The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells

The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells
Average customer rating:

Want to Write For a Living? Bly Shows What It Takes

Every copywriter's best friend - a must-read keeper

The Copywriter's Handbook

Breaks down the basics of writing killer copy

Good for direct response copywriting, but not so great for ad agency writing

The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells
Robert W. Bly
Manufacturer: Holt Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Online Copywriter's Handbook : Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells

ASIN: 0805078045
Release Date: 2006-04-04

Amazon.com

The Copywriter's Handbook is somewhat out of date. There are no references to Web sites or the Internet, and author Robert W. Bly advises that a freelance copywriter have a good typewriter. No matter. Bly has compiled an incredibly useful resource for budding, and even experienced, copywriters. Bly calls his book "a step-by-step guide to writing copy that sells." And that it is: Bly covers the writing of print ads, direct mail, brochures, catalogues, public-relations material, trade-journal articles, speeches, newsletters, commercials, and more. But equally informative is the substantial amount of space that he devotes to the copywriting business, in which he offers guidance in setting up a freelance copywriting business, getting hired by an ad agency, and hiring and working with copywriters (this section also includes a chapter on graphic design for copywriters). This is a terrific book. If you don't take my word for it, take David Ogilvy's: "I don't know a single copywriter whose work would not be improved by reading this book," he says. "And that includes me." --Jane Steinberg

Book Description

This is a book for everyone who writes or approves copy: copywriters, account executives, creative directors, freelance writers, advertising managers . . . even entrepreneurs and brand managers. It reveals dozens of copywriting techniques that can help you write ads, commercials, and direct mail that are clear, persuasive, and get more attentionand sell more products. Among the tips revealed are eight headlines that workand how to use them eleven ways to make your copy more readable fifteen ways to open a sales letter the nine characteristics of successful print ads how to build a successful freelance copywriting practice fifteen techniques to ensure your e-mail marketing message is opened This thoroughly revised third edition includes all new essential information for mastering copywriting in the Internet era, including advice on Web- and e-mail-based copywriting, multimedia presentations, and Internet research and source documentation, as well as updated resources. Now more indispensable than ever, The Copywriters Handbook remains the ultimate guide for people who write or work with copy.

Customer Reviews:

Want to Write For a Living? Bly Shows What It Takes.......2007-10-21

Highest recommendation!

I'm a copy writer for a small company serving businesses across the country. I learned the ad writing business "on the fly via Bly" after miraculously landing a copywriting job when a very brave Pacific Northwest employer decided to take a chance and hire me -- even though I didn't have a single day's worth of "in the trenches" experience beforehand!

My resume documented that I had written four books and dozens of articles for magazines and newspapers, but writing advertising copy is a whole 'nuther animal!

Because of Bly's excellent books (he has several -- none of them will steer you wrong) and a few others by Joe Vitale, I was able to jump into the new job and truly wow diverse clients from the get-go. The information and insights in The Copywriter's Handbook saved my bacon!

Kristine M Smith, Author

DeForest Kelley: A Harvest of Memories : My Life and Times With a Remarkable Gentleman Actor

Every copywriter's best friend - a must-read keeper.......2007-10-03

Bob Bly is the master of showing beginning copywriters how to write compelling copy. He also knows all there is to know about the copywriting business.

If you're just starting out in this business, you must buy this book and any time Bob updates it, buy the new one.

He helps you know what to charge. He guides you in the rules of the road in a way you'll understand. Reading this book could be the ticket to a great career for you. So pick up your ticket and enter the world of copywriting.

Highly recommended --- especially for beginning copywriters or those who need a handy everyday reference to refer to when they have a question.

The Copywriter's Handbook.......2007-08-29

Excellent service.
Arrived really quick and in excellent packaging.
Love the book, Thank you!

Breaks down the basics of writing killer copy.......2007-07-28

Before I started my own copywriting business years ago, this one was my first books on the subject. And I still refer back to it periodically. Bob Bly is a copywriting legend who is well-known for making the fundamentals of writing great copy easy to understand. Whether you're thinking about a writing career, or just need to make your marketing materials more effective, this is the perfect primer for anyone who wants to learn how to write to sell!

Good for direct response copywriting, but not so great for ad agency writing.......2007-05-18

Since this review is largely negative, I should admit that "The Copywriter's Handbook" can be found near my desk and I reference it often.

With that confession, I'll take my first punch: the author of this book has never won an advertising award. Not one that matters, anyway. But in Bob Bly's world, awards really don't matter.

Since 1985, "The Copywriter's Handbook," has been a guide to the ugly but lucrative subculture of advertising called direct response. In this world, Bob Bly is a self-anointed diety. Since the book was first published, mobs of enterprising disciples have drunk his Cool-Aid, hoping not for a promised land, but a six-figure salary.

