Keep selling, but do it ethically

You voted on Instagram Stories last week, so here it is! With so much uncertainty, I want to provide a bit of clarity for all you business owners, freelancers, and solopreneurs. It’s hard enough figuring out what to say on a good day let alone when we can’t rely on typical protocol.⁠

DON’T: Take unethical advantage of the struggle.⁠

Yes, an effective copywriting technique is to push those problem buttons, but this should balance out with your integrity.⁠

Would you kick someone when they’re SERIOUSLY down? Probably not. Human instinct wakes up and goes: Wait a second, maybe this time was too far? Consider your morals and just don’t go too far.⁠

DO: Continue to sell.⁠

Do you have a solution that people need to a problem they still have? Then you’re still relevant and should keep selling, loud and proud.⁠

Gracefully acknowledge the crisis, but then keep stepping one foot in front of the other. Life will go on.⁠

DON’T: Over apologize.

I’ve seen a lot of business owners, specifically online service-based ones that are able to stay open during this time essentially apologizing for being in business right now. You should be proud that you can keep going. This is a good thing!

DO: Deliver on your promises.⁠

We need each other more than ever when the going gets tough and people WILL remember who was there to help when they needed it most. Say what you mean, and deliver what you promise. But you should be doing this regardless of what’s happening in the world, right?⁠

DON’T: Dwell on the negative.

You can acknowledge what’s going on in the news, but you don’t have to let it steal your show. I’d actually recommend tuning it out for most hours of the day so you can focus on getting things done.

DO: Lift up other businesses.

We need each other more than ever now, so use this as an opportunity to give shout outs on your social pages, order takeout from your favourite restaurants, or shop online at your favourite stores.

DON’T: Talk just to talk.

If you want to share your opinion/encourage social distancing, my advice would be to ask yourself: Is it directly related to me or my services?

Ex. As a copywriter, I feel comfortable offering copy/business tips right now. I wouldn’t offer anything health related because that’s not my area of expertise. If you’re in the health + wellness space, that might be a good thing for you to talk about though.

DO: Go easy on each other.

If the current crisis conversation is relevant to your business, try to deliver it a little lighter. Lead with a story or a personal anecdote, move into the lesson/takeaway/call to action, and finish back at your story. It’s a good way to get your point across if you’re worried about being harsh.

And for those of you who prefer to listen, watch the IGTV below…

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A post shared by JILL WISE // COPYWRITER (@wordsbyjill) on Mar 26, 2020 at 10:36am PDT

Was this helpful? Let’s talk about it. Leave your questions and comments below.⁠