Why some blogs cast a spell over their readers. Yet nobody wants to know yours.
And you just can’t figure it out.
Well, the answer could be something about your writing. Something that’s missing. Something other writers are doing that you’re not. Something you need to uncover right now.
And that something is grease-slide copy.
What Is Grease-Slide Copy?
Grease-slide copy is a magnetic writing technique that keeps your readers glued to the page.
Copywriters use it in sales letters. Top bloggers use it in their posts. And now you can use it too.
Here are a few examples:
But wait – there’s more As if that’s not enough We’re not through yet How can you beat that? Yes, you read that right It gets better
Grease-slide words and phrases create smooth transitions between paragraphs and sentences. They stitch them together, minimise the friction in your copy and make it read just like a greased slide.
So once you get on at the top, you can’t help but keep sliding down.
In other words: Once you start reading, you can’t stop reading. Until you reach the bottom of the page.
Another name for grease-slide copy is the Bucket Brigade.
In the days before modern fire engines, firefighters would pass buckets of water to each other in a human chain. Copywriters later adopted the term for conversational words and phrases that help to “keep it going”.
But there’s another reason why so many bloggers love using grease-slide copy:
It’s also great for SEO.
Just think about it.
People generally spend more time reading content that offers them value. Right?
So the longer visitors spend reading your posts, the stronger the indication of quality.
Well, it’s widely believed search engines think in the same way and use the time readers spend on your website as a ranking signal.
If you want a more detailed explanation then check out this useful article about dwell time by digital marketing authority Neil Patel.
What’s in This Post?
In this post, you’ll find a reference list of more than 500 grease-slide words and phrases.
But note: What works in sales letters doesn’t always necessarily work for bloggers. So, here, you’ll find only examples you can actually use in your posts.
Simply refer to the list whenever you reach a section of your content where readers might lose interest.
To use it:
- Go to the type of Bucket Brigade you want
- Pick a phrase – or make up a similar one of your own
- Insert it into your copy
Then you’re done.
Finally, at the end of this post, you can access the full list as a PDF download – which also includes 67 bonus phrases.
Now let’s get to it:
Grease-Slide Openings
First impressions count.
So you know it makes sense to get your blog post off to the best possible start.
But nearly every writer and every blogger has exactly the same problem.
That is, coming up with a strong opening line or paragraph.
Until now:
Start with a question
Nothing sucks you into a post quite like an opening question.
Why?
Because, when presented with a question, people can’t let go until they’ve got an answer.
So they keep on reading:
Do you want to learn how to __? | So you want to __? | Want to know more about __? |
Have you wondered why __? | Ever noticed how __? | Don’t you just hate it when __? |
Do you hate __? | Have you ever found yourself __? | Do you have a __? |
Seriously, how do you __? | What if you could __? | Wouldn’t it be great if __? |
You know what I’m tired of hearing? | Want to know a secret? | Can I be totally honest with you? |
Who else wants to __? | Are you sick and tired of __? | Does this sound familiar? |
Set the scene
Setting the scene fulfils the reader’s need for intrigue and entertainment. It creates a mental picture in their mind and turns the opening of your post into a powerful emotional experience.
So use these techniques, borrowed from fictional writing, to fire up your reader’s imagination right at the start of your post:
Picture this | Imagine this | Just imagine |
Imagine what it would be like | Think about this for a moment | It’s a familiar story and it usually goes like this |
You know the score | It begins with a feeling of | You start to worry that |
You feel you’re banging your head against a wall | You’re in a never-ending battle | You’ve sweated blood to |
You’ve tried everything. But | You’re afraid that | You cower in fear |
You freeze in your tracks | You drown in | You dream of |
You yearn for |
Get inside your reader’s mind
Empathy’s the key to getting inside your reader’s head. It shows you’re on their wavelength. That you feel their pain, anxiety or frustration. And that you’ve been in their situation too.
The following openings pave the way to telling your reader you know exactly how they feel:
We’ve all been there | I know the feeling | I’ve been there |
We’ve all done it | We all do it | OK, I know what you’re thinking |
Let me guess | Let me take a wild guess | Be honest |
Admit it | Deep down you know it’s true | Don’t even try to deny it |
It’s the question you secretly dread | You’ve heard the advice a million times |
Call them to attention
Safety announcements, public speakers and teachers – they all use signals to command our attention.
Likewise, you can apply this technique to your writing. Attention signals call out “Read me! I have something important to say”.
So people naturally read on to find out what it is:
Look: | Listen: | Get this: |
Check this out: | Fact: | Question: |
Good news: | News flash: | Big news: |
Grease-Slide Transitions
So now you’ve grabbed your reader’s attention, you have to keep hold of it and not let go.
The following phrases will liven up the dullest of blog posts and will have your readers hanging on every word.
Some follow on naturally from the grease-slide openings we covered in the first section. So let’s start with those first:
Answer your own question
This is a common rhetorical device known as hypophora. First you pose a question. Then you answer it. And it’s especially popular in political speech writing.
The following are Bucket Brigades that exploit this technique:
That’s right | You’re dead right | And you’d be right |
Too true | You bet! | You bet it is! |
You’ve got it | Good for you | You can say that again |
No doubt about it | Yeah, until recently that is | So, yes |
Yes, it’s true! | Yeah, I thought so | Thought so |
Didn’t think so | Too bad | Not good |
You’re out of luck | No pressure there! | Not really, no |
Not exactly | Hardly! | You must be joking! |
No! No! No! | Wrong! | Nope |
Not necessarily | Probably not | Maybe |
Fair enough, but |
Describe a moment of insight
We all know the story of Sir Isaac Newton, who formulated his universal theory of gravitation after watching an apple fall from a tree.
