Jared Matthew Kessler's Blog, page 2

Tell The Difference Between Real & Unreal Copywriting Services?!

Unfortunately, many well-established business owners think professional copywriting services offer their clients a bunch of random words that sound good. A bunch of words that they may in fact be able to put together themselves on their website and…

Some of course think it's writing an ad for tv. Radio. Print. An annoyingly long sales page that seems to go on forever and ever, trying every which way to sell you on some brand new "get-rich-quick" scheme, here today (gone tomorrow).

But what if I told you that it's none of these?

That a line has been blurred only to confuse and persuade you into believing that what you're buying into, is just some ordinary writer that's convinced you to believe they're some kick ass copywriting guru?

You see what I'm starting to understand, is that you (the well-established business professional) MUST fully get what "real" copywriting services provide, versus unreal – shake your head in disappointment – copywriting services out there claim to provide, because:

A web/graphic designer will often try to "write copy" themselves because of the additional cost and time outside of just the design they didn't want to tell you about. Worse yet, a designer may even ask you to provide the copy yourself (as if you know exactly what needs to be written, and how).
A lot of "writers" pawn themselves off as a real professional copywriter because of how much they can charge (anywhere between $100-$500/hr depending on a copywriter's level of experience, reputation) and… it's hard to know who to trust until your average un-experienced "writer" comes along with a scary unpredictably low rate just to earn your business – often skipping town (with your hard earned cash), lacking any kind of real experience, service or results they promised you'd receive.
A lot of former "old school" ad guys think they don't need to know much about the "new school" techniques, until their ad agency downsizes and let's them go (only to find out what they knew then, doesn't work now).
You the business owner feels that just about anyone out there with a laptop can slap together a few words and write something that you think is "good enough." Something that will magically start to bring in more sales than anyone else out there that does what you do, with the simple flip of their magical-handtyping-wand. Often feeling embarrassed and confused over a bunch of words that represent everything your business is not.

Unfortunately, there's a lot more to it!

There's a lot more to finding exactly the right words that attract people to your brand. What you do. And crafting well-thought-out-words and strategies that speak the unique language your audience understands and responds to, exciting them to buy the product or service you (or the company you work for) offers, without beating customers over the head!

Do it right, and any kick ass copywriter you choose to write your copy, will provide you with high-quality premium level copywriting services that go well above and beyond the noise of what everyone else out there is doing and more!

Do it wrong…

And you'll just add to the overabundance of noise that continues to plague the world of business – your competition walking away smiling every time, quietly devouring more in lost sales than it actually takes to hire a REAL professional.

DESTROY THE NOISE: Go onto Twitter right now and enter #DESTROYTHENOISE to your next tweet, using it to share your own tips and kicks throughout the week of what helps you in your business stand out from the noise of what everyone else is doing. Is it a quick tip you discovered? A new product, service, or concept that really stands out to "destroy the noise" of what all the other businesses do? Enter your thoughts each week using #DESTROYTHENOISE and be heard! Your random insights, and thoughts may be featured in an upcoming blog to reach hundreds of businesses just like yours, around the world.

From small well-established businesses to large international ad firms & brands, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Increasing sales with words, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Sometimes It’s Not What You Say, It’s What Not To Say

In a recent interview I had with Maria Ross of Red Slice and the author of “Branding Basics for Small Business,” I talked more specifically about copywriting for small business and the four biggest mistakes each tend to fall prey to. However, one thing I might’ve left out is that it’s not so much about what you say, it’s probably more about what NOT to say.

Meaning this.

A few months ago, I used the metaphor of going on a date and “closing the deal” – and yes, I mean what you think I mean.

But here’s the thing, imagine being on a first date and someone having what you might call “diarrhea of the mouth.” It’s all about them. How great they are. How in love with themselves they don’t even pretend to be and…

Some say it’s a sign of low self-esteem. Some just think they’re a —-.

No matter the case, it’s the same when copywriting for small business. We don’t need to know your resume before we REALLY even know you!

It’s a matter of writing too much, just because you think it’s important to put in there, versus leaving some things out, that maybe shouldn’t even have been said – something that may even scare away potential customers. And something that makes people feel overwhelmed right off the bat, before we even know how great you and your business might be.

So get it all out a first – on paper (or computer screen). Then cut it down to what matters most to your customers. And fine tune. Fine tune. Fine tune!

