Knowing how to write for websites shouldn’t be overwhelming. So many writers are intimidated by the idea that they need to be expert copywriters just to write online. This is not the case.

It is true that if you’re serious about selling and marketing online, that copywriting is probably (no make that definitely), the most important skill to master. However, if having an obsession with perfecting your writing is preventing you from taking action. Then you definitely have a problem.

Thinking that way can either cause you to freeze up searching for that perfect “sales pitch”. Or worse still, waffle on forever about the point you’re trying to make. Want you want to remember is that writing online (or anywhere else for that matter), should be, and is, extremely enjoyable.

It is also important to note that not every piece of internet writing appears in the shape of sales letter. In fact there are many types of online copy: web page content, articles, blog posts, E-books, multimedia scripts – oh and of course Hub Pages. Each with their own unique writing style.

A good place to start when learning know how to write for websites - is to just start writing. Let what you want to say just flow onto the paper. Don’t worry about correct grammar, punctuation or spelling. They will just interrupt your flow. You can always go back and fix them later.

Initially, you just want to keep your story moving and write till you have nothing left to say.

Whether you are starting out or needing to tweak your online writing skills – you can follow these basic guidelines to keep you on track:

Know Your Topic

Do proper research. I recommend using a minimum of 4-5 different online sources for your information. When I can, I also try to use material from hard copy books. Industry newsletters and magazines can also provide good research information for your topic.

Keep Focused

What is the message you are trying to convey? Think about who your audience is and what information they need. Remember in most cases you are writing to solve someone’s problem.

Add an Attention Grabbing Headline

OK. This part of the process needs the most time. I recommend coming up with several headlines before deciding on your winner. Write a headline that includes your core keywords for your particular niche. The keywords help the readers find the information and help the site/article/blog be found by the search engines.

Slice Up the Copy

The majority of online readers scan copy rather than reading word for word. Chop up your writing into chunks and place sub-headings with each new section. Keep your paragraphs short with only two to three sentences. This will keep your reader interested and allow them to jump to sub-heading of interest (which by the way should also feature some of your keywords).

Sprinkle with Originality

I think we can all agree that it is extremely frustrating when looking for information on the internet to find the same piece of information appearing again and again on several sites. For heaven’s sakes try to be original.   

Sure, there are millions of us doing our research online. So it is highly likely we will be accessing the same content from the major sites. But this is where you need to stop being lazy and get creative.

First, of all it should go without saying that you avoid plagiarizing at all costs.

Next, tell the story in your own voice with your own personality.

Another idea is to present your writing in an entirely different format from the original.

Or alternatively, write down your research notes and leave them for a few days. When you get back to them you can write a fresh piece of work simply from memory.

Stir In the Passion

This is my favourite. Passion would have to be the most essential attribute for a writer. Words and phrases that are stale, lifeless, and monotonous, just do not make for interesting reading.

You don’t have to be a JK Rowling or Stephen King. But you do need to enjoy your writing. When you write passionately it inevitably comes through in your writing. Your readers will pick up on it, I guarantee it. Basically, the more you do something you enjoy, the more success you will attract.

Not sure how to get motivated? Well here some tips you use or try and come up with your own:

• playing some uplifting music
• take a walk in nature to tap into your creativity
• pour a nice strong brew of coffee
• or chill out with a lovely glass of wine (a preference of mine).

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you decide to go with Option 3 just be sure to double check your spelling the next morning, BEFORE your post your content. ;)

Combine All Ingredients and Keep Learning

I am a big believer in lifelong learning. Everybody has room to grow no matter how much expertise and knowledge they have accumulated.

Whether it is working on your writing technique, researching internet marketing strategies, or learning SEO techniques, you can always improve.

If you happen to be reading this and you’re already an internet marketing guru – well then take up that dance class you’ve always been fantasizing about!  Just keep challenging yourself.

Today because of the internet we are privileged to have immediate access the world’s best in every genre, including copywriters.The top wordsmiths in the business have passion oozing out of their writing.

I personally love the insight of Joe Vitale, and the candour of John Carlton.These gurus have made it easy for us to get our hands on some awesome products that can help us sharpen our website writing skills. Or, better still, turn us into master copywriters.