Friday, March 12, 2010

How to Write Your Own Copy

I just got an email asking why in the world I keep linking people to Copyblogger.  It is, after all, a blog devoted to writing sales copy.

There are a couple of reasons:
  • They're better than me. I have to be honest. These folks have been doing this a lot longer than I have, and they have multiple authors with multiple foci and innovative ideas.
  • Most people don't have time to learn copy writing to the depth it's necessary to get the results they want and need; they prefer to have a professional write it for them.
  • Finally, I believe there enough people out there who are looking for my unique set of skills and attitude that Copyblogger isn't a threat to me.  In fact, I don't see copy writer as a threat to me. There's enough for everyone. 
Please feel free to study as much about copy writing as you want.  It's always good to be able to make a suggestion to your copy writer if you've read something that makes total sense to you that wasn't included in your copy.  Don't assume your copy writer will automatically agree with you but at that point, you're on your own; I won't make any suggestions for how to work with your copy writer.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

No More Overdraft Fees on Debit Cards

I used to be under the impression that if there wasn’t enough money in my account to cover a purchase made using a debit card, the transaction would be rejected.  In fact, I’ve had it happen quite a few years ago so I had no reason to believe it had changed.  When I moved from the Seattle area to Minnesota, I discovered that was no longer the case.  When I arrived at my destination and had a chance to check my bank balance, you can imagine my shock to discover I had not one, but THREE overdraft charges.  I was, to say the least, distraught! 

When I called the bank, they were kind enough to refund the overdraft fees but the customer service representative told me that a debit card is not different than a check and if it is used when there aren’t funds to cover the transaction, an overdraft fee will be assessed.

That is about to change—well, at least for Band of America customers.  This morning, in a story from NPR, they announced that starting July 1st they will no longer do that—they will simply deny the charge. Hurray Bank of America!  I can’t help but think there will be a significant number of people flocking to their banks to open an account.

Not only is this good customer service, it’s a great marketing. It’s going to cost them almost no revenue and gain them much good will. I was told by my banker that the fees charged just barely cover the administrative costs of handling the overdraft. Simply denying the transaction is a simple computer program update.

I’m not quite prepared to change my account from the bank I love but I sure would if I were on the fence about whether to stay with them or not. Besides, I’m certain my bank is savvy enough to follow suit in short order. Actually, I think I may just call them this morning to find out when they plan to do that--hmmm, and while I'm at it, perhaps an email to their headquarters might be in order as well.