Don’t, and you run the risk of never “closing the deal” even though you’re company may in fact be “a big deal.” Because sometimes it’s not what you say, it’s what not to say.

Kapeesh?

Let’s talk more about it here or here.

QUESTION: Do you love your business, but know you shouldn’t be the one writing for it?  Or perhaps you may even feel you could ruin the reputation you’ve spent so long in building?  Heck… maybe you’re just way too embarrassed to even share it with anyone because you know deep down inside that whatever you write, doesn’t accurately represent who you are and what your business is really about.

If any of that sounds familiar?   Click here .  Let’s talk.

Otherwise if you haven’t already done so, just subscribe to  the newsletter  or  feed   for monthly tips, tricks and kicks delivered straight to your gut, heart, soul inbox.

From small well-established businesses to large international ad firms & brands, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Increasing sales with words, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Sometimes It's Not What You Say, It's What Not To Say

In a recent interview I had with Maria Ross of Red Slice and the author of "Branding Basics for Small Business," I talked more specifically about copywriting for small business and the four biggest mistakes each tend to fall prey to. However, one thing I might've left out is that it's not so much about what you say, it's probably more about what NOT to say.

Meaning this.

A few months ago, I used the metaphor of going on a date and "closing the deal" – and yes, I mean what you think I mean.

But here's the thing, imagine being on a first date and someone having what you might call "diarrhea of the mouth." It's all about them. How great they are. How in love with themselves they don't even pretend to be and…

Some say it's a sign of low self-esteem. Some just think they're a —-.

No matter the case, it's the same when copywriting for small business. We don't need to know your resume before we REALLY even know you!

It's a matter of writing too much, just because you think it's important to put in there, versus leaving some things out, that maybe shouldn't even have been said – something that may even scare away potential customers. And something that makes people feel overwhelmed right off the bat, before we even know how great you and your business might be.

So get it all out a first – on paper (or computer screen). Then cut it down to what matters most to your customers. And fine tune. Fine tune. Fine tune!

Don't, and you run the risk of never "closing the deal" even though you're company may in fact be "a big deal." Because sometimes it's not what you say, it's what not to say.

Kapeesh?

Let's talk more about it here or here.

QUESTION: Do you love your business, but know you shouldn't be the one writing for it?  Or perhaps you may even feel you could ruin the reputation you've spent so long in building?  Heck… maybe you're just way too embarrassed to even share it with anyone because you know deep down inside that whatever you write, doesn't accurately represent who you are and what your business is really about.

If any of that sounds familiar?   Click here .  Let's talk.

Otherwise if you haven't already done so, just subscribe to  the newsletter  or  feed   for monthly tips, tricks and kicks delivered straight to your gut, heart, soul inbox.

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Increasing sales with words, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Kick Ass Copywriting Services Are Now Available Again (But For A Limited Time)!

For more than 6 months now, I've had to turn away many potential clients that needed certain "kick ass" copywriting services because of how slammed I've been…

Until now!

Finishing and delivering approximately 30 separate projects for major brands around the world (in just the last few months), I recently have some opening slots that I thought you might want to jump in on – before it's too late.

"I recently had the chance to work with Jared on a web project as the designer/developer. Jared has an understanding of writing for the web that is hard to find. He understands that you only have 2 seconds to grab someones attention.  Simple, attractive, and effective is how I would describe his style. It was was also a joy to work with someone who always answers the phone."

-Justin Parra, Creation-1 Web Solutions, Founder/CEO

When working together you'll receive one-of-a-kind copywriting services that include:

Multiple concepts and a transparent work ethic so you're able to choose and trust the best options that feel right for both you and your company.
Unwavering integrity that not only gives you great copy, but is carved around the market research into what works for your audience (versus what may not).
A better understanding of you, your brand AND your customers, so you'll be prepared for any future copywriting work you (or I) may need to embark on.

You'll also receive creative yet professional copy-expertise that consists of writing effective:

Web copy.
Marketing collateral.
Print advertising.
Email marketing.
And more!

You can contact me directly to set up a time to talk about your project(s) at jared@thekickasscopywriter.com and…

Please understand that I only work with a limited amount of clients and projects each month (on a first-come-first-serve basis). So don't wait!

