20 Easy Ways to Write Better for Business: Bits of wisdom from a copywriter — now available instantly on Kindle!

Scott’s Blog

White paper case studies deliver powerful performance in marketing

a white paper case study

White paper case studies make good subjects for marketing white papers. One of the most effective uses for white paper is to use them to share the simple yet remarkably powerful tool known as the white paper case study. What is a case study? In simple terms, a case study is a matter of telling … Read more

Bullet points rarely hit the target

bullet points

When creating a website, a brochure, or an ad, many people believe the only thing that matters is the raw facts. “Nobody has time for fluff,” they insist. Given their insistence on using fact-based material, they choose to use brief bullet points instead of sentences and paragraphs. I won’t argue that bullet points are certainly … Read more

Social media and white papers: a powerful pair

social media and white papers

Social media and white papers make a natural combination. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and effect way to promote your white paper, consider using your social media channels. Social media and white papers reach audiences Many businesses that use social media find it challenging to generate relevant and interesting content to post. Your white … Read more

Deceit is a lousy way to start business relationships

Long ago, Sir Walter Scott penned some advice today’s business leaders would be wise to remember: “Oh, what a tangled web we weave/When first we practice to deceive!” That quote came to mind after a greeting-card envelope appeared in this week’s mail. No return address, no stamp, just a colorful envelope. I slit it open … Read more

Tell me why I should like your page

social media icons

As social media grows, all sorts of companies and organizations have been trying to court followers. You probably receive solicitations through Facebook and other platforms asking you to like their pages, follow them, or take whatever action fits the specific channel. Visit a store or a restaurant, and you’ll see the same. I drove past … Read more

White paper writer needed even if others can write

white paper writer tools

It’s not unusual to see postings on industry message boards and social media saying, “white paper writer needed.” Often it’s because company marketing executives or sales leaders ask their teams to write white papers to share important information with key stakeholders, and the teams realize there’s a better way. Why is a white paper writer … Read more

Differentiate your business by fulfilling your promises

fingers crossed

If you’re looking for a powerful way to differentiate your company from your competitors, I have a simple suggestion: just fulfill your promises. I know that sounds ridiculously simple, but recent experiences with companies that depend upon top-notch service to draw repeat business have convinced me that far too many organizations see promises as tactics … Read more

More media mistakes and mishaps

It’s time once again to present some typos and other amusing mishaps that appeared in the media. I don’t poke fun at individuals for making mistakes, but professionals should know better. All three of these examples involve the use of the wrong word. In each, the writer chose a homophone of the intended word, and … Read more