· tips · 3 min read
Write Better Content with These 10 Copywriting Tips from David Ogilvy
Discover 10 powerful copywriting tips from advertising legend David Ogilvy that will improve your content writing skills, engage readers, and boost your online presence.
David Ogilvy often hailed as the “Father of Advertising,” was a true master of effective copywriting. As the founder of Ogilvy & Mather, one of the world’s leading advertising agencies, he was responsible for creating some of the most iconic and memorable ad campaigns in history. His innovative approach to copywriting and keen understanding of consumer behavior revolutionized the way businesses communicate with their audiences. Ogilvy’s timeless advice and insights remain highly relevant today, offering invaluable guidance for marketers and content creators alike.
Ogilvy’s timeless advice has been invaluable for marketers and anyone who writes content or needs to be creative. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten essential copywriting tips from David Ogilvy that can help you create better content for your readers.
1. Write the way you talk
Write naturally, as if you were speaking to a friend or colleague. This will make your content more engaging and accessible.
2. Use your readers’ language
Write in the vernacular – the everyday language your readers use and think in. This will make your content more relatable and persuasive.
3. Avoid jargon
Stay away from complicated words and phrases that your readers may not understand. Using simple language will make your message more precise and relatable.
4. Write for one person
When writing, imagine you’re addressing a single person rather than a large audience. This will help you create a more personal and persuasive tone in your content.
5. Keep it short and simple
Use short words, sentences, and paragraphs to make your content easy to read and digest. This will also help you get straight to the point and keep your readers’ attention.
6. Make your content look like editorial
The more your content resembles an article or editorial, the more likely readers will engage with it. This means avoiding overly promotional language and focusing on providing valuable information.
7. Create clear headlines
Your headline is crucial for grabbing readers’ attention. Make sure it’s clear, relevant, and promises a benefit to the reader. Remember, it has to compete with hundreds of other headlines, so make it count.
8. Harness your unconscious mind
Big ideas often come from the unconscious, but you must first inform your conscious mind. Feed your brain with information, then let your unconscious take over. You can facilitate this process by taking a walk, relaxing in a bath, or enjoying a glass of wine.
9. Edit and revise
Never send out content on the day you write it. Read it aloud the next day, and then edit it for clarity and conciseness. If it’s important, ask a colleague for feedback.
10. Combine creativity with practicality
Being a creative thinker is important, but you also need to sell your ideas. This means understanding how to channel your creativity into productive and persuasive content.
In conclusion
By following David Ogilvy’s timeless copywriting tips, you can create more engaging, persuasive, and effective content. Whether you’re writing for marketing, blogging, or any other purpose, these tips can help you connect with your audience and communicate your message in a way that sticks.