Writing copy that is more conversational and human can help you connect with your audience, boost your engagement, and show your brand personality. But how do you achieve this tone without sounding too casual, unprofessional, or off-brand? Here are some tips and examples to help you write copy that is more conversational and human.
One of the easiest ways to make your copy more conversational and human is to use simple and clear language that your audience can understand and relate to. Avoid jargon, acronyms, and complex sentences that can confuse or alienate your readers. Instead, use words and phrases that are common, familiar, and natural. For example, instead of writing "We utilize state-of-the-art technology to optimize your ROI", you could write "We use the latest tools to help you get more results".
- Use a casual, friendly tone rather than formal corporate language. Speak like you would in a conversation. - Add personality by sharing your opinions, expressing enthusiasm & having a sense of humor. - Use contractions like "don't" and shortened forms like "gonna" to mimic spoken speech. - Ask questions of your audience and acknowledge their humanity with inclusive pronouns like "you," "we," and "us." - Tell stories with descriptive details & quote real customers/employees when possible. - Admit flaws or uncertainties occasionally to show you're relatable, not perfect. - Check for industry jargon, acronyms or complex terms and simplify using everyday language. - Vary sentence structure for rhythm rather than robotic repetition.
In crafting conversational copy, it’s crucial to embrace clarity as if sharing insights with a colleague over coffee. Shun industry jargon that might muddle your message. Opt for words that resonate universally, fostering inclusivity. Picture conversing with a friend and how you'd naturally explain complex concepts. Think simplicity as not just preference but necessity for genuine connection. Remember, less is often more in striking a chord with your audience.
Another way to make your copy more conversational and human is to write like you talk. This means using a friendly, casual, and engaging tone that reflects your brand voice and personality. You can also use contractions, slang, colloquialisms, and emojis to add some flair and emotion to your copy. For example, instead of writing "Thank you for your interest in our product. Please fill out this form to request a demo", you could write "Hey, thanks for checking out our product. Wanna see how it works? Just fill out this quick form and we'll show you".
Infusing authenticity into your writing illuminates its human heart. The key is to blend a conversational rhythm with your voice's unique inflections. Ponder on how you'd relay your message over coffee – that's the cue. Remember those linguistic quirks and personal anecdotes that animate your discussions? They're gold! Sprinkle in self-awareness, not just colloquialisms. It's about being present in your prose. Engage as you, not just as a brand. Here's a simple switch - instead of "we offer," try "here's how we can help you out!" It’s not just about slang; it’s about sincerity.
A third way to make your copy more conversational and human is to address your audience directly. This means using the second person pronoun "you" to make your copy more personal, relevant, and engaging. You can also use questions, commands, and calls to action to invite your audience to participate, respond, or take action. For example, instead of writing "This blog post will show you how to improve your social media strategy", you could write "Want to improve your social media strategy? Here are some tips to help you out".
Directly engaging your audience transcends basic grammar usage; it's about connecting on a personal level. Swap generic phrases with targeted speech that speaks to their experiences. Instead of saying, “One might find these tips useful,” opt for, “Have you ever faced this challenge?” This change transforms the tone from a monologue to a dialogue, prompting readers to reflect and potentially respond, fostering a two-way conversation that is the heart of social media interactions. Use this approach sparingly to avoid overfamiliarity, but when employed with finesse, it can significantly deepen reader engagement.
A fourth way to make your copy more conversational and human is to tell stories and use examples. This means using anecdotes, metaphors, analogies, and case studies to illustrate your points, show your value, and create a connection with your audience. Stories and examples can also make your copy more memorable, credible, and persuasive. For example, instead of writing "Our product can help you save time and money", you could write "Meet Sarah, a busy entrepreneur who used our product to cut her workload by half and double her revenue".
Using stories and analogies elevates copy from sterile to engaging, acting as a bridge between the reader's experiences and the message we're delivering. Personally, I've discovered that grounding these narratives in relatable situations, like drawing parallels between a complex software solution and a simple kitchen gadget, can demystify technology and warmly invite readers into the conversation. Additionally, firsthand tales from community meetups, detailing successes or learnings, resonate well with audiences, creating a palpable sense of community and shared growth.
A fifth way to make your copy more conversational and human is to show some personality and humor. This means using words, phrases, and expressions that reflect your brand identity, values, and tone. You can also use jokes, puns, sarcasm, and irony to add some fun and spice to your copy. However, be careful not to offend, confuse, or alienate your audience with inappropriate or irrelevant humor. For example, instead of writing "Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates and offers", you could write "Don't miss out on our awesome newsletter. It's packed with useful tips, exclusive deals, and hilarious memes".
I love leveraging meme-based content in my blog posts as it's more conversational and attention-grabbing. It's as easy as 1,2,3 to engage readers this way!
Using personality in your copy creates a memorable brand voice that resonates with your audience. As a digital strategist at Peenak Solutions, I focus on aligning humor with brand ethos, ensuring it's universally relatable whilst steering clear of controversial topics. For instance, tapping into common WordPress design challenges with a lighthearted quip can engage readers while showcasing expertise. Remember, wit should always serve to complement the information provided, never to overshadow it.