Nike said, “Just do it.” Nortel told you to come together. Timex said it takes a licking and keep on ticking. And GE mentioned that it brings good things to life.
Well, good for GE. As far as you’re concerned, you’d probably be happy figuring out how to bring your tagline to life.
Tagline, strapline, slogan… Whatever you choose to call it, it’s all the same. It’s the key phrase that identifies your business by capturing the essence of three elements:
- Your mission
- Your promise
- Your brand
Coming up with a great tagline is a struggle many people face. More often than not, they get it wrong by focusing on what their product or service is and neglecting what it offers.
To capture a reader’s eye at a glance, you need to combine all three elements of mission, promise and brand to create a great tagline that really works. Here’s how:
Step One –Your True Mission
There’s a saying in the copywriting world: Be clear, not clever.
Considering that most of us aren’t the best at coming up with the coolest phrases ever uttered on the face of the Earth, that’s sage advice, especially on the web.
Don’t be cool. In the virtual world, there’s no time for cool. People who don’t know you, your business, your products or your services land on your website. In a fraction of a second, they decide whether to leave or to stay.
Be clear, not clever. Start building a tagline with the purpose of your site. Decide what you have to offer. Are you setting up a blog for marketing tips? Is your website about productivity tools? Do you sell web content? Love songs? Toilet Cleaners?
Pick the focus of your site – and stick with it.
Step Two – So What?
Let’s say your business is iced tea. You sell iced tea mixes, you offer cups, glasses and mugs, and you’re going to have a blog to establish authority as the Iced Tea Emperor.
Your blog’s tagline will probably start something like this: “Iced tea tips…”
And this is where people get jammed. Rockin’ iced tea tips? Great iced tea tips? Iced tea to go?
None of the above. The average visitor that lands on your site doesn’t care. Nothing stands out, nothing seems attractive, nothing compels him to stay.
There’s one fast, easy way to get past this obstacle. Ask yourself this question: “So what?”
The answers you’ll come up with are the benefits a visitor (or potential customer) receives from staying on your site – and that’s important. People always want something. By adding benefits to a tagline, you’re telling people what’s in it for them and what they get from you.
If you’re really smart, use those benefits as selling points throughout your site copy, too. Don’t harp on about how great your product is – tell people what benefits they receive if they buy what you have to sell.
So what are the benefits of iced tea? Iced tea can:
- Help you quench your thirst
- Help you hydrate your body
- Perk you up
- Cool you down
- Leave you feeling refreshed
Benefits are the key to better copy, better sales and better business online.
Step Three: A Little Pizzaz
Alright, so you have your mission and you have your benefits. Now you have to add some branding.
Make your tagline reflect your business image. Differentiate yourself from the competition. Your business has a personality, so show it. Give people a little taste of your business’s brand in your tagline.
Let’s say your iced tea business is a little Zen-like. You like to promote tea as relaxing. You want people to enjoy a quieter life. Your website colors are pale and fresh, and even your blog’s tone seems to be calming. That’s your branding at work right there.
Put it to work in your tagline, too.
Pick an adjective that encompasses your business image, take the summary of your benefits and tack that to your mission. What do you get?
“Soothing iced tea tips to revitalize your life.” That’s a great tagline.
Bonus Section: It’s Fun to Pick on Others
Need some practice? Here are two taglines for you to pick apart:
- Web Business Tips for Writers, Freelancers and Online Entrepreneurs
- Copywriting Tips for Online Marketing Success
Do they answer all three elements of a great tagline? Are they effective for the web? Would they attract you? What would you change?
Or, maybe you have your own tagline to worry over. Put it up and see if inspiration comes from some helpful suggestions.
You might just end up with a rock-solid tagline that truly works.
About the Author: James Chartrand is the interim editor of Copyblogger due to the abrupt disappearance of Brian Clark. He blogged previously at Men with Pens.
177 comments... add one
#1 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 10:25 am
Nice article James !
I find everything very clear, full of wisdom and experience, until I try and apply it to my own business… and then it’s chaos.
How am I supposed to describe strange looking unique stuffed toys in an attractive way ? My taglines now vary from “Zoohliah - Over the Rainbow”, and “Zoohliah - plushes to live with” to “Zoohliah - not fit for cynical people”.
I hate to open the discussion by asking advice, but I’m stuck, and I have nothing to add to James’ great article :)
#2 Daniel → 04.01.08 at 10:36 am
Hei I really enjoyed this article!
As for something you could have mentioned, regarding what #1 asked, stop using negations (NO,NOS,NOT) in your tagline.
I think people are more interested in what to expect vs. what to NOT expect.
#3 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 10:43 am Copyblogger
@ Daniel - Ah, habit. I have long learned to remove all negation from my content, so to me, no tagline would ever include a negative word or negative connotation.
@ Jooliah - Alright, let’s look at this. What do Zooliahs do? Why should people buy one? Are they cute? Are they comfortable? Do they reassure children? How will people feel after they own a Zooliah? How will their life change?
Zooliahs - Creating smiles on little faces for brighter days.
That’s just an example, but it shows what people get from Zooliahs - brighter days, smiles. So… you tell me? What do people get when they have a Zooliah in their home?
#4 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 11:10 am
@ Daniel - very true about the negative content, thanks :)
@ James - ok, answering your questions here : they give you hugs and lift your spirits when you’re sad. There are very confortable for reading, watching TV, traveling… They are sooo cute (I don’t say that because they’re my own :P). Children love them because they can take them everywhere, give them hugs and rest their head on them when they’re tired. People get great toys which fit in their modern and fashionable house. Or that highlight their traditional house.
Erm… I need to think some more. I can’t get out of the taglines I already have. I need to have a clean start. I’ll get back to you ;)
#5 Men with Pens Web Content Writers and Freelance Writing Services → 04.01.08 at 11:13 am
[…] taglines that rock your blog. If you liked this post, share it with others! These icons link to social bookmarking sites where […]
#6 Sonia Simone → 04.01.08 at 11:17 am
I’ll be contrary and (while I think Daniel’s suggestion is correct 95% of the time) suggest that “not fit for cynical people” is wonderful. One problem with a cheerful, spirit-lifting sort of product is that you can get Hallmark-y very fast. Your “cynical people” tag line is fresh and conveys the message quickly with a little humor and a lot of warmth.