"To work with Jared is to love Jared. I partnered with him on a few projects while freelancing at DraftFCB and found him to be a fun writer who was willing to try new things. He is an inspiring part of a team and a one-of-a-kind personality with a diverse background that enables him to see things differently. He strives to find that blend of stand-out creative that is memorable, but also produces results for the project and ultimately improves sales."

-Cheryl Hooper, DraftFCB Seattle, Art Director

Some key differences between the kinds of copywriting services I provide, versus others include:

A fast and efficient work ethic, so we'll both feel comfortable hitting any potential deadlines.
A friendly and creative professional, so working together becomes a joy (not a joke).
A fun and effective approach, so you'll not only get great work, but someone whom you can trust to get the best results.

"As an English major I figured I was fully capable of writing the copy for my website. Jared's approach was very different than what I had written, and I believe his copy is far better. The results so far have proven that to be true. Jared did an excellent job understanding my needs as well as my customers' and then creatively constructed the copy on my website to be customer directed, informative and confident with a amicable style. " 

-Curt Le Master, Key Business Solutions, Founder/CEO

Again, you can contact me directly to set up a time to talk about your project(s) at jared@thekickasscopywriter.com or certainly feel free to read about what others have to say about it.

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Increasing sales with words, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Kick Ass Copywriting Services Are Now Available (But For A Limited Time)!

For more than 6 months now, I've had to turn away many potential clients that needed certain "kick ass" copywriting services because of how slammed I've been…

Until now!

Finishing and delivering approximately 30 separate projects for major brands around the world, I recently have some opening slots that I thought you might want to jump in on – before it's too late.

"I recently had the chance to work with Jared on a web project as the designer/developer. Jared has an understanding of writing for the web that is hard to find. He understands that you only have 2 seconds to grab someones attention.  Simple, attractive, and effective is how I would describe his style. It was was also a joy to work with someone who always answers the phone."

-Justin Parra, Creation-1 Web Solutions, Founder/CEO

When working together you'll receive one-of-a-kind copywriting services that include:

Multiple concepts and a transparent work ethic so you're able to choose and trust the best options that feel right for both you and your company.
Unwavering integrity that not only gives you great copy, but is carved around the market research into what works for your audience (versus what may not).
A better understanding of you, your brand AND your customers, so you'll be prepared for any future copywriting work you (or I) may need to embark on.

You'll also receive creative yet professional copy-expertise that consists of writing effective:

Web copy.
Marketing collateral.
Print advertising.
Email marketing.
And more!

You can contact me directly to set up a time to talk about your project(s) at jared@thekickasscopywriter.com and…

Please understand that I only work with a limited amount of clients and projects each month (on a first-come-first-serve basis). So don't wait!

"To work with Jared is to love Jared. I partnered with him on a few projects while freelancing at DraftFCB and found him to be a fun writer who was willing to try new things. He is an inspiring part of a team and a one-of-a-kind personality with a diverse background that enables him to see things differently. He strives to find that blend of stand-out creative that is memorable, but also produces results for the project and ultimately improves sales."

-Cheryl Hooper, DraftFCB Seattle, Art Director

Some key differences between the kinds of copywriting services I provide, versus others include:

A fast and efficient work ethic, so we'll both feel comfortable hitting any potential deadlines.
A friendly and creative professional, so working together becomes a joy (not a joke).
A fun and effective approach, so you'll not only get great work, but someone whom you can trust to get the best results.

"As an English major I figured I was fully capable of writing the copy for my website. Jared's approach was very different than what I had written, and I believe his copy is far better. The results so far have proven that to be true. Jared did an excellent job understanding my needs as well as my customers' and then creatively constructed the copy on my website to be customer directed, informative and confident with a amicable style. " 

-Curt Le Master, Key Business Solutions, Founder/CEO

Again, you can contact me directly to set up a time to talk about your project(s) at jared@thekickasscopywriter.com or certainly feel free to read about what others have to say about it.

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Increasing sales with words that sell, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Post Superbowl. What Does This Mean To You?

For some it means you just bought your boyfriend or husband a bunch of new underwear from David Beckham. For others, it means you're standing behind Clint Eastwood and America… to get back up and start fighting again.

Whatever the case may be, the effect of Superbowl ads can have quite an impact on us all. Although rarely one commercial will ever do much to get someone to buy a product or service, it's what happens after the fact – the part that enters into the human psyche – that reverberates around the world to launch a new brand. Campaign. Or a learning lesson in what not to do with thirty seconds to two minutes of our time.

