I have always had a difficult time getting creative juices flowing. But over past few years I have discovered a couple of techniques that work wonders for me. I didn't invent these techniques, they're not new, but they work.

The first technique is a two step process. I start with a word-association exercise. When I need to write a new ad or design a web page, I take a legal pad or use my word processing program and start by writing down a keyword that relates to product or service I am working with. Then I write down whatever word that key word brings to mind. I write down ANY word that pops into my head. I don't reject anything at this point, object is to keep process flowing.

Make sure that you are promoting a product that is useful and/or desirable to audience you are targeting.

2. Use Attention Getting Headlines:

You web site will have or should have much useful information embedded within. Just like direct advertising, you must be sure that you have a great headline to get your reader's attention.

3. Expand Headline with Lead Paragraph:

Follow up headline immediately with first paragraph. If you ask a question, answer it. If you propose a thought, explain it. Don't leave them hanging too long, you may end up hanging yourself.

4. Draw Reader In:

Avoid page and advertising layouts that are confusing or hard to read. Reading your message should be a pleasure to read. Keep your copy simple, clear and concise. Talk to your reader as you would a friend or family member. Be straight and sincere with them. Spell it out and explain point that need explaining. Don't leave your reader second-guessing your copy.

5. Support your Opening Idea:

When you plant that opening idea, build on it and support it. List your strongest and key points. Don't just tell your reader you're better, state (brief) facts why!

6. Focus on Reader, not Product:

Of course your copy must contain information and facts about your product or service, but that is not your focal point. You must focus reader. Use their needs, wants, desires, fears, weaknesses, concerns, and even fantasies to sell your product or service.

7. Empathize with your Reader:

Many buyers have firm beliefs and strong feelings for type of product that they are interested in. Share their enthusiasm; support them in their interests outside product itself.

8. Use "That's Right!" Principle:

Get your prospect to agree with you. Tell them something they know already. Get them to say to themselves, "That's Right!"

9. Ask Provocative Questions:

Leading into your copy or headline with thought provoking questions will grab reader's interest and move them to read more for answer.

10. Move Quickly from Intro to Pitch:

Don't waste your reader's time trying to "warm them up". If they got that far, there's blood flowing already. People are busy creatures. If you lose their interest, you neither sell nor profit. Get on with it!

11. Be Sincere:

What's number one fallback for sales on web? Fear! Fear of being scammed or ripped-off. The more sincere you are better your chance of building a "selling" relationship.

12. Don't Contradict Yourself:

Double-check your copy. You would be surprised to know that many copywriters unknowingly contradict themselves leaving reader suspicious, thus destroying your credibility with them.

13. Keep Your Focus Aligned:

The more focused your target group, better your chance of meeting their needs. Don't try to sell everyone!

14. Make Your Product Irresistible:

Dress it up. Your product should sound like cream of crop. Focus on your selling point (price, quality, etc) and make it impossible for reader to imagine another in comparison.

15. Use Fear as Motivation:

Fear is both a weakness and strength, but also a powerful selling tool. Fear of injury, death or missed opportunity. If you sell a safety product you would use this fear to your advantage. If you're offering an opportunity, fear of missing their chance is a strong seller.

16. Anticipate Problems and Complaints: