You created the perfect offer for your ideal clients? Excellent start! But if they don’t understand its value, they still won’t invest in it.

That’s why you must get crystal clear on your service messaging and make it MAGNETIC for them.

So, I’ll show you exactly how to convey the value of your services successfully, including examples and frameworks to get you started.

Setting the right expectations when marketing your services

Before I show you how to articulate the value of your services, I want to make sure we’re on the same page.

I know you can’t wait to dive into it, but trust me: this will help you leave some common misconceptions behind and avoid costly mistakes (or disappointment).

A good service won’t sell itself. You need the right message

“Build it and they will come,” “A good product will sell itself”... This dangerous misconception circulates through different sayings, but the overall idea is the same: if your offer is good, you won’t need to put any effort into marketing it and selling it.

This could NOT be further from the truth!

It doesn’t matter how good your service is. You still have to:

• Market it regularly 

• Package it in a way that speaks to your audience

And that’s why your messaging is key. 

If your ideal clients don’t understand how this service can benefit them and why they should invest in it right freakin’ now, it won’t matter how skilled you are at delivering it: they’ll never find out because… they won’t take action.

So, keep reading to discover how to convey the value of your service successfully. 

Still, the best messaging and marketing won’t sell a bad service

Unfortunately, it goes both ways. 

Just like it’s hard to sell a good service if you haven’t got the right message, a strong message won’t save a bad service.

And by “bad” I don’t mean “low-quality” or anything like that! Simply “an offer that your audience doesn’t actually need or want right now.”

So, if you haven’t already done so, boost your chances of success by conducting some market research before launching your service and/or working on its messaging.

A common mistake: trying to sell the service itself

“But Giada, we’re literally here to talk about conveying the value of my service! What else should I sell?!”

I know. It sounds counterintuitive at first, but bear with me.

People don’t really buy a product or service: they buy a solution to their problem and/or they dream outcome.

For example, if you ever invested in a business coach, I doubt you were motivated by “Oh, I really want to find a programme with weekly sessions, a workbook, and Voxer access.” It was probably something along the lines of “Help, I’m stuck! I want to streamline my business so that I can go back to enjoying it but… I have no idea where to start.”

Whatever you’re selling, it’s the same with your offer!

Think of your service as the bridge that’ll take your ideal clients from their current pain point to their dream outcome. What they’re after isn’t the actual bridge: it’s the journey from A to B. 

So, don’t lead with the service itself, its features, and what’s included. Sell that overall transformation.

How to convey the value of your service with the right message

Now that you have a good idea of what to expect and what to avoid, let’s create a magnetic message to sell your service.

Clarify who this service is for

Hopefully, you created this offer with a specific client or segment in mind. If you didn’t, you might want to go back to the drawing board and get strategic. 

This is because, when we try to speak to everyone, our messaging ends up being so generic that it appeals to no one. Instead, specificity sells.

So, whenever someone reads or hears about your service, the goal is to make them think “This is for me!”

But how can you do that?

• Name your target audience – If you can do that explicitly (for example, “women founders”, “new freelancers”, “middle-aged homeowners”), it makes things even easier

• Create your messaging and marketing with them in mind – If there isn’t a clear category or name that you can use for them, it’s not the end of the world. But they should still recognise themselves when you mention their problem and current situation (more on that soon!). So, at this stage, just make sure you’re always speaking to this specific ideal client

For example, my 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ is for service-based women entrepreneurs.

Identify the main problem that your service solves for them

Some people might have told you that pain point marketing is dead. That’s a lie!

Of course, I’d never recommend any dodgy bro-marketer tactics like shaming your audience or making them feel horrible about themselves.

But psychologically, solving our problem is what motivates us to take action. So, you MUST remind your audience of theirs. 

To do this ethically:

• Get clear on what that pain point is

• Articulate it in a way that resonates with them

• Meet them where they are right now

• Do it with empathy

• Show them you’re there to help them solve their pain point with your service

For example, my clients choose to invest in my 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ because their website copy isn’t bringing them leads, and they struggle to attract clients who want to work with THEM and them only. So, as a result (and that’s the big pain point), they keep wasting a lot of time and energy to sell their services. 

Basically, this is the start of our metaphorical bridge. So, identify the main point that your ideal clients are experiencing. 

Identify the final outcome

After meeting your ideal clients where they’re at right now, you must show them how your service will change their situation. So, how will their reality look and feel like afterwards?

• Identify the main benefit and outcome of your service

• Make sure it creates a strong contrast against the initial pain point

Remember: be specific! Don’t make vague promises like “I’ll supercharge your business” (what does that even mean in practice?!)

For example, the outcome of my 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ is that they’ll show up as THE go-to solution for their ideal clients and rely on website copy that attracts them and sells for them.

This is the second part of our bridge. So, identify your audience’s dream outcome.

If there’s anything else that sets it apart from similar services, include it

It’s almost time to bring these core messaging elements together. Almost! 

In some cases, this might be all you need to convey the value of your service. In some others, there might be additional elements that you can use to your advantage.

Some popular ones are:

• Do you do this within a set timeline (e.g. “in 7 days” or “in 5 weeks”)?

• Do you use a signature method (e.g. “with my proven Pics-that-Sell framework”)?

• Will your clients get to their dream outcome without having to go through a difficult or annoying step, perhaps something that most of your competitors force on them (e.g. “without having to give up your favourite food”)?

This won’t only help you convey the value of your service: it’ll set it apart from all your competitors.

For example, the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ takes my audience from “just another option in their niche” to “THE go-to solution for their ideal clients” in 3 weeks.

Package it all together, and sell that transformation 

Now, you have all your key messaging elements to convey the value of your service effectively. Ready to put these puzzle pieces together? 

Some things to keep in mind:

• You probably won’t get it right the first time – That’s totally normal! Keep brainstorming

• It’s handy to come up with a few different options – Depending on factors like wordcount and context, it might make more sense to use a shorter or longer message, a snappy tagline as opposed to the full one, and so on (for example, if I mention “for service-based women entrepreneurs in one of my headlines”, I won’t repeat it in my offer overview). The most important thing is to still keep your core messaging consistent

Some frameworks to get you started:

• (Type of service) to go from (pain point) to (dream outcome) in (timeline)

• Pain point, solution (= your service), dream outcome

• (Type of service) for (ideal client) looking to go from (pain point) to (dream outcome)

Here are some examples for my own, the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨:

• “Go from ‘just another option in your niche’ to ‘THE go-to solution for your ideal clients’ in 3 weeks, and starts relying on website copy that attracts them and sells for you”

• “Stop wasting so much time and energy to sell your services. Become the go-to solution for your ideal clients in 3 weeks, and start relying on website copy that attracts them and sells for you! You’ll also get to follow your bespoke guide to amplify your magnetic messaging with your marketing and always come up with effective content ideas easily”

• “The brand messaging and website copywriting offer for service-based women entrepreneurs looking to go from ‘just another option in their niche’ to ‘THE go-to solution for their ideal clients’”

Keep your service messaging consistent

After brainstorming a few options and getting to your final one, KEEP. REPEATING IT. EVERYWHERE.

Your audience needs to see the same message multiple times to absorb it and take action.

So, if you don’t talk about it often enough or you keep changing it, you’re making things harder for them (and consequently, yourself).

Make your business and service messaging magnetic with my help

I hope this guide helped you craft a strong message to convey the value of your services.

When you’re so close to your business, though, I know it’s difficult to read the label from inside the jar (let alone write it).

So, if you’d rather do all this with the help of an expert… Hi! I’m Giada, the brand messaging strategist and copywriter for service-based women entrepreneurs.

With both my core offers, you'll get:

• Brand messaging to take you from “just another option in your niche” to “THE go-to solution for your ideal clients” 

• Bespoke messaging guide to easily create content that attracts them 

Plus:

• Website copy that actually sells for you – 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨

• Personalised plan to keep up with your marketing consistently – 🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭

You already have the perfect services for your clients. Now, it’s time to package it in a way that attracts them and makes them think “It’s like she’s read my mind! This is exactly what I need right now.”

Found this helpful? Start receiving more advice and content prompts to make your brand messaging and marketing magnetic 🧲

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

You’ve been running your service-based business for a while and have built a network of enthusiastic clients (go, you!). So, you know they’re always going to send their friends and peers your way. It’s a foolproof system, isn’t it?

Well, not really. 

Relying on referrals in business is a DANGEROUS “strategy”. And I used the inverted commas because… it’s not a strategy at all. It’s more of a crossing-your-fingers-and-hoping-for-the-best kind of decision.

Here’s why and, most importantly, what you should do instead to make your business more sustainable, grow it, and be in control.

What exactly do I mean by referrals in business?

By referrals in business, I simply mean word of mouth. A client you worked with recommends you to one of their friends or peers who’s looking for your types of services.

A LOT of service providers—from coaches to photographers and more—tend to rely on referrals in business.

So, you can be excused for thinking it’s a good idea. But here’s why it can backfire and sabotage your income, systems, and growth.

8 reasons why you should STOP relying on referrals in business

1. Referrals are unpredictable and outside your control 

Relying on referrals in business would be like trusting the sky to keep you dry during your daily walk instead of taking the matter in your own hands, like wearing a waterproof coat. Sure, it could be sunny all day… or it could rain like hell. 

YOU have ZERO control over that. And that’s the same with client referrals. 

You could end up being fully booked for months thanks to word of mouth. You never know when it’s going to die down, though. And if you RELY on referrals, you also have no idea where your next client is coming from and… if they’re coming at all!

2. Referred prospects are not necessarily your ideal clients 

Just because they were sent to you by a client who was the right fit, it doesn’t mean it’ll be the same for the actual referral.

Maybe this past client referred them to you because they’re friends and they know this prospect is a lovely person. But being a lovely person doesn’t automatically mean they’ll be a good client, too. Or a good client for your specific services, business, and preferences.

After all, you know next to nothing about them!

Are they experiencing the pain point you solve with your services? Do they share your values? Are they willing to trust your expertise? Have they got the right budget to work with you?

3. You’re starting from scratch 

Just like you know next to nothing about them, these prospects know next-to-nothing about you.

All these referred prospects know is that their friend or peer recommended you, and they probably have a vague idea of the services you offer. Usually, that’s about it.

They haven’t been consuming your content for a while and aren’t familiar with your brand and offer suite. This becomes an even BIGGER problem if you can’t send them to the clearest and strongest website copy!

So, in most cases, you have to start from scratch, over-explain things that your ideal clients would already be aware of, and win them over.

(= time and effort)

4. Client referrals often expect to bypass your process 

Hopefully, you don’t jump on free calls with EVERYONE who gets in touch, do you? When you are the business, it’s important to protect your time and energy.

Maybe you usually ask them some strategic questions via email or DM? Or you require all your prospects to complete a contact/application form so that you can pre-qualify them properly? 

Unfortunately, when they find out about you through someone else, many prospects seem to think they can just ignore your process.