Here's what it means to both you and I:

The hashtag (#) is becoming a way to measure certain results, see who's talking about your brand and spread the word to all of your "followers." Used in a lot of commercials during this years Superbowl, it seems like a great unobtrusive way to see who's talking about you (no matter your size business).
Sex does sell, but never in just one commercials unless it's a pretty low ticket priced item (like the David Beckham commercial selling $14.99 underwear). However, repetition IS KING. The Fiat commercial is a great example.
Just because someone has million of "followers" in the Social Media world, doesn't mean you should go and stick them all in the same commercial to try and sell something. More "followers" never equates to more sales.

All in all. Smart advertising. Knowing how to implement great ideas. Think outside the box and make something relevant to your audience will always win out. If you can't do that, you can always pay Ellen De Generes to be your next spokesperson to rebrand your flailing company.

Anything else you'd like to share or add?

Let's discuss it here (or here).

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Transforming key ideas into words that sell, I help companies stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Get REAL Business. Get a REAL Site!

For a few years now, I've learned and became friends with some great people "in the industry." From Internet Marketers to Creative Directors and everyone in between, I've come across some amazing work. Some amazing ideas. And better yet, even some AMAZING results.

However, there's one individual has been instrumental in my growth the past few years, that in return, I think could really help you and your business get even better results, besides hiring someone like me. Another Copywriter. Or trying to find the best "writer" for the least amount of money that you barely know or trust – that pawns themselves off as a true "Copywriter."

It's you.

You're the one who knows the most about your business. The most about what you like or don't like. And the most about whether or not something is "you" (real) or "not you" (unreal).

So get ready to put the trust in your own hands. Your work. And knowing how to take what you do and correctly tweak, adapt and mold it over time (without having to pay someone like me over and over again – that I would certainly love to do but could get very expensive).

It's time to trust your own writing skills even if you can't write or don't feel as if you're any good.

That's why I wanted to recommend taking my friend Matthew's course. It's what he calls, "The Weekend Website." But here's the thing…

Instead of giving you some random link over to his sales page. Or telling you how great his program is…

How about I just let you contact him yourself?

His email is matthew@corporaterenegade.com and because Matthew's such a great friend, please make sure you told him I sent you over to learn more about signing up for his "Weekend Website" course. In it, Matthew teaches a lot of vital information on how to write copy for your website that he doesn't just do for his clients, but actually does for himself (recently earning more than a 100% increase in business – just this past YEAR).

No joke!

If there's anyone I know and trust as not just a great friend, but a TRUE mentor, it's Matthew. So don't wait! Signup is limited and I honestly don't know of any other course I would truly recommend like this.

QUESTION: Looking to both entertain and educate your next group or audience? Find out more about hiring me to speak at your next event.

Thanks for a great workshop, Jared! It was really helpful to have you share with us some of the basic principles behind good writing. Of course we will never be the amazingly creative copywriter that you are!

Also, appreciated you looking at our website and sending some of your pearls of wisdom our way!

-Kelli Lee, Business Owner/Event Attendee

 

Are You Relevant To Me?

That's mostly what your prospect is unconsciously asking themselves and this is exactly what I mean.

The print ad is located in my gym and most importantly, they know exactly who their talking to – which also means…

It doesn't work anywhere else. And it doesn't work for anyone else (a great thing).

If you're talking to everyone, you're essentially talking to no-one.

This is why the Gap owns Old Navy & Banana Republic. They're 3 different brands with 3 completely different sets of audiences. Being relevant to each, is communicating differently to each group of people and it's something you must do and understand. Being "relevant" to the individuals you're communicating to - describing the benefits your audience is going to get with what you're selling.

Remember… it's not about your company, product or service. It's about how this is going to benefit ME, and the kind of individual I am. 

It's the difference between hiring a writer or doing something yourself that says:

We've been making amazing widgets for over 100 years and are the premiere widget maker in Swahatcheemama River, UT.

And hiring a professional Copywriter that would scrap that, understand everything about your business and instead writing something like:

You make houses. You're picky about the materials you use, and so are we! Making more than just widgets that helps you get more work done in less time, we help you make a better house, and feel proud about the craftsmanship that goes into it.

See the difference?

QUESTION: Looking to both entertain and educate your next group or audience? Find out more about hiring me to speak at your next event.