One person’s opinion, anyway. :)
#7 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 11:19 am Copyblogger
@ Sonia - I see where you’re coming from, but wordsmith it a bit more. When people see “not” in a phrase, their minds still assimilate the negative aspect and it does more damage than good.
How about, “Even cynics love them” or “Cynic-friendly”? Not very good suggestions on the spur of the moment, but that helps convey my point: Cynic is good, “not” is not.
Make sense?
#8 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 11:22 am
@ Sonia - That’s what I thought of when I wrote this one, but then Daniel’s point made me think twice… I’m glad you like it and understand it that way though :)
I’ll try and keep that spirit for the “definitive” tagline.
#9 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 11:24 am
@ James - ok, got it… gotta think A LOT more.
But I’ll be back, niark niak niark ! (french maniac laugh)
#10 Amy → 04.01.08 at 11:32 am
Dearest James,
I’m one step away from changing your nickname from Imperialistic Dude to April Fool. LOL@you for that. But much applause for the great post.
Men With Pens: Taking Over the World One Blog at a Time
How’s that? Too clever? :-|
#11 GoingLikeSixty → 04.01.08 at 11:46 am
(here from Men with Pens)
I’m a boomer hobby blogger - a hogger, a blobby…
anyway: I ran my tagline thru your test and think I did OK
Suitably Old But Mysteriously Advanced.
Of course, I posted here just to show off! But I can take criticism too. A little.
#12 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 11:51 am Copyblogger
@ Going - Love that domain name and tagline… but unless you’re selling yourself, I’d add a little more definition to what it is you’re offering :)
And yeah, that Men with Pens site does rock, doesn’t it?
#13 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.01.08 at 11:52 am
Excellent post, James! Should be required reading for every client who has said to me … “Roberta, can you just knock off a quick tag line for us.”
#14 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 11:54 am Copyblogger
Copywriting Maven:
Fast taglines for a speed-of-light business.
#15 GoingLikeSixty → 04.01.08 at 12:00 pm
@James:
Thanks for your kind comments.
I have a problem with Men With Pens. In my mind’s eye, I see Men with Penis. (Probably because of the domain joke: PenIsland.com)
I’m not selling anything. No market for a blog that let’s me release my inner smart ass. Yet. If you know of anything…
#16 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.01.08 at 12:01 pm
Thank you, James! :)
#17 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 12:03 pm Copyblogger
@ Going - How about “Smart-Ass Insight from the Suitably Old and Mysteriously Advanced?” Long but it tells people what you do.
As for the name… eyecatching, memorable, easy to say, makes people look twice… a marketer’s dream. And yes. Male.
#18 Naomi Dunford → 04.01.08 at 12:10 pm
You and your damn taglines. :-)
@ joohliah — Whatever. I’m with Sonia. I like “Not Fit For Cynical People.” I figure if “The Real Thing” worked for Coke — which means absolutely nothing, as far as I’m concerned — “Not Fit For Cynical People” can work for you. James and I have agreed to disagree on this. :-)
#19 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 12:16 pm Copyblogger
Ah, but there is a difference with Coke and with the Web. The problem with the web is that you have 1/16th of a second to get your point across.
Coke had cool music, pretty people, refreshing advertisements and masses of clients with very little competition.
Never be cool. Be clear.
#20 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 12:17 pm
@ Going - I love your tagline too ! James’ is nice, although maybe a little too long…
@ Naomi - ooh then if the great Naomi from IttyBiz voted for “Not Fit For Cynical People”, I’ll have to give it a second chance :) I like it too. Oh, this sounds ironic doesn’t it ? It’s not :)
I’ll keep you posted, thanks for all your insights on this :)
#21 MenwithPenswithTips: How to Write Bigger, Better, Stronger Taglines : The Copywriting Maven → 04.01.08 at 12:41 pm
[…] How lucky for y’all that you can read it here: How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline that Truly Works […]
#22 Mark - Creative Journey Cafe → 04.01.08 at 12:44 pm
I toyed with different taglines for my blog. I was trying to accomplish too much and settled for simplicity and directness - something that rolls easily off the tongue.
Thanks for the helpful post!
#23 Janice C Cartier → 04.01.08 at 1:22 pm
@joohliah-I checked out your site. These are too hip to hide. I want to see them anywhere except in rainbow laden lala land…”portable smiles even cynics can love”
@james- you weren’t kidding!!! Untie Brian right now.
Steps one and two, gotcha. Working with step three.
Because I am “selling ” access to me and indirectly my art work…very hard to write that up from the audience’s perspective. They will gain an insider’s perspective of art and process…creativity in context…better collecting appreciation and maybe some entertainment along the way….that is not exactly haiku, or a decent tagline.
Talking about the new blog of course, not the one currently up.
#24 GoingLikeSixty → 04.01.08 at 1:25 pm
Thanks for the feedback. I’ll talk about me all you want.
James, taking your idea:
Ass-Toot Views
Suitably Old
But Mysteriously Advanced
#25 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 1:34 pm Copyblogger
@ Jooliah - I dunno about you, but I have kids, and while I love encouraging their artistic views and widening their horizons, the last thing I have time for in a busy family life is getting an in on the Zooliah creator.
You’re selling to kids first, make no mistake. Kids are your target market. Parents with money are your indirect target market, because they will buy what their kids want. Win the kid, and you win the cash.
So parents have kids that are tired, cranky, demanding attention, happy, playful, need a friend… parents KNOW what their kids want/need. If your Zooliah can win over their kid, they’ll buy - but your marketing message has to be geared to that aspect.
You could play up the art bit, but to most busy parents, that may not matter. And since you’re not selling your creations as uber-expensive art but rather widely-accessible cool comfort toys…
See where I’m going with this?
#26 Lisa Gates → 04.01.08 at 1:35 pm
James! I’m a coach masquerading as a copywriter, so this is incredibly helpful. We have a very new website and blog and I’m not a afraid to tell ya, I need help. Head empty.
Mission: We are a collective of uncommon coaches committed to personal responsibility and peace.
Taglines:
360 Alliance Coaching
Uncommon conversations, uncommon lives.
360 Alliance
Your Life Development Partner
360 Alliance Coaching
Someday is now
As you can see, nothing quite catches fire–ready for the red pen.
Gratitude!
#27 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 1:45 pm Copyblogger
360 Alliance
“Coaching for a 360 head start on your life.”
“Do a 360 with your life - personal coaching that works.”
“Count on a 360 life with personal development coaching.”
?
