Content Basics – The Voice Document

Have you ever wondered how professional web writing works? Or how content writers are able to jump into a new environment and hit the ground running? How do they know what the client wants? First, there is the obvious research involved. Then they use the all important voice document.



What is a voice document?



A voice document describes the voice you want your copywriter to use. You’ve spent endless hours molding a brand image. The last thing you want is for your web content to ruin your branding with a poorly written sales letter. Professional web writers use a voice document to gain a better perspective on their clients. Not all professional content writers use a voice document, but all of them use something similar. Maybe it is a quick phone call or just a detailed project description.



What is covered in a typical voice document?



Any and everything that is important to the client. If your business is about selling a laid back atmosphere you want to be sure your content writer doesn’t use college level writing. Or, if you run a boutique business you wouldn’t want your content to go overboard about the volumes and volumes of sales.



Another key element that should be included in a voice document is a list of preferred terms. For example, maybe you call your employees "associates" or you always refer to your customers as "clients." These subtle differences make up a brand image; don’t let that be tarnished because your web writer didn’t realize its importance to you.



How extensive does a voice document need to be?



Each and every client is different. Even if you sell the same exact product in the same exact location as someone else, there is something that is different about you and your company. This should be the essence of your voice document. Beyond that, it is completely up to you. The truth is, there isn’t a cut and dry answer. However, the more you tell your web writer ahead of time, the more likely the final product will be what you want.



If it is easier to for you to list items you don’t want portrayed in your writing, that is completely okay as well. No matter how professional the web writer or content service is, they aren’t mind readers. Take the time to tell them up front what you want and your final product will be much more likely to exceed expectations!