Words: The Last, Best Way to Differentiate Yourself Online

Writing is a subject that doesn't crop up too often at conferences. Why not? ecause writing is not one of the sexy things that happens online. Programming is sexy. Online design is sexy. The technology behind e-mail and e-commerce is sexy.

Usborne, Nick. ClickZ (2001). Articles>Writing>Diction>Web Design

Working as an Independent Contractor

Working for yourself can be a blessing and a curse. Independent contractors ('ICs') enjoy more freedom and control over their work than employees do -- and they can earn more money, too. But they also have to contend with deadbeat clients, self-employment taxes and the higher cost of doing business on their own.

Usborne, Nick. Excess Voice (2002). Careers>Freelance>Legal>Contracts

Write Copy that Directs the Site Visitor Forward

The copy or content on a page often comes to an end without having communicated the need to move forward now.

Usborne, Nick. Excess Voice (2001). Articles>Web Design>Writing

Writing for The Web #1  

This free 35-page guide outlines seven challenges every writer and copywriter faces when writing for the Web.

Usborne, Nick. FreeIQ (2007). Books>Web Design>Writing

Writing Online In Two Syllables or Less

It's often tempting to write with long, complex words. Perhaps it has to do with how we were taught at school. And sometimes we use long words simply to sound clever.

Usborne, Nick. Excess Voice (2003). Articles>Web Design>Writing

The Writing, not the Words

Individual words are simply tools. Similarly, a particular color is a tool to a painter, and a given note to a musician. To write copy while focused on power words is like painting by numbers. You achieve a recognizable outcome with absolutely no creativity or life. No passion, no originality. Copywriting 'by numbers' may be good enough for some people. But if you have aspirations to write great copy, to make your mark -- you need to think beyond that.

Usborne, Nick. ClickZ (2003). Articles>Web Design>Writing>User Centered Design

Your Home Page Is a Direct Response Page

Visitors don't come to our sites to 'browse' or 'surf' - they arrive with a set of questions in their minds. They have a task to achieve. They want to get something done. When a visitor's needs are that specific, you can't afford to ignore those needs and spend your first screen talking about your wonderful company or organization. You don't have time. Your visitors won't allow you the time.

Usborne, Nick. ClickZ (2002). Design>Web Design>User Centered Design

Your Own Content Epiphany

I have learned that nobody believes a word I say about the importance of content and copy on web sites...until their have their own personal epiphany.

Usborne, Nick. Excess Voice (2005). Articles>Web Design>Writing