For a new copywriter, “How do I build my portfolio?” is one of the most important questions to answer. In the creative industry, it can often feel like you need to have lots of samples to get work—but to get lots of samples, you need to have already gotten work. Luckily, this isn’t quite the case.
You can build your portfolio, do good for your career, and also do good for the community.
Nonprofit organizations have noble causes, a need to publicized the causes to potential donors and, often, very little cash. Which, by the way, is where you come in.
Now, don’t get me wrong. If you’re looking to make fast cash, this is not the route. In fact, if you’re looking to make any cash, this probably isn’t the best option. But if you’re really looking to build your book, this can be a great path.
Get in contact with a handful of small nonprofits headquartered in your city (national nonprofits probably don’t need your help as they likely already have in-house staff doing their writing). Choose causes you’re personally passionate about and get in touch with the director to offer your services for free. You’ll get an even better reception if you come with a designer partner in tow.
Not all of them may need your help, but when you find one that does, you have an opportunity to put great pieces into your portfolio and make the world a better place.
You might also want to check out an organization called Taproot that connects creatives (and other types of professionals) with nonprofit organizations that need pro bono help. If they can use you, it’s that much easier!
Read More: Avoid the Niche Trap
Many so-called copywriting gurus will tell you that the path to success is to proclaim a niche right away. But that advice is 100% wrong and, worse, it’s potentially damaging to your career. Read our post here to learn why and find out what you should do instead.
Your Turn
What creative ways are you using to build your portfolio? Let us know in the comments below!
Last Updated on February 7, 2024
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