“Hi, I think I might need a coach, and Julia mentioned you. Can we jump on Zoom to see if we’re the right fit?”

For example, a while ago, a lovely web designer tried to send a potential website copywriting client my way. For context: for that type of project, I always start with an application and, if I genuinely think we could be a good fit, a paid consultation. But this was part of the message I received:

While I appreciated that this web designer thought of me, this was a big NO. 

I have all kinds of free content answering those very questions. If someone isn’t happy to go through it and, instead, they expect me to use my limited time to educate them for free and maybe even share free value on a 1:1 basis and create a free proposal… we would NOT be the right fit. 

And personally, I’d rather miss out on that potential sale than bend over backwards to follow someone else’s lead (especially when my ideal clients are actually happy to pay for my time and expertise).

What about you? Do you really want to keep wasting hours on so many directionless free calls with random referrals?

If the answer is a loud “NO” or even an undecided “Mmh, now that you put it this way, it doesn’t sound very productive,” keep reading—especially the following point.

5. You have to take whatever comes your way  

If you rely on referrals in business, you can’t really afford to be picky.

After all, you don’t know when and where the next client will come from!

So, I wouldn’t be surprised if you often ignore red flags or your gut feeling just because you need that sale, regret it later, tell yourself “Never again!” and then… do the same with another client referral.

6. Referrals in business give you a false sense of security

You could easily find yourself being fully booked for months and thinking “This is fantastic! I don’t have to worry about finding new clients.”

But then those projects end, a couple of clients drop you, and still… no referrals have magically come through. But because you were expecting them, you didn’t market your business consistently over the previous months either.

So, what exactly are you going to do next?

Try and remove the cobwebs from the email list you neglected for a full quarter? Reappear on social media out of the blue with a post along the lines of “Remember me? I’m open to work, now!”? 

Err, good luck with that.

If you only show up for your audience when you need sales, it’s too late by then.

So, realistically, your solution would probably be spending hours on cold outreach to find new clients (and miss out on sales in the meantime).

7. Relying on referrals in business makes it hard to grow it

As seen before: if you have the capacity to take on new clients but you just keep waiting or leave it until it’s too late? You’ll miss out on sales and money.

Sure, client referrals can certainly keep you going for a while. But what if you want to do better than just ‘keep going’? What if you want to grow and thrive, not just get by or run a stagnant business?

Then, you must take full control of your lead generation (more on that soon!).

8. Client referrals are usually looking for “a”, not “THE” 

In most cases, a referred prospect was simply looking for A graphic designer, A business coach, A consultant, and so on.

In fact, I bet they literally asked your past client “Do you happen to know A graphic designer / A business coach / A consultant…?” And I doubt they only spoke about it with them. They probably asked around and got recommendations from a few more people.

So, when you start talking to this referred prospect, you’re usually competing against a bunch of business owners.

And because these prospects know next-to-nothing about you, they don’t usually see you as THE go-to solution. They’re not like those ideal clients who’ve been following you for a while and are beyond excited to work with YOU and you only!

So, you could waste your precious time on calls and proposals that lead to… tumbleweed.

So, are referrals in business bad?

No, not necessarily. Referrals in business can be good news. 

First of all, if you get many referrals, it means you’re doing a fabulous job and leaving your clients more satisfied than my morning oat latte. And of course, some types of referrals in business can turn into actual work.

So, I’m not denying the importance of referrals in business… to a certain extent. Overall, I’d say client referrals are bad in business when:

• You rely on them

• You haven’t got a strong strategy to pre-qualify them and boost your chances of turning them into clients (without wasting a tonne of time on random calls)

What to do instead of relying on referrals in business

Are you ready to leave all this effort and uncertainty behind and be in control of who you work with? 

Then start seeing client referrals as a nice to have—not a given or something you expect and rely on—and focus on the following.

Prioritise your marketing, even when you’re fully booked

This is one of the most common mistakes among service providers: only marketing your business when you need clients. But by then, as we’ve seen before, it’s too late.

Organic marketing is a long-term strategy, and it must be consistent for it to work.

This isn’t to say that you MUST show up daily if that wouldn’t be sustainable for you. But it is important to build your online presence and turn marketing into a proper habit (yes, even when you’re so busy that you couldn’t possibly take on any new clients).

Are you serious about taking control of your lead generation?

Then, you must keep creating content for your specific target audience, engaging with them, and nurturing your relationship. In other words, position yourself as the only logical next step and stay top of mind.

(More on that soon! For now, just get in the mindset of marketing your business regularly) 

Fine tune your brand messaging: become “THE”, not “a” 

Tired of wasting time on lots of discovery calls with people who’re looking around for A graphic designer, A business coach, A consultant, and so on? Then stop showing up as “just another option.” 

Position yourself as THE go-to solution in the eyes of a specific ideal client. That way, even with someone who’s only just found out about you (or that was sent your way by a friend or past client), you’ll set the right expectations FROM. THE. BEGINNING. How?

A strong brand message is key. It should be your solid foundation, and you can then amplify it through your content marketing.

Without that foundation, though? You’d be building your marketing on shaky pillars of sand.

(And that’s why, during my 🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭, we start with the brand messaging side of things)

Take control of your lead generation

Stop expecting new prospects to come to you through unpredictable referrals in business. Start attracting them, instead.

There are so many options, but here’s a basic funnel idea:

• Make your website copy SEO-friendly, and blog on your website to attract your ideal audience through Google

• Show up on different platforms or channels, creating content and engaging with your ideal audience to attract them organically

• Have a lead magnet that solves a small problem for them

• Direct your social media followers and online audience to your lead magnet and newsletter, too

• Target them with an automated email sequence to turn some of them into clients

• Keep emailing the rest regularly, building trust and staying top of mind until they’re ready to invest in your services

Of course, it’s all about finding the right lead generation and marketing option for you and your audience. That’s one of the things we can cover during a 🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭

Keep sharing magnetic content that attracts your ideal clients and puts off the wrong-fit prospects

Your marketing shouldn’t be all about yourself (sorry!) or just… shouting about your offers.

It should be built around your target audience. In fact, think of your content as a magnet!

It will:

• Attract your ideal clients

• Repel the wrong-fit prospects, saving even more of your time and energy (bye bye, endless discovery calls that lead to nothing)

• Bring you enquiries from prospects who are pretty much sold by the time they get in touch with you

For example:

• What are their pain points?

• How are they affecting them, specifically?

• What have they already tried to do to solve them?

• Why did it not work?

• Why are you the best possible person to help them?

• Who is and isn’t a good fit for your services?

• What’s stopping them from investing in you right now?

• How would their life/business change if they were to solve that problem with your help

and so on.

You probably guessed it by now, but… only ‘giving value’ and sharing how-to content and tips? That won’t cut the mustard either. If you want to attract your ideal clients instead of relying on unpredictable referrals in business, you must get strategic.

(During my 🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭, we cover exactly what type of content you should focus on to turn this into your new reality)

Make your website copy clear and strategic

By now, you know that… jumping on a call with every Tom and Dick who were sent to you by Harry? That’d be so time-consuming and energy-intensive. 

Instead, direct new prospects and client referrals to your website, and let the latter do the heavy-lifting for you. That way, THEY will be able to tell if your services are what they’re actually looking for and if they can afford your prices. 

If that’s a yes, that’s great news.

If it’s a no, guess what? That’s great news, too! It’s much, much better to find this out straightaway than after spending hours talking to a referred prospect.

Plus, when you rely on strategic website copy, it’ll also help you:

• Attract more of your ideal audience through Google

• Take more of them from prospects to paying clients, generating leads for you even when you’re sleeping

Has your website copy not been doing that for you? You can change it with the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨, my VIP offer combining brand messaging, SEO-friendly website copy, and frameworks to inform all your content marketing.

The most important things to keep in mind to run your service-based business more sustainably and thrive

Overall, if you want to get more clients, save time and make your life easier, you must focus on:

• Attracting your target audience

• Helping wrong-fit prospects disqualify themselves so that you don’t keep wasting a tonne of time with them

• Getting your ideal clients to see you as THE go-to solution 

The second and third point, in particular, must apply regardless of whether someone found you organically or through a referral.

And remember:

referrals in business should only be a nice-to-have, NOT something you rely on.

How I can help you attract your ideal clients without relying on referrals in business🧲

I’m Giada, the brand messaging strategist & copywriter for women entrepreneurs.

Specifically, those who provide the best services but can’t articulate it in a way that sets them apart and attracts their ideal clients (yet!).

Tired of relying on unpredictable referrals in business, time-consuming cold outreach, and lots of draining discovery calls with wrong-fit prospects?

Then, here’s how we can get your target audience to come to YOU.

🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ – Start relying on website copy that actually attracts you ideal clients and sells for you 24/7! And follow your new frameworks to amplify your magnetic brand message through your content marketing

🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭 – We’ll make your brand messaging MAGNETIC and create a bespoke plan so that you finally start ATTRACTING your ideal clients with your content marketing (and can actually keep up with it without getting overwhelmed)

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

You’re excellent at delivering your services, but when it comes to marketing your business online? Eeeeeeeeeek!

Do you find yourself jumping from one strategy to the next, throwing marketing spaghetti at the wall and praying that something sticks? Still relying on unpredictable referrals and time-consuming outreach? 

YOU shouldn’t be the one doing all the heavy-lifting! Your marketing should actively work for you and bring you results. Regularly.

So, I’ll show you how to market your business online in a way that actually works for you.

Because it’s NOT about going on marketing sprees, getting overwhelmed, disappearing, and doing it again (and again).

You must be BOTH strategic and realistic when you market your business online. Here’s how!

Setting the right expectations when marketing your business online 

Most of my clients are women solopreneurs and founders of service-based businesses. And even though they work across all kinds of industries? I’ve encountered the same mistakes so far.

Maybe you’re still holding on to outdated marketing misconceptions. Perhaps you’ve been putting too much pressure on yourself—even though you’re just one person.

You see, I really want you to go into this with the right mindset and expectations. So, I’ll start by giving you the same tips I share with most of my clients.

You must market your business online consistently, NOT just when you need new clients

SO many business owners make this mistake.

They go all in with their marketing. Super pumped up! Two coffees and three Red Bulls in. They start posting on social media every day, sending a weekly newsletter, offering all kinds of free webinars… 

But then, as soon as they’re fully booked? POOF! They disappear.

And then guess what?

Months later, once they actually need new clients, they reappear as if nothing had happened.

That’s NOT how marketing works, especially if you want to rely on organic and inbound strategies (= getting your dream clients to come to YOU). Instead, you must be consistent and stay top of mind with your audience.

So, get in the mindset and habit of marketing your business regularly, EVEN when you’re fully booked and can’t take on new clients.

But don’t worry: you can do this at your OWN pace

Learning how to market your business online consistently doesn’t have to mean “posting on social media every day, jumping on every new trend, and hustling 24/7.”

In fact, that could actually backfire! 

If you force yourself to stick to a schedule that doesn’t work for you? You could easily end up being busy and churning out content just for the sake of it. And that WON’T move the needle.

