How can I kick-start my copywriting career?
So, you want to become a copywriter? Good choice! But I’m guessing you’ve arrived on this page because you’re feeling a little overwhelmed. Maybe you want some advice on landing your first gig. Or perhaps you want to know how to find your niche. Or maybe you’re feeling a bit lost and need a community to see you right. I’ve got you, friend.
Here’s a list of the best tips and resources for new copywriters to help you build your portfolio, find your groove and land your first paying client.
1. Find your community
This is the single, most important thing you can do for your copywriting career. Finding like-minded people who do the job you want to do opens so many doors. Whether it’s reading their work, chatting to them on social media or getting and giving referrals.
My favourite? #ContentClubUK on Twitter, 11am GMT every Tuesday. Ellen’s Discord server for freelancers and for the women, Dee’s Female Copywriters Alliance.
2. Read and learn
The best way to learn how to write (apart from actually writing) is to read. Devour as many books, blogs, newsletters and examples of great copy as you can.
Here are my favourite copywriting and freelancing books:
Survival Skills for Freelancers – Sarah Townsend
Read Me – Roger Horberry and Gyles Lingwood
The Copywriting Sourcebook – Andy Maslen
A Self-Help Guide for Copywriters - Dan Nelken
And some other damn incredible resources to wrap your eyes/ears around:
Louise Shanahan’s 15 Minute Freelancer podcast
Emma Cownley’s Kiss My A’s YouTube channel
Bizzy Coy’s super secret guide to freelance copywriting
3. Get inspired
Create a swipe file of copy you like. You might see it on the bus or when you’re buying a new pair of shoes or on the back of a cereal packet. It doesn’t matter. Take a picture. Screenshot it. Stick it in a folder on your desktop. Next time you’re lacking inspiration, you’ve got a well of genius to tap into.
4. Write
The best way to become a better writer is to write more. Start a blog or a newsletter and publish your work regularly. Join a writing challenge like this one by Tim Clare.
Practice not only improves your writing style and helps you develop your own tone of voice, but you also learn about your audience, what works, what doesn’t. These are all lessons you can apply to your next paid gig.
5. Get social
Social media is a bit of a necessary evil as a freelance copywriter. I find most of my gigs across Instagram and LinkedIn. Pick a couple of platforms where you think your ideal customer is hanging out and start posting.
6. Charge right
The temptation when you’re new is to accept per word or per hour rates. Try to charge per project if you can. It’s better for the client (no hidden costs or nasty surprises) and it’s better for you. Your work is not worth the time you spend on it, it’s worth the knowledge, experience, expertise and value you bring to your client’s business.
Always charge 50% upfront. Always charge a rush fee if the work has a quick turnaround or you have to work evenings or weekends to accommodate a client’s tight deadline.
7. Build a portfolio
If you don’t have client work yet, set yourself imaginary briefs for imaginary companies in your target industry and publish your work. Be creative. Show what you can do.
If you have questions about getting your writing career off the ground or would like pointers on your portfolio, website or pitch template, you can book in for a power hour with me. It’s 60 minutes of focused Zoom time where I’ll share as much information and advice as I can possibly squeeze in. You’ll also get a recording and a bullet-pointed action plan after the call. Book your slot.