#28 Karen Swim → 04.01.08 at 1:58 pm
James, as always, smart, practical advice delivered with a smile. With you shining the spotlight I am confident I’ll reach my destination.
#29 Joshua Goss → 04.01.08 at 2:23 pm
On the Zoohliah subject - I don’t see why cynical people wouldn’t like them.
But if this is just a hypothetical discussion, I agree with James; the negation doesn’t work. In order not to think of a pink elephant, you first have to think of a pink elephant. By saying “not for cynics” you are making people associate the product with cynics.
#30 John Hoff → 04.01.08 at 2:31 pm
Very insightful and all points absorbed!
Ok, for the fun part.
My stance is sturdy, shotgun at aim, and my finger is itching to pull the trigger.
I see who’s it for, but so what? Why should I read your tips over someone else’s? What’s in for me if I continue reading?
Possible rework - “Business Tips for Writers, Freelancers, & Online Entrepreneurs That Will Focus Your Work & Spark Creativity.”
Ok, might be a little long. Can we shorten it any?
I think this one’s a little more focused and not so general. I know exactly what it’s for, who it’s for, and what it hopes to accomplish (make me successful).
Do you have a rewrite for this tagline? Oh - is that a challenge I hear, Mr. Chartrand?
#31 Brent Rinne → 04.01.08 at 3:20 pm
@ 26 & 27: “Do a 360…” would imply a returning to current position, as in orientation or changing direction.
With that in mind, but adding the idea of ascending to a new level:
360 Alliance
The personal coaching revolution.
#32 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 3:24 pm
@ John Hoff - in my opinion your rewriting is very effective !
@ Janice - I’m so glad you like the Zoohliah, and thanks a lot for your tagline suggestion !
@ James - You’re right about the target being the kids. Although right now I’m kind of stuck as I don’t have norms for kids or anything… but that’ll come soon :)
Oh and I think “smart, practical advice delivered with a smile” should become your new tagline :P
@ Joshua - I have some very cynical friends who really think I’m nuts. I would have to pay them to put a Zoohliah in their home.
I hear what you say about negation. And I get it for the pink elephant, but it just doesn’t feel the same with my tagline suggestion. So I probably won’t use the cynical thing as a main tagline… but I’ll probably keep it as a joke on labels and website, somewhere :)
@ Lisa - I like James’ second suggestion best :)
#33 Lisa Gates → 04.01.08 at 3:33 pm
Hey, thank you! I’m getting the feel for the benefits piece as I read your suggestions.
Jooliah, I like the second one best too.
BTW, being a recovering cynic, I secretly like the negative…
#34 John Hoff → 04.01.08 at 3:34 pm
@ joohliah - oh I try, and thanks.
I’m sure James will have something to say about it.
#35 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 3:45 pm Copyblogger
@ John - The problem with this tagline:
is, as you say, lacking the “so what” answer. They know who it’s for, what they get… yeah, so what?
The problem? Length. Because our blog addresses three groups of people that do gravitate within one niche, we need to find a way to shorten WHO our target audience is OR give up on the “so what”, which is a bad, bad move.
And I couldn’t tell you the solution. Been struggling with this one for months (too close to my own work, perhaps). Too bad Brian wasn’t here; I’d be curious as to what he’d say.
As for this one:
I know the “so what” and I know generally who it’s for (people with websites/businesses) and I know what it is… but… where’s the va-va voom? What makes this attractive?
Could a simple adjective in front of “Copywriting Tips” change the whole tone and appeal? I think so…
#36 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 4:02 pm
@ Lisa - I’m always somewhere between cynicism and idealism myself…
@ James - I think an adjective might do the trick. Like :
Unusual / Incredible / Effective…
And it IS true that it’s very difficult to find a tagline for oneself. Ask Naomi :P
#37 Chad → 04.01.08 at 4:21 pm
Hey James - so where does “Shooting From The Hip” fit into all of this?
I think it’s a great tagline, but it certainly doesn’t tell me much about your blog…except the obvious allusion to it being MenWithPenis.
(assuming I understand the phrase “shoot from the hip” correctly - which means to react quickly without necessarily considering the consequences.)
Also, regarding the 360 Alliance tagline. One of my pet peeves is a tagline that has the same word as the title, which all of your samples did.
Don’t you think it’s already stated? Why not try to change things up a bit?
360 Alliance - Turn Your Life Around, Personal Coaching that Works.
Great post by the way. I may come across as a nitpicker here, but I really got a lot from your article!
#38 John Hoff → 04.01.08 at 4:24 pm
Yes - for me it’s always easier to critique someone else’s work than it is to implement it for myself. I find this is because I alway have so much to say when others simply see - a tagline.
I agree with you and joohliah, an adjective might do well for that tagline.
#39 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 4:26 pm Copyblogger
@ Chad - For clarity’s sake, I put the name in front of the tagline. I did not mean for them to appear integrated. I simply replicated what someone would see on a business banner of a website - the business name on one end, the tagline underneath, in one corner or elsewhere.
As for “shooting from the hip,” which means to react without thinking of consequences… I’m not sure where penises come into play. Could you clarify, because it seems I’m missing something here.
“Shooting from the hip” was never meant to be a tagline. It was a sort of side slogan and is not intended to be benefit, feature or audience based.
If you visit our blog, you’ll see our tagline is “Web Business Tips for blah blah blah.”
I don’t mind the nitpicking, but it’s a good idea to be informed before jumping in :)
#40 Martin Jelsema → 04.01.08 at 4:29 pm
James, your post is clear, concise and compelling. And right on for the most part.
I’d just like to add a few thoughts. I’ve created my share of taglines, most often as an agency copywriter. In this arena the tagline is not usually a branding element so much as an ad “payoff”. Almost a summary. And yes, indeed, it should convey a product benefit.
Writing a tagline can be like writing a headline except the tagline will probably be used in several or many ads, all with different headlines.
But as a branding element, the idea of the tagline differentiating the brand is probably the most common function.
However, there are many who feel the tagline need not differentiate so much as to “set a mood”. Quite often, particularly for a really new product, the tagline can effectively position the product in a new category. And as you’ve stated, the tagline can communicate the brand promise.
So there are several functions a tagline can perform.
The one thing it should never be, however, is a platitude. The folks at Y2 Marketing said it best: If you’re reaction to a tagline is, “Well, I should hope so”, you have a platitude, a throw-away line that just takes up space.