So, remember:

when marketing your business online? Quality, consistency, and an actual strategy > quantity.

Find the right balance: not too little, not too much

I have two main tips (and it might sound like I’m contradicting myself, but bear with me):

• Don’t put all your marketing eggs in one basket – Some business owners seem to think that being on Instagram (or LinkedIn, or just having a website…) is enough to call it ‘marketing.’ Sorry to burst your bubble, but that ain’t gonna cut it. For example, what happens if the algorithm changes or you lose your account?

• Don’t spread yourself too thin – At the same time, you don’t have to be on every single platform, jump on every new trend, or have dozens of marketing tactics in place. You’d burn out! And you wouldn’t get the best results

So, you need to find the right balance for yourself.

This will look different depending on your business, audience, and personal preferences (as I keep saying: your plan and schedule must be realistic for you). That’s why I help my client with their marketing on a 1:1 basis.

But as you go through my list of ways to market your business online, you should be able to find a few that sound good and make you think “Yeah, I can see myself doing this.”

If in doubt, start small. You can always increase your marketing frequency or try new strategies ONCE you’ve mastered your initial ones (and only if you actually need to).

How to market your business online and get your dream clients to come to you

Full disclosure? There are so many other tactics and ways to market your business online! 

But would it be helpful to overwhelm you by listing every single one of them? Me thinks not.

Instead, I’ve decided to focus on the marketing tactics that I discuss the most with my clients (fellow women solopreneurs and founders of service-based business) and that’ll help you get inbound leads.

1. Get clear on your messaging

Before you send out a single newsletter or open a new social media account, WORK. ON. YOUR. MESSAGING.

What do I mean by that?

Your messaging is how you talk and write about your business and services. It’s what you focus on the most and how you convey your value proposition, mission, story, and personality to your target clients – across ALL your marketing channels.

Marketing is really about amplifying your core messaging. If YOU are not clear on it and on what sets you apart from your competitors? 

• You can’t expect your audience to get it

• Your marketing won’t work (or it’ll require a lot MORE hard work than it should)

For example, before working with me, some of my clients used to struggle to talk about their business in a way that made them stand out against their competitors. 

They used to position themselves as “just another option in their niche” (e.g. “I’m A business coach”), use vague buzzwords that confused their audience (e.g. “I’ll help you supercharge your business” or “I offer business solutions”), and they kept changing their wording (e.g. they were “a business coach for solopreneurs” on their website but a “passionate business consultant” on Instagram).

Instead, I specialise in turning women entrepreneurs into THE go-to solution in the eyes of their dream clients.

And that’s what you should do before thinking about marketing your business online.

So, fine-tune your messaging first! You must always be able to tell us:

• Exactly what you do  / what type of business you run – Be clear and specific. For example, I’m a “messaging consultant and brand copywriter” (not a generic “copywriter” or “consultant”)

• Who for – When you try to speak to everyone, you end up connecting with… no one. So, if you want to market your business online successfully, you must be crystal clear on who your target clients are. Not only that: how you refer to them. For example, I work with both women solopreneurs and founders of service-based businesses, so I usually say “women entrepreneurs”

• How this benefits them – It’s not about features. It’s not about you being “passionate about your services.” Your core messaging should show your audience what you can do for them. Otherwise, we can’t expect them to care, can we? For example, I help my clients attract their audience organically and sell more easily by making their messaging and marketing magnetic

You must always be able to convey all this in one or two sentences and in a way that sets you apart from EVERYONE else.

For example: “I’m the messaging consultant and brand copywriter for women entrepreneurs. I’ll make your messaging and marketing magnetic so that you can get your dream audience to come to YOU and take them from 'prospects' to 'paying clients' more easily.”

So, brainstorm your core messaging, and start keeping it consistent across all your marketing materials.

2. Have a strategic business website

Don’t make the mistake of only relying on external platforms that you don’t own (*cough cough* social media). Plus, 56% of consumers don’t trust a business without a website—and I can’t blame them.

A business website can:

• Set the right tone from the beginning, positioning you as an actual professional and expert (not an amateur) 

• Attract your audience organically (more on that soon!)

• Take them from prospects to paying clients for you, even when you’re sleeping

But if you want it to do that, you can’t fill it with random words.

So, get strategic copy for your website: copy that amplifies your core brand messaging and story, speaks to your specific dream clients, and actually sells your services.

Keep going through my guide on how to market your business online, but consider bookmarking my article on how to write your own website copy (so that you can go back to it later).

And if you’d rather leave it to a professional, check out the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨, my premium offer combining messaging, consulting, and done-for-you website copy.

BONUS TIPS!

Once you’ve got a business website:

• Create a Google Business Profile, too 

• Create listings on relevant directories (like Yell or industry-specific ones like TripAdvisor)

3. Optimise your website copy for SEO

Sure, you can always link to your website on social media or direct your audience to it.

But why miss out on…. err, AAAAAAAAAAAAALL the people who are actively looking for the types of services you offer (and don’t follow you on social media or know about you just yet)?

It’d be cray-cray, wouldn't it?

For example, some of my clients had never heard of me before but they found me because they were looking for “website copywriting services”.

So, use some keyword research tools to find out what your audience is googling and what words they use when talking about your services or type of business.

Then, include them in your website copy!

Psst. My 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨ includes keyword research and on-page SEO, too.

4. Blog on your business website

No, blogging isn’t dead, and it’s not about sharing random company updates (like that new award you won).

When done strategically, blogging on your business website has so many benefits, like:

• Reaching the 95% of your audience who are NOT ready to buy just yet

• Nurturing your audience and smoothening the sales funnel (so that, when they are ready to buy, they’ll think of YOU)

• Helping you rank for more keywords 

• Making your entire website rank higher, too (you can’t just optimise your main pages for SEO and never touch your website again! If you want it to rank on Google, you NEED to publish fresh content regularly)

• Positioning yourself as a thought leader

• Giving you high-quality content that you can repurpose and turn into newsletters, social media posts, and so on

• Bringing you more clients (businesses that blog regularly get a whopping 67% more inbound leads)

So, create unique and valuable blog content that answers your audience’s questions, shares a new perspective, and positions your services as the logical next step.

Oh, and optimise each blog post for SEO (whenever possible) to have the BEST chances of attracting your dream clients through Google.

Remember: most of your audience is still trying to understand their current problem and how to solve it.

So, for example, they’re not googling “business coach for solopreneurs” (yet!). They’re asking “why is my business not growing,” “why did my launch fail” or “do I need a business coach or a consultant?”

If YOU don’t answer their questions and get them to discover your brand through your blog, your competitors will. 

Not sure where to start?

I wrote a step-by-step guide to show you exactly how to blog on your business website in a way that grows your audience and brings you leads—even as a complete blogging beginner.

Or if you’d rather outsource it and save a tonne of time, I offer blog writing services and consultancy through the Blog Business Booster🚀

5. Be on a couple of social media platforms

Social media marketing will allow you to grow your brand, reach more people, and turn some of them into clients… when done right, at least!

So, here’s how to promote your business on social media strategically:

• Pick a couple of platforms – Honestly: you don’t need to be everywhere! I recommend choosing 2 platforms where your audience is active. Ideally, platforms you will enjoy using as well, otherwise you’ll struggle to be consistent (for example, I used to be on X back when it was still called Twitter, but we didn’t vibe. So, I closed it and never looked back)

• Optimise your profiles – Treat them as mini landing pages. As soon as someone lands on your profiles, they must be able to understand your core messaging. So, be clear and specific

• Create content for your specific dream clients – It sounds obvious, but I keep seeing the same mistakes: people posting just for the sake of posting or… creating content that’s actually more useful to their competitors than their target audience (like fellow copywriters giving “7 tips to become a better copywriter” or graphic designers sharing “How I started my freelance graphic design business, step-by-step”). Instead, if you want to learn how to promote your business on social media successfully, every single piece of content should speak to your dream clients

• Experiment with different formats and types of content – To figure out what actually resonates with your dream clients, you might have to experiment a bit first. Plus, it’s also important to consider what YOU actually enjoy creating and can commit to. For example, short-form video keeps on growing, especially on Instagram and TikTok. But if you’d really struggle to film and edit these videos (and haven’t got the budget to outsource them)? It’d make more sense to focus on carousels instead

• Engage with your audience – Don’t just post and ghost! Interact with your followers, reply to comments and DMs, and start conversations. That’s another reason why I recommend being realistic with your number of social media platforms: because it’s not just about scheduling content. You must engage with your audience, too

6. Have an email list (and don’t let it gather cobwebs)

Listen: I do like social media, but we need to be realistic.

YOU. DON’T. OWN. THEM.

If you’ve already been posting on at least one platform for a while, do you ever get frustrated because the algorithm hides your content?

And it’s not just that: your profiles aren’t really yours. They’re rented space.

You could get restricted or banned anytime. And before you say “It’s never going to happen to me,” trust me: I’ve seen it happen to so many people, and NOT just those who posted controversial or problematic content.

The irony? One of them was a lovely Instagram trainer… and Instagram deleted her profile! It took her a month and a half to get it back.

Honestly: I’m not saying this to scare or discourage you.

By all means, DO promote your business on social media. But don’t rely on those platforms alone. Focus on channels you own, too. And one of the best? Email marketing

• Come up with the right newsletter angle – Just like with the blog on your business website, your newsletter shouldn’t be about updates and news (even if it’s called ‘newsletter’). You must show up in your audience’s inboxes with content that’s insightful, useful, or entertaining (or all three) for them. For example, my newsletter includes advice and content prompts to help women entrepreneurs make their messaging and marketing magnetic 

• Choose a realistic schedule – I love emailing my list every Tuesday. Some people email theirs twice a week. But if that already sounds like a lot for you, don’t stretch yourself too thin. It’s better to stick to (say) a bi-weekly or monthly newsletter consistently than to send a few weekly issues, get overwhelmed, and disappear for months

7. Consider creating a lead magnet to get people on your list

When marketing your business online, your goal is to turn your followers, website visitors, blog readers, and lurkers into:

• Clients

• Newsletters subscribers (so that you can contact them directly and in a more personalised way, without losing them forever or worrying about algorithms)

And while having a newsletter is a fabulous start, make your life easier:

create a free lead magnet. This can be a PDF resource (like a checklist or guide), an eBook, an exclusive offer, a webinar, a quiz, and so on. Something that your audience would actually be interested in and that’s relevant to your services and goals.

Even better? Turn it into a simple funnel by having:

• A valuable lead magnet

• An automated email sequence that acts as a bridge between that free resource and your paid offer

8. Consider other marketing strategies—IF relevant and realistic

If you commit to it properly, everything I’ve covered so far will allow you to market your business online successfully and get dream clients to come to you. 

