How to Get Started as a Copywriter
How to Get Started as a Copywriter
Copywriting is a highly lucrative career. There are few extremely talented copywriters, and those can make up into the six digit yearly figures. People usually find that freelance copywriting is much more lucrative than working for a single employer onsite. Copywriting is a unique skill vital to any business, whether it is online or off. A good, talented copywriter can increase a business’s sales substantially. Most business owners understand that without outstanding, unique, and interesting web content, there is a good chance that they will either lose otherwise paying customers, or their business will fail entirely. This is especially true if it is a solely online venture. Getting started in copywriting can be slow. You will need patience, persistence, and a strong determination.
5 Steps to Becoming a Successful Copywriter
1. Study those who are already where you want to be - the masters. Some names of successful copywriters are Caples, Schwab, Oglivy, Nicholas, Vitale, Keith Voiles, Kennedy, Abraham, Cossman, Bly, Carlton, Bencivenga, and Schwartz. Type in any of those names in your search engine along with the word “copywriter” and you should find some good, useful studying material.
2. Create a portfolio. Yes, you can do this without any real clients. Write your own advertisements, newsletter articles, web content, reports, press releases, etc. Make up a variety of samples so potential clients can see what you are capable of doing for them.
You can also volunteer to write for your church, a friend, nonprofit organization, local business, etc. to gain experience.
3. Get testimonials from your clients. Other potential clients will be put at ease when they see that you have worked for another and they were pleased with your work.
4. Find other copywriters on forums, or discussion boards. Having a place to go to ask questions and share concerns is priceless. You can relate to others who have been in your place, or meet other beginners and share your experiences. Freelancing can be an isolating career path to choose, but having an online community of writers to go to when you need help, or just to vent can help in a very big way.
5. Be persistent no matter what. You will have your trials and tribulations. No one succeeds without first failing, sometimes many times over. It will take a lot of time to become the successful copywriter you want to be, but you must keep at it. Keep pushing yourself to improve your craft and never stop or slow down. Take on those projects that intimidate you. You will never know your limits unless you test them constantly.
Other Tips:
* Locate websites with horrible copy. Rewrite their content, and send the owner a short (2-3 sentences) paragraph of your revisions. Offer to sell them the full content for a price. You can do this with other poorly written copy, such as ads in magazines or newspapers.
There is an abundance of information for beginning copywriters out there. Check your local library for some helpful books, or search the web for more information on getting started in copywriting.
Resources:
http://www.michelfortin.com/breaking-this-copywriting-rule-boosts-profits/
http://ezinearticles.com/?Copywriting-Tips—Getting-Your-Very-First-Copywriting-Gig&id=1165863
http://www.excessvoice.com/copywriter-jobs.htm