This is a famous example of a moment of epiphany – a classic writing technique that helps the storyteller to paint a more vivid picture.
Give your moments of insight added impact by including these grease-slide phrases in your posts:
Wham! | Smack! | Slap! |
Boom! | Bang! You’ve been hit with | And boom! You’re there. |
Then it hit me | That’s when it hit me | It hit me like a ton of bricks |
At this point you realise | I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read | For the first time, it dawns on you |
That’s when you know that |
Ask another question
Want to keep the momentum going? Then just ask another question.
You can either pose a rhetorical question or you can repeat the question-and-answer combo above:
Can this really be true? | Still not convinced? | What’s the catch? |
So what’s the problem? | The only problem? | How do I know? |
Why do I say this? | Why am I doing this? | What makes this so special? |
So what am I talking about? | Sound silly? It’s not. | Sounds impressive, right? |
Sounds good? | Sounds familiar? | Do you see where we’re going with this? |
So have we got that straight? | Get it? | How about you? |
What about you? | Does this sound like you? | Think I’m exaggerating? |
I know that’s what you’re thinking, right? | No? | Correct? |
Or is it? | Isn’t it? | Astonishing, isn’t it? |
Annoying isn’t it? | The result? | See the difference? |
So what? | And you know what? | But you know what else? |
And what’s worse? | And guess what? | So what it’s all about? |
Get down to business
Your introduction sets out the purpose of your post, builds anticipation, sets expectations and makes a promise of what’s to come.
But then you’ll need to get down to business and move onto the nuts and bolts.
The following are typical phrases you can use to signal the end of your intro and shepherd your readers towards the next section:
Let’s get started | So let’s begin | Let’s get this show on the road |
Then let’s go | So here we go | So let’s get down to it |
Let’s jump right in | Let’s dive in | Let’s get things under way |
So let’s get to work | So let’s fire away | So let’s get busy |
So let’s get to it | So let’s get down to business | Let’s dig a little deeper |
So let’s take a closer look | Let me explain | Let me show you how |
Want to see how it works right now? | Ready? | I’ll walk you through the whole process |
Keep reading and you’ll find out |
Use a conjunct
Conjuncts sound really complicated. But, honestly, they’re very simple.
A conjunct is just a word or group of words that provides a connection between the current sentence and a previous one.
Here are some of the simplest and most common ones:
First of all | First off | For starters |
To begin with | Next | Likewise |
Similarly | Otherwise | Besides |
By contrast | Moreover | In any case |
What’s more | Beyond that | So |
Even so | Or even better | But that’s not all |
Yet | However | Nevertheless |
Either way | In other words | For example |
For instance | Then again | Still |
After all | Above all | Most of all |
To top it off | And another thing | In addition to that |
Finally | Lastly | Also |
Use a disjunct
A disjunct is another sentence component that sounds scarier than it really is.
Essentially it’s just a word or group of words that expresses the tone, attitude or manner of the writer.
Adding a disjunct will make any sentence more conversational and more readable:
Sadly | Unfortunately | Seriously |
Honestly | Let’s be honest | Let’s face it |
The simple truth is | Frankly | Most importantly |
Admittedly | Clearly | Actually |
On the face of it | For what it’s worth | You’d have to say |
Obviously | Naturally | Quite simply |
Basically | In fact | But one thing’s for sure |
But don’t get me wrong | Make no mistake about it | Let me say this straight |
Believe it or not | Needless to say | If I may say so |
Personally | Like everything else | In general |
By and large | Usually | Surprisingly enough |
Oddly enough | Perhaps unsurprisingly | Remarkably |
I tell you what though | Strictly speaking | To make matters worse |
Pause for thought
When you pause for thought, it creates a temporary moment of suspense. Just enough for readers to draw breath before they carry on for more:
Think about it | Think about it this way | And just think |
Think about this | But consider this | And get this: |
Now get this: | Now: | Look at it this way |
Put it this way | Think about it another way | Think about it like this |
Put it another way | Now consider it this way | Here’s another way to think about it |
In other words | Why? | Ever wondered why? |
You may wonder why | Why is this so? | But how? |
How’s that? | So what’s going on? | So what’s it all about? |
What’s the bottom line? | Bottom line: | And you know what? |
By now you’ll be wondering | But you’re probably wondering | Just imagine that |
Imagine for a moment | Now hang on | But hang on a minute |
Now stop right there! | Now I’m going to stop you right there |
Add supporting information
Supporting information gives your points more legs. And more impact.
The following phrases give you a way to change direction and add more detail – without losing sight of the ultimate goal:
Bear with me, because I’m going to show you how | But just keep reading and I’ll | But before I share it with you |
Before we go any further | But before we go into that | But first let’s |
So stick with me here | But stay with me | But more about that later |
But I’m jumping ahead | Back to what I was saying |
Usher in the point
At various stages in your post you’ll be making important points you don’t want readers to miss.