Martin
ps: The newest GE tagline: “Imagination at Work”, is effective, particularly with shareholders like employees, investors, suppliers and distribution chain memebers.
#41 Akemi - Yes to Me → 04.01.08 at 4:30 pm
This is a good post. I have changed the tagline of my blog several times, thinking about these points. The good part is it’s easy to change tagline as opposed to the name of the blog itself.
I also add a question (Does what you do align with your life purpose?) at the end of every post to keep a consistent message.
#42 joohliah → 04.01.08 at 4:34 pm
@ James - It’s funny because until Chad quoted your “side slogan” I always thought it read “Shooting from the Tip” (understating from the tip of the pen).
I guess not knowing the idiom “Shooting from the Hip” didn’t help, either (stupid french people).
Oh, and sorry to say that I sort of agree with Chad. In my opinion, your “side slogan” takes a lot of space if it’s not meant to be part of your marketing strategy…
#43 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 4:49 pm Copyblogger
@ Jooliah - It is a marketing strategy and a disclaimer at the same time. One, it advises people that we… well, shoot from the hip. We write and think about consequences later. Two, it fits into our overall theme of Guns for Hire, Marksmen, Straight Shooters…
#44 Chad → 04.01.08 at 4:59 pm
James - I always thought you used “shooting from the hip” as a double-meaning wordplay…
…meaning more about the physical hip on a guy.
#45 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.01.08 at 5:02 pm Copyblogger
Um, no. But that certainly is a… creative twist… that I’ll pass on. Thanks :)
#46 Chad → 04.01.08 at 5:03 pm
Man, I guess I have a sick mind. Haha.
#47 The Masked Millionaire → 04.01.08 at 6:03 pm
I think that anything that captures the reader’s attention, not in a negative way, would be a good tagline. Of course to be a great tagline it would also be easy to remember.
Live From Las Vegas
The Masked Millionaire
#48 Al Kalar → 04.01.08 at 7:12 pm
1. Is Brian gone for good? (Running from the law? LOL) Or will he return when the geese return from Canada?
2. Jooliah, with all those eyes staring out of your website, how about “Here’s lookin’ at you, Kid”? (Just kidding. “Eyes” are what leaped out at me when I saw the product.)
3. Got a problem of my own. We’re starting up an ebook publishing house with a twist. Not the usual “any fool with a computer can play” site. We’ll only publish top quality stuff from new authors. The stuff that either can’t quite make the list at Random House et. al. or from talented authors who want to bypass the traditional publishing route and make more money from their books (the big houses give very small royalties and the only way to get rich is to write something that sells in the hundreds of thousands of copies).
What we need is a good tagline that will tell the shopper that “here is a site for ebooks where you don’t have to wade through the trash to find well-written stories (or non-fiction for that matter)”.
Obviously, that’s too long and I’m having a duce of a time boiling it down to something that can be read in the second or two before the visitor clicks off for greener pastures.
Any ideas gang?
#49 Lisa Gates → 04.01.08 at 9:39 pm
@Joohliah, James and Chad–just be glad he didn’t call his site “Men with Pencils.” ; -)
@Brent–For some reason Brent Rinne’s comment isn’t appearing here, but here was his offer in response to “repeating” title words in tagline:
“With that in mind, but adding the idea of ascending to a new level: 360 Alliance, The personal coaching revolution.”
This gets the grey matter moving…
360 Alliance Coaching
Start a revolution from within
Changing the world from within
Changing the world from the inside out
2 more cents
#50 The Writing / Editing Job Roll » 04/01/2008 Jobs and Links → 04.01.08 at 11:31 pm
[…] How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline That Truly Works […]
#51 Just what purpose does a tagline perform for a brand? | → 04.02.08 at 12:09 am
[…] April 1st, 2008 · No Comments James Chartrand, writing at CopyBlogger, authored a post called “How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline That Truly Works”. […]
#52 Mark McGuinness → 04.02.08 at 2:13 am
Great post. I started out with the tagline ‘coaching creative professionals’, but it wasn’t terribly exciting - mainly because it was a classic case of a product-focused tagline.
When I realised this I thought about the benefits of my service and it seemed to boil down to inspiring people - so I changed it to ‘inspiring creative professionals’.
#53 Louis Liem → 04.02.08 at 2:22 am
Hi James and others!
I don’t know if this tag represents my blog’s purpose well:
“Living the best life - ONLINE”
Mine is a blog about online earning for your living, how to get the best of it and dump the useless scams.
Any thoughts?
#54 joohliah → 04.02.08 at 3:04 am
@ James - Ok, I get it now. Still not finding it very clear, though… :-S
@ Al Kalar - yeah I know this first character has loads of eyes. But they have no mouths, they HAVE to communicate in some way. The next characters won’t have that many eyes though, stay tuned ;)
@ Akemi - I like the idea of your “signature” at the end of posts. MwP and lots of other great blogs do it too.
@ Martin - Thanks for this, it makes a nice complement to James’ article :)
@ Lisa - OMG… It makes me want to redesign their current header… in a colorfull way ^^
#55 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 4:42 am Copyblogger
@ Martin - There are many ways to pull off taglines in advertising. The problem is that most people aren’t paid advertisers who know what they’re doing.
They want to be cool. And by trying to be cool, they end up shooting themselves in the foot.
They’re also online (that’s what this blog is about, right? Online marketing?). They have 2 seconds to make an impression and convince a visitor to stay and buy.
“Imagination at work.”
Nice tagline - but in two seconds when I’m looking to buy, that does zip for me. That’ll do even less than zip for an average website, unfortunately.
I know what you’re saying, but I strongly stress that it isn’t the way to go for most business owners who will land here and read this content.
I know what you’re saying about the tagline setting the mood - that’s why we have two on our site. One to set the mood/theme, displayed discreetly, and one to tell people what the site is about, displayed prominently.
@ Al - It’s 5.30am, bear with me, but how about sticking with simple? “Quality Control for Quality Ebooks”, or something like that. (Like I said, it’s early).
@ Lisa - Well, those are nice taglines, yep. You’re shooting for clever, not clear, though, and since my post is about clear, I’ll have to say, “Why should I care if you change the world? What’s that do for me?”
Whoever said the bit about the 360 (can’t find it) is right. In my mind, 360 meant “turn around” or “circle”. It may not come off that way to others.
@ Mark - Hmm… You dropped the benefit and yet the benefit is very clear - more creative inspiration. Not easy to do; well done.
