Have you ever faced this with websites?
Last week I had a stiff neck and was looking for a certain kind of massage clinic, with a certain kind of vibe.
But when massage clinic websites loaded, I’d get a list of services. They were all features, no benefits, as copywriters say.
I wanted a good, firm massage that would loosen the knots in my trapezius, but wouldn’t leave me aching for days… But not a feather touch with incense and New Age music. It’s also nice if people are likable, too – especially when they need to stretch your neck beyond your comfort level.
But I couldn’t find the experience I was looking for.
Don’t let your website be like that.
To make sure your website clicks with your audience, here’s a quick guide on writing effective home-page copy.
Web Copy Strategies for Home Pages
Creating an inviting and effective home page for your small business isn’t just about listing services or cramming in keywords. It’s about crafting an emotional connection with your audience, ensuring they feel understood and valued from the moment they land.
Here are three must-dos:
1. Make a Good First Digital Impression
Picture your home page as the digital front door to your business. It’s the first handshake, the initial smile – an opportunity to make a lasting impression.[1] The key? Speak directly to your audience’s needs and desires. Start with a snappy hero section that doesn’t just introduce your business but also empathizes with your visitors. Use a headline that resonates with their goals or challenges, making them feel, “Yes, they get me!”
2. Showcase Benefits to Your Audience
Your body copy should expand on this promise. Here, it’s not about you – it’s about them.[2] Use clear, concise language that focuses on the benefits they’ll experience by choosing your services. Imagine the relief, satisfaction, or joy they’ll feel and convey that. You’re not just selling a product or service – you’re offering a solution to make their lives better, easier, more enjoyable.
3. Ask for the Sale – Write a Compelling Call to Action
The CTA (call-to-action) isn’t just a button; it’s an invitation to a journey. It should encourage visitors to take the next step, whether it’s learning more about your offerings or getting in touch with you. Your CTA should be clear and action-oriented but also inviting, prompting them to engage without feeling pressured.[3]
4. Use Your Secret Weapon – Your Brand Voice
It’s not all about what you say, but also how say it. Your ideal client wants to hear your personality come through in everything you write. Stay consistent in your tone by consulting your brand voice tone guide when you write copy for marketing and advertising. It will keep your messaging strategically positioned to attract a certain kind of audience.
5. Use Laser Focus and Make Every Work Count
The words you choose will determine whether visitors trust you, if they like you, and ultimately, if they want to do business with you. Focus on the audience’s needs and how you can meet them. Avoid cluttering the page with anything that distracts.
Remember, your homepage is where emotional connections begin, and well-written web-page copy makes for a cohesive, impactful message.
This all not only boosts your site’s engagement but also naturally improves its search engine visibility, because genuine, customer-focused content resonates more than overused keywords.
I hope these tips help you plan your new small-business home page or update an existing one. Reach out for a free 25-minute call if you are considering delegating the work to a trained copywriter who’s a joy to work with.
For more information: [1] 8 Ways Media, [2] Jennifer Neel (Medium), [3] Sam Louron (Hubspot.com)