For example, at this stage, I get my own clients through:

• My strategic and SEO-friendly website copy

• The blog on my website

• LinkedIn and Instagram

• My lead magnet and email sequence

• My newsletter

However, if you want to try different tactics too (as long as you actually have the capacity for them), here’s what you can consider:

• Start a podcast – Much like your blog or social media content, a podcast can attract your dream clients, get them to engage with your brand, and grow your audience

• Paid ads – Most of the marketing strategies we looked at so far are about the long-term game. If you need new clients fast, it might make sense to invest in paid ads on Google or social media

• Run webinars and lives – Offer some free (or paid) training to your audience, and help them familiarise themselves with you and your offers

• Collaborate with other experts – Did you ‘click’ with someone who targets your same audience, perhaps because they offer complementary services? Help each other out by collaborating! For example, you could run a webinar or event together

• Consider influencer collaborations – Depending on the types of services you offer, you could even partner with an influencer who’s followed by your dream clients

• Write guest posts – Choose relevant publications (hint hint: those that are read by your audience) and pitch them an article idea that would be beneficial to their readers while positioning you as an expert

• Appear on other people’s podcasts – Different format, same logic 

• Join online groups and communities – Find groups where your dream clients are active (like Facebook groups for women in business or LinkedIn groups for people who are interested in mindfulness), and engage with them there, too

9. Create a realistic marketing plan

Oooooooooof, that was A LOT! So, how can you bring it all together without getting overwhelmed?

• Is there anything you can outsource? – A professional website, new copy for it, your blog, your social media… If you have the budget for it, it makes sense to invest in your business by hiring an expert to take care of some of your marketing

• If it’s just you, be both strategic and realistic – As we said before: quality, consistency, and an actual strategy > quantity

Learning how to market your business online is also about coming up with a plan to keep it up regularly without burning out.

Sure, some strategies are more evergreen, like your website copy, lead magnet, and email sequence.

But as for your ongoing marketing, ask yourself (and be honest!): what can you actually commit to?

For example, you could try writing a monthly blog post, a bi-weekly newsletter, and posting on two social media platforms 3 times a week while engaging almost every day. Or a different combination altogether! 

Once again: start small. You can always increase your frequency later down the line.

And when you’ve picked the right plan and schedule for you:

• Put your own marketing in your calendar or project management platform – Otherwise, we both know it’s not going to happen!

• Batch your content – Ultimately, this comes down to personal preference. Some people would rather come up with new ideas on the spot. But personally? I think it’s a huuuuuuuuge waste of your time and energy! And you might end up posting content just for the sake of it instead of focusing on your overall strategy. So, I recommend setting some time aside for batching it every week (or biweekly, monthly, etc.)

• Repurpose your content – Work smarter, not harder! You don’t have to create new content for every single platform every time. For example, you could turn one blog post into two newsletters, a carousel, and 5 or 6 social media posts. And I promise: it’s ok to repurpose or even reshare your best-performing pieces every once in a while! Not everyone has seen them the first time

• Keep your messaging and focus consistent – Jumping from one topic to another every day? Describing your services in completely different ways every time? You can’t expect your dream clients to associate you with the problem they want to solve and the outcome they want to achieve. So, refer to your messaging and pillars when planning your content. You might think you’re being repetitive, but trust me: the opposite is true! Your audience needs to see the same message multiple times to actually understand it and take action. So, find new creative ways of talking about the same core topics

Make your messaging and marketing magnetic, and get a custom plan during a 1:1 strategy day 🧲

I hope my guide on how to market your business online was helpful! 

But here’s an uncomfortable truth: most people read all kinds of how-to content and then… not take action. It becomes yet another task that gets buried underneath their to-do list.

Are YOU serious about starting to market your business online successfully and ASAP? And to do so in a way that feels manageable so that you don’t get overwhelmed?

And to also:

• Get the 1:1 help of a messaging and marketing expert

• Receive both accountability and support

• Explore strategies that are tailored to your unique situation

• Have all your questions answered

• Get proven frameworks and a custom marketing plan

Then, guess what?

We can take your messaging from ‘messy’ to ‘magnetic’ and make your marketing easier and more effective together—in one day (+ 2 weeks of 1:1 support).

My online marketing strategy days are perfect for women entrepreneurs who have the right offers for their dream clients but struggling to convey it or see results from their marketing.

So, they’ve mainly been relying on:

• Unpredictable referrals

• Time-consuming cold outreach

• Loooooots of discovery calls with prospects who often ghost them

If that sounds like you, we can fix it together.

Ready to become THE go-to solution in the eyes of your dream clients and actually enjoy your marketing? 

Then, let’s create a plan to get your dream audience to come to YOU and take them from 'prospects' to 'paying clients' more easily.

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

Struggling to convey the value of your services in a way that takes your dream audience from prospects to paying clients, shouting “Take my money RIGHT. NOW”?

I bet you’re actually incredible at what you do (otherwise, you wouldn’t have that many positive testimonials and referrals).

What’s actually working against you is prooooobably your marketing messaging.

But I’m not one for relying on guesswork. So, let’s look into it to find out for sure—and see how to ix it.

What is ‘messaging’ in marketing?

In marketing, messaging is the way you talk and write about your business and services and what you focus on the most (your messaging pillars).

It’s how you convey your value proposition, mission, story, and personality to your target audience and across all your marketing channels.

5 signs your messaging is working against you (and how to fix it)

Your messaging should help you attract your target audience, repel wrong-fit prospects, and position yourself as THE go-to solution in the eyes of your dream clients.

But if one (or more) of the following sounds a liiiiiiiiiittle too familiar?

Then it means your marketing messaging has been sabotaging you instead.

1. You can’t sum up what your business is about (not effectively, at least)

Be honest: if I were to bump into you right now, would you be able to impress me with an elevator pitch? Can you summarise your business and what makes you unique—in just a sentence or two?

If you’re now hiding behind your screen hoping you DON’T bump into me just yet, it means your messaging has been sabotaging your service-based business.

Because here’s the thing: 

How to fix this messaging problem:

Get clear on exactly:

• What you do – E.g. I’m a messaging consultant and brand copywriter (not a generic “copywriter” or “consultant”)

• Who for – If you’re trying to speak to everyone, you’ll connect with no one. Hopefully, you’ve already defined your target audience, but it’s also important to know how you should refer to them. E.g. I work with women solopreneurs and founders of service-based business, so I usually speak to “women entrepreneurs”

• How this benefits them – That’s what you must focus on to convey the value of your services! Not their features or what you care about. E.g. I make my clients’ messaging and marketing magnetic and turn them into THE go-to solution in the eyes of their dream audience.

And you must also package it in a way that sets you apart from everyone else.

You don’t want to be “just another option,” and it’s not about being “the best” either (I believe that, no matter how skilled we are, there’s more than ONE “best copywriter/web developer/interior designer/business coach, etc. EVER.”)

Instead, you must position yourself as “THE go-to solution in the eyes of a specific audience who’s experiencing a specific problem.”

For example, my core messaging is: 

“I’m the messaging consultant and brand copywriter for women entrepreneurs, taking them from ‘just another option in their niche’ to ‘THE go-to solution in the eyes of their dream clients.’ I’ll make your messaging and marketing magnetic so that you can attract your target audience, repel wrong-fit prospects, and sell your services more easily and effectively.”

And once you’ve done that? 

Do the same for each of your services or offers: exactly what it is, who for, how it’ll benefit them, and how it’s different from similar options.

2. You’re always changing your messaging

Do you find yourself tweaking your website copy and social media bios all the time? Do you refer to yourself as a ‘strategist’ today and a ‘consultant’ tomorrow?

Then that’s another sign that your messaging has been working against you: it’s not consistent.

You may (or may not) have heard of the rule of 7 in marketing. It says that your customers must see your brand at least 7 times before committing to a purchase. 

But nowadays, your audience is BOMBARDED with marketing messages. They see an average of 6,000-10,000 EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.

So, the rule of 7 keeps going up. In B2B, most people need a whopping 27 interactions before buying for you.

How to fix this messaging problem:

After getting clear on your core messaging, create a framework for your overall brand and each of your services.

And once you’ve done that? Refer to this messaging framework whenever you plan your marketing and content or write and talk about your business. 

That way, you’ll keep your messaging consistent all the time and make it easier for your audience to remember it.

3. Your messaging is aaaaaaaall about yourself

• “I’m passionate about helping…”

• “I’d love to get on a call with you…”

• “It’s my mission to…”

Do you often use these types of sentences in your messaging and marketing?

I get it: your business is your baby, and you are passionate about it. But unfortunately, that’s NOT what your dream clients need to see.

As mentioned before, they’re exposed to 6,000-10,000 marketing messages every day. 

How to fix this messaging problem:

From your website copy to your emails and social media posts: build your messaging around your dream clients and what THEY will gain from investing in your services.

NOT what you’re personally passionate about (sorry).

In fact, here’s a simple exercise you can start with: try to use “you” more often than you say “I”.

4. You’re attracting too many wrong-fit prospects and clients who treat you as “just another option in your niche”

Do you often get enquiries about services you don’t even offer? Or waste HOURS on calls with prospects who take up your time for free and then tell you “We’ve decided to go with a different person” or… downright ghost you?

Now, I’ll be completely honest: no matter how strategic you get with your messaging and pre-qualification process, there’ll always be some of these leads who slip through your system. 

(Some people just don’t read. Instead, they’d rather get in touch with a bunch of service providers or book random calls… and waste their time.) 

But they should be the exception to the rule, not a regular occurrence.

For example: years ago, I helped a web designer who kept attracting low-paying and difficult clients who clearly thought THEY could have done her job better than her… even though she was ridiculously skilled at building websites.

As soon as I looked at her messaging, I spotted ONE word that had been sabotaging her right from the start (because it was in the top section of her homepage and some of her social media bios).

She was targeting “time-poor entrepreneurs.” By focusing on “time-poor,” she was attracting that type of client: those who think they could easily do it themselves, they just hAvEn’T gOt TiMe.

So, one of the first things we did was swapping “time-poor” for “ambitious” to grab the attention of a different type of client: those who have big goals, want to scale their business, and are prepared to invest in the help of an expert to get there.

THAT’S the difference your messaging will make!

How to fix this messaging problem:

Remember that magnets don’t only attract: they repel, too.

So, make your messaging fully magnetic by building it around your dream clients but don’t be afraid to put off those who’d be a bad fit.

As a service provider, time is your most valuable asset. And so is your energy. You shouldn’t have to waste them talking to so many wrong-fit prospects.

And once you get strategic and hyper-specific with your messaging? You’ll start showing up as THE go-to solution in the eyes of your actual dream clients.

Bye bye, prospects who book a bunch of calls with your competitors, too. Hello, clients who want to work with YOU and you only. 

5. You’re spending a lot of time on your content and marketing but they don’t feel worth the effort

Do you waste hours sitting in front of a Google Doc, forcing yourself to pull new content ideas out of thin air—regularly? Do you feel like you’re starting from scratch every time you want to promote your services?

Then your messaging is clearly sabotaging your business. 

“But how is this related, Giada?”

