One of the biggest challenges many people have in writing is getting started. So it helps when you’ve got a few sample templates and opening strategies which do the work for you. And that’s what I am going to give you today:
Opening Strategy # 1: The Problem / Aggravation / Solution Formula
This is probably one of the most common approaches used in advertising and it works so well because people are generally more motivated by avoiding pain than gaining pleasure.
In a nutshell, what you do is a) identify the problem b) aggravate the problem c) explain why you can offer the perfect solution. Here’s an example:
Do you suffer from back pain? Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Are you concerned your back pain could deteriorate even more and you could end up with a permanent and worsening problem in your old age?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then this could be the most important message you ever read.
Here’s why: My name is Jim Anderson – and in the next few minutes, I’m going to show you a revolutionary new back care service that is going to show you how almost anyone can say goodbye to back pain for good.
Opening Strategy # 2: The Shameless Bribe
This strategy works wonders in holding your prospects attention through your entire ad or sales letter. It basically involves “telling them what you’re going to tell them.” Here’s an example:
In the next few minutes, I’m going to show you how to sell your property for 20% more than other homeowners.
Specifically, I’m going to reveal 7 little-known strategies which add thousands of dollars to the value of your home with very little outlay on your part.
Furthermore, I’m going to reveal a simple strategy for selling your home fast… no matter what the state of the economy.
My clients have paid me hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years to get access to these secrets. But now you, too, can use them – FREE!
Opening Strategy # 3: The Crossroads Opening
This is the ultimate pain vs pleasure opening, offering a contrast of what will happen if your reader listens to what you have to say compared to the consequences of ignoring your message. Here’s a sample:
TWO YEARS from now you could be enjoying the sort of lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Or you could be running around the rat race… struggling to get by… and wondering why you haven’t had a holiday in years.
The choice is yours.
OK. So there you have it. There’s no longer an excuse for not putting pen to paper. I have given you three ways to get started right here. So start using them right away.
