Submitting final draft for a new website for a management consulting firm last week, I noted in a covering email ‘Two quick queries, not really copy as such, and arguably outside my remit:

First, the introductory offer. I’m slightly uneasy about this. I can quite understand the basic impetus: you need to get people aboard, asap. My worries are, does it come across as a bit weak/pleady/needy, and is this actually the best way to attract clients? 

Second, the ‘from £1,999′ figure. Again, I’m wondering whether this sends out the right signals. There’s something a bit hucksterish about prices ending in 99. I think if it were me, I might be more inclined to name a solid round figure – £2,000, or £1500.’

Is any of this any part of a copywriter’s role? I’d hope so. We are, after all, in the business of aiding communication between our client and his or her audience(s); I’d say anything affecting that process is fair game.