It's true that copywriters can earn $10,000 for writing one letter. Of course, it's a direct response letter. The kind beleaguered with double underlined sentences. Features explained through benefits. Promises punctuated with exclamation points. And, of course, the grand finale is highlighted in yellow: an offer that must be acted upon immediately.

For industrious writers who want to come up with this stuff, "The Copywriter's Handbook," is considered a bible. But for anyone who aspires to create concept-driven advertising, there's not much in this book.

Bly starts this work by taking sides against concept-driven advertising. He explains, "A copywriter is a salesperson behind a typewriter." He warns against becoming "an artist or entertainer." For if you go down this dangerous path, Bly warns, "Your copy will be wasting your client's time and money."

Although I don't do direct response, as a freelancer, I write a lot of stuff that's not artistic, entertaining, concept-driven advertising. I often write stuff that works hard at doing more than building a brand. For those jobs, this book contains a lot of practical advice.

Of its nearly 400 pages, I found Bly's lists most helpful. "Copy motivators" offer 22 reasons why someone might buy a product, a good thing to ask your client before writing. Bly offers interview questions too, many of which I have incorporated into my own. He also outlines different types of ads, which can be useful in finding direction for an ad. Will we do a question ad? A testimonial? An offer of free information?

But for all of his juicy nuggets, so many of Bly's examples read like spam. They sound too good to be true, killing the credibility of his work. So much so that I think his audiences must be incredibly stupid to read - let alone respond - to what he writes.

"Would you pay $1,000 to save $5,500?"

"One of a kind. Is that phrase a little trite? I used to think so until I tried to find you. ..."

"Three years ago this month, a man I know - he was then a vice president of a big corporation in Illinois - walked into his boss's office and handed in his resignation. Two weeks later, he started his own company. ..."

Aren't we past this kind of stuff? Judging by the number of people who make serious cash writing Bly-style advertising, apparently not. I know that I don't allow any of it into my life, not even from nonprofits and politicians I believe in.

Despite the money to be made, you won't find me crossing to the schlock-y side of hard-sell direct response advertising. Even knowing about the profit potential of this work, I still want to create cool, concept-driven creative work. Because unlike Mr. Bly, I know that my kind of advertising can work for clients.

I recommend: How to Write Great Copy: Learn the Unwritten Rules of Copywriting

Phrases That Sell : The Ultimate Phrase Finder to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas

Average customer rating:

Phrases That Sell
Media Sellers Bible
Beyond Your Wildest Dreams (Wink)!
Phrases that sell
PHRASES THAT SELL

Phrases That Sell : The Ultimate Phrase Finder to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas
Edward W. Werz , and Sally Germain
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0809229773

Book Description

"An excellent 'ready reference' both for copywriters and for those entering the field." -- Robert Goldsborough, Special Projects Director Advertising Age "Holy smoke! This is amazing! A thesaurus for advertising copywriters. Where has it been all my life?" -- Denny Hatch, Editor Target Marketing Six seconds. That's all you have to grab your prospect's attention and make a sale. Use the right phrase or slogan, however, and you've made your sale. Use the wrong one, and you've lost your opportunity . . . maybe forever. Choosing the right phrase or slogan is vital to your success. And so is Phrases That Sell. It's the ultimate resource for anyone needing hands-on, instant access to the key phrases, slogans, and attention grabbers that will gain more attention and sell more product. Organized by category . . . indexed and cross-referenced for ease of use . . . loaded with expert advice on how to write copy that sells, Phrases That Sell covers everything, including those hard-to-describe product and service qualities and those product/service attributes that are subtle or abstract. It has 143 selling phrases to describe service, 153 for fun, 341 covering style and design, 180 phrases related to price, and much more! In this book you'll find:

5,000+ sales phrases for consumer and business-to-business products and services
a copywriter's primer called "10 Basic Rules of Copywriting," with insider's tips on usage
a special section on the seven steps to writing winning slogans
Expert advice on how to target your message to specific audiences

Whether you sell products, ideas, or services . . . whether you are a novice or an old pro . . . this creative toolbox will give you fresh ideas, new perspectives, and renewed confidence. With Phrases That Sell at your side you'll be able to enthusiastically tackle the most challenging copywriting tasks and eliminate that dreaded "writer's block."

Customer Reviews:

Phrases That Sell.......2007-07-27

This book is handy for the idea challenged. It is well laid out so one can find the basic idea they are seeking and then find phrasing elaborating on the idea or concept. It's a very handy volume to have when doing ads or flyers

Media Sellers Bible.......2007-01-09

A+++, I can't keep it on my desk, everyone borrows it looking for that "phrase that pays"

Beyond Your Wildest Dreams (Wink)!.......2006-12-03

Do you really need to pay someone to tell you to use phrases like, "Even better than you thought possible," "It's a neat idea!" and "Walk on the wild side"? Then buy this book, because it is loaded to the brim with such hackneyed, corny, and transparent phrases. Everyone else, see me after class.

