
As a Showit website copywriter, I’ve seen firsthand how easily this platform allows you to create websites that are just as beautiful as they are strategic. But the thing is, your website will only be as strong as the words on it, no matter how gorgeous the template that you start with is.
So, if you have a Showit website template that you’re planning to customize yourself, here are my top tips – from a copywriter’s perspective – for getting started.
[Still searching for your perfect template and need some help choosing? Check out this post.]
I can’t stress this enough – never, ever, try to write from the demo copy in your template. It might sound cute, and sure, it may spark some ideas for you, but that’s a guaranteed way to wind up in writer’s block hell.
The demo text that comes with your Showit template is there to give you an idea of how the website should flow, but it’s not necessarily written to help you connect with clients. So use it as a guide to know what sections you should try to write, but don’t take it super literally.
The demo copy often sounds cute and it can feel tempting to “just tweak it” for your brand. But if you start from that copy, you’re essentially trying to force someone else’s story into your own. It’s like trying to fit a square block into a round hole (you know the toy I’m talking about!).
Before you start writing, you need to think about your overall messaging strategy first. Make sure you know:
1 – Who You’re Writing To
Do some research on your ideal client to learn their goals, their struggles, and what they value most.
2 – What Makes You Different
There’s a reason your clients choose you over someone else, so lean into this in your messaging strategy! It could be something about your process, your approach, or the experience you create.
For example, there are hundreds of website copywriters out there, and we’re all skilled, but the high-touch experience that I provide for my clients and the exceptional level of care and intentionality that I put into the work (hi, enneagram 1 here!) is what sets me apart from others.
3 – The Details of Your Offers
Before you even shop for a template, you need to define exactly what you’re selling, what deliverables are included, and how much it costs. I’ve seen so many entrepreneurs struggle to write their website copy because they’re still a little unclear on what they actually want to sell.
4 – Your Brand Voice
How do you want to sound in your copy? Professional and elevated? Warm and friendly? Playful and witty? Establishing this before you start writing will make every word you write feel consistent and natural.
It can be tempting to start writing directly in your Showit site, especially when the demo copy gives you ideas, but here’s why I definitely do not recommend doing this:
So instead, write everything in a Google Doc first. That way, you can focus purely on your copy and the message you want to convey without worrying about layout.
Luckily, Showit is incredibly user-friendly, even for non-designers. Once your copy is finalized, you can easily customize the template that you purchased to fit your message (not the other way around 😉).
And if you’re nervous about editing your template yourself, many web designers offer template customization services that are more affordable than a full custom build. This service is a great middle ground between DIY and done-for-you.
If you’re nervous about editing your template yourself, many designers offer template customization services that are far more affordable than a full custom build. It’s a great middle ground between DIY and done-for-you.
[Some of my favorites for this service are Michaela with North Design Co. and Joanna of Joanna Moss Creative.]
If you’re deciding where to invest first, I always recommend starting with your copy. Great copy is the foundation that helps your website work. It’s what communicates your value and converts browsers to bookings. Design is what brings it to life.
If you’re customizing your Showit site and want to make sure your copy is written strategically enough to get you the bookings you’re hoping for, my Website Copy Audit might be a great next step.
Here’s how it works:
And if you decide you’d rather hand your copy off altogether, your audit includes a $200 credit toward a future done-for-you website copywriting project.
This is the perfect way to test the waters and experience what it’s like to work with a Showit website copywriter who understands your brand, your voice, and your goals.
If we haven’t met yet, hi! I’m Dianna, Showit website copywriter for creatives and coaches. Here are some more ways I can help you:
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Check out my services – I offer a range of website copywriting options for all investment levels. From Web Copy Audits for the DIYers to Full-Service Copywriting for the folks who just want it DONE. And if you’re just starting out, check out my free guide to writing better copy!
Read more on the Blog – For tips on website copywriting, email marketing, blogging & SEO – it’s all there. Check it out here.
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Rise Copy Co. is a website copywriter for creatives and coaches. Writing from Oklahoma and available worldwide.
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