Start Your Sales Letter To Make MORE Sales!

Using a sales letter is a great way to get the attention of
people that might not otherwise hear about you. Sales letters can
be used as copy for web sites, sent to other businesses that
might have a use for your product or service, or even just
distributed to individuals.

The hardest part about getting a great sales letter, though, is
coming up with fast selling words to sell yourself without
sounding too pushy. One way to get your creative juices flowing
is to simply pick a word and run with it.

All you need to do is let go and see where your thoughts take
you. It doesn't really matter where you start; all that matters is
that you did!

Put your pen on paper and start writing anything that comes to
mind. Don't let your critical voice take over. You're not
allowed to change anything, just write the first thing you think
of.

Think of a blind date. It will probably be awkward, but you will
find SOMETHING to talk about. Writing is exactly the same.

Once you get started, the words start to help you. The page will
create its own rules telling you to know what to write next.

Although good writing begins with a single word, there is
a little more to a sales letter than just letting words leak
across a page. In the past few years, many writers have found
that there are certain types of openings in direct mail that are
more effective than others. These work just as well for email
letters and for web sites.

Here are some of these ideas to keep in mind when you are trying
to structure your opening.

1) State the offer. This is so simple many people never think of
it. Put the offer right at the top of your page in a headline or
bold type. The offer includes the product that is for
sale, its price, the terms of the sale, and the guarantee.

2) Announce it! If you have something new, start your letter
with this important information. Nothing gets attention and
builds excitement like the word NEW. I always put it in all
capitals to give it added excitement.

3) Flatter the reader. There is nothing a customer likes more
than to feel as though they are set apart from "the crowd".
Describe the type of person who would probably be one of your
best customers. Tell why the way they feel, work, think, or play
is important and deserves attention. Use the word "YOU" as often
as you can.

4) Use a provocative quote. Quote a famous person or a customer.
The quote should arouse curiosity. It should make the reader want
to find out more about your product.

After you have your opening, good copy will usually follow suit.
Just remember to use catchy phrases and not over hype the product.
If something seems too good to be true, most people will probably
disregard the offer. Ending with a PS is a nice touch, but
remember that many people read the PS before they read the actual
letter.