Phrases that sell.......2006-11-06

This book contains phrases that save you thinking time when trying to get the copy right when developing direct mail and web page copy. Broken down to subject categories it is easy to use.

It saves you thinking time and thus improves productivity. Full of liitle gems.

Recommended

PHRASES THAT SELL.......2006-03-09

This book is a great asset and reference for students in my role as an educator / lecturer in marketing

Words that Sell, revised and expanded edition

Average customer rating:

FABULOUS BOOK!
Great Canned Words/Phrases
Great for writing copy
Very Helpful
Pump new life into your copy and sell more

Words that Sell, revised and expanded edition
Richard Bayan
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0071467858

Book Description

More than 6,000 words and phrases that make the difference between "yadda-yadda-yadda" and copy that sells

Looking for a better way to say "authentic?" Words That Sell gives you 57 alternatives. How about "appealing?" Take your pick from 76 synonyms. You'll even find more than 100 variations on "exciting." Fully updated and expanded, this edition of the copywriting classic is packed with inspiration-on-demand for busy professionals who need to win customers--by mail, online, or in person.

More than 75 lists of powerful and persuasive words and phrases, including 21 new lists for this edition
Cross-referencing of categories to jump-start creative thinking
A crash course in basic copywriting techniques
Helpful lists of commonly misspelled words, confusing words, pretentious phrases to avoid, and more

Roget's is fine for writing term papers and letters to the editor, but when it comes to the business of writing copy that translates into sales, there is no substitute for Words That Sell.

Customer Reviews:

FABULOUS BOOK!.......2007-06-20

This book and its sister book, More Words... -- are the handiest and great must haves in my editorial and office service business library! I highly recommend them!

Great Canned Words/Phrases.......2007-05-12

This is a book in which the author has collected words and phrases from different sources over time and made into a book - a great collection at that. If you are looking for some great ideas - this book doesn't have any. The book is divided into 4 sections; Grabbers, Descriptions and Benefits, Clinchers, and Special Strategies. And the painstaking collection of various words and phrases collected over time are shown under each head with the bulk of book taken up by the Descriptions and Benefits. A must have book by your side if you are groping for words or phrases while writing a business letter, etc. Had I been a copywriter I would have given the book 5 stars.

Great for writing copy.......2007-04-05

If you need to look for words you can
use for your copy in emails or sales letters
this a a great book to pull down and look
for words or phrases you can use.

Matt Bacak
Author of Secrets of the Internet Millionaire Mind
and The Ultimate Lead Generation Plan

Very Helpful.......2007-02-07

Recently I bought this book and immediately made some textual changes to my company website based upon the contents of this and "Hot Button Marketing" by Barry Feig. The two mixed together have already begun to pay dividends in terms of conversions of visitors into prospects which will lead to customers and/or partners.

The lessons I learned as I read some of the material:
1) You may believe you're using the right words to sell (as I did prior to reading over the book), but there are always improvements that can be made.

2) Have fun--if your current campaign isn't working as well as you'd like, tweak the copy by using some of the suggestions in this book to see if a different word sprinkled in here and there improves things. It's interesting to see what a little change can do as enough of them can add up to one big success over time.

In a nutshell, this book is a great reference to have handy regardless of what you're selling.

Pump new life into your copy and sell more.......2006-12-14

I've been a copywriter for 14 years, most of the time as an independent practitioner. I've also been a senior copywriter for an advertising agency and worked in the creative department for a major newspaper.

The expanded edition of "Words That Sell" by Richard Bayan gets to the heart of an issue copywriters and marketers constantly face: How can we communicate the same old tired ideas in new, different and even exciting ways?

For example, I can't tell you the number of times I've been asked to position clients as experts in their field. There's nothing wrong with that -- they truly are experts. But we're all besieged by experts. (The fill-in-the-blank experts. And so on.)

Bayan offers a list of 75 or so entries for communicating experienced or expert. And throughout the book he provides hundreds of entries for many other common copy points and marketing messages.

Besides supplying a good resource, Bayan provides a good reminder that to be memorable copywriters and marketers must write it, say it and show it in a fresh, interesting way. And that usually requires at least a little extra creative effort.

Web Copy That Sells: The Revolutionary Formula for Creating Killer Copy Every Time

Average customer rating:

Webcopy is interesting - not sure if I am comfortable with the style for b2b
Outstanding Reference with contemporary approach
Solid Information that will increase your business
Better than most but not the best I have read.
Priceless

Web Copy That Sells: The Revolutionary Formula for Creating Killer Copy Every Time
Maria Veloso
Manufacturer: AMACOM/American Management Association
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0814472494

Book Description

In order for a Web site to sell effectively, it must appeal to the unique culture, mindset, and psychology of the Web. Simply put, what works in the brick-and-mortar world does not necessarily grab Web shoppers. Companies selling products and services online need to promote their wares with engaging copy that grabs attention and compels Web site visitors to buy.