If you don’t know how to do that or you’re not crystal clear on your messaging, then it’s costing you a lot of time, sales, and money.

How to fix this messaging problem:

It shouldn’t feel like you’re always starting from scratch every time. Your brand messaging and story should act as a compass.

So, use your messaging (from your new strategic wording to your messaging pillars) to inform all your marketing and content creation.

Messy messaging = messy marketing (and more difficult sales)

Did many of those signs sound familiar? Then, there you go. 

I bet there’s nothing wrong with your actual services, especially if most of your clients are super satisfied after investing in you.

What’s sabotaging you is your marketing messaging.

Because… the truth? 

Or they will, but you’ll need to work 10x harder to get there—and waste time and energy on too many wrong-fit prospects along the way.

So, think of your messaging as the foundation of your marketing. Clarify and fine-tune your messaging first and use it to guide everything else.

If you want it to grow your business sustainably and actually enjoy the ride, you must build your marketing on solid pillars—not on pillars of sand.

How I can make your messaging and marketing magnetic🧲

As you know by now, I’m Giada (hi!), the messaging consultant and brand copywriter for women entrepreneurs. 

I can take your from “just another option in your niche” to “THE go-to solution in the eyes of your dream clients” in two main ways:

🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨

VIP offer combining messaging, consulting, and done-for-you website copy

Your website copy shouldn’t just ‘be there’. It should actively work for you 24/7—attracting your dream prospects, connecting with them, and turning them into paying clients.

Is yours NOT doing that consistently? Let’s fix it with the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨.

You’ll also get my bespoke frameworks to keep your brand messaging and story consistent and guide all your marketing.

🧲Magnetic Messaging & Marketing Strategy Day🧭

Signature offer: premium 1:1 strategy day with additional support

Attracting your dream clients and promoting your service-based business shouldn’t be that time-consuming and… messy. 

During a strategy day, we’ll fine-tune your brand messaging and story with my proprietary frameworks, use them to guide aaaaaall your content creation, and streamline your marketing.

You’ll also get 2 additional weeks of 1:1 support (because I really want to see you succeed).

Ready to take your messaging from ‘messy’ to ‘magnetic’ and make your marketing easier and more effective?

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

Your business website already has a sleek design that looks all profesh, but… what about the words that fill it? Are they effective and strategic, or do you need new website copy?

Here’s the thing:

your website copy should ACTIVELY bring you clients, make you money, and help your business grow.

Has it been doing all that for you? 

Mmh. If you’re not sure, let’s look at the most common reasons why you might need new website copy.

9 unignorable signs that you need new website copy for your business

From boring self-centred pages to strong SEO-deficiency, we’re about to find out exactly what’s been secretly conspiring against you.

1. A new client wouldn’t get a clear and compelling overview of your business before scrolling down

First impressions do matter.

In fact, only 2 out of 10 people will read beyond your headline.

That’s why the top copy on your home page is the most important section on your ENTIRE website!

Your above-the-fold website copy (=everything your visitors can see before scrolling down) must be clear, compelling, and strategic.

If it doesn’t grab your audience’s attention and give them a reason to scroll down? It’ll be all they’ll ever see!

They’ll leave your website—poof—and head to your competitors instead.

Your above-the-fold copy should consist of an attention-grabbing headline, some explainer text, and a call to action (or two).

Together, these elements must clarify:

1. Exactly what you do/what type of business you are

2. Who for 

3. How this benefits them

4. What they should do next

Unfortunately, many service providers rely on above-the-fold copy that’s incredibly vague, all about themselves, and full of buzzwords (e.g. “I’m passionate about being a coach” or “I provide cutting-edge business solutions”).

Feeling brave? Ask a friend (who doesn’t know much about your business and industry) to go to your homepage, look at it for less than ten seconds WITHOUT SCROLLING DOWN, and identify those 4 points.

If they can’t, you need new website copy, my friend.

For example, this homepage would clearly fail that test. I mean, what do they actually specialise in? And WHY should we scroll down and keep reading?!

Instead, here’s an example of some clear and compelling above-the-fold copy that I wrote for a lovely client:

See? As soon as you land on her website, you can tell:

1. Exactly what they do/what type of business it is – “Boutique web design agency, digital consultancy, and learning platform”

2. Who for – “Female high-flyers”—like them

3. How this benefits them – “Take off by starting your own business”, “propel it forward and higher up” and, overall, “fly their business to their dream destination”

4. What they should do next – “Find the right flight for you” (services page) or, if they’re not ready, subscribe to their newsletter to “learn from our free tips & in-flight magazines”

THAT’S the kind of vibe you should aim for on your website!

2. You say ‘I’ more often than you say ‘you’

This is one of the mistakes I see the most on service providers websites: extremely self-centred copy (often peppered with the same cliches and buzzwords their competitors are also using).

• “I’m delighted to announce that…”

• “I pride myself on…”

• “I’d love to hear from you…”

• “I’m passionate about providing…”

• “I live and breathe coaching…”

These kinds of sentences have become so common that… they no longer mean anything to your bored readers! They’re white noise.

Not only that but (truth bomb incoming) that’s just NOT what your audience actually cares about (#soz).

Don’t get me wrong: I KNOW this can be hard to accept as a service provider. After all, I’m sure you are passionate about what you do, and you could talk about it for hours.

But if you want to get actual clients through your website? Your copy must:

• Speak to them directly (using ‘you’… a lot!)

• Focus on what matters to them  

Which takes us to the next reason why you need website copy…

3. You’ve positioned yourself as the hero of your brand story

“But Giada! It’s MY business. Shouldn’t I be the hero?!”

Unfortunately, no.

Not if you want your copy to connect with your dream clients and sell, at least.

To grab their attention and keep them interested, you need to make THEM (=your target clients) the hero of your story. You? You’re the helpful guide who will help them reach their happy ending.

So, that’s the brand story that your website copy should spin:

• Connecting with (and stirring) the pain point that your target audience is experiencing right now

• Showing them you’re there to help (and why)

• Positioning YOU as the best possible solution

• Teasing how you’ll change their current situation

• Painting a picture of how this will make them feel

And the rest of your content should always keep this brand story consistent too, from your social media posts to your newsletters and so on.

So, if you are still the hero of your brand story, you need new website copy.

4. Nobody can find you on Google

The biggest portion of your target audience does NOT know you exist.

So, when they look for a solution to their current problem, they don’t type your brand name. They google relevant keywords. 

For example, some of my clients find me because they’re looking for ‘a website copywriter’ or ‘website copywriting services’.

Be brave, and let’s check if that’s the case for you.

• Go to your website analytics – Do most of your website visitors come from socials and direct links? And when it comes to Google… tumbleweed?

• Google the keywords that best describe your type of business – Can you see your website or… just your competitors?

Unfortunately, this means that the biggest portion of your target audience will never find YOU when they’re actively looking for your type of business. They’ll go straight to your competitors instead. 

This is usually because of one of the following problems:

• You never optimised your website copy for SEO keywords

• You did, but your old copywriter aimed for very competitive keywords – So, you never stood a chance against the biggest players in your industry

• You did, but those keywords didn’t match the actual search intent of your target audience – For example, most of the users googling ‘knitted clothes’ are interested in buying them. So, if you teach them how to knit these clothes themselves via workshops or online courses? Relying on that keyword would be extremely counterproductive

• Your website copy is way too short to get traction – Google doesn’t really like pages below 300 words. It classifies them as ‘thin content’ and makes it even harder for them to climb towards page 1

Now, let me be very clear: nobody can guarantee that your website will show up on Google’s first page.

But when you invest in SEO-friendly website copy (written with an actual strategy and all the right keywords)? 

You’re giving yourself the very BEST chances of attracting your audience through Google.

Seriously: imagine how many more clients you’d get if you started showing up right in front of them!

5. Your website copy is a huuuuuuuuuuuuge block of text

Does your homepage look like the opening of a Dickens’ novel? Have you been waffling about all the services you offer… without a single heading or section break in sight?

Then I’m afraid nobody (other than your most supportive friend) is going to read it.

Don't take it personally: people just haven’t got time! And they have a short attention span.

Your website copy must be easy to BOTH read and skim

No, NOT like this:

Think headings, shorter paragraphs, white space, bold text, bullet points, and so on. It should also work together with your web design—actively and strategically.

That’s why I always deliver my website copy with simple wireframes: to help you get the most out of it and pair it up with the right visual elements. 

Here’s an effective example of some easy-to-read copy that I wrote for a client:

Much easier to follow, right?

6. Your business has simply evolved, and your current website copy no longer reflects it

Let’s face it: if it was written when you started your business 3 years ago, you probably need new website copy.

Simply because… it’s no longer relevant! (Maybe that’s why you’re so reluctant to send people that way?)

Think of someone who’s only just found about you, whether that’s through social media, Google, or a different channel altogether. 

Your website copy should offer them a clear overview of your ENTIRE business: each of the services you offer (and which one is right for them at this stage), all the deets, how to get started, what they can expect from your lead magnet and newsletter, and so on.

So, if your website copy doesn’t do that (or if it mentions different services and details compared to what you share on social media)... it’s basically been sabotaging your sales.

7. Your competitors are standing out (and you’re NOT)

Ouch. It sucks to see your competitors get better results.

But that’s exactly why you need new website copy: to show your target audience that YOU are the one they should trust with their hard-earned money!

It doesn’t matter if you all work within the same industry or sell fairly similar products/services. The right messaging and website copy CAN position you as THE go-to solution in your dream clients’ eyes.

For example, here’s some website copy that I wrote for a client.

There are all kinds of business strategists out there, but I’ve positioned them as THE obvious choice for service-based founders looking for in-person strategy days:

Psst. When you show up as THE solution, you start attracting better clients, too.

Those who want to work with you and you only (NOT the prospects who book a bunch of discovery calls with 5 or 6 competitors—and then ghost you forever).

8. You’ve written your own website copy (or outsourced it to the cheapest writer)

Definitely one of the BIGGEST signs that you need new website copy for your business.

Unfortunately, many service providers seem to think they can write it all themselves (even if they’re too close to their business and… not copywriters). 

Or that it’s ok to outsource website copy to the cheapest writer on Fiverr. 

Or the friend of their neighbour’s cousin’s daughter because she’s good at English Literature.

But “crafting effective marketing copy” is NOT the same as “writing about your business” or “putting some pretty words together.”

Strategic website copy is about: 

• Clarifying your overall messaging

• Researching your audience and their language/voice

• Setting you apart from competitors

• Adding all the right SEO keywords

• Writing copy with readability and UX in mind

• Spinning your brand story strategically

• Including all the conversion elements needed to actually take someone from prospect to paying clients

And that’s why you need to invest in a professional copywriter.

Now, don’t get me wrong: we’ve all gotta start somewhere! Maybe that DIYed or cheap copy was all you could afford when you started out.

But if it’s been holding you back, that’s when you need new website copy.

9. Your current website copy hasn’t been bringing you clients

I guess this entire list boils down to this: has your website copy been attracting your audience and turning them into paying clients?