So use these curtain raisers to make them stand out:
Here’s the point | Here’s the deal | Here’s the kicker |
But here’s the rub | But here’s the problem | Here’s the thing |
Here’s the big idea | Here’s the scary part | But here’s the interesting thing |
But here’s something really interesting | Here’s the most important part | Want to know the best part? |
And the best part? | But the truth? | The point? |
So what’s the point? | The moral of this story? | So what’s it all mean? |
The bottom line is this | My point is this | It all boils down to this |
It all comes down to this | What it all boils down to is | What this means is |
What it means is this | Let’s get to the point | The point is |
But that’s the point | But that’s the key | But there’s one problem |
But there’s one small catch |
Issue a warning
We’re all scared of making mistakes. Likewise, we feel vulnerable to threats that could do us or our loved ones harm. And we’ll do anything that helps us to avoid them.
Try these grease-slide alert signals to make your warnings attract more attention:
Be warned: | Warning: | But first a warning: |
A word of caution: | But beware: | But remember this: |
Remember: | And remember: | Note: |
Don’t forget: | Let’s not forget | And don’t forget to |
Offer a solution or revelation
Readers love blog posts that solve their problems or offer them new insight.
So if you can do that you’ll leave a much stronger impression.
Here are a few ways to tee up your problem-solving ideas:
So what’s the answer? | The answer? | So what’s the secret? |
What’s the magic formula? | So how do you __? | So what can you do about it? |
How? | How’s that? | Don’t worry. There’s a solution. |
Let me explain | Allow me to explain | Here’s a clue: |
Here’s the secret | The truth is | Fact is |
The fact of the matter is | Reality is | But the silver lining is |
The good news is | The cool thing is | Odds are that |
It turns out | Chances are that | The answer might surprise you |
The solution is | The secret is | The trick is to |
The key to | There’s a way for you to | There’s only one way to |
Sometimes all you need to do is | This calls for | That means |
This requires | This demands | This involves |
That’s how you | That’s where __ fits in |
Make it sound simple
People lead busy, complicated lives. And they’ll lay their hands on anything that’ll make things quicker and easier.
So don’t make anything sound harder than it need be. Unless it really is:
It’s simple | It’s that simple | It really is that simple |
It sounds simple. And it is. | It’s a no-brainer | It couldn’t be easier |
It’s easy isn’t it? | It’s easier than you think | It’s pretty obvious once you think about it |
Here’s how ridiculously easy it is | Here’s all you have to do | This part is easy |
It sounds simple. But it isn’t. | Sounds easy enough. But |
Reach a milestone
Signalling achievement milestones in your blog posts are another way of making actions and accomplishments sound simpler.
When readers visualise a breakthrough or successful outcome it appears all the more attainable. So they have more incentive to read on:
This is the point where | This is the part where | By now you’ll have realised |
But by then you’ll | Then you’ll hit the sweet spot | And you’re set! |
And you’re good to go | Now you’re ready to | Done! |
Once you’ve cracked it | Once you’ve got it taped | Once you’ve nailed one |
Once you’ve got it licked |
Issue a command
Commands, instructions and calls to action, which we’ll deal with later, are the psychological triggers that inspire readers to get out there and get something done.
These common action prompts come straight out of the classic blogging phrase book:
You start by | The first thing to do is | All you have to do is |
Make a list of all the things you | Figure out what | Give yourself a |
Walk away from | Don’t get left behind | Don’t do it |
Don’t worry | Don’t go there | So stop thinking that |
Stop now! | Stop it, all of you | Stop right there |
It’s time to stop | Keep doing it until | And so on until |
Lather, rinse, repeat |
Write a platform statement
Action points and instructions often come in the form of bullet points or a numbered list.
To introduce them, we usually use a lead-in or platform statement.
The following make ideal platform statements for introducing lists – or anything else you want to set out differently from the rest of your post:
For example: | For instance: | Let me give you some examples: |
Let’s look at another example: | Let’s look at it in detail: | Let see exactly how this works: |
Here’s how it goes: | So here it is: | Here’s how: |
Here’s why: | Like so: | You’d do it like this: |
This could be: | Things to check are: | Things to consider are: |
Here are the details: | So check these out: | Take a look: |
Let’s find out: | Here are a few ways: | Here’s one company’s story: |
Ask yourself these questions: |
Grease-Slide Endings
In a previous post I wrote about crafting bullet points I talked about how the first and last items in a list generally grab the most attention.
Well, the same principle applies to your blog post as a whole. That is, openings and endings make a stronger impact than the middle.
Your closing words shape the reader’s parting impression of your post. So use the following blogging devices to round off in style:
Sum up
There’s an age-old formula used by direct marketers and public speakers that goes right back to ancient Greek times. Yet it’s still as valid today as it was back then. And it goes like this:
- Tell them what you’re going to tell them
- Tell them
- Tell them what you just told them
It’s also one sure way to get your message across in blog posts. So once you’ve finished what you have to say, say it again in a closing summary:
In short | In all | All in all |
In truth | In essence | Let’s recap |
Let’s rewind and | To sum up | So what does all this mean? |
But the bottom line is this | So it all adds up to this | In a nutshell |
Call them to action
The last few words of your blog post shouldn’t be the end, but just the beginning.
After all, it’s what readers do afterwards that counts.
So if you want people to follow your action points then say so.