Web Copy That Sells presents copy strategies that have been proven time and again in the e-commerce arena. Maria Veloso, perhaps the most widely acclaimed Web copywriter in the world, reveals her revolutionary approach based on five simple questions, which, when answered, make the copy practically write itself. Veloso crams all the information from her 12-hour, $997 live seminars into a comprehensive book that will help any Web copywriter:

* write sizzling and irresistible Web copy, e-mails, and marketing communications * quickly turn lackluster sites into "perpetual money machines" * use Neuro-Linguistic Programming and psychological tactics to compel Web surfers to buy * avoid the top three blunders that can wipe out your sales * convert up to 50% of online prospects into paying customers * and more!

Customer Reviews:

Webcopy is interesting - not sure if I am comfortable with the style for b2b.......2007-05-28

I found the book interesting and enlightening. I think with all ideas you have to temper this to your audience. I would not use this to attract the CEO of AT&T in the form she presented. However the concepts and steps ring true as long as they are toned down to suit your market. We are just working on some sub pages tied to adwords campaigns to test the waters.

Very similar in style to [...]

Outstanding Reference with contemporary approach.......2007-05-09

I read this book in days highlighting areas for future reference. I enjoyed the book's approach and it was very well written. Veloso didn't leave any stones uncovered. Above all, it was like a college refresher course but more practical and focused to the needs for those desiring to improve their web copy and content. Additionally, after reading the book, I ordered a second to share with my internet marketing people and staff at Gloves-Online.

Solid Information that will increase your business.......2007-04-13

Web Copy That Sells is well written, easy to read and a great resource for improving your web copy.

There are a number of points that Maria makes regarding web copy that apply equally to all areas of business as well as life. For example, she points out that you cannot simply model some successful website and expect the same results. You must model the process. That is go through the same process that the creator of the successful website went through.

The book is not only a resource for web copy that sells, it is also a very good marketing course. She points out that potential customers must know you, like you and ultimately trust you before they will do business with you. She provides a step by step method to accomplish this.

Maria is right on when she talks about the importance of the first screen and why you must concentrate on what's in it for the viewer. The website should not be designed as an ego boosting medium. You must keep the viewer's point of view in mind.

She provides a good list of dos and don'ts for web copy. There are plenty of other tools such as a formula to evaluate any website.

Scattered throughout the book are excellent marketing lessons - words tell, emotion sells - fear of loss is a better motivator than desire for gain. You would do well to read and understand these very valuable marketing lessons.

This is a very good resource for anyone responsible for their own or their company's website.

Better than most but not the best I have read........2007-01-05

This book had some useful ideas, however given the amount of knowledge the author claims to have I feel she is keeping all the good stuff for her copy writing courses.

Rather light on useful content. Joe Sugarman is a much better choice.

Priceless.......2006-12-21

This book is absolutely priceless. I hear what some of the critical comments say. The fact is they are not grasping the brilliant lessons and enormous time savers Maria shares in this book that apply across the board to writing copy and marketing on line. First off, she makes it very clear her book is about what it says, writing web copy that sells, not writing web content. The whole point and value of this book are the formulas that will save INCREDIBLE amounts of time while ensuring you address every element that goes into capturing paying customers online. THAT'S the value. The actual words you use in writing your own specific copy are up to you. You don't have to sound like a snake oil salesman. I sell upscale b2b, business owners and senior executives and what I learned in the book is indeed killer. Practical lessons that I can immediately apply. Read this book and combine what you learn with Frank Rumbauskas Never Cold Call Again (and I haven't in the past 6 months), Metaphorically Selling by Anne Miller, and Richard Koch's The 80/20 Principle, The Secret of Achieving More With Less, and then work hard (sorry) and you'll be a lean mean money machine.

One thing I am very cautious about is all the copywriters that have made the change to copy writing over priced self generated programs on how to get rich copy writing (i.e. Bly, Masterson, Silver and others). Do a search on google to find good resources to seriously research the feasibility and process to make such a transition and your head will spin clicking on all the sites by these gurus with $500 to $2,000. This seems to be a whole niche that has become popular today to go side by side with network marketing. Get rich easy and quick with my magic formula to becoming a copywriter. (I do NOT put this book in that category, like I said this book is easily worth multiples of its price). I am also NOT saying that the money to be made in the industry is not accurate. Just like in network marketing where I did in fact make 6 figures a year in that industry for a while. The reality was it took HARK WORK, which terrifies most of the folks looking for the ever elusive easy buck. And as P.T. Barnum always knew, there are plenty of folks who want to believe it be so. When ever someone truly discovers the secret to becoming rich plugging into some formula system is the day everyone you know will be rich. The reality is if anything worked like that you couldn't stop it from sweeping the country. No one would be poor anymore...and I guess the new poor would be the least rich, right?

Bottom line, buy this book. If you use the principles, formulas and concepts Maria teaches you, you will indeed make a lot more money than you are now. If it sits on a shelf gathering dust waiting for the someday you are going to use some of the stuff it won't make you one single cent.