#56 Maggie Chicoine → 04.02.08 at 7:27 am
Again, great reading with a cup of coffee in hand!
My primary day job is a keynote speaker, and a coach (relate to your dilemma Lisa!). I’ve been around the block a few times (getting close to going like “60″ too), and have used a number of taglines in the 20 years of being in the biz. The one that still gets a laugh (during the introduction) is “Maggie is more than a seasoned speaker…she’s marinated!”. Sets up my personality quite nicely…
I would appreciate your comments on my current website/branding tagline. Shoot from the hip if you will.
“Experience speaks…with a twist of ingenuity”
- Maggie
#57 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 7:35 am Copyblogger
@ Maggie - I had to go visit your website to know what it is that you do or offer. Your tagline alone didn’t tell me at a glance what you do, what you give and what I get.
The same applies for many people above, I’ll note. If your tagline can’t stand on its own, it’s not very good for the web. That’s my opinion, though…
Alright. Here’s my three second still-lacking-coffee attempt:
“Ingenious coaching experience to help you get ahead.”
By the way - I LOVE your coaching page banner. Funny, cute, appealing. Makes me want to work with you. Well done on that!
#58 Alan Lopuszynski → 04.02.08 at 8:54 am
Here’s a question about “clear” that I haven’t seen addressed above. Is it imperative for your tagline to expressly state Your Purpose if: 1) your company’s name accomplishes that and 2) your tagline is more often than not visually tied to your company’s name?
Example:
Smithee Oversized Beachball Company
Bigger is better for fun in the sun
That’s a dopey example, I know, but my point is this: do you actually have to abuse precious real estate in your tagline in order to restate “Oversized beachballs for fun in the sun”?
#59 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 8:58 am Copyblogger
@ Alan - Nope. In that case, I’d go with cool over clear any day. Good question.
#60 Dina Lynch Eisenberg → 04.02.08 at 9:25 am
Excellent discussion, James, and so timely, too.
When I launched my blog I wrestled with taglines for days . I blog about marriage at midlife and how to keep it fun and satisfying while living through big transitions like empty-nest syndrome and retirement.
I hit on one that really resonated with me because of its truth (based on the myriad of complaints on various forums and blogs about married life): Marriage doesn’t have to suck…Re-invent it!
I think it speaks of hope and action, two very positive things but doesn’t negate reality by being Pollyanna-ish. Some readers pushed back saying it was too negative, others love it.
So, I plan on revising it slightly so I’ll have all three elements you mention. What’s your take on this:
Middle age marriage doesn’t have to suck…Re-invigorate it!
(Mission-check, Promise-check, Brand- maybe)
Thanks for a very useful post.
Dina
#61 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.02.08 at 9:51 am
@Dina … could I tweak that for you a little?
Mid-life marriage doesn’t have to suck…Re-invigorate it!
Marriage at mid-life - Refreshed, restored and juiced-up!
(or … Refresh it, Restore it, Juice it up!
I AM your market :)
#62 John Hoff → 04.02.08 at 12:12 pm
@ James - just shooting around some ideas for the tagline:
“Web Business Tips for Writers, Freelancers and Online Entrepreneurs”
- Web business tips that may set fire to your blog or website
- Web business tips for the next generation of entrepreneurs
- Web business tips for starting fires & succeeding online
- Copywriters, Freelancers, & Entrepreneurs: Your pen can be mightier than mine!
….just some fun thoughts
#63 Simple Mom → 04.02.08 at 12:45 pm
Wow, this is such a helpful and timely post for me. I’ve been wrestling with my tagline for several days, mostly wavering between two.
My blog provides practical tips for managing household duties for stay-at-home or work-from-home moms. Most of the info tends to gear towards moms of very little kids - 0-5 years old. Didn’t originally plan it that way, but it’s organically going that direction. Oh, and as the name implies, everything is geared towards simple things - simplifying things, keeping things simple, etc.
There are a TON of mom blogs out there, so I’m trying to decide if I should narrow it down to specifically moms of babies and preschoolers. I know I have some readers with older kids, however, so I don’t want to exclude them.
I know this is more a question of niche than tagline/branding… but it does affect my choice in tagline. I’ve been going between these two:
1. A mom wears lots of hats - let’s simplify all of them.
2. Ideas & motivation for those who spend all day with the 5 and under crowd.
My questions… which tagline sounds better? Or can you come up with another one? And, should I narrow my niche to moms of littles?
#64 Jamie Simmerman → 04.02.08 at 12:45 pm
Okay, so I’m a little late, but I’ve been writing my arse off here this week! :)
I have been trying to incorporate James’ concept of taglines into my SEO content for clients lately and all I can say is it gets better with practice.
For Joohliah, I checked out your website and what I thought of was “Miles of Smiles with Every Hug” or “Comfort and Cheer for Every Age”. Those may suck, I’m not sure yet. I’m sure James will give them the shredding they deserve if so.
#65 Jamie Simmerman → 04.02.08 at 12:48 pm
@Simple Mom, I like ” Wearing Many Hats and Looking Great with Peanut Butter in Your Hair” :D
#66 Simple Mom → 04.02.08 at 1:02 pm
Thanks, Jamie. My concern is that it sounds like I provide beauty or fashion tips!
I cover organizing, menu planning, managing family finances, frugal and/or green living, and making your home a haven.
#67 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 1:11 pm Copyblogger
@ Simple Mom - Simple Tips to Help Moms Stay Sane :)
@ John - Keep workin’ at it, but great suggestions so far. Tough one, eh?
@ Jamie - Practice always makes us better. I still practice !
#68 Jamie Simmerman → 04.02.08 at 1:14 pm
@ Simple, How about “Simply Terrific Home Management Tips to Keep You Sane”?
(Gotta go pick up my insanity at school in a just a few minutes!)
#69 Maggie Chicoine → 04.02.08 at 1:14 pm
@ Simple Mom… “Simply Mom-Ease” (say it out loud…get it?). Ok, too cute, not clear enough! Had to post:)
#70 Jamie Simmerman → 04.02.08 at 1:15 pm
LOL, no fair! We were typing at the same time James! :D I guess you have rubbed off on me more than I know!
#71 Simple Mom → 04.02.08 at 1:24 pm
Hmm… interesting ideas, all. I’m just thinking I need something to set me apart from the myriad of mom blogs out there, all which claim to have advice or tips. Hmm… I’m still thinking…
Thanks for the ideas.