Likewise don’t forget to ask readers share your post, sign up to your newsletter, make a comment or whatever else you want them to do:
Now do it | Just get it done | Go solve it |
So give it a go | Now go out there and | Now go out and do it |
Now make it happen | Now it’s your turn | So go ahead |
So take the next step | Best get started with it | Now let’s take it somewhere awesome |
Here’s to [an action] | Leave a comment | Share the love |
Let us know | Good luck and let me know | I’d love to know your thoughts |
Leave them thinking
Ask your reader a question, issue a warning, put the ball in their court or leave them in suspense. That way, you’ll leave them thinking. So they won’t forget your post in a hurry:
I’m ready. Are you? | Are you ready to __? | Do you want it? |
Can you handle it? | What’s stopping you? | So what are you waiting for? |
What have you got to lose? | Can you really afford not to? | What could be more important? |
What could be better? | How can you resist? | And isn’t that what you want? |
It’s easier than you think | It’s up to you | The choice is yours |
It’s down to you | It’s your decision | It’s your call |
It’s your money | It’s your business | It’s all in your pitch |
You’re just leaving money on the table | You’re robbing yourself of | That’s quite a challenge |
Now that’s a problem | And that’s just sad | Don’t let this be you |
The good news is that this doesn’t have to be you | But don’t just take my word for it | Soon you’ll have it figured |
Soon you’ll have them eating out your pocket | Do that and you’ll live happily ever after | Trust me. You’ll be glad you did. |
Trust me. It’ll all be worth it. | Should make interesting reading | But that’s for another post |
But that’s another story | And that was just the beginning | But that’s just the tip of the iceberg |
That’s all that really matters |
Don’t forget: The above list barely scratches the surface. There are loads more Bucket Brigades and tons of other ways you can incorporate them into your posts.
And there’s nothing to stop you creating grease-slide phrases of your own.
OK, I Get it. But Where Can I See These in Action?
Whenever direct mail comes through the letterbox, study it carefully before you throw it away.
Don’t just look for Bucket Brigades. Try to spot any other copywriting techniques you can use in your own content.
But it’s not just copywriters who love Bucket Brigades. As we said, bloggers love using them too. So, to finish, here are three examples of online marketing blogs that grease-slide their content to brilliant effect:
Smart Blogger
Jon Morrow’s blog Smart Blogger undoubtedly ranks among the best places to learn about blogging. But it’s also a gold mine of Bucket Brigades. What’s more, every post is a blog writing masterpiece. |
SEO Copywriting: Success Works
Success Works is run by SEO copywriting trailblazer Heather Lloyd-Martin. Here you’ll often find grease-slide gems you rarely see anywhere else. |
Backlinko
Brian Dean of Backlinko is an internet marketing blogger who understands the SEO value of Bucket Brigades. You only have to look at his posts. They’re jam-packed full of them. |
So there you have it.
You now know the secret to transforming forgettable posts into irresistible content.
You know what Bucket Brigades are. You know where to find them. And you know how to use them.
Now put them into practice.
Exclusive BONUS Content
Grab our grease-slide cheat sheet for free and get 67 BONUS Bucket Brigades.
Simply subscribe to our blog and we’ll send you a link to download our easy-to-use reference list:
We promise to keep your email address secure and never share it with anyone else. Read more »
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Have Your Say
Do you have any grease-slide phrases of your own? Tell us in the comment section below. And if you enjoyed this post then don’t forget to share it.
If you like this, you’ll also like:
5 Tips for Getting the Lead Out of Your Stiff Prose | Make a Living Writing
Help! No-one ever comments on my blog. What should I do? | Write Online
In our next post: Everything writers need to know about cloud computing – the mega-bucks business that pays writers big.
Woah, Kevin…First of all, what an epic post! :-)
I definitely have to keep these handy..love it!
Here’s the thing: I’m a big fan of writing in a personal style and avoiding robotic writing, But make no mistake about it..These type of sentences are doing actually exactly that. They provoke, create curiosity, catch their attention and engage the readers.
But there’s one small catch, you still need to give a lot of actionable advice. Can’t just weave a couple of words together, ya know.
Some biz owners are worried that if you give value, potential clients will just fix the problem themselves. Don’t let this be you. Give value freely, promote it and people will come to you. Trust me. You’ll be glad you did.
But that’s another story…
Have a great day!
– Jasper
I totally agree Jasper
All these Bucket Brigades count for nothing if your content has no substance.
Though I kinda touched on this in the Offer a solution or revelation section, maybe I should amend the post and make a stronger point of this.
It was also interesting to read your thoughts on the fears small businesses have about giving value.
I based this post on a personal reference list I’d slowly built up over several years.
But if it weren’t for other copywriters and bloggers from whom I’ve learnt, I’d never have had that list.
So to me, it makes sense to give back. And, yes, I’m sure it’ll be worth it.
I absolutely believe in the power of giving :-)
And i also believe that these companies do NOT want to fix it themselves. There’s those who want to save money, and those who want to save time.
And even if they dó have the time, if you’re truly confident about your expertise – they won’t be able to emulate what you do anyways. That’s real expertise.
By the way – i slipped some of your sentences in the previous comment, did you notice them? :D
– First of all
– Here’s the thing:
– But make no mistake about it
– But there’s one small catch
– Don’t let this be you.
– Trust me. You’ll be glad you did.
– But that’s another story
Yeah, Jasper, I noticed you slipped a few in. I also see you’ve just used one from the bonus list.