As in, do you get enough leads in your inbox that come directly from your website?

If you don’t, it means it’s not doing its job properly.

Your website copy should be working for you 24/7. And if it hasn’t been doing that, you’ve been playing a dangerous game.

It usually means you’ve been relying on:

• Referrals – Not only are they unpredictable: your clients might refer you to business owners who just aren’t the right fit for you (what a waste of time)

• Social media – These platforms are certainly useful, but YOU. DON’T. OWN. THEM. You could get banned (and trust me: I’ve seen it happen to so many people, both on LinkedIn and Instagram), lose your account, get hacked, or get restricted. And let’s not forget about their ever-changing algorithms: how many times have you already complained or felt frustrated because your reach has gone down and nobody is seeing your content?

You can’t control referrals, and you don’t own your social media profiles. Instead, your website is actually YOURS.

When it’s filled with strategic website copy, you can rely on it to:

• Direct more people to the other channel you own – Your newsletter

• Actively sell your services for you – Bringing you leads even when you’re taking some well-deserved time off

• Make you money – Not just “be there”

So, if your current words haven’t been doing all that for you, you need new website copy for your business.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS WITH new and strategic website copy

Enough with words that don’t help you attract new prospects and don’t convert them into clients!

Your brand DESERVES copy that works for you and turns your website into a lead-generating machine.

As a website copywriter and messaging consultant, I can fix this for you in two ways:

🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨

This is actually oh-so-much more than ‘new copy!’

With my signature brand messaging and website copywriting offer, you’ll get my 5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing:

🧲A clear and fine-tuned brand message – Let’s position you as THE go-to solution in your dream clients’ eyes

🧲A strategic brand story – Following a proven framework

🧲Powerful website copy that cuts through the noise, connects, and converts – Yes, even when you’re sleeping or on holiday

🧲All the right SEO keywords – Get the very best chances of attracting your audience when they’re looking for your type of business

🧲Bespoke guidelines and frameworks to keep your brand story and messaging consistent – Start amplifying them through the rest of your content, and always know what to focus on

Ready to become THE go-to solution in your dream clients’ eyes in 3 weeks?

Website copy audit

Still haven’t got the budget for strategic, done-for-you website copy?

In that case, the second best option is booking a website copy audit.

For a one-off investment, I’ll review up to 5 website pages and send you a checklist and actionable tips on exactly how you can take them from ‘meh’ to ‘heck yeah!’

If you recognised one (or more) of those signs and realised you need new website copy, don’t delay it. 

The sooner you get it fixed, the sooner you’ll start seeing the first results—showing up as THE go-to solution in your niche and finding new enquiries waiting for you in your inbox.

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

Anyone can write website copy. But not everyone can craft strategic and effective copy that does more than just “be there.”

In fact, most business owners end up filling their website with words that don’t bring any results.

So, as a professional website copywriter, I’ll teach you how to write website copy that sells (step-by-step).

But first, let me show you what you’ve actually been missing out on so far.

What should your website copy do for you?

Your website copy should be your best salesperson: working in the background for you 24/7—no breaks or holidays allowed.

More specifically, it should:

• Position you as THE go-to solution in your dream client’s eyes

• Attract your audience organically on Google

• Repel the wrong-fit customers (unless you’re happy to spend hours running random discovery calls or waste money on refunds?)

• Connect with your target prospects

• Actively sell your services rather than just describing your business

• Bring you new leads regularly 

Has your current website copy not being doing all this? Or perhaps your website is new so you’re writing it for the first time and want to start with a bang?

Then, here’s how to write website copy that does aaaaaaaaaaaaall that for you.  

Step-by-step guide on how to write website copy for your business

Disclaimer: this isn’t something you’ll get to do in one go as you read this blog post.

So, bookmark it right now and come back to it as you work your way through these steps.

Done? Let’s start. 

1. Get clear on your brand messaging

Brand messaging is how you talk and write about your business, what you focus on the most, and how you convey your value proposition to your dream audience.

This must be consistent across all your marketing channels.

And specifically, as soon as they land on your website, your audience should understand:

• Exactly what you do

• Whether it’s for them

• How this will benefit them / why they should care

But they won’t be able to do that if YOU are not clear on that first.

So, start here, and keep brainstorming until you get to a clear overview.  

2. Research, research, research

I know you’re here to learn how to write web copy, but take it from a professional copywriter: writing is actually the smallest part of copywriting (ironic, considering it makes up over 60% of the actual word!).

The biggest? Research, planning, and strategy.

Now, you might be thinking “Well, it’s different for you, because you write for different clients every time: I already know my business!”

But trust me: starting to write your website copy without getting clear on the following points is a risky game—even if it’s your business. Why?

Because you’d end up relying on assumptions or what you’re remembering, which isn’t the whole picture. 

So, instead:

• Get clear on your target audience – Who exactly are they? Be as specific as possible: when you try to target eVeRyOnE, you end up connecting with no one

• What are their pain points? – If they’re looking for your types of services, it’s because they’re trying to solve a problem (or two)

• How does your business fix them or help them overcome them? – This should create a strong contrast against their current situation

• What are your audience’s most common objections? – Even if they’re looking for your types of services, your audience is still coming up with reasons not to part with their own money (more or less subconsciously). For example, these might be “I could just do it myself” or “Maybe I can worry about this in a few months”

• What are the most impressive results you’ve achieved? – Anyone can say “I’m good at what I do” or keep it vague like “I’ll take your business to the next level”, but what can that look like in practice?

• Reread your testimonials and feedback – What do your clients value the most? What words do they use? This is also part of your voice of customer research: you’ll want to use terms your audience is already familiar with, not buzzwords and complicated jargon

• Remember your calls, and go through your email exchanges – This will help you identify more pain points, objections, and common patterns

• Analyse your competitors – Look at their website copy (for example, did they bring up some points you hadn’t thought of?), testimonials, and reviews (are there any negative ones you can keep in mind to set your business apart?)

• Lurk where your audience is active – From your own social media posts to shared communities and forums like Reddit: what does your audience have to say when it comes to your industry and types of services? Once again, this step is also useful for voice of customer research 

3. Find your keywords

Learning how to write website copy that sells is a game-changer for your business. But if you don’t optimise it for SEO, who’s going to read it?

Sure, you can direct your existing audience to your website. But why exactly would you want to miss out on those who’re actively looking for your types of services on Google?

If you forget about them, they’ll find your competitors instead. Harsh but true.

Now, don’t get me wrong: nobody can guarantee that you’ll show up on Google’s first page. There are too many factors that influence those rankings, and you haven’t got any control over some of them.

But when you optimise your website copy for the keywords that your audience is searching, you’re giving yourself the very best chances—and why leave them to your competitors?

So:

• Use one of the best free or affordable keyword research tools (as a beginner, you can start with Google Keyword Planner)

• Look for your type of business, services, or products to find the best keywords to describe them: what are people actually searching for? (Psst: it might not be your first guess)

For example, some of my clients found me because they were looking for a “website copywriter”, a “copywriter for female entrepreneurs”, or “website copywriting services.”

BONUS TIP: you can’t just upload your new copy, never touch your website again, and hope it magically gains traction on Google! You must blog on it regularly, too. This will also allow you to target the biggest chunk of your audience: those who’re trying to find out more about their pain points and/or your industry but aren’t ready to invest just yet. A win-win!

4. Plan your website copy structure—and keep it simple

Maybe you’re building your website from scratch. Perhaps you already have one and are looking to replace its copy. Either way, make it or keep it as simple as possible. 

• Identify your main goals – What do you want your website copy to promote the most? For example, this could be selling your premium offer and getting more newsletter subscribers

• Plan the right website pages and an intuitive menu – You don’t want to overwhelm your audience with endless menu items! Otherwise, they won’t know what they should actually click next

Now, the latter really depends on your type of business, of course. However, a popular menu structure is:

• Home page

• About

• Services (overview)

• Pages for each individual service

• Contact

But you might benefit from additional pages like a portfolio, success stories, sustainability, etc. 

5. Write your website copy for your audience, NOT yourself

You’re here to learn how to write website copy that actually sells, right? Then, remember you’re not the one buying your offers: your audience is. 

So, you shouldn’t write your website copy in a way that strokes your ego, impresses your family, or matches your personal taste.

You must write it in a way that connects with your audience and gets them to take action. That’s all that matters! 

So, here are some mindset shifts and points to consider (and never lose sight of):

• Always write your website copy with your audience in mind – What do they need to know? Hint: NOT that “I’m passionate about what I do”

• Address them directly – In fact, try and use “you” more often than you say “I/we”

• Your audience is the hero of the story – Don’t make the mistake of positioning yourself as the hero! You’re the trusted guide who’ll help them achieve their happy ending (which is still pretty cool, isn’t it?)

• Focus on the benefits of your services, not their features – For example, Apple didn’t try to sell the first iPod by saying “5GB of storage”. They said “1,000 songs in your pocket” (I know that’s not as impressive today, but come on: this was all the way back in 2001!)

• Use the “so what?” test – When you write your website copy, put yourself in your dream client’s shoes and, after every paragraph, ask yourself: “So what? Why should I care?” If you can’t answer it, that section needs to be reworded or removed altogether

• Use your audience’s language – Refer to your voice of customer research when writing website copy for your business

• Spin your brand story – Storytelling in marketing leads to +30% conversions when used correctly! And that’s why your brand story must position your audience as the hero and show them the transformation you’ll bring about for them

Fine-tune your brand story with my FREE Storytell to Sell✨ workbook

6. Write a draft for each page

What you actually include and focus on will really depend on your unique business and goals. However, here’s a website copywriting plan that tends to work for most.

Home page

Use it to provide a clear overview of your business and to then direct your visitors to the right page or next step for them.

Some key sections:

• Above the fold (everything they see before scrolling down): this should clarify exactly what you do, who for, and how it benefits them, as well as offering your main calls to action

• Connecting with your audience’s pain points and presenting your business as the obvious solution

• Clear breakdown of your services with links to the relevant pages

• Short about section linking to the About page

• Newsletter or lead magnet section

About

This page should show your audience why they can trust you with their money—and why they should choose you.

So, you can cover:

• How your own experience and mission is relevant to your audience

• Why you’re the best possible person for it (e.g. experience, background, certifications, etc.)

And don’t treat it as a dead page: add a call to action at the end (for example, to head to your Services page)

Services

Build it as an overview of all your services to help your audience identify the right one for them at this stage:

• Have smaller sections for each of them

• Include direct calls to action

Individual service pages 

The aim here is to sell that service (duh)

• Offer a clear overview of that offer (much like your above-the-fold section on your home page, but focusing on this service alone: what it is, who it’s for, how it benefits them)

• Connect with your audience’s pain points

• Offer them a solution

• Remind them of why they should trust you

• Tackle their most common objections

• Clarify everything that's included (but try and focus on the benefits rather than features alone)

• Include plenty of social proof, like previous results or client testimonials

• Wrap it all up, and paint a picture of the final outcome

• End it with a strong call to action (but scatter a few more throughout the page)

Contact

Don’t just have a sad contact form without any kind of context!

