opinion

Copy Is Still King

Well... maybe traffic is -- but what gets traffic and what converts it? Copy writing does. We forget that all too often and often write very poor copy. “What stands out in your ad when a reader is perusing the newspaper or scanning a Website? Far too often, it’s your company name or your fancy logo. The rule of thumb for a written ad is to grab the reader’s attention first — with a compelling headline and a supporting sub-headline — then provide details elsewhere in the ad or provide an easy way for them to get more free information.”

Writing effective ad or website copy is a big topic and you will find a lot written about it, but a good introductory article is by Alexandria Brownwho briefly covers 10 keys to copy that sells:

  • Be reader-centered, not writer-centered.
  • Focus on the benefits — not just the features.
  • Draw them in with a killer headline.
  • Use engaging subheads.
  • Be conversational.
  • Nix the jargon.
  • Keep it brief and digestible.
  • Use testimonials when possible.
  • Ask for the order!
  • Have your copy proofread!

Not to be outdone by a girl, Neil Sagebiel offers no less than 66 similar tips, and you can get all of them here. One of the best quick introductions is Gail Goodman who outlines the ten commandments of good copy writing. You won't go to Hell if you don't follow them – but your copy will not do its job either.

Other Resources

Ghost in the Machine

If They Snooze You Lose

Click here to mail me for sensible processing options to boost your bottom line and opportunities for branding and marketing exposure.

Click Here for Additional Help Starting or Improving Your Online Business

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

How to Optimize Subscription Billing for Compliance and Stability

The Federal Trade Commission’s “click to cancel” rule is coming back around. Last year, a federal appeals court vacated the FTC’s Negative Option Rule, aimed at addressing deceptive or unfair practices and making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions.

Jonathan Corona ·
opinion

Tips for Turning Content Into PR Impact for Sexual Wellness Brands

Public relations was never intended to generate immediate revenue. It is a strategic tool for building brand visibility. However, one of the most valuable services offered by full-service PR agencies is often underutilized: content creation.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

Key Strategies for Streamlining Payment Processing Approval

Why is it taking so long to get my account approved? It's frustrating for everyone involved, but it's all part of the process. Over the past year, timelines have stretched to 60 days or more for merchants to complete onboarding, from internal compliance review to banking partner approval and final card brand registration.

Cathy Beardsley ·
opinion

How Female Shoppers Are Setting the Pace for Retail

Not long ago, walking into an adult store often felt like stepping into the shadows. Dim lighting, overwhelming product displays and a transactional experience made many of these spaces unwelcoming. For many women, these environments were not designed with comfort, curiosity or empowerment in mind.

Chelsea Mani ·
opinion

What to Know About Alabama's Regulatory Push on Adult Content

Over the past two years, Alabama has quietly but aggressively transformed itself into one of the most restrictive and unfriendly jurisdictions for the adult entertainment industry. Through the enactment of House Bill 164 and related enforcement mechanisms, the state has layered taxation, compliance burdens and content restrictions in a way that goes far beyond traditional regulation.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

How AI Is Turning Adult Retailers Into Developers, No Degree Required

Every long relationship with software hits a point where you realize the tool isn’t exactly what you need. It does what the vendor assumes you need, often created by engineers who have never counted units in a stockroom or looked at countless stockouts and wondered which ones really matter.

Zondre Watson ·
opinion

Why Discretion Has Been the Defining Force in India's Sex Toy Market

One of Besharam’s earliest customers contacted us three times before placing an order. Not about the product, but about the packaging. “Will anyone know what’s inside?”

Raj Armani ·
profile

Joey Mills Harnesses Demon Twink Energy Into Industry Staying Power

On the surface, Joey Mills might seem like one of gay porn’s quentessential bad boys. He plays a snarky scamp seducing stepdads as a Men.com exclusive and leans into villainy on the Daddy TV reality show “X-Rated: NYC." And yet, despite being a highly recognizable face in the industry, he comes across as grounded, affable and self-aware in a way you might not expect

Christian Cintron ·
opinion

How to Pivot Platforms Without Disrupting Your Income

As a creator, you must inevitably navigate the constantly changing terms of service, regulations and financial systems of various platforms. Those platforms host your content at their own discretion, so deplatforming is always a possibility.

Sara Star ·
profile

Julie Stewart on Leading Sportsheets While Honoring Its Family Roots

When Sportsheets founder Tom Stewart retired at the start of 2020, he left the company in the capable hands of his sister, Julie Stewart. Since taking over as CEO, she has guided Sportsheets through an era of transformation, resilience and renewed purpose.

Ariana Rodriguez ·
Show More