You’ve got the website. The offers. The social posts. Maybe even the email list. You’re doing all the things, and yet… crickets. The clicks aren’t clicking, the sales aren’t selling, and you’re starting to wonder if your audience is actually just a bunch of very polite ghosts who appreciate your efforts but have no intention of buying.
First, take a deep breath. This is frustrating but fixable. Let’s talk about why your copy might not be pulling its weight—and how to turn those copywriting mistakes around.
1. It’s Not Clear (Like, at All)
If your audience has to do mental gymnastics to figure out what you’re selling, they’ll move on faster than you can say, “Wait, let me explain!” Of all the copywriting mistakes, confusing copy is at the top of the list. Clarity trumps cleverness every time. Are you burying your main point under too much fluff? Is your messaging consistent across your website, emails, and ads? If not, it’s time for a little copy decluttering.
Quick Fix:
Ask yourself: If a stranger landed on this page, would they immediately know what I do and how it helps them? If the answer is, “Um… probably?” then nope. Time to simplify.
Example:
Imagine you sell eco-friendly cleaning products, but your homepage headline is: “Revolutionizing the Future of Home Care.” Sounds impressive but means… what, exactly?
Instead, try something direct: “Non-Toxic Cleaners That Actually Work (and Smell Amazing Too).” Boom. Clarity.
2. It’s Talking About You (Not Them)
Harsh truth: No one cares about your company’s backstory as much as they care about what’s in it for them. If your copy is full of “we” statements—We offer the best solutions! We are innovators! We love long walks on the beach!—you’re missing the mark.
Quick Fix:
Flip the script. Make your audience the hero. Instead of “We offer top-tier consulting services,” try “You’ll get expert guidance that saves you time and stress.” See the difference?
Example:
Instead of: “We’ve been in business for 15 years and take pride in our work.”
Try: “For 15 years, we’ve helped businesses like yours grow with compelling, high-converting copy.”
3. It’s Missing Emotion or Personality
Nobody wants to read something that sounds like a term paper written by a robot who just discovered marketing jargon. If your copy feels stiff, dry, or just plain forgettable, your audience won’t connect with it (or you).
Quick Fix:
Inject some warmth, humor, or storytelling. You don’t have to be a stand-up comedian, but a little personality goes a long way.
Example:
Which one sounds more fun to read?
- Option A: “We provide industry-leading software solutions to optimize workflow.”
- Option B: “Our software takes the headache out of managing your workflow—so you can get back to the fun stuff (like lunch breaks that aren’t interrupted by emails).”
Go with Option B. Every time.
4. It’s Asking for Too Much, Too Soon
Imagine meeting someone for the first time and immediately asking them to move in with you. That’s what it feels like when your copy jumps straight to “BUY NOW” without any buildup. People need a reason to trust you first.
Quick Fix:
Use softer CTAs like “Learn More” or “Get the Free Guide” before hitting them with the big ask. Warm them up before the proposal.
Example:
Instead of: “Sign up for our premium plan today!”
Try: “Start your free trial—no credit card required.” (Feels way less pushy.)
5. It’s Not Optimized for Skimmers (AKA, Everyone)
Hate to break it to you, but most people don’t read every word of your beautifully crafted copy. They skim. If your text is just a massive wall of words, they’ll bounce faster than a toddler on a sugar high.
Quick Fix:
Use headlines, bullet points, and short paragraphs. Make your key points easy to spot, so even the busiest reader gets the message.
Example:
Instead of: “Our company provides high-quality, durable, and sustainable office furniture that is designed to enhance productivity and comfort in the modern workplace. We focus on ergonomics, affordability, and long-lasting materials.”
Try:
- Durable, stylish office furniture that lasts
- Ergonomically designed for all-day comfort
- Sustainable materials that don’t cost the earth
6. Your CTA (Call to Action) Is Weak or Missing
Let’s be real—if you’re not telling people what to do next, they’re not going to magically figure it out. Your CTA needs to be clear, compelling, and easy to find.
Quick Fix:
Make sure every page has a clear next step. Use action-oriented language like “Get Started,” “Download Now,” or “Book a Call.”
Example:
Instead of: “Contact us for more information.” (Yawn.)
Try: “Let’s chat! Schedule your free 15-minute consultation now.”
7. You’re Forgetting Social Proof
People trust other people more than they trust brands. If you’re not using testimonials, case studies, or data to back up your claims, you’re missing out on a huge credibility booster. Start asking past and current clients for their feedback and you’ll fix the last of these copywriting mistakes in no time.
Quick Fix:
Add real customer testimonials, case studies, or even stats that prove your product/service works.
Example:
Instead of: “We help businesses grow.”
Try: “Last year, our clients increased their conversion rates by an average of 37%.” (See? More convincing.)
The Bottom Line?
If your copy isn’t converting, it’s probably not because people hate your business. These copywriting mistakes just mean that something isn’t clicking yet. A few tweaks, a little clarity, and a dash of personality can make all the difference. And if you need a pro to help? You know where to find me.
