Words That Work ... or Don't

Does Your Website Grab Online Surfers?

I belong to a LinkedIn group for writers, and a recent discussion related to where members see the most grammatical errors.

The response was nearly unanimous: websites. One writer was particularly harsh when she wrote, “Websites seem to be the gold standard for sloppy writing.”

Your Web site often is your first contact — your first impression — for prospective clients. Consider:

  • Does your site clearly explain in the most concise way what you do?
  • Does your verbiage convey how your product or service can help viewers succeed?
  • Does the writing convey competence, credibility and attention to detail?

Research shows that you have a mere five seconds to grab someone’s attention online — five seconds to tell potential clients what you do and how it can help them make more money, operate more efficiently or improve their lives.

How does your website measure up?

Ruthless Editor follows The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law guidelines for word and punctuation usage. Webster's New World College Dictionary serves as a secondary reference.

If you'd like to receive Kathy's FREE monthly tips on grammar and punctuation, email your request to: contact@ruthlesseditor.com