And you’re right. Never be scared to pass on your knowledge (unless it’s a client who clearly just wants your expertise for free).
A lot of people learn this kind of stuff, but never actually do anything about it. So no sweat.
But when people do use it then I’m glad I’ve helped.
You have some people who like to help others online. And you have others who just use and treat everyone as a competitor.
I think you already know which way I see it.
I agree Kevin.
Well, i think we all know what side you’re on, you just gave away a VERY generous resource!
I’m thinking i might just print this one out :-)
Dang Kevin, that’s a fabulous post and I’m going to have to highlight it in this month’s roundup.
I oftentimes tell people that writing can be learned. To some it comes naturally but to others they have to really focus, pay attention and learn how to phrase things or speak in a way that will capture their audiences attention.
I know that writing sales copy is no easy task but you’ve really given us some goodies in this post Kevin and I for one really appreciate it. I’m going to download the PDF so I can revert back to it myself when needed.
Oh and thank you for the mention of my post, I know you said you wanted to include it and I really do appreciate that.
I’m off to share your post and you have a wonderful week.
~Adrienne
Hi Adrienne
You’re dead right – because, as it happens, I’m not a natural writer.
Instead I write methodically and scientifically. I study carefully what other people do and learn from it. It’s almost as if I write to a formula. Yet the end product doesn’t look like it’s been written by a machine.
The PDF is more an organised list than a transcript of this post. So it should be ideal as a reference document whenever you need it.
So glad you found the post useful + many thanks for your comment.
Hey Kevin,
Can I give you a standing ovation for this wealth of knowledge!
It’s one thing to talk about blogging, but it’s another thing to go into so much detail about copywriting.
The good thing is that I’m already using some of the techniques and they do work quite well on me. Just through using some of these techniques more so this year many respectable readers have noticed and mentioned the improvement in my writing.
But this post is definitely worth bookmarking and studying for later use.
Thanks for sharing Kevin! Have a great week!
Yes, Sherman, I’ve noticed comments on your blog about how much your writing has improved.
And they’re so right.
It also helps that your underlying content is good.
Things are just going to get even better, I’m sure.
Very helpful.
Thanks for sharing.
Paul
Hi Paul
Everyone’s a winner when you provide something helpful.
Thanks for commenting.
Incredibly informative post.
I was actually just wondering why my posts had been lackluster lately. I’ve been writing pure information articles for a client, and couldn’t seem to get back to that ‘engaging’ feel I once had with my writing.
Now I remember. Stories! Very timely post, it’s going to come in very handy for me.
Thanks,
I sometimes have the same problem, Solanki, especially as I don’t blog as often as I do other stuff.
That’s why I gradually built up this swipe file. It sure has helped me. So I’m glad it’s helping others.
Kevin,
This is an impressive list! I commend you for taking the time to provide your community with great information.
I noticed some adverbs on the list. My tip is to be aware of the number of times you use them in content and copy. They become filler words and don’t add much to writing. When I edit, I take out as many as I can.
Here are some of my suggestions:
1. Do you think? As in, “Do You Think You Can Retire at Age 30?”
2. How do you? As in, “How Do You Make $10,000 A Month Doing Work You Love?”
3. Discover the… As in, “Discover the ancient Amazon fruit that helps you lose 20 lbs. in 10 days.”
Amandah recently posted…Curious Copywriter Strikes Gold with Direct Sales Copywriting
The word discover always gets my vote Amandah.
It’s one of my copywriting faves, along with the likes of secret, get, free and (of course) you.
I noticed I kinda already got How do you? covered (as in Seriously how do you __?). However, giving a real example like that helps bring the phrase to life.
Finally, using Bucket Brigades is great. But thanks for pointing out the dangers of going overboard. Some of those adverbs do have the potential to make our copy bloaty, don’t they?
Thank you so much for your input.
Wow Kevin,
This is really a mind blowing post. I’ve really gotten a bunch of awesome ideas here for a blog post.
Using this words very well will always make your readers to stick much longer on your posts. This is because such words are very good in arousing curiosity.
I’m going to bookmark this page for easy reference Kevin, hope you don’t mind?
Thanks for sharing
I certainly don’t mind Theodore.
This post was meant to be a reference resource. So I’m glad it’s doing just that.
Kevin, this is an insane list. I think I need to bookmark this and start applying it to my boring posts.
It is all a matter of habit I think , and purposeful practice!
Appreciate the shake up!
ashley
Ashley Faulkes recently posted…The Best WordPress Plugins of 2015 – 30 Pros Reveal Theirs
Hey Ashley,
It’s impressive right? Ever since Kevin shared this one i’ve used it a couple of times already. It’s definitely a matter of habit. This is one to keep on the desktop :-)
– Jasper
Jasper
It looks like you’ve already included a few examples in your latest blog post.
Haha Kevin i’m so glad you picked up on that! Yep, i did use your PDF a couple of times :-)
I intend to make it a habit and use them even more often. Thanks a lot, Kevin.
– Jasper
I must’ve been insane to write this Ashley. It took a monster effort. But I think it was worth it.
Anyway, I just read one of your posts. And it definitely wasn’t boring. But using a few more Bucket Brigades will no doubt make your writing even better.
It actually doesn’t take long to get into the habit of using them.
I’ve found that simply following and reading other high quality blogs helps you with your own writing. There’s something that happens when you read loads of this quality stuff that it somehow becomes ingrained in your own writing when doing copywriting.