Creating a Profitable Catalog: Everything You Need to Know to Create a Catalog That Sells

Average customer rating:

Good direct marketing reference
Just About Everything You Need to Know
The ultimate handbook of catalog selling
Don't start a Catalog until you've read this book!!!
Comprehensive Overview

Creating a Profitable Catalog: Everything You Need to Know to Create a Catalog That Sells
Jack Schmid
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0658000640

Book Description

"Jack's in-depth knowledge of the catalog market and his exceptional talent for articulating a precise set of how-tos for seemingly every aspect of this complex business are unrivaled. . . . A masterful volume of a highly complex and challenging topic, written by one of the best catalog consultants around." -- Laura Beaudry, Editorial Director Catalog Age "Creating a Profitable Catalog is a comprehensive guide to modern-day cataloging. It includes up-to-the-minute information on concept and creative development, design and production, merchandising, circulation planning, database marketing, operations, and financial management. All of these topics are analyzed in intricate and careful detail as author Jack Schmid guides the reader through every step of building a successful catalog--either in print or on-line. This is a must-have for any aspiring cataloger's library and a welcome addition to the bookshelves of catalog industry veterans. Praise for Creating a Profitable Catalog by Jack Schmid "Jack Schmid is one of this country's best catalog marketers, and he has packed this book full of detailed, practical know-how on each and every aspect of cataloging. This book is important to anyone already working in our industry, but it is indispensable for someone just getting into the business." -- Bill Spaide, Partner Spaide, Kuipers & Company "I consider Jack Schmid to be the number one catalog strategist of our time. His magnificent new book, Creating a Profitable Catalog, is a treasure chest that starts with the year 2000 and goes beyond." -- Bob Stone, Chairman Emeritus Stone & Adler Author of the bestselling Successful Direct Marketing Methods

Customer Reviews:

Good direct marketing reference.......2007-06-14

This is a great book for understanding all aspects of creating a Direct Marketing company or a direct marketing program within your company. The basics and then some are in this book. Well written in that it kept my attention from new ideas and way it was written.

Just About Everything You Need to Know.......2005-08-14

Virtually every company that makes things has to ahve a catalog. It's the thing that tells your customers what you do and gives them the detailed information that they need to make a decision.

Catalogs began with the mail order industry where the technology grew to measure sales return per square inch of paper. Over time, the professionals learned what worked and what didn't. Then when everything was working pretty well, the Internet came along and changed all the rules. All of a sudden space was endless, no more big checks to the printers. Communications was essentially free, no more big checks to the post office. The rules changed because the option to thumb through the catalog was no longer there. Instead sophisticated search and discover techniques needed to be worked out.

Jack Schmid has been in the catalog business, both print and electronic for many years. In this book he passes along dozens, if not hundreds of points. The book covers quite a lot of ground. Much of the book is on the functions that have to be performed whether the catalog is printed, electronic or both. This includs things like product selection, fullfillment, customer service and finance. There is a goodly amount of material on the printed version of the catalog, as these are still required by most companies. There are several points interspersed throughout the book and finally chapters on things like database marketing, the Internet, and more.

This is one of the most all inclusive books available on catalog marketing and includes just about everything there is to know.

The ultimate handbook of catalog selling.......2004-07-29

If you want to read only one book on the catalog business, make sure you pick this one.

I've read more than 5 books in English and German on the catalog subject and Schmid's book is in a class of its own.

It promises to cover the entire catalog process, including strategic planning, merchandising, creative, marketing (circulation), fulfillment, testing, and measuring response and ROI. And it delivers on the promise to an extend that I've never seen before. I spend this summer in Cannes, France, and enjoyed Schmid's book in the hot sun. Just couldn't put it aside...

His 11 pages long spreadsheet model in appendix includes everything for a new catalog start-up feasibility study ... and provides insight for the budgeting process to more experienced catalogers. [Why doesn't he provide a downloadable version in Excel on his homepage?]

The only competitor to this book is probably Katie Muldoon's 1995-publication, which is out of print (her home page says that a new book on the strategic aspects of catalogs is forthcoming).

One weakness that all books on cataloging have so far is their unserious treatment of the Internet. Schmid's book is from 2000 and it shows. It doesn't contain solid work on dynamic publishing, which is exploding via the Internet these years. It's not that Schmid doesn't accept that the Internet will be a phenomenal factor, but in this area so much of the catalog processes have been digitized since 2000. Thus, on this promise it doesn't deliver.

I still recommend this book as the best source so far to understanding all the catalog processes and hints to improving the bottom-line.

Peter Leerskov,
MSc in International Business (Marketing & Management) and Graduate Diploma in E-business

Don't start a Catalog until you've read this book!!!.......2002-11-06

This is such a great book for a company that is starting a Catalog business or thinking about it. It covers all aspects of the Catalog business and gives you a checklist of all the necessary tasks to launching a successful catalog. Great book...