• Remind your audience of why it’s important that they take action or give them a final nudge

• Clarify what happens next (for example, if they have to submit a form, you could mention that you’ll get back to them within 2 working days)

BONUS TIP: add social proof throughout your core pages too, starting from your Home

7. Optimise your new website copy for SEO

Remember those keywords I told you to look for? 

Whenever possible, every page should target a main one, but you can also use similar keywords to complement it and help your audience find you.

Try and use your keywords in:

• Titles and headings

• The first 100 words of your copy on that page

• A few times within the text

• Anchor text (the clickable words of a link)

• Image alt text

• Your meta description 

but only when it feels natural. Don’t force them! Nobody likes to read a robotic text.

You also need to use your headings hierarchically—which, in this case, is just a fancy way of saying “in the right order”.

Don’t skip this step, because wrong headings are one of the mistakes I encounter the most when I review website copy written by someone who isn’t a professional SEO copywriter!

• Have only one heading 1 per page (your title)

• Then, introduce the next core section with a heading 2 (e.g. “Has your graphic design been holding you back?”)

• If the following section is still very much related to that one, use a heading 3 (for example, “How your current graphic design is sabotaging your business”)

• If it covers a completely different point, then it should be a heading 2, meaning that it has same value as the previous one (e.g. “Here’s how we’ll change that”)

• And so on

Whatever you do, don’t ever use your headings to format your text and make a random sentence pop. Not to be dramatic, but that would DESTROY your SEO.

8. Edit your website copy, and make it easy to read

As they say, “kill your darlings.” Just because YOU like a specific word or sentence, it doesn’t mean you should keep it. 

So, while learning how to write website copy is key, I’d say that editing your first draft is just as important.

How to edit your website copy:

• Get straight to the point, and remove all the fluff (like “Welcome on my website”)

• Remember that the goal of each line is to get your audience to read the next 

• Still, most people will skim it (that’s where my readability tips will come into play soon)

• Clear > clever – Don’t say something vague like “I offer business solutions” just because it sounds fancy. What does that actually mean? Is it a consultancy service? Software? Be specific!

• Once again, remember the “so what?” test

• Read your website copy out loud (I promise it makes a huge difference!)

How to enhance its readability: 

• On each page, divide your website copy into sections with headings

• Use shorter paragraphs: nobody wants to read a huge block of text

• Use bullet points 

• Use bold (sparingly) to highlight your key concepts and make things even easier for anyone who’s skimming your website copy

9. Use your website copy to inform your design (NOT the other way around)

If you’re updating your existing web copy, don’t try and force your new text into your old sections.

And if you’re learning how to write website copy for a new website, plan its design around your structure and words.

This will allow you to highlight the most important sections and make the entire copy easy to read.

That’s why I always wireframe it before delivering it to my clients—to help them get the very best out of it.

Because here’s the truth: you can learn how to write copy for your website or hire the best copywriter… but if you then upload it as one block of text? Or mess up its design?

Your audience will struggle to read it—and they might easily give up.

So, make your website copy and design work together strategically.

10. Proofread your website copy again, even after you’ve uploaded it

I swear some typos only show up after you’ve hit “publish”!

So, read your website copy again and look for:

• Typos

• Repetitions (that’s why reading it out loud is key)

• Consistency in spelling and styling (e.g. whether or not you’re using the Oxford comma, ampersands or “and”, etc.)

You can also use proofreading tools like Grammarly. 

11. Refer to your website copy through the rest of your marketing and content 

Another common mistake I encounter when working with new clients?

Their website copy tells one story, their LinkedIn profile a different one, their Instagram is a separate thing altogether, and so on.

Nope, nope, NOPE. 

Your brand messaging and story should be consistent no matter where your audience is reading about your business.

Otherwise:

• They’ll get confused

• They’ll struggle to understand what your business is actually about

• They won’t remember it

• They won’t automatically think of you when they’re ready to invest

So, don’t ever lose sight of the brand messaging and story that you crafted when writing your website copy. In fact, you can (and should) even use the same wording in some cases. 

For example, the top section of your home page and your social media bios should be extremely similar.

Some website copy examples

It’s easier to learn how to write website copy when you see it in action.

So, here are some examples of the strategic copy that I’ve written for some clients after clarifying their brand messaging.

Key elements:

• what type of business this is (“boutique web design agency, digital consultancy, and learning platform”)

• who for (“female high-flyers”—like them)

• how it benefits them (“take off by starting your own business”, “propel it forward and higher up” and, overall,“fly their business to their dream destination”) and what they can expect, specifically (“website, tools, and resources”)

• what they should do next (“find the right flight for you” or, if they’re not ready to invest, subscribe to their newsletter to “learn from our free tips & in-flight magazines”)

And another snippet:

See? Written with an actual strategy, focused on their audience, and crystal clear.

How I can help you 1:1

I hope my guide on how to write your website copy was useful!

But yeah, I can’t deny that it’s A LOT of work. 

So, if you’d rather leave it to a professional instead of wasting weeks on trial and error, check out the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨

With my brand messaging and website copywriting offer, you’ll get:

🧲A clear and fine-tuned brand message positioning you as THE go-to solution in your dream client’s eyes

🧲A strategic brand story woven around your target audience and following a proven framework

🧲Powerful website copy that cuts through the noise, connects, and converts… even when you’re sleeping or enjoying some well-deserved time off

🧲All the right SEO keywords to help your audience find you organically on Google when they’re looking for your type of business

🧲Bespoke guidelines and frameworks so that you can always keep your brand story and messaging consistent, amplifying them through your content

Ready to become THE go-to solution in your dream client’s eyes in 3 weeks?

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

What if, instead of struggling to get leads and wow them with what you do, you could attract them organically? And by the time they get in touch with you, they’re already sold?

That’s the power of magnetic marketing—and specifically, my 5 pillars.

I’ll show you exactly what you need to focus on to implement them in your business.

Bu let’s start with a quick definition to make sure we’re on the same page.

What is magnetic marketing?

Magnetic marketing is a promotional strategy that focuses on attracting your dream audience organically—getting them to come to you rather than the other way around.

A few clarifications:

• I didn’t “invent” magnetic marketing. As a concept, it’s been part of this industry for decades. In fact, Dan Kennedy branded it all the way back in 1993

• Magnetic marketing doesn’t have to replace cold outreach or other outbound strategies (like paid ads). You can implement it alongside them. If they work well for you and your budget, I’d never tell you to scrap them. Personally, though? I hate them, especially cold calls—and that’s why I now rely on my 🧲5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing🧲 alone

• Why 5 pillars? You’ll find all kinds of tactics and combinations out there. But based on my experience and the results I’ve achieved for my clients, these 5 pillars are what bring the best results—when used together

And if you’re wondering, “WHAT results can I expect from magnetic marketing?”, picture this:

• As you’re sipping your favourite morning brew, you turn on your laptop and find warm leads waiting for you in your inbox 

• You’re finding it easier to sell your services because your dream clients understand exactly how working with you will benefit them

• You can confidently explain why they should choose you over your competitors

• You’re finally showing up on Google and attracting your audience organically

• You no longer have all your marketing eggs in the unreliable social media basket

• From your newsletter to your social media posts, you’re writing content more easily because you’re clear on your brand message and story

• You’ve gone from "just another option" to "THE go-to solution in your dream clients’ eyes"

This is what happens when you integrate my 5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing in your business! Let’s look at them individually.

Giada Nizzoli’s 🧲5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing🧲

(That’s me, by the way!)

Here are the core tactics and elements to focus on to start attracting your dream clients.

1. A fine-tuned brand message

• You must always be able to summarise exactly what you do, who for, and how this benefits them (example of a brand message that I fine-tuned for a fabulous client of mine: “We’re a boutique web design agency, digital consultancy, and learning platform helping female high-flyers reach new heights online”)

• Make your brand messaging clear and specific: don’t fall for vague and fancy-sounding buzzwords that don’t actually mean much (e.g. say “premium Canva templates for your social media” if that’s what you sell. NOT “social media solutions”)

• Keep your core message consistent across all your marketing materials. Otherwise, if you keep changing your focus and wording, it’ll be harder for your dream audience to remember what your business is about

2. A strategic brand story

• Storytelling in marketing leads to a 30% increase in conversions!

• But no I’m not talking about your entire backstory. Weave your brand story around your audience by positioning them as the hero. You? You’re the helpful guide—the Fairy Godmother to their Cinderella, in other words

• Empathise with your audience’s pain point, show them why you're the best person to solve it, and make them feel the difference they'll experience once they invest in you

• Get a head-start over your competitors by grabbing my FREE Storytell to Sell✨ workbook for female entrepreneurs

3. Website copy that cuts through the noise, connects, and converts

• Your website copy shouldn’t describe your business: it should actively SELL for you 24/7!

• So, it must include all the right conversion copy elements to take your audience from prospects to paying clients

• Use it to spin your brand story and keep your message consistent: connect with your audience based on their current pain points, position yourself as the best possible solution for them, paint a picture of their happy ending, and give them a strong call to action

4. SEO

• The majority of your audience don’t know about you, but they are out there looking for a solution to their problem

• If you haven’t optimised your website copy for the right keywords, your dream clients will find your competitors instead

• For example, my clients don’t usually find me because they googled ‘Crafty Copy’ or ‘Giada Nizzoli’. They were looking for keywords like ‘copywriter for female entrepreneurs’ or ‘website copywriting services’. So, you should incorporate the most relevant keywords for your business into your website copy

Disclaimer: nobody can guarantee a 1st page ranking!

But SEO-friendly website copy does give you the best chances of showing up in front of your target audience—and why exactly would you want to leave them to your competitors?

And blogging on your website regularly? It gives you an SEO boost and helps you attract the 95% of your audience who’re not ready to buy (yet).

5. Content that amplifies your brand message and story

• Your conversion-focused website copy will do the heavy-lifting when it comes to people who were actively looking for your types of services—or who’re ready to buy, by now. But as teased before, 95% of your audience are NOT there yet! That’s where your magnetic marketing content comes into play

• Depending on your strategy, this can be the blog on your website, the social media platforms where your audience is lurking, your newsletter, and so on

• Overall, your content should help you attract your target audience, retain them (when they’re not ready to buy), and then move them down the sales funnel (until they are)

• So, you must always write it with a strategy. Instead of creating content that only gets you likes and comment from your industry peers, refer to your brand message and story to craft magnetic marketing content that speaks to your actual dream audience 

Keep in mind that some of these strategies (like SEO and content marketing) are about the long-tem game. 

The sooner you put these foundations in place, though, the sooner you’ll see the first results.

And some other pillars (like a fine-tuned brand message)? You’ll feel the difference straightaway. How cool is that?!

Shall I put the 5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing in place for your business?

Have you not been attracting many of your dream clients organically, so far?

