Did you know that bad grammar can actually cost you business? 💸

It’s true. One study found that businesses with mistakes on their websites lose almost double the number of potential customers as those with typo-free sites.

That’s just one reason grammar and copywriting are critical to your business success.

In this fun (and nerdy) Brands That Book podcast episode, I chat with Davey Jones about:

• Why flawless copywriting is essential to your brand image (and sales)
• The most common grammatical errors I see creative entrepreneurs make
• 5 ways to prevent these mistakes and write better, more polished copy
• How to know when you CAN break the writing “rules”

Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, or wherever you listen to podcasts!

(If nothing else, tune in to learn why you maaay want to update your online dating profile. 😉 I explain why around the 11:02 mark!)

Why Good Grammar Is Essential for Business Owners

1. It makes or breaks a first impression. A bad typo (or series of typos) can be an immediate turn-off for your potential clients or customers. Polished writing shows them you’re professional right off the bat.
2. It makes you look credible. Sloppy copy makes you look lazy, incompetent, and/or ignorant. Professional copy helps build trust with your audience.
3. It creates clarity in your communication. Poorly written copy can cause confusion about your offer. Well-written copy helps you answer questions before they’re asked.
4. It protects your brand image. Consistent errors can damage your reputation as a creative entrepreneur. Spotless copy shows you pay attention to detail in all areas of your business.
5. It earns you more business. Copywriting mistakes literally turn people away from your business by increasing your bounce rate and decreasing your click-through rate. On the other hand, error-free writing can earn you more promotions in the workplace.

How to Prevent Writing Mistakes in Your Copy

1. Brush up on your grammar knowledge. Start by subscribing to my copywriting newsletter, The Weekly Wink!
2. Write first, edit later. Stop self-editing while you’re creating. Take a break, and return to the copy with fresh eyes.
3. Put the copy in a different context. Read it out loud or paste it into a different text editor to catch potential errors.
4. Get a second set of eyes on it. Ideally, hire a copywriter; if that’s not feasible, ask someone else to proofread your copy.
5. Do regular copy audits. Review your website copy and other evergreen content at least once a year.

6 Editing Tips to Stop Making Mistakes in Your Marketing Copy

You CAN Break the Writing “Rules” — Sometimes.

You have to know the rules before you can break them. That’s what Picasso said (supposedly).

Here’s the thing: I’m not always a stickler for grammar. In fact, I think there are some times when deviating from the writing “rules” can actually improve the message.

Want to add a comma to create a “pause” effect? Go for it — as long as you know what you’re doing (and do it sparingly!).

Want to learn more ways to become a better writer, so you can improve your brand image, boost your confidence, and ultimately make more money?

Subscribe to my copywriting newsletter for creative entrepreneurs, The Weekly Wink, today!