that promises rest and relaxation to the now agitated, sleep-deprived partner. You know the script:

snore no more

Does your partner snore? 

Does your partner’s snoring prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep?

Do you often find yourself exhausted? 

Don’t you wish there was a simple solution? (Of course, you do!) 

Try the Snore No More!

… you get the idea. While exaggerated (see “hyperbole” below) examples are pretty cringe, P.A.S is one of the most persuasive frameworks in copywriting, which explains its popularity. 

Hyperbole

Aside from adding levity to written communication, hyperbole can also be used to emphasize a point or convey emotion. In persuasive writing drawing attention to the magnitude of a problem can help galvanize readers into taking action. Hyperbole can also be useful in communicating the strength of the sentiments; by exaggerating how we feel, we can more effectively communicate the depth and leverage the power of our emotions. 

Of course, as with anything, there is a downside to overusing hyperbole; if everything is superlative, then eventually nothing will seem noteworthy. So while exaggeration can be a helpful tool in communication, it’s important not to rely on it too heavily.

Repetition 

Repetition can be a very effective literary device, particularly when trying to make an argument or persuade someone of something. Because repetition adds emphasis and convinces the reader or listener of a particular point, repetition embeds a message in the mind, making it more likely to stick. 

Studies have shown that repeating information can help increase short-term and long-term memory recall, especially when information is presented positively. When we hear something multiple times, it starts to feel familiar, and we’re more likely to believe it. This psychology is why advertisers use repetition in their commercials, and politicians often use it in their speeches. So, the next time you need to use the art of persuasion in your writing, don’t be afraid to use repetition to your advantage—it might just be the key to success.

Repetition (example) 

Persuasive writing techniques will influence people to take action, whether you’re looking to drive sales, increase brand awareness, or get more people to sign up for your email list. These timeless methods for persuasive writing will help you make your point and get the response you want from your readers. 

If you’re looking for more tips on how to write persuasively or would like some help putting together a winning content strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be happy to chat with you about how we can help!