Comprehensive Overview.......2002-01-18

A wonderful overview of the catalog world with plenty of real-world examples including: ROI calculations, promotions, customer segmentation.....
Worth its wieght in gold!

Average customer rating:

OK
Terrific tools for beating writer's block
If you write anything, buy this book.
more words that sell
Good companion

More Words That Sell
Richard Bayan
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Communications | Skills | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

Phrases That Sell : The Ultimate Phrase Finder to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas
Words that Sell, revised and expanded edition
Words That Sell
The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells
The Irresistible Offer: How to Sell Your Product or Service in 3 Seconds or Less

ASIN: 0071418539

Book Description

A companion to the bestselling Words that Sell, the next definitive advertising word-and phase book

More Words That Sell is packed with 3,500high-powered, idea-generating words, phrases, and slogans, arranged by category and purpose (example categories include Power Words, Sounds, Technology, Youth Market, and dozens more). Containing checklists and other helpful features like its bestselling predecessor Words That Sell--but with literally no overlapping words--it will be valuable for devotees of that classic book and new fans.

More Words That Sell includes:

Power words for heightening impact
Positive personal qualities for selling oneself
Cliche's to avoid
Color names beyond just red, white, blue, yellow, etc.
Words that reflect current trends in popular culture

With all words reflecting current use in advertising and media, and sections covering internet marketing and advertising, More Words That Sell will be a must-have word and-phrase reference for writers of all types.

Customer Reviews:

OK.......2007-09-30

Good for copywriters. It is literally just a book full of different types of words and phrases. Not really an exciting read but I guess if you're searching for a certain phrase this might help.

Terrific tools for beating writer's block.......2007-07-28

As a professional copywriter, I've often found myself stuck on the same few words and phrases. When I need a fresh idea I regularly turn to this book. It's a great way to beat writer's block, or find words that hit just the right tone and voice when you write.

Sure, some folks complain the lists are obvious, simple or too salesy. But when you have to write a lot, or you don't write very often, both this and the companion book Words that Sell, are worth their weight in gold.

If you write anything, buy this book........2007-03-30

This book along with the original "Words That Sell" are always within arms reach of my keyboard. It is the best thesaurus. Highly recommended. With such a low price tag is is very easy to recoup your minimal investment. It can be used with all kinds of correspondence, ads, memos, resumes, even personal ads. Don't hesitate, just buy it. It's great, magnificent, spectacular, sensational, awesome, marvelous, ...

more words that sell.......2006-03-09

This book is a great asset and reference for students in my role as an educator / lecturer in marketing

Good companion.......2005-09-21

If the wording of this is very close to my review of "Words That Sell" by the same author, that's because they're both good, and very similar, books - both very useful if you're in selling or marketing. Generally based on common sense, with minimum hype, and arranged in chapters that make it easy to zero in on what you need. The additional sections, on copywriting for example, and the appendices are pretty useful too. Both sit on my desk now and are referred to almost daily. Recommended.

Average customer rating:

Terrific tool for beating writer's block
I feel like I'm cheating--ethically and legally
WORDS THAT SELL
GREAT marketing tool
Very Helpful (but a little dated)

Words That Sell
Richard Bayan
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Phrases That Sell : The Ultimate Phrase Finder to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas
More Words That Sell
The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells
Triggers: 30 Sales Tools you can use to Control the Mind of your Prospect to Motivate, Influence and Persuade.
Advertising Secrets of the Written Word: The Ultimate Resource on How to Write Powerful Advertising Copy from One of America's Top Copywriters and Mail Order Entrepreneurs

ASIN: 0809247992

Book Description

"A thesaurus that works as hard as you do . . . you'll wonder how you ever managed without it." -- Advertising Age Listing more than 2,500 high-powered words, phrases, and slogans, Words That Sell is the ultimate reference for anyone who needs instant access to the key words that make the difference in selling. Arranged by category for handy reference, it covers everything from "snappy transitions" to "knocking the competition," from "grabbers" to "clinchers." There are 62 ways to say "exciting" alone; 57 variations on "reliable"! Whether you are selling ideas or widgets, Words That Sell guarantees the expert sales professional an expanded, rejuvenated repertoire and the novice a feeling of confidence. Features:

Cross-referencing of word categories to stimulate creative thinking
Advice on targeting words to your specific market
Tips on word usage
A thorough index
A concise copywriting primer
A special section on selling yourself

The first real improvement to the thesaurus since Roget, Words That Sell is an indispensable guide to helping you find great words fast.

Customer Reviews:

Terrific tool for beating writer's block.......2007-07-28

If you struggle with writer's block, or have trouble hitting just the right tone and voice when you write, pick up this handy thesaurus. Some people say the lists are obvious, simple or overly salesy. But then again, that's easy to say when you aren't the one facing a blank page.

Having spent years as a professional copywriter, I find this, and the companion book More Words that Sell, invaluable.

