How “Business Speak” Is Killing Your Sales

If you’ve ever felt your eyes glaze over halfway through a long-winded sales pitch, you’re not alone…

This happens allllllllllll the time. In more ways than you think.

Most people see this when reading overly stiff “business speech” that doesn’t really mean anything and feels like it’s been written by ChatGPT.

I’m going to tell you how you can fix this problem. And it’s actually really easy.

Don’t Write Like AI

It’s way easier to relate to someone who doesn’t speak like a robot.

Think about it: would you rather listen to a sales pitch that sounds like the terms and conditions small print of a legal contract, or one that feels more like a friendly chat?

Most people ain’t got time for the legal document drivel.

And this same thing applies to the writing on your website, social media posts, advertising, emails and all other forms of communication.

So How Do You Make Your Writing Sound Human?

One of the quickest and easiest ways is to read it out loud.

If it feels awkward, overly complicated or like you’re trying to sound too “businessy” it’s time to go back to the drawing board.

Take a look at this nonsense:

Business speak: "As an expert in digital marketing strategies, it is our responsibility to offer clients the tools necessary to accomplish growth objectives within their respective industries.”

What does this even mean?

Most people skim through their social media, they’re not spending the brain calories needed to interpret all this.

Human speech:

“Our job is to get you more clients. That’s it.”

Read these out loud.

The first one sounds like a robot. The second sounds like something you’d actually say in conversation.

If your copy doesn’t pass the “read out loud” test, you might want to file it under B for bin and start from the beginning…

Shorter Sentences = Better Results

Long sentences with loads of ideas crammed in are exhausting to read.

People usually speak in shorter sentences with pauses in between. Apply this to your writing to make it feel more genuine and easy to follow.

Soulless AI drivel:

“Our comprehensive package includes an in-depth analysis of your current marketing strategy, the formulation of targeted advertising campaigns, and a detailed roadmap for improvement in all customer acquisition areas, enabling your business to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.”

More to the point:

“Our package covers everything. We’ll go over your marketing, create ads that work, and make a plan to help your business grow. You’ll have everything you need to stand out in a crowded market.”

See how the second version sounds more real?

Keeping sentences short and focused guides your reader along naturally - no mental heavy-lifting required.

Focus On Your Customer - Not Your Business

It’s easy to fall into the trap of talking about yourself and your services.

But what your customer really wants to know is how you can help THEM. Not your whole business life story.

Put yourself in their shoes and keep it focused on their needs.

For example:

Business focused:

“At PKC Marketing, we are committed to providing top-notch marketing solutions that drive performance and generate measurable results.”

Customer focused:

“We’re here to help you grow. Whether you need better leads, more sales, or a fresh marketing plan, we’ve got you covered.”

The Coffee Date Test

An easy way to tell if your writing connects?

Show it to a friend and get their honest opinion. Or just ask yourself: “Would I say this to someone over coffee?”

If they wouldn’t have a clue what you’re talking about, you know there’s something wrong.

And now you can change it!

Keep these tips in mind next time you write a sales page, email or social media post. You’ll find a more relaxed, conversational tone brings you closer to your audience and gets you better results.

Give it a try and see the difference.

Ready to try a more conversational style in your business? Let’s talk:

pkcmarketing.co.uk/free-marketing-analysis