Right on. You sure need to read those top bloggers to pick up the blogging style.
This is amazing! Hope you don’t mind that I ‘steal’ these techniques for my future posts. I’m hoping that the improved copywriting will benefit user behaviour and engagement rates which might indirectly improve SEO.. we’ll see! Thanks for sharing!
Marcus, I’ve ‘stolen’ many of these examples from ads, sales letters, blogs and other written stuff. So go ahead and steal yourself.
And, yes, better copy should improve your SEO.
I’ve recently been reviewing the content on my own sales pages. So far the results have been good, as I’ve seen an overall improvement in my rankings.
Hi Kevin,
Just coming over from Adrienne’s blog where this post was featured.
As I keep on working on my writing skills, this is a gem! Not only for my blog posts, but more importantly for sales copy. I’ve been doing a lot of that lately and testing testing…
This sure has me thinking and realizing how to make things flow, especially if it is a sales copy. Thank you so much for this special gift you have given! Going off to download it.
-Donna
Donna Merrill recently posted…Why You Need To Hire A Coach For Your Online Business
Right on, Donna, Bucket Brigades work like a charm in sales copy.
The longer you can keep ’em interested, the greater the chances of clinching a sale.
Many thanks for commenting + hope these phrases do the business for you.
Hi Kevin,
First time visiting your blog, thanks to Adrienne. She’s pretty good about connecting people, isn’t she?
Funny…I noticed that I use several of the terms you’ve mentioned here as a natural part of my writing…so it’s pretty cool to see them suggested here.
For me, writing is like holding a conversation in my head – and the words spill out onto the page as though I’m speaking to a friend.
I’m totally bookmarking this post. Nice to meet you :)
Hi Dana
Adrienne also has that more natural way of writing. And it sure hypnotises her readers.
By contrast, I write in a more calculated way. That’s why I started to build up a list of these conversational phrases.
So it’s all the more pleasing that whatever writing style people have they’re still finding it useful.
Nice to meet you too; I’m sure we’ll speak again.
Hi Kevin,
This is my first visit to your blog and I came from Adrienne’s.
What an awesome blog post and you are a natural at writing and using Grease Slide Copy.
Using these ideas can keep people sitting on the edge of their chair. I’m going to practice some of these techniques in my own writing. What I do now is share information. These phrases really do work as I am remembering other posts I’ve read in the past using them.
Thank you for sharing Kevin and you have an awesome rest of the week!
Linda
Here’s the funny thing Linda.
I’m not actually a natural at writing at all.
But because I’ve worked hard at it, no-one really notices.
And that’s thanks to using techniques like these.
Hi, Kevin,
Wow! What a valuable resource! Copywriting has been on my mind lately, and I’ve recently published a guest article on my site which has been well-received. Your examples are phenomenal! Thanks so much for sharing your insight with us and for going above and beyond the norm.
Bookmarking for sure. 😀 Practice, practice, practice.
Hope you have a wonderful afternoon, and hope to talk soon.
Carol Amato
Hi Carol
By nature, bloggers tend to be knowledge-hungry people – especially for anything that’ll help them improve their posts. So it’s no surprise your guest post on copywriting was well received.
Yes, I did go that extra mile with this. It was a lot of hard work. But sometimes writing one huge resource is better for both your blog and your readers.
Hi Kevin,
Your entry is super awesome itself and I couldn’t help but stay glued to the page right to the very end! This is surely an arsenal of Bucket Brigades (ABB) :)
You see, the deployment of these power words is very difficult to resist because they trigger out an emotional response…and at the emotional level, logic and all things rational take flight. That is why it is easy to see readers reading a post over and over again or visiting a blog that is updated weekly on a daily basis.
Your work sincerely rocks!
Do make the day great!
Always,
Akaahan Terungwa
As this is a pretty long post, Akaahan, it sure is good when readers stay glued right to the end.
Without doubt, Bucket Brigades will have played their part.
Thanks for the list of phrases. That’s pretty impressive. I will have to see how I can work them into my content, especially since everything I’m reading now says that my posts need to be longer.
Ben Carter recently posted…Is Starting a Blog as Hard as they Say?
Yep, Ben, long-form posts do make more impact. But that’s provided people are prepared to read them.
I think that’s where Bucket Brigades come into their own. They make longer posts so much more digestible and readable.
WOW Kevin – Thanks so much for sharing this awesome invaluable information. I was glued to the page!
I am curious about using these principles for ebook writing as well as blogging. Could maybe turn a good ebook into an “un-putdownable” page turner?
Ebonny, I’m no expert when it comes to writing eBooks. So I’m not sure how well this style transfers to the such a format.
But I can’t see why you shouldn’t apply this technique to eBooks – though I think it would depend on the nature of the content.
Hi Kevin,
Wow-wee! What an amazing “cheet-sheet” for creating killer copywriting you’ve created here. This is almost like a full course in how to write content that sells.
I think it all comes down to knowing what you want readers to do as they’re reading your content. You want them to do something specific, like click a link or a buy-now button but does your content help you do that? That’s the question.
Content that sells is what you should be aiming for and it all starts with knowing what you want your readers to do at the end, when they’ve finished reading. And this should start almost as soon as they start reading. Each paragraph has to build up to making them want to click.