Thanks for a great workshop, Jared! It was really helpful to have you share with us some of the basic principles behind good writing. Of course we will never be the amazingly creative copywriter that you are!

Also, appreciated you looking at our website and sending some of your pearls of wisdom our way!

-Kelli Lee, Business Owner/Event Attendee

Don't Forget Yourself

You've worked hard all year – whether it's in your job. TRYING to find a job. Or trying to get jobs through the doors of your own business, and I think you're forgetting someone. You.

Thinking back to when my own mentor kept driving the importance of "being good to yourself" – which I know sounds ridiculously cheesy to some – I now realize how important it's been to do that.

So I wanted to help.

Here's a free gift from me to you called, "Rock Your Goals: 7 Steps To Kicking Ass In 2012."

I hope you like it.

It's my gift to you this holiday season that yes, you should "be good to everyone." But most importantly, you need to start being good to you!

So thanks for being a part of my life in 2011, and helping to shape the future of my life in 2012. Have an amazing holiday, and keeping kicking MAJOR ass!

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I (Jared Matthew Kessler) have taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Simplifying great ideas into words that sell, I help businesses stand out from the noise (not just add to it).

Occupy Holiday

I have to admit that I'm feeling more obligated than inspired to write this. Stay in touch. And come up with something useful to say these days. Mostly, I'm just amazed this year is almost over. The holidays are almost here. And this "Occupy ____" is lasting this long.

Although it's been close to a month since I've written any new blogs, so much has happened (besides turning 37 the end of October), that I thought you'd like to know.

For one, it's been over 2 months now since I've been writing copy for what some might call a "big time" ad firm here (in Seattle). Although I thought it would be a few days and one assignment, I've been writing copy for over a dozen different projects – for their client – that goes out to tens of thousands of people (and soon millions around the world).

Although I'm not sure where things will lead, I've been happy to say that I've done every kind of copywriting project known to man there – so far writing copy for their clients newsletters, direct mail, a new world-wide campaign and…

Since discovering copywriting a number of years ago, this is probably the happiest and most challenged I've been. With that said, I've learned a few things that have helped me to stay there as long as I have, that I thought I would share before you go and "occupy" the holiday.

It's little nuggets of inspiration that I feel may help you (or your business along) coming into the new year.

Be indispensible – Since day one I've always hit a deadline. Delivered things early. And kept on top of every project always instilling confidence in the project managers and account representatives there that I'll always make things happen.
Show you're interested – Although I started off on a REALLY small project that barely involved copywriting (took only about a week and a half)… the studio manager that got me in there and wanted to work with me, brought me over to "creative," (as one of the two copywriters in that office), and I've been there since. My belief is that I've always showed an interest and let it be known to everyone there how much I love doing what I do and being in that kind of creative atmosphere.
Be creative but be human – There's this thing out there called, "socially awkward." I talked with a friend of mine Ralph who's an author, copywriter and creative director at a boutique agency here in Seattle. Ralph's business has been taking off these past two years and he recently hired his first "full time" designer. When we talked the other day about it, he had the option to hire this one designer that's been doing amazing work for them as a contractor. But Ralph had basically said the reason why he didn't hire him (even though he's SUPER talented), was because he was just "too socially awkward."
Develop relationship with non-decision makers – Let's face it, theres a secretary like Joan in the series "Madmen," that pretty much (secretly) runs the show. Sure you can "kiss the bosses ass," or try and rely on just the great work you put out, but if Joan doesn't like you, it doesn't really mean much. Does it?
Don't take on more work – Working at this ad firm, is basically 40 hours a week. When I started I was trying to finish up two clients projects and since then, probably turned down about 5 other projects only because I knew I'd have to put everything into this one opportunity. Not only that, financially, I didn't need to take on anything else at this time. Emotionally, I also wanted some time off for myself.

So I guess that's it. If you haven't already done so, you might want to check out the new speaking section on "The Kick Ass Copywriter" (TKAC). For those who need a HIGHLY passionate, entertaining and informative speaker for their next group, seminar or live event… I think you'll enjoy what I have to say.

Until next time, have a great holiday and keep kicking ASS!

From small to mega-size businesses and ad firms, I've taken on a wide variety of copywriting projects that encompass just about everything in my field. Simplifying great ideas into words that sell, I help businesses stand out from the noise (not just add to it).