#72 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.02.08 at 1:30 pm
@ Simple Mom - what sets you apart is your focus on moms with kidlets under age 5. You want to get some of that into your tag.
Live simple, live sane with teeny tots underfoot
#73 Janice C Cartier → 04.02.08 at 1:57 pm
@simple mom-there’s an old saw. “Kiss It”..keep it simple stupid. I prefer silly in place of stupid. But it is seems to apply just like helping “boo boo ’s go away: “Kisses that keep Simple Moms sane.” Not a wordsmith so you guys can play with it. But it is an easy mantra to hang to.
@ all the Web tips, on line marketing, copywriting names and tags have become so commonplace a fresh vocabulary and visual image is really what is lacking, the next generation of connotation- People are searching for a haven of solid actionable info… I would like to find a ProWriters Oasis to quench my thirst while working the Silk Road 2.0
Again not a wordsmith, but describe the elephant from another view.
Acceptance of the medium is done. Think a little ahead of the curve. Don’t confuse the medium with the message or think it is the message. Superlative skills customized to fit the venue. Sell those skills. Not the internet. Somebody, actually lots of somebodies, already did that. So we need words that get beyond a bit and offer up the connotation of mastery, agility, responsiveness, and substance in a virtual venue…simple, huh? Not at all. But stand at the crossroads and push it a little further. Play us a little different riff.
Just a few thoughts.
#74 Simple Mom → 04.02.08 at 2:14 pm
@Roberta - I really like it! Maybe a variation, like “Live simply, stay sane - homemaking inspiration for moms of littles.”
Does ‘homemaking’ sound too 1950s Betty Crocker-ish? Home management sounds kinda boring, housekeeping sounds too much about cleaning/cooking.
I don’t mean to hijack this thread or anything - but this is really helping me!
#75 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.02.08 at 2:38 pm
@ Simple Mom
I do think homemaking sounds old-fashioned but maybe that’s ok.
“Live simply, stay sane - relief and inspiration for moms with tots.”
#76 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 2:41 pm Copyblogger
@ Roberta - Even though it’s not gramatically correct, I’d go for “Live simple, stay sane - blah blah”
That was a good one. I like that one. You have my vote.
#77 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.02.08 at 2:47 pm
Yeah, I like the off-grammar one better myself. It’s a little stronger, more emphatic. (My 2 youngest kids are 15 months apart in age. I get the critical importance of simple AND sane!) :)
#78 Simple Mom → 04.02.08 at 3:00 pm
@Roberta - Good one! I think you may have sold me. I guess the grammar nerd in me was going for the adverb vs. the adjective, but I totally get the punch with “live simple.”
Thanks, all! Off to do housewifey things… ;-)
#79 Dina Lynch Eisenberg → 04.02.08 at 3:39 pm
@ Roberta I LOVE it, although I’m sad to stop saying suck…forever the rebellious girl, I guess.
And, my kids are 15 months apart, too- OY!
#80 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.02.08 at 3:51 pm
@ Simple Mom … if it works for you, it works for me.
@ Dina … well, you don’t have to stop ** saying ** it. I like the juxtaposition of mid-life and juicy. It makes me feel hopeful :)
#81 Dina Lynch Eisenberg → 04.02.08 at 4:02 pm
@ Roberta- Hope is my life’s work in a way so thanks. Juicy…perfect word to describe the next phase of life and it matches my logo– you’re a genius!
#82 joohliah → 04.02.08 at 4:23 pm
@ Jamie - Thanks so much for taking time to help me !
About the taglines you suggested… I fear they might be a little too “Hallmarky” as said Sonia in the first comments. I have to give it some thought, but even if it doesn’t show with these first characters, there’s definitely something more than cuteness in my universe. Some of my characters are wicked, others are funny. Most are cute, but not all of them. And I don’t want to loose that diversity as it reflects the way I see the world…
Time for sleep here in Paris, maybe night will bring me some answers :)
#83 Addy Coleman → 04.02.08 at 6:56 pm
“Benefits are the key to better copy, better sales and better business online.” Very wise words, James. I enjoyed this article.
#84 The Crazy Colombian → 04.02.08 at 8:25 pm
What an incredible post!! I thought I’d ask for some advice on one of my web sites/blogs: Pass It Forward (pifaustralia.org)
“Pass It Forward” is a kindness movement, created with the goal of inspiring 1 million people to do a Random Act of Kindness they otherwise would not have done.
Our tagline: “Pass It Forward - Changing the world with Random Acts of kindness”
Suggestions?
#85 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.02.08 at 8:32 pm Copyblogger
@ Crazy - Actually, you’re pretty close to good to go with that. Let’s see…
Change the World for the Better with one Act of Kindness
A little long, but it has the action, the result and the how -to.
Cool about the “pass it forward”, by the way. I posted one of those on my blog awhile back.
#86 Lisa Gates → 04.02.08 at 9:41 pm
James et al, just want to say a huge thanks for the education these past couple of days — standard fare at Copyblogger. We brainstormed as a group, riffing off all the suggestions here and came up with another possibility. I know how you dislike cute…
360 Alliance
Coaching that creates a revolution in your evolution
@Crazy, interesting how ideas circulate in packs…we do something similar on our site called Pay it Forward Friday–free sessions in trade for a contribution to an org we highlight every month. Good stuff.
#87 links for 2008-04-03 | Velcro City Tourist Board → 04.02.08 at 10:31 pm
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#89 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 5:09 am Copyblogger
@ Lisa - Now that’s funny!
“The topic of our discussion at this meeting today is James…” hehehe I like.
I think your action verbs need to be more direct and authoritative.
“Coaching to create revolution in your evolution.”
“Coaching for revolution in your evolution.”
“Revolutionize your evolution with coaching that counts.”
Don’t go for cute. Go for expert. Go for firm. Your coaching DOES do this. Firm. Not cutesy :)
Where’s Roberta when I need her?
#90 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.03.08 at 6:28 am
@ Lisa, James
Okay, here are my tweaks …
Coaching that puts revolution in your evolution
Our coaching puts revolution in your evolution
Because you’re ready (or - it’s time) to put some (or a little or a bit of) revolution in your evolution
#91 Maggie Chicoine → 04.03.08 at 6:36 am
@Roberta for Lisa: “Because it’s time to put a bit of revolution in your evolution” really rocks!
