QUIZ! Should You Write Your Own Marketing Copy?

Many smaller eCommerce site owners debate the feasibility of writing their own copy. Quality copywriting can be a costly investment, but sometimes it’s unnecessary.

If you’re looking for ways to save a little cash, you might be able to do that by writing your own copy. Not hiring a copywriter can be a dangerous move in some circumstances, however.

Wondering which is the best move for your business? Read on…This little quiz will clue you in to when you can and cannot skip hiring a professional copywriter to craft your marketing copy.

Quiz time! Get out a paper and pen to record your answers, and be honest with yourself…your business depends on it!

1) I love writing, and have no clue what writer’s block is.

A. Yup, that’s me!
B. I don’t love it, but I like it…and I’m pretty good at it.
C. I can write if I have to (or if forced). After all, I passed English comp.
D. Not me. Next question, please.

2) I’m a born salesperson – I know what my customers want, and how to sell it to them.

A. Retail is my life. I’ve got this. I’m a trained marketer, too.
B. I’m a pretty good salesperson, but it’s not my favorite activity.
C. Isn’t there someone I can pay to do the actual selling? I’m an idea person.
D. No way. I get hives thinking about this.

3) My marketing copy will be written in my native language.

A. Hands down.
B. It’s not my native language, but I’m fully fluent in the language and the culture.
C. It’s not my native language, but I speak it.
D. Nope. The money’s in another tongue.

4) I’ve got tons of free time.

A. Nothing better to do than sit around and chill.
B. I work a few hours a day, but I’m free in the evenings and on weekends.
C. I work full time. My hours are precious, and I don’t really have a lot of time free.
D. Are you kidding? I don’t even know what free time is.

5) I’m funding this business out of pocket, and my pockets aren’t deep. In fact, I’m broke.

A. Unfortunately, that’s accurate. Paycheck to paycheck is the name of this game.
B. I’ve got a little extra cash, but I’ve got to budget carefully.
C. I’m not too worried about cash, and I’ve got some external funding. I’ll spend if the ROI is proven
D. There’s money to spend, as long as I can see results.

 

Let’s Calculate Your Results…

Mostly A’s

You’ve got the skills and time it takes to craft your own marketing copy. The only thing you need to decide is if you want to do the work. If you do, get to it. What are you waiting for? Especially if you are tight on cash at the moment…

Mostly B’s

You could probably write your own marketing copy, but it might feel like a bit of a chore. You’ve got most of the skills you need to get the job done. A little external reading and a consultation with a marketer or copywriter should help you decide if you really want to write your own copy, or if you’d prefer to hire someone. If budget is your main concern, remember that the right pro can yield better results and your bottom line will thank you later.

Mostly C’s

Your interest in writing copy is about as high as my interest in getting a root canal. Although you’ve got some of the background necessary, the results would be better if you hire a professional who is interested in writing copy for you. Focus on the part of your business that excites you. Although writing for yourself might save you a little money in the short run, it’s likely to cost you sales down the road. The ROI on DIY isn’t as high as what you’ll make when you hire a professional, especially if you are lacking the motivation to actually do the writing.

Mostly D’s

Hire a professional. You aren’t ready to tackle marketing copy on your own at this stage. If you’ve got the capital on hand, invest in a copywriter or marketing professional with a proven track record in your niche. Their experience and expertise is invaluable.

Tagged content marketing, copywriting, marketing copy, website copy