The beauty of these books is that they don't just include descriptive words, they give you whole phrases you can use to speak to a particular target audience. So think of this as a great place to start when you're drawing a blank and need to stimulate some fresh words, phrases or ideas.

I feel like I'm cheating--ethically and legally .......2007-06-14

If you've ever struggled to find a better way to say "big" or "beautiful" or "fun," and you've found yourself staring at the computer screen, those frustrating days are over.

This book is like a thesaurus on steroids, specifically for those of us who need to write things like sales copy, website copy, even office memos.

As a publicity expert, I find this particularly useful for press releases, as well as for sales copy at my website.

I love the chapters devoted to transition phrases, calls to action, the P.S., and phrases to help people order. You won't find this stuff in any thesaurus.

The front of the book includes a crash course in copywriting.

WORDS THAT SELL.......2006-03-09

This book is a great asset and reference for students in my role as an educator / lecturer in marketing

GREAT marketing tool.......2006-02-25

I highly recommend this for anyone who is marketing a product or service, especially if you write sales copy or sales letters. It is very easy to use, indexed and categorized to make it simple to find the perfect words for your needs. This is NOT a text on how to write ads, and it IS an absolute must-have resource for anyone doing ads.
Good luck with it!
Respectfully,
Liz Kennedy
www.WarriorInsights.com
www.ModernWarrior.com

Very Helpful (but a little dated).......2006-02-17

As a copywriter I needed something like this long before I knew it existed. No good copywriter would just regurgitate from the pages verbatim, but it provides inspiration and gets you out of copy traps.

Only one complaint - there are some pretty silly entries in here. I suppose that's why there's a sequel. I was looking in the Stylish section and found the word (i kid you not) Outasight! (with exclamation point).

But most of the language is pretty relevant. Buy this if you're a copywriter and think you've used the same tired words too many times.

The Online Copywriter's Handbook : Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells

Average customer rating:

Too many copywriting rules, not enough tech.
Bly has great experience and helpful hints
Weak, Lacking Depth and Dated material
Out of date...
Home Businesses Need This Book!

The Online Copywriter's Handbook : Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells
Robert W. Bly
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Web Marketing | Business & Culture | Computers & Internet | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

The Copywriter's Handbook, Third Edition: A Step-By-Step Guide To Writing Copy That Sells
Web Copy That Sells: The Revolutionary Formula for Creating Killer Copy Every Time
Phrases That Sell : The Ultimate Phrase Finder to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas
Net Words: Creating High-Impact Online Copy
Secrets of a Freelance Writer, Second Edition: How To Make $85,000 A Year

ASIN: 0658020994

Book Description

The Web has developed its own set of rules and attitudes for writing hard-hitting marketing copy. Robert Bly's The Online Copywriter's Handbook is the first practical and authoritative guide to what exactly those rules are and how they differ from writing for print audiences. From novices just taking their first copywriting steps to veterans looking to add impact and results to their online efforts, it covers everything from general fundamentals of writing effective copy to specific Web copywriting tips and traps.

Customer Reviews:

Too many copywriting rules, not enough tech........2006-12-31

This book was very similar to Bly's previous books which went through the basic tenets of copywriting. He does a great job of transferring the "writing to sell" principles to web pages in this book, but I wish he would have touched more on the technical aspects. Many writers are looking to learn how to approach writing for Flash or any new web language of the day... and we need something that brings us into that territory. With this book, it was close but no cigar.

Bly has great experience and helpful hints.......2006-02-17

Learning to write content for an effective website is crucial for any business or organization. Not only does Bly recommend good writing practices, he also describes the best way to design and market your website. This book is a credible source and a helpful resource for anyone pursuing web content development.

I especially thought that the tips in the first half of the book regarding web writing fundamentals and practices were very helpful. And, although the data may have been out of date, the principles still apply. Bly also provided several good websites throughout the book that would help any beginning web designer in their quest for the perfect website.

Weak, Lacking Depth and Dated material.......2005-01-02

I've read many books in this segment and I would strongly recommend reading Hot Text: Web Writing that Works or Networds. Robert Bly is a "print guy" that thought it would be interesting to write a book on electronic copy. I would say that the first half of the book is written by supposed experts in on-line marketing. The book is crowded with all sorts of references to other people's work. This leads to a very choppy style of reading in my opinion. The author uses case studies from work that he has already completed but rarely does the content match the electronic world. For a book that is written in 2003, the data is incredibly dated. The author is comfortable with using data from 1996 in a book that talks about the ever changing environment of On-Line marketing. Most of the data regarding internet statistics was incredibly dated. The author talks about the principals of good copy writing but rarely goes into any depth with regards to examples of the principals. I found the writing to be lazy to say the least. Clearly this author is capitalizing on the interest of electronic copy. Take out the experts that know about on-line marketing, you're left with an incredibly weak book. Although there are is a lot of expert reference, rarely do the experts go into any depth with regards to their arguments or points. If this book is the only book that you are exposed to within this segment; you might be left thinking that you read an average book. When you compare the book to other books in the same segment, it simply doesn't compare. Not a good book.