#92 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.03.08 at 6:39 am
@Maggie - thanks! So let’s see what Lisa says. :)
#93 Lisa Gates → 04.03.08 at 9:21 am
@James, it’s good to start with the red pen from you cuz you take the bs out.
@Roberta, you put the urgency in it. Love that to pieces. It’s a keeper.
@Maggie, thank you for the cheerleading. I want to be you when I grow young.
Who do you want the check made out to?
#94 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.03.08 at 9:37 am
@ Lisa … one more variation before I go get some lowlights in my hair.
“Because it’s time to launch the revolution in your evolution”
“Because it’s time you launched the revolution in your evolution.”
If you’re serious about the check, how about a gift to Heifer? Here’s the link: http://www.heifer.org/myregistry/mgpdirect
That way we all win :)
#95 Santa Barbara Real Estate Voice → 04.03.08 at 11:53 am
Good tips…but now it needs to stick and that is very tough. Very few tag lines in this world work unless you have the $$$ to back it with lots of exposure…that is a reality. The only tag lines people know are from the major coporations of the world….If I am wrong I would like to know some other examples.
#96 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 12:21 pm Copyblogger
I disagree. Exposure and driving the message home matters, yes. However in the virtual world, when a glance matters, a glance at a good tagline means the reader may stay longer on the site or even take action.
Does he remember that tagline? Nope. Does it even matter? Of course not. By now, the customer has had a positive experience (hopefully). He’s either bought something (yay!) or his loyalty has increased. He’ll remember the positive experience over the tagline…
And that’s what matters most :)
#97 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 12:35 pm Copyblogger
I like shorter versus longer.
“It’s time to launch the revolution in your evolution.”
Or even better:
“Launch the Revolution in Your Evolution.”
#98 Lisa Gates → 04.03.08 at 12:48 pm
@Roberta, you’re on. Heifer has been on our list for a couple of months. We’ll dedicate the month to it.
#99 Lisa Gates → 04.03.08 at 12:54 pm
@James, Roberta: interesting juxtaposition you two make. James creates impact with strength and precision, Roberta creates impact with a drilled down, intuitive, personal edge.
:-)
#100 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 1:03 pm Copyblogger
@ Roberta - Cool about Heifer and well done on that. I’ll start recommending it too.
@ Lisa - Now that is interesting, and I never looked at it that way. Hmm… so we make a good team, eh? ;)
#101 Janice C Cartier → 04.03.08 at 1:05 pm
@lisa-wow, you nailed them beautifully…great to see them in action and interesting to see an effective collaboration. good luck with your alliance.
#102 Al Kalar → 04.03.08 at 1:18 pm
@James. Sorry for not getting back until now, but Wednesday was totally ugly.
[It’s 5.30am, bear with me, but how about sticking with simple? “Quality Control for Quality Ebooks”, or something like that. (Like I said, it’s early).]
Pretty good for O-dark thirty! The only thing I can do at that hour is go to the bathroom and back to bed.
Any more thoughts since then?
What a talented group! I’m blown away by the creativity on just this one topic.
#103 Maria Reyes-McDavis → 04.03.08 at 1:47 pm
Great, great post. Many people miss the importance of a good tagline as part of their branding and marketing strategy!
Great tips!
Maria :-)
#104 Roberta Rosenberg → 04.03.08 at 2:57 pm
@ James, Lisa, and Janice:
This kind of fun should be completely illegal!
James, my father always said NO PARTNERS, but for you I might make an exception.
Lisa, can I use your comment on my site?
Janice, I’m glad you enjoyed watching James and my creative process. I enjoyed playing and watching myself.
#105 Dina Lynch Eisenberg → 04.03.08 at 3:51 pm
@ Roberta- given how well you guys click and the powerful compliments you’ve both gotten hear, you might consider taking the leap!
Roberta captured the spirit, intent and joy of my work immediately with just a few very compelling words. With her guidance & imagination, my tagline went from ho-hum to a perfectly-targeted attention grabber in 30 seconds flat!
If this suits you I hope you’ll use it, Roberta; I’m now one of your biggest fans!
#106 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 3:54 pm Copyblogger
@ Al - Ah, but you’re supposed to get your creative juices flowing! What thoughts did you have? Shoot.
@ Roberta - We’ll take over the blogosphere with creative taglines that work! ;)
@ Dina - HEY!
#107 Janice C Cartier → 04.03.08 at 4:02 pm
@Roberta, Lisa, and okay James too- way too much fun and an excellent example of why fine writing, agile writing, and responsive writing JAMES, is NOT a trade. It is an art. Way to go. Thanks for letting us watch.
#108 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 4:05 pm Copyblogger
@ Janice - Ahhh, you… How about creatively artistic versus art? ;)
#109 Janice C Cartier → 04.03.08 at 4:15 pm
Nope. Full on fine art. Live with it.
#110 Al Kalar → 04.03.08 at 7:24 pm
Okay James, how about:
“Quality books from talented authors”???
We’re using that now, but I’ve looked at it too long and it’s beginning to lose it’s luster. Familiarity = contempt?
#111 Big Apple Bound! Blogger Social ‘08 is about to begin! : The Copywriting Maven → 04.03.08 at 8:04 pm
[…] you haven’t as yet checked out the “tagline writing tag team” of James (MenwithPens) and yours truly, see what smart, funny and on-point creative collaboration looks like. Together we got a few […]
#112 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.03.08 at 8:05 pm Copyblogger
@ Al - You have a tough one, I’ll admit. One, all writers think they’re talented. All readers figure that if a writer has an ebook, the author is talented. So to me, talent goes without say. It doesn’t stand out.
But if you protect and screen for quality, that says something about your business credibility. People can trust that your ebooks aren’t garbage, right?
Of course, “Quality you can trust” has been done. Nothing new there. Hm.
It depends whether you want to push that you screen for quality or that you offer tons of great ebooks. What’s your business stance?
(Yes, even I get stumped. But the questions are good ones to think over!)
#113 Beth Robinson → 04.04.08 at 9:26 am
How about “ebooks worth quoting” or “ebooks worth your notice”, or something in that vein?
Why do people want quality after all? So it’s worth their time, so they can get something good from it, so they can tell others about it and get their approval of how smart the original reader is, and …
It should be possible to get more concrete than the nebulous notion of quality.
