11 Micro-copywriting tactics that will help you sell more

In this blog post, dedicated to the power of micro-copywriting, we already explained how micro-texts can have a really surprising effect on your online store performance. If you are still not convinced about why you need to leverage micro-copy, then it’s a good idea to first read the article above, then come back, so you can get familiar with the best tactics when it comes to micro-copywriting.

In a sense, the previous article is the “why” of micro-copywriting, this one is the “how”, so without further ado, let’s dive deeper into the micro-copywriting best practices.

Micro-copywriting best practices

With micro-copy, you should remember one main idea - each piece of micro-copy contributes to the overall user experience, so every word counts. Every small text moves the visitors closer to the main goal - to transform them into clients. 

1. Write clear and “sharp” copy

Above all else, make sure your message is clear. Make sure your target audience can easily comprehend it. Keep away from jargon, technical terms, or any language that is hard to interpret. Cut it short. Micro-copy is designed to provide information quickly, so don't include words or details that aren't needed. Strive for simplicity, without compromising the message.

2. Use action-oriented Language

Use action verbs to encourage users to take a specific action. For example, instead of "Click here," use "Click here to download your copy of the guide". Always try to put yourself in the user's shoes and find what is the exact next action that they have to take. Don’t forget that one of the main goals of micro-copywriting is to catalyze action.

3. Be context-aware and consistent 

Maintain a consistent tone and voice throughout your micro-copy to create a cohesive user experience. This includes language, style, and branding. Also, make sure the micro-copy is appropriate to the context it appears in. Tailor the message according to what the user is doing or what their situation is. Consider where the user is in their buying process and adjust the language accordingly. At the start, use more instructional language and then as the user progresses, use more stimulating and action-oriented words.

4. Empathy and positive framing

While empathy is not the same as sympathy or positivity, it’s better to apply a combination of both, if you want to write effective micro-copy. Start with building relationships with users by recognizing their requirements and sentiments. Then utilize language that conveys empathy and takes into account their anxieties. Aim to phrase messages with a positive outlook whenever feasible. Rather than emphasizing what users can't do, focus on what they can accomplish.

5. Create urgency in an appropriate way

Using micro-copy is a wonderful way to convey urgency and prompt immediate action. This can be effective for time-sensitive offers or notifications but be careful not to cross the line of appropriateness. Read this article on how to create urgency using countdown timers.

6. Don’t ruin the visual hierarchy

Pay attention to the design and visual hierarchy of the micro-copy. Use formatting, colors, and typography to emphasize important information and not to distract the reader from the main text or design. Remember that micro-copy should be a supplementary tool.

7. Highlight the user’s benefits

A very powerful way to utilize those micro-texts is to use them to clearly communicate the value or benefit users will gain by taking the desired action. 

Pro tip:

A good structure you can experiment with involves emphasizing the features in the titles and then highlighting how these features will benefit the user, solve their problems, or meet their needs.

8. Testing and Iteration are mandatory

Consistently test your micro-copy with actual users to collect feedback and enhance its effectiveness. Even minor adjustments can yield noteworthy results. Use A/B testing to try out various iterations of micro-copy and identify the wording that resonates more effectively with your audience.

9. Error Messages - the perfect use of micro-copywriting

Nobody enjoys seeing an error message on his screen, especially if they are boring. Spend the effort to craft error messages that are helpful, and specific, and guide users toward a solution rather than simply pointing out the problem.

Advanced micro-copy tips, used by seasoned marketers

🎁 Improve your personalization using micro-copywriting (advanced tip)

Use user data to personalize micro-copy when appropriate. Address users by their name or reference their specific actions. This technique is very easy to implement in email marketing. Use the different variables to fine-tune your copy and make it more relevant to your target audience.

🎁 Pair your micro-texts with visuals (advanced tip)

Visual design elements like photos, icons, and illustrations wield undeniable influence. They're swiftly grasped by the human eye, conveying nuanced ideas that words struggle to convey. However, image interpretation diverges greatly compared to text. Factors such as culture, age, gender, and socioeconomic status complicate image understanding. The solution is to use a handful of precisely selected words that can quickly improve clarity and the overall effect of the graphic content.

You are ready to convert your visitors into paying customers with the help of micro-copywriting

In conclusion, mastering the art of micro-copywriting is undoubtedly a strategic asset in the realm of eCommerce. As we've explored throughout this article, these bite-sized pieces of text wield immense influence, steering user experiences and guiding actions in the digital landscape.

By adhering to the best practices outlined here, you're equipped with the tools to craft micro-copy that resonates and engages. Remember, each word holds significance, contributing to the broader narrative you're constructing for your audience. From the clarity of your message to the empathetic framing, from the judicious use of urgency to the integration of visuals, every element we've discussed is an essential thread in the tapestry of effective micro-copywriting.

If you are ready to practice your newly learned persuasion skills, visit this link to learn how our Marketing Suite can help you enhance your communication - both written and visual, and convert more of your audience into clients.