Out of date..........2004-01-15

This book is totally out of date for 2003 and 2004!

Home Businesses Need This Book!.......2003-11-25

Every online business needs to understand how it can improve its appearance on the world wide web and Bly shows us how to do just that. This is a great book for small and home businesses who want to take their websites to the next level. And a great book for the beginning copywriter who wants to learn the ropes. My only regret is that it doesn't go as extensively into copywriting techniques as I had hoped.

The Big Book of Real Estate Ads: 1001 Ads That Sell

Average customer rating:

Paid for itself in 63 days.

The Big Book of Real Estate Ads: 1001 Ads That Sell
William H. Pivar , and Bradley A. Pivar
Manufacturer: Real Estate Education Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Sales | Real Estate | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Advertising | Marketing & Sales | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

2,001 Winning Ads for Real Estate
Real Estate Advertising Made Easy
Power Real Estate Letters (Power Real Estate Letters: Letters, E-Mails, & More to Meet All Busi)
Five Minutes to a Great Real Estate Letter: A Desk Reference for Top-Selling Agents (with CD-ROM)
How to Farm Successfully--By Mail

ASIN: 0793114306

Customer Reviews:

Paid for itself in 63 days........2003-05-21

The creative ad ideas contained herein caused me to close a sale
in 63 days. (She liked my cute ad) $3108 later... Daytona here I come.

Average customer rating:

Read the Title
Don't buy this book
Designing Direct Mail That Sells - This Book Really Sells
Practical and Useful Information
Definitely NOT the book I have been waiting for!

Designing Direct Mail That Sells
Sandra J. Blum
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Marketing | Promotion | HOWdesign Studio | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

2,239 Tested Secrets For Direct Marketing Success : The Pros Tell You Their Time-Proven Secrets
Response: The Complete Guide to Profitable Direct Marketing
Direct Mail Pal: A Direct Mail Production Handbook
Direct Mail for Dummies
Direct Marketing Techniques: Building Your Business Using Direct Mail and Direct Response Advertising (Crisp Fifty-Minute Books)

ASIN: 0891348271

Customer Reviews:

Read the Title.......2002-12-12

The two reviewers who say "not cutting edge", "filled with junk mail I get everyday", "no creative ideas" obviously miss the point. Designing Direct Mail that Sells is exactly about why the junk mail you get everyday brings in billions of dollars in sales every year and how to do that kind of direct mail. It is about the mail hundreds of companies and publishers do, test in the market, and pay designers quite handsomely for. It is not about "cutting edge" design that wins design awards or the newest trends. What it is about, very simply, is understanding how to create everyday direct mail that actually gets people to respond and buy something. You can stick up your nose at it, but you can't just dismiss it.

Don't buy this book.......2002-08-10

This has got to be the worst "graphic design" book I have ever seen. It showcases designers and their various works, and you have to wonder, did they even go to art school? I seriously thought it was a joke that the author thought their work was so "cutting edge." I guarantee no designer would want this book. In fact, I would do anything to get my money back, but I guess that's what happens when you buy books online.

To those who praise this book, you must be a suit trying to design yourself. TRUST ME - HIRE A DESIGNER, cause if you think the designs in this book look good, then you need help or better taste.

Just because it's direct mail doesn't mean it has to look BAD!!!!!!!!

Designing Direct Mail That Sells - This Book Really Sells.......1999-12-25

I've been involved in Direct Response Mail for many years. Sure wish I had this when I started. Would have saved me headaches, frustration and money.

Now that I've learned from hard knocks, I find this book just as useful, as a reminder, as a fine tuner and as a classic illustration of right and wrong, what to do and what to avoid.

Practical and Useful Information.......1999-12-15

"Designing Direct Mail That Sells" offers practical advice, tips for success, plenty of definitions, plus a great collection of samples and sources for inspiration. Written by a direct mail specialist with many years in the business, this book is for people actually working in the trenches.

Blum explains the "whys" and "hows" behind bursts and stickers; how to test a direct mail piece; creating an effective package, envelope, response card and brochure; and designing self-mailers and 3-D or oversized pieces. She also defines such direct mail lingo as "lift letters," "freemiums," etc.

Even more edifying are the book's sidebars, which provide advice from direct mail specialists, test and design tips, formatting advice and other valuable tricks.

Definitely NOT the book I have been waiting for!.......1999-10-29

If you have ever received junk mail you don't need this book. This particular books profiles typical forms of junk mail every person receives daily at home and at work. There is absoultely no creative ideas or techniques represented in the pages, rather obvious observations make up each chapter (i.e. "Sex sells"). I have found that keeping all of the direct mail peices I receive and noting what caught my attention is cheaper, less time consuming, and more effective than this book.

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