We have all heard the infamous words, "first impressions matter". Perhaps nothing sums up the best reason that editing is essential for web copy. Stop and think about the last website that you visited. Did you notice something that was not quite right? Chances are if you did, it will stick in your mind for a very long time!
Your web presence
Most businesses that elect to have a website created do so as a way to attract potential clients and/or employees. Because your website is in fact your "presence", it means that your corporate culture is often reflected in your web copy. If your web copy is full of typographical and grammatical errors then the first impression those visiting your site get is not going to be positive. Your web presence should speak for you this alone should be enough reason for having properly edited web copy.
The message
If your web copy is loaded with mistakes (whether they are typographical or grammatical) then the message that people get when visiting is that you're lazy, uncaring, or that you haven't taken the time to follow up on a job you hired someone to perform. This is not the message you want to send to clients or to potential employees. Your web copy should reflect your professionalism and having properly edited web copy is the first step.
Proper editing
There is nothing that can replace proper editing of your web copy. For those who hire people to create copy you should still be reviewing their work carefully for errors. Even a single mis-used word can have a negative impact on your website. In order to attract people proper editing of web copy should be done with an eye to the consumer of the information on your website.
SEO editing
It is extremely helpful if when you are editing your web copy that you ensure that it is "SEO friendly". This can help make sure that you appear properly in search engines and that those who are looking for your products or services can find you.
The domino effect
We all remember the old commercials that said, "If you tell three friends, and they tell three friends, etc." then soon a product would be popular. Today, the internet is not only a tool where we go to find information, products and services; it is also a social venue for many of us. Just stop and think about how quickly the word can get out about a less than perfect website.
All of these reasons make it essential that your web copy is properly edited. We take pride in the products and services that we offer to the public. That alone is enough to make editing essential for web copy. Make proper editing of your web copy the first step in helping your online business thrive.