How to use ChatGPT to produce website page content in a hurry?
One of the biggest sticking points or hurdles I come up against when building a website for a client is getting supplied with website copy and content.
I can't say I blame them! Writing copy for yourself is a chore. As busy business owners, even if you somehow manage to find the time, writing about yourself can be a lot of work, especially if writing does not come naturally to you. Of course, if you have a budget, you could hire a professional copywriter, but even that approach is not always without its floors.
“I always use the analogy (even though it is a little outdated) to think of your website as a newspaper. If a newspaper were only to print the same stories repeatedly and never add anything new, well before long, no one would buy that newspaper.”
My big concern
When I build a website for a new client, my biggest concern as I hand it off to them is whether they will maintain and add more content over time.
Unfortunately, no matter how much I try to help, some clients do not update their websites. It's a shame because by not fully using their website to its potential, they are missing out on leads and, ultimately, work and sales.
I always use the analogy (even though it is a little outdated) to think of your website as a newspaper. If a newspaper were only to print the same stories repeatedly and never add anything new, well before long, no one would buy that newspaper. Same for your website. You must keep search engines, real people, and soon walking, talking AI robots interested!
Get in touch if you're concerned about your website's SEO or lack of updates. I can set up a monthly support package to keep your site up-to-date.
“By entering a few short statements into ChatGPT, I could generate enough content to begin forming content for an About page for the client.”
Using ChatGPT for copy
So, I recently worked for an electrician and built a new Squarespace business website for his company.
I created the three requested pages, designed their new ones and incorporated their current brand identity design. All looked good, but now I needed to add actual content. I usually obtain content from a client before I begin a build so that it can inform my design direction. However, as this was such a small and simple website project and more of a starting-out website for the client to build on, I went ahead before receiving any content. Due to their busy schedule, I felt that the client might find it challenging to supply me with content for the website, so I played with ChapGPT for the first time to see if that could help me get a head start for them. And the results were impressive!
By entering a few short statements into ChatGPT, what I knew about their business, their work, services, values, etc. I was able to generate enough content to begin forming an About page. Now, what I got was not perfect, but it was a good start. I edited it and shared it with the client for feedback, and with a bit of back and forth, we had a decent About page for their website.
A real plus for the writing scared!
By getting to know and using tools like ChatGPT, you will become more confident in creating sound content that you can use on your website.
ChatGPT will give you subject ideas and tone of voice suggestions (make it friendly, formal, etc.), generate content drafts, and help you convey your points in words.
The bonus is that you will keep your customers informed and prospects engaged by regularly updating your website's content through blogging, case studies, company news, etc.
And let's remember that search engines prioritise websites with fresh, relevant content, which can help improve your website's visibility and attract more potential customers.
“Getting to know and using tools like this will give you the confidence to blog and add regular content to your website.”
Using Unsplash for images
Finding images for your website that reflect your business can also be challenging.
I recommend hiring a photographer, as doing so elevates your website in a way that no image found online can. The best and most beautiful websites I have built have professionally shot authentic photography. However, if the budget is tight and you need something to get you started, Unsplash is a great place to find licence-free images to add to your website to create a bit of appeal.
Conclusion
If you need help to supply your website designer with the content they need to build your website, try ChatGPT for copy and Unsplash for images.
It has been documented that over the years, Google has periodically changed how it indexes pages on its search system, often called "changing its algorithm."
With the increasing popularity of people using AI to generate website content, Google will likely change its algorithm again. So, assuming this will be the case, it is essential now more than ever to keep your content original, honest and real.
Again, use tools like ChatGPT to help you with ideas and tone of voice and as a start for content that you will ultimately edit and make your own, but avoid using it to generate entire final documents. That doesn't feel right anyway, and it is certainly something I would never do. 😎
And remember!
Getting to know and using tools like this will give you the confidence to blog and add regular content to your website, which is a must as it is excellent for your customers, prospects and search engines.