And these brilliant techniques you’ve included here, Kevin, can do just that.
Thanks.
-Tom
Tom Southern recently posted…Blogging Tips, Strategies And Tactics: How To Sort Through The Pile and Find The One That’ll (Actually) Work For You
Right on Tom
Whether writing sales copy or a blog post, rarely can you get the full message across in just a few words.
So these techniques help keep the reader interested right up to the moment you finally get there.
Bucket Brigades aren’t specifically words that sell, but more the words that help you sell. And it’s how they work that makes them equally useful in blog writing.
Going by your comment about reaching the end goal, I suspect you agree with me.
Hi Kevin,
But wait, there’s more….totally classic. People dig more. Now they need to find out what more means. And how much more. And all that good stuff behind mystery door number 2. All help examples here Kevin, thanks much.
Ryan
It’s funny, Ryan, but I’m always reluctant to use But wait, there’s more … in my posts.
I think it’s because I fear sounding like one of those cheesy ads on the shopping channels.
But you’re dead right, it is a classic. When you see it, you just can’t help but read on to find out what it is.
Kevin,
This is an absolute GOLDMINE of phrases. I have just launched a new supplement business and this has helped massively with me writing product descriptions!
Thanks,
Gareth!
Gareth
This is a list of phrases I’ve built up over the years. I often refer to it when I’m writing and find it really helpful.
I thought others would find it useful too. That’s why I published it.
So I’m delighted it’s helped you with your product descriptions, as it shows this post was worthwhile.
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These are great. They really do make copy feel more like real conversation. One of my favourite bucket brigades for a call to action is a quick snappy “Let’s talk.” that leads into directions to the contact form.
James, I’m not sure whether “Let’s talk” is a Bucket Brigade or whether I personally like it or don’t.
But what the heck! If it works then who cares? And that’s all that matters.
That’s pretty impressive. I will have to see how I can work them into my content, especially since everything I’m reading now says that my posts need to be longer.
Yep, long-form evergreen content generally offers more value. So if you can nail it, with authoritative advice, useful info and compelling writing, your content will definitely stand out.
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Oh wow, this grand list will come in handy. Sometimes I struggle for a sub-headline or good transition words. This list will be helpful. Thanks.
Yeah, Bakari, I’m in the same boat.
I find it relatively easy to write the solid matter to my content. It’s making transitions between sentences (i.e. making my content flow) that tends to be the problem.
Hi Kevin, this is an awesome list and we have spent a whole meeting going through the points you have suggested – great resource to share!
Thanks
Bren
Hi Bren
I also created a PDF version of the list, which is even easier to share. You can download it by entering your email address in the Exclusive BONUS Content box at the bottom of the post.
Many thanks for your feedback.
Hi Kevin, awesome work man. this list is ultimate. I am an SEO blogger and when I started my article on copywriting, I started searching for the list of bucket brigades and then I found your article and then boom!
i just got amazed after seeing your work on bucket brigades I am gonna give a backlink to your content in my textual content.
Hi Naveen
I just checked out your latest post. Good to see these and so many other top copywriting techniques in your content (and in your comment above).
Kevin,
Wow!
Am so glad I found this article. As a newbee writer and a guy who has pretty much hated writing for perhaps 40 years, this adds a little bit of fun to the process. I came across your post by searching the term “Bucket Brigade” after getting a few samples from Brian Dean at Backlinko. Ijuast wanted to say thank you! warm Regards, Bruce
Bruce, thanks for the tip-off on how you found this post.
For years, I hated writing too. And now that’s what I do for a living.
The big turning point was when I decided to ignore much of the nonsense I was taught at school.
Poetry, sonnets and Shakespeare really are of little use when it comes to high-converting online content.
Kevin, Can I be totally honest with you? The ironic thing was I won the English award in 8th grade, but I was a chemical engineering student in college. But wait – there’s more. Then became a photographer, and now you’re probably wondering….. I coach young people in soccer and blog about photography.
But, a word of caution. Don’t overuse the Bucket Brigade. The fact of the matter is: this does make copywriting a little fun. ;-) LOL
Thanks again, Bruce
Bruce recently posted…Mar 3, Prevent Childhood Boredom. 5 Super Fun Photography Projects For Kids and Parents
WoW! Great information! I love it. I was just writing a blog post and looking for ways to make it better when I came across this article. I am implementing some of these tips today. Thank you so much!
Hi Stephen
That’s always a great way to think when writing – continually asking yourself How can I make this better?
Hi Kevin,
Thanks for the fantastic info and easy-to-follow layout. I headed over after Bruce shared your article in Brian Dean’s group. Small world!
Danny
Thanks so much for letting me know where you learned about this post Danny.
It’s nearly two years since I wrote it, but people are clearly still reading it and finding it useful.
That makes all the effort worthwhile.
Cheers!
Hey kevin, Woww!
You’ve done a great job here!
Some of my favorite brigades:
‘Here’s the deal’
‘Now:
‘Look’
‘Listen’
Thanks for putting it together, off to share :)
Hi Nadeem
Thanks for listing your faves.
Though I’m not sure it’s necessarily my favourite Bucket Brigade, I do find myself using What’s more a lot.
Hi Kevin thank you so much for this amazing post.
My friends and clients who are reading my final draft copy are amazed by how they managed to read through the whole article.
You will be surprised to know that the article is at least 20k words long.