#114 Al Kalar → 04.04.08 at 11:09 am
@James
The current state of the ebook market falls into 2 camps:
1. Web sites that sell electronic versions of the stuff you see in Barnes & Nobel and the supermarket racks.
2. Sites that handle any book a “wanna be writer” uploads. A lot of this stuff is quite frankly trash by authors who only “think” they are “talented”. There are some pearls in this mud, but customers have to sift through a lot of hype and mud to find them.
Amazon is a special case that combines both styles and adds one of their own (they cater to their own e-reader, the Kindle).
There are authors who write really good stuff, but for one reason or another can’t get published by the big publishing houses. The reasons would take more space than this format offers and would bore most of you to death. These are the books we are going to offer. New, well-written, and unpublished (at least in “e” format).
We’ve created a publishing house and screening process that will offer ebooks that are at least as well-written as the stuff you see on the shelves; and in some cases “better” written.
@Beth
Good thoughts. “Quality” is an overworked word these days. It’s what we offer, but how do we make it “more concrete”? And in just a very few words? A pretty problem.
#115 Janice Cartier → 04.04.08 at 11:39 am
@Al Kalar- you may have to demonstrate “quality” one ebook at a time. By showing the strength of your offerings as you offer them individually you will establish yourself as purveyors of “the finest offerings from exceptional authors” now in ebook format. You could even offer podcasts of reading samples, read of course by exceptional voices. Teach people what you cherish in a well written book, or what each offering has in it of value. If you offer useful value , people will come back . Quality becomes an inherent part of the experience. Your actions will speak for themselves.
Just some thoughts.
All best, Jan
#116 How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline That Truly Works « Slyce of Carnet → 04.04.08 at 2:14 pm
[…] How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline That Truly Works Filed under: Sprout, Startups — carnet @ 6:58 pm How to Create a Rock-Solid Tagline That Truly Works | Copyblogger […]
#117 Al Kalar → 04.04.08 at 2:19 pm
@Janice
Wow! You are a marketing dynamo. I think you hit a home run.
Don’t know if we’re ready to Podcast. I haven’t a clue how to go about it, not how much work is involved. I can find the voices (heck, I have a good baritone and a background in interpretive reading).
I agree that if someone reads a good book, they’ll be back. That’s how authors develop a following in any media. There are people who will buy a Steven King book without even looking at the back cover or watch a movie based on one of his books without seeing the trailers.
#118 Janice C Cartier → 04.04.08 at 3:49 pm
@ Al Kalar- Glad my thoughts were useful to you. I sense your enthusiasm. Good luck. Jan
#119 David Godot → 04.04.08 at 4:04 pm
Wow, I’m late to the party. It looks like I’m not the only one whose struggled with his tagline.
I’ve tweaked my tagline 3-4 times already; it’s definitely getting closer, but I don’t think it’s quite there yet.
My blog is about explaining the psychology behind things that web-savvy types deal with. So I’m offering people a better sense of understanding and mastery over their social and internal worlds. Also, I’m hoping to attract questions from my readers that I can answer and work with on the blog, making it a very community-driven thing where I can give people exactly what they ask for, rather than just what I think they need.
Ideally, my name will be in the tagline, because what I’m actually doing is building myself as a brand for services that I will be offering 3 years in the future, after I’ve got my license to practice. All I’ve managed to come up with so far is:
“David Godot Answers Your Questions about Psychology, Health, and Personal Development”
Not very compelling, I’m afraid. But something like “David Godot gives you exactly what you ask for,” while fun, doesn’t really tell anybody anything.
Maybe: “David Godot helps you master your universe”? Too narcissistic, I expect. “David Godot helps you understand your life”?
Humbug. What a difficult exercise!
#120 How to Find Your Website’s Voice (Even if it’s a Blog) → 04.04.08 at 4:04 pm
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#121 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.04.08 at 4:26 pm Copyblogger
@ David - “Personal Coaching so You can Understand your Brain and Master your World.” What do you think? Not sure if personal coaching is your game, but it may get something started.
@ Al - Janice hit on something and I’ll use that in a tagline suggestion: “Ebooks from Exceptional Authors for Affordable Reading”. She’s right and you’re right - quality is overdone.
Just wanted to let everyone know we’ve got something regular coming up based on the popularity of this thread… stay tuned!
#122 Janice C Cartier → 04.04.08 at 4:44 pm
@ Davis- Okay granted it is Friday and just about cocktail time, but David…are you kidding? “Answers from Godot”
En Attendent Godot….am I the only one?
Jan
#123 Janice C Cartier → 04.04.08 at 4:48 pm
Oops David, not Davis.
#124 David Godot → 04.04.08 at 4:54 pm
Ah, thanks for your feedback, James! Due to ethical concerns in my profession (psychology is a nervous, jittery profession with lots of weird regulations), I don’t want to imply that I’m offering any actual services. But, I think I’m getting closer now. Maybe something like:
David Godot explains how to understand your world and master your mind
#125 David Godot → 04.04.08 at 4:55 pm
@Janice Haha that’s actually a pretty fun idea. You think it gives people enough reason to be interested and get involved?
#126 Jamie Simmerman → 04.04.08 at 4:57 pm
David’s suggestion brings up a good question. Should you use your name in a tagline? This ties in to James’ recent post on branding as well. James?
#127 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.04.08 at 4:58 pm Copyblogger
@ David - For a tagline for an online business, I personally would leave your name out. You need something very fast, and they should already know you’re David Godot - or they’ll discover it on your websites or blog.
Alternatively, try this: Godot’s take on understanding your world to master your mind
?
#128 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.04.08 at 4:59 pm Copyblogger
@ Jamie - Depends on what you’re trying to brand - you, or your business, or both?
But my take is that unless a client’s benefit is YOU or access to you, leave it off. That’s just my opinion, though.
#129 David Godot → 04.04.08 at 5:03 pm
@James You do make a good point. And the blog is called “Way To Go, Godot!” so I can probably skip the name. Maybe even just “To understand your world and master your mind.”
#130 Jamie Simmerman → 04.04.08 at 5:07 pm
@David, how about “Insight and Experience for Relevant Living”
#131 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.04.08 at 5:08 pm Copyblogger
@ David - Three elements, Dave. Three. Promise, Mission, Benefit. Don’t start dropping those.
At the very least, put “tips to” or “thoughts to help” before the “understand your world” part :)
#132 David Godot → 04.04.08 at 5:13 pm
@James Psychological answers that leave you feeling refreshed :)
#133 James Chartrand - Men with Pens → 04.04.08 at 5:20 pm Copyblogger
@ David - Straight answers to master your mind fast.