Do you encounter a lot of resistance when it comes to pricing, perhaps because the prospects you attract don’t actually see the value of what you do?

Then it’s beyond time to put the 🧲5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing🧲 in place—and stop relying on the pillars of sand that are vague messaging, weak copy, and content churned out without a strategy.

After all, I’m sure you’re already incredible at what you do (otherwise, you wouldn’t have received all those glowing testimonials and feedback). So, let me repackage it in a way that makes your dream clients go, “where do I sign up?!”

As a brand messaging consultant and website copywriter, I created a signature offer to implement all the 🧲5 Pillars of Magnetic Marketing🧲 in one go:

• A fine-tuned brand message

• A strategic brand story

• New website copy that cuts through the noise, connects, and converts—even when you’re sleeping or enjoying some well-deserved time off

• On-page SEO to include all the keywords your dream clients are looking for

• Frameworks and guidelines so that you can keep your brand messaging and story consistent when creating all of your content

Basically, with the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨, I’ll take you from “just another option in your niche” to “THE go-to solution in your dream client’s eyes in 3 weeks—and make you feel like it, too.

More #crafty blog posts on this topic:

As a service provider, you’re INCREDIBLE at what you do. So…why are you not getting clients? Or better: why are you attracting the wrong-fit prospects and not as many dream clients as you’d like?

Here’s the truth bomb:

at this stage, it doesn’t matter how good you are at what you do. If you can’t attract your target audience and convert them from prospects to clients, they’ll NEVER find out.

That’s where your problem is likely to be!

So, we’re going to look at 7 common reasons why you’re not getting clients and, most importantly, what you can do to fix them.

But let’s double-check something real quick.

Disclaimer: you first need to have the right foundations in place!

In some cases, there might be deeper and bigger reasons why you’re not getting clients, and they require your attention before you fix any of the ones we’ll look into in the core of the article:

• You don’t know who your dream audience is. If you’re tempted to answer “but my services are for everyone”, then hear me out: when you try and please everyone, you please no one. So, take some time to look into this properly. Conduct some research, narrow down your audience, and understand exactly who you’re selling to

• You haven’t got the right offer for your audience. Your services should solve your dream client’s pain point, offer a desirable transformation, and be priced accordingly. If your offer is something they can easily live without or it’s just too expensive for their budget (or even suspiciously cheap)… then that’s probably why you’re not getting clients. So, run a competitor analysis to see what’s already working out there, get some honest feedback from your target audience, and consider redesigning your services accordingly

Not sure if you’re targeting the right audience and with the right services? Easy:

• Do you know of any competitors who’ve got similar services for your audience—and who’re doing well?

• Have you sold your services before?

• Did you receive positive feedback?

• Do you get clients from referrals, occasionally? 

If you’ve just answered “yes” to those, then… congrats: there’s nothing wrong with your actual audience focus and services (pheeew) and the rest of this blog post is indeed right for your current situation.

7 main reasons why you’re not getting clients for your service-based business—and what to do about it

And I’m confident it’s at least one of the following because that’s what most of my clients used to struggle with.

Full disclosure? I had the same problems in the past!

So, trust me: I know how frustrating it feels. Luckily for you, I now know how to solve them, too.

1. You’re not clear on your brand messaging 

Your brand messaging is the way you write and talk about your business, the core topics you focus on, and how you convey your value proposition to your specific audience.

In other words, it’s what allows you to set yourself apart from your competitors and grab your dream client’s attention—and retain it.

Your brand messaging should also be consistent everywhere, from your website copy to your social media posts and… all your marketing materials

For example, does your website say “I’m a graphic designer on a mission” but your social media bios are “I offer graphic design services for solopreneurs” and your LinkedIn headline says “I’ve completed +100 graphic design projects and social media templates for my clients”?

Then your audience won’t be able to understand what your brand is actually about. 

And if they can’t understand it, they won’t remember it. 

And if they don’t remember it, they won’t automatically think of you when they’re finally ready to invest in a solution to their problem.

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

You can start by brainstorming exactly:

• What you do/what type of business you are

• Who for

• How this benefits them/why they should care

and then keep this focus and precise wording consistent across all your marketing materials.

2. You’re not welcoming your dream audience into your brand story

Storytelling in marketing can get you a 30% increase in conversions. Only when done right, though!

Is your brand story all about yourself and how passionate you are about your business?

Do you post content that focuses on you and whatever you’re “excited to announce” and “delighted to share”?

Then that’s likely to be one of the main reasons why you’re not getting clients.

I’ll tell you a secret: people are selfish. We all are. And that includes your target audience. So, if you keep talking about yourself and your business, they won’t care.

But you know what they LOVE hearing and reading about?

Themselves (told ya they’re selfish).

So, adjust your brand story accordingly.

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

Place your dream client at the core of your brand story, connect with their pain point, position yourself as the best person to solve it, and make them feel this transformation.

Your website copy can tell the entire story, and your content can amplify it.

So, make sure most of it is about your dream clients. Less “I/we”, more “you.”

3. Your website copy isn’t optimised for conversions

One of the most common reasons why service providers don’t get clients? Because their website copy doesn’t actually sell their services. It just describes their business.

• “We offer x, y, and z.”

• “We’d love to hear from you.”

• “We are passionate about working with…”

Does this sound familiar? In most cases, it’s because you wrote your own copy or outsourced it to the cheapest copywriter you could find.

And hey, it’s ok: we’ve all gotta start somewhere! However…

Your website copy should actively be generating high-quality leads for you. If it hasn’t been doing that, then it sounds like it’s time to upgrade it.

For example, amongst the various conversion elements it must include, there’s tackling your dream client’s objections. Maybe they’re considering investing in your services but are thinking “or I could just do it myself.” If your website copy doesn’t address this objection, those prospects will leave without getting in touch—and try and do it themselves.

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

Invest in conversion-focused website copy that’s written with an actual strategy and that actively sells for you (24/7, no breaks or holidays allowed).

4. You’re not relying on SEO

Most of your dream clients don’t know about your business or name, but they are out there looking for a solution to their problems and googling your type of services.

If you don’t show up on Google at all, that’s probably why you’re not getting many clients: they’re finding your competitors instead!

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

• When you invest in new website copy, make sure it’s optimised for search engines as well as for conversions. This will give you the best chances of attracting your dream audience organically on Google

• Blog on your business website. Your core website pages will help you attract prospects who’re looking to invest in your types of services, but 95% of your audience are not ready to buy yet! That’s a pretty big chunk you’re forgetting about. So, write educational and relevant content for those who’re still trying to understand their current problem, what’s causing it, how it can be solved, and so on. That way, when they’re ready to invest in a solution for it, you’ll be the first name that comes to mind. Plus, blogging regularly will give a powerful SEO boost to your entire website. So, you’ll help your core website copy reach more of your audience, too

5. You haven’t been consistent with your marketing…

Do you only think about your marketing when you’re not getting clients? Do you go on a marketing spree and then disappear like that guy who ghosted me and still has my tupperware? 

Then that’s what’s been working against you.

Social media marketing, newsletters, blogging… they’re all about the long-term game. So, you must stay consistent even when you’re so busy that you wouldn’t be able to take on any more clients (it’s OK to turn down work, and you can always put those people on a waiting list). 

Otherwise, if you only send out newsletters or post on LinkedIn when you’re going through a dry spell, it’s too late—and your lead pipeline will keep on drying up.

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

Figure out how you can be consistent with your marketing while still putting out excellent content. Basically, be realistic! 

I’m not telling you to show up on all your platforms every single day if that would cause you to have a breakdown.

But, for example, you could aim to post on your social media three times a week, email your list once a week (or even every fortnight), engage with your audience by replying to comments every day, and post one blog post a month.

Either way: consistency and quality > quantity and sporadic marketing sprees.

6. … or you’ve been putting out content without the right strategy

There’s a reason why, in the previous point, I said “excellent content” and not just “any type of content.”

Consistency is key, of course, but… churning out content just for the sake of marketing yourself regularly? That won’t get you more clients either.

For example, I noticed that some people complained about not getting any results from LinkedIn even though they were posting every day. And guess what? 

They were copywriters sharing copywriting tips for other copywriters (hint hint: fellow copywriters aren’t planning on hiring them! Most of us write our own copy).

Or graphic designers talking to other graphic designers in their posts… even though they offer services for business owners who know nothing about graphic design.

And if you’ve realised you’ve been doing the same, don’t be harsh on yourself: it’s a common pitfall. Luckily, you can choose to climb out of it right now.

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

Always write your marketing content with your specific dream audience in mind. 

What are they struggling with right now? How would they feel if their problems were solved? What’s stopping them from investing in your services right now? What’s a valuable tip or piece of advice you can share with them?

So, refer to your brand messaging and story, and make sure your content is strategic and right for your audience.

7. You’re not actually asking for a sale

This might sound like a silly question, but let’s get real: have you been selling your services? As in, are you actively promoting them?

Because so many service providers who complain they’re not getting clients aren’t actually asking for that sale. But if you don’t ask, you don’t get!

And if you’ve been made to feel that selling is sleazy, let me reframe this for you:

if you have a service that can solve your dream client’s problem and make a positive difference in their lives, why on earth would you NOT want them to find out about it? Why would you NOT want them to invest in you and make this powerful transformation happen?

How to fix this reason why you’re not getting clients: 

Aim for an 80:20 ratio of educational/informational (80%) and promotional content (20%). 

Make sure you include a powerful and clear call to action, too: if someone reads your promotional social media post or newsletter and wants to take action, they need to know exactly how to get started right freakin’ now.

🧲How I can help you get more clients✨

As I mentioned before, most of my own clients used to struggle with some of those problems—and, in a few cases, all of them.

So, I created an offer that solves over half of them in one go and gives them the tools to fix the rest on their own.

If you’re not getting clients and you recognised some of those problems, meet the 🧲Magnetic Message & Web Copy Makeover✨.

So, how will my website copywriting & brand messaging offer help you get more clients?

• I’ll fine-tune your brand messaging and position you as the go-to solution in your dream audience’s eyes

• I’ll use strategic storytelling to welcome your target clients into your brand story

• I’ll craft new website copy that cuts through the noise, connects, and converts. The kind of website copy that actively sells your services and includes all the right conversion elements to take your audience from prospects to clients

• I’ll include all the SEO keywords your audience is googling and give you my Boost Your Business by Blogging eBook as a bonus. That way, you can start blogging in a way that brings you your first results, even as a complete beginner

• I’ll create bespoke brand messaging guidelines and a storytelling framework that you can use to inform all of your future content, from your social media posts to your newsletters and more. That way, it’ll be easier to be consistent with it and you’ll start putting out content that connects with your dream audience and actually sells your services

So, if you’re tired of not getting clients, let an expert take care of it—and you just “worry” about impressing them with your incredible services once they’ve put the money down.

🧲Are you ready to go from “just another option in your niche” to “THE go-to solution in your dream client’s eyes” in only 3 weeks?✨

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