If you’re pouring time and money into marketing but still seeing underwhelming sales, your product descriptions could be the silent killer.
Yes those little paragraphs of text beneath your products might be doing more damage than you think.
In this post, we’ll break down the most common mistakes e-commerce stores make with product descriptions, why they hurt conversions, and how to fix them fast.
The Problem: Boring, Generic, or Confusing Copy
Too many stores write product descriptions like they’re checking a box. Here’s what that looks like:
“High quality material” (What kind of material? Why does it matter?)
“Perfect for everyday use” (So are socks—be specific.)
“Best in class” (According to who?)
These vague phrases don’t connect with your customer. They don’t answer the most important question in their mind: “Why should I buy this right now?”
The Psychology Behind Good Product Descriptions
People don’t just buy things. They buy solutions, feelings, and transformations.
Here’s what persuasive product copy should do:
Tap into emotions (excitement, relief, confidence)
Address pain points (frustration, lack of time, insecurity)
Paint a clear picture of the result your product delivers
Common Mistakes That Cost You Sales
Too technical or dry – Features without context don’t sell.
No storytelling – You’re not just selling a water bottle, you’re selling hydration that keeps up with their lifestyle.
Lack of formatting – Huge walls of text = bounce.
Skipping benefits – “Made from bamboo” is a feature. “Gentle on sensitive skin” is a benefit.
No voice – If your brand was a person, would it sound like this?
How to Fix Your Product Descriptions (Step-by-Step)
Start with the customer
Who is buying this? What do they care about most?
Highlight benefits first
What transformation does the customer get?
Use sensory language
Make them see, feel, or imagine using the product.
Add social proof where possible
“Over 2,000 sold” or a snippet from a happy review.
Format for scannability
Use bullet points, bold key phrases, and short paragraphs.
Quick Example: Before vs. After
Before:
This hoodie is made from 100% cotton. It’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Great for cold weather.
After:
Wrap yourself in all-day comfort with our ultra-soft 100% cotton hoodie—perfect for chilly mornings, lazy weekends, and everything in between. Available in three easy-to-match colors and a fit that feels just right.
Final Thoughts
Your product description is your silent salesperson. If it’s vague, lifeless, or too technical, it won’t do its job.
But a well-written description? That can turn a casual browser into a confident buyer.
So take a few minutes today to revisit your top-selling items—and give those descriptions the attention they deserve.
