As a business owner or entrepreneur, you’ve likely heard of the concept of copy vs content.
Often, these terms are used interchangeably; however, there is actually a stark difference between the two that you need to become familiar with. If you’re like most business owners, you’ll probably outsource your writing to a professional.
But don’t let that absolve you of the responsibility of at least gaining a general understanding of the types of writing that contribute to the success of your business.
Copy vs Content: What’s The Difference?
Copywriting and content writing serve two vastly different purposes when it comes to digital marketing. So, let’s explore both of them in a little more detail.
Copywriting
Copywriting is the language of sales.
In fact, it’s often referred to as “Salesmanship in print.” And even though that term is a bit dated (almost everything is digital nowadays), it’s still an accurate description of copywriting. A copywriter is the equivalent of a text-based salesperson. They use persuasion tactics, psychological triggers, storytelling, and sales techniques to influence readers to take a specific action.
Copy is everywhere:
- Emails
- Sales pages
- Banner ads
- Web copy
- Billboard ads
- Book cover text
- Product descriptions
- VSLs (Video sales letters)
You’re never more than a few feet away from a piece of copy at any given time. And it’s all designed to get you to take action.
Whether the goal is to get you to subscribe to an email list, book a discovery call, purchase a product, or anything in between, the job of a copywriter is to get you to respond in some way.
Content Writing
Content writing is more about relationship building.
You help your market solve its biggest pain points with valuable and relevant content—this creates goodwill with your audience while establishing trust and credibility.
Content writing is tasked with educating, entertaining, and inspiring your reader. This is critical to creating connections with people so that, when it comes time to buy, that all-important know, like, and trust factor has been established.
Some examples of content writing include:
- Blog posts
- Articles
- Ebooks
- Newsletters
- Video scripts
- White papers
- Social media posts
You can think of content writing as the strategic method of “keeping your audience warm” so that when you’re ready to sell them something, they’re ready to buy it.
A business that only sells, sells, sells (copywriting) and does nothing to build relationship and foster goodwill with its audience (content writing) is the equivalent of that “friend” who only comes around when they want something from you.
You know the one… Don’t be that guy (or gal).
Why Both Copy And Content Are Important
Copywriting and content writing complement each other.
They work in unison to serve as the lifeline to your business. For example, you won’t have much of a business if you don’t sell or market your products and services. That’s where copywriting comes into play. Conversely, people will be hesitant to become customers if they don’t like and trust you. And that’s where content writing can be of value.
So when we talk about copy vs content, understand that both are important for any business.
Next Step: Take Your Business To The Next Level With Copy And Content Writing
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level with expert copy and content writing, I can help.
I’ve written for brands and businesses around the world. Moreover, I specialize in copywriting with the added benefit of an extensive background as a content writer. Whether you need a sales page, emails, or SEO-optimized blogs, I’m here to guide you through the process.