Thank you so much! I am now going back to all my previous posts to rewrite them!
Once again, Appreciate your post.
Hi Ryan
I like the way you’re going back over your previous posts and rewriting them.
I’ve revised, added new value to and remarketed older posts on this blog – it’s a great way to make your content go further.
This is an amazing article Kevin. I take my hat off to you! I’m using these bucket brigades right now, to turn my ‘how to’ article into something more engaging. Your article is a life saver! Thanks.
Hi Rob
Some of the tips and tricks we learn about blogging aren’t always that quick and simple to do – like content upgrades, courting influencers and stuff.
But, with Bucket Brigades, you really can start using them RIGHT NOW.
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It is a very useful post Kevin. I only came across the term bucket brigade the other day, but I am a convert now!
Wow! There is so much meat here, Kevin. TY. Just getting back writing for our website and this information is priceless. I will certainly incorporate most, if not all, of your suggestions. Keep up the great job!
Thanks for the feedback Gail.
Hope these phrases make a real difference to your website copy – and that you ultimately get more conversions by using them.
I must admit I had never heard the terms “greased slide” and “bucket brigade” before tonight, but I did major in advertising eons ago.
The very first “bucket brigade” phrase might actually have been the one that starts out “they all laughed when I sat down at the piano.” Can’t quite recall which famous ad man came up with it, but it was definitely not Don Draper.
I don’t know who Don Draper is, Sharon, but it was John Caples who wrote that famous ad for the piano course.
As most Bucket Brigades are just a part of everyday parlance, I suppose you could say they go back 1,000s of years.
I’m guessing you never watched “Mad Men;” Don Draper was the main character. The show was set in the 1960s and ’70s, and followed his (mis)adventures, among other story arcs.
Hi Sharon,
I’m kinda guessing Mad Men is a riff on Ad Men – unless there’s some other hidden connection.
Don’t know about that; could very well be; the series ran on AMC for about nine seasons and was quite compelling TV.
There is so much generosity out here that sometimes I’m left with my mouth wide open. Bucket brigades are going to be part of my writing. Thank you so much for this heads up.
Thanks Judith
Someone scolded me when I published this guide, saying I was giving away too much for free.
I personally didn’t think he really got how the web works and stuck to my guns.
As I’ve got a lot of business on the back of this post, I guess I was right to do so.
Thanks for this comprehensive list. I’d never heard of the term ‘grease-slide copy’ before although after reading your post, I’m very familiar with it.
Thanks for your comment Sandra.
As you’d not heard of grease-slide copy before, I’m curious as to how you came across this post.
It’s always interesting (and useful) to know how visitors arrive at your website.
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Cant wait to start using this in to my copy. Thanks for the List
Lee, I notice you’re an SEO man. So anything that makes your content better is sure going to improve your rankings.
Let me know if you see any difference in the results you’re getting.
This is a fantastically complete list! I’ve been testing my sales copy and this list has been an absolute gem for new phrases and catches. Thank you!
You’re welcome Drago
Hope you’re getting better results from your sales copy.
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One of the greatest tactic to stick readers to articles. Don’t know how many times I’ve visited this comprehensive list. I’ve been seeing great results, though. Thank You for the list!
Reports of great results are just the kind of comments I love Kanishka.
Wow, this has really helped me since I began writing content online, Awesome!
Someone recommended this post and I’m glad I came across it. It’s funny because I use tactics like this all the time in my writing, but forgot where I originally learned the technique from. Either way, I’ve bookmarked this for more use with my content in the future (it’s that helpful). Thank you for creating this as it’s helpfulness is very much noted, even many years later 💪
James Canzanella recently posted…Unbounce Vs WordPress: Websites, Landing Pages, and More
Thanks James for letting me know this post is still in circulation and providing value to writers nearly five years on.
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This is a very impressive list, I found myself writing down some golden budget bridges I see on this post until I saw you offer a 67 BONUS Bucket Brigades at the end of this post. I downloaded that immediately. I am so glad I found this post. I have bookmarked it and I will be revisiting it a lot as I continue to improve my writing every day. Thank you so much.
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Hi Valentine
I’m so glad I compiled that list. Because it’s not only been useful to me, but also so many other people.
Since I first published it, I’ve added quite a few other Bucket Brigades to my own internal list. Maybe I should make these available to everyone else at some stage.
Hello Kevin:
This is the most comprehensive list of bucket brigades that I have come across!
Your dedication to putting this list together is admirable. Hats off to you!
Thank you!
-Rajeev
Hi Rajeev
I compiled this resource over a long period of time – mainly from phrases I’d seen in other blog posts and direct mail that came through my door. When you build up something up like that progressively over time, it doesn’t seem quite so much work. (Probably an important lesson somewhere in there.)
Hope you get good use out of the list.
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Great post. Being a non-native writer these are very useful for me. Thank you.
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Absolutely brilliant!
I was led to bucket brigades while researching semantic SEO. This if by far the best explanation of how to use them effectively, I’ve read so far. Funnily enough, it was while looking a the structure of Brian Deans posts, that inspired me to learn more. Love it, Love it Love it!
Now where’s that bonus download? :)
Hi Dan
Thanks for chipping in.
As you’ll gather from my most recent post, I’m currently writing about cloud computing rather than being involved in all this kind of stuff. So I’m curious as to how your research into semantic SEO led you onto bucket brigades.
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