Thinking about all the professional copywriters in my network, none of them have a major presence beyond their online portfolio.
We’re all heads down, working on projects, and, generally, see ourselves as part of a larger team pulling off great work (designers, creative directors, strategists, developers, etc.).
You could make the case that I’m not “up” on what’s trending in the space.
The Truth About Your Copywriting Portfolio Website
But here’s the truth. After looking at a few of these beautifully designed portfolio sites, I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything. And neither should you.
Of course, that wasn’t my initial reaction.
My gut reaction?
“Why doesn’t your website look like this, Kate?!“
But while we all learn (or are learning) not to compare ourselves to others, for some reason that becomes harder to do when it’s about your career.
Many of these copywriters are touting making seven figures and helping others make seven figures. Maybe they are. And that’s great!
Sure, I make a fantastic living as a copywriter. But a nice paycheck is only one perk of copywriting.
And that’s just it: I’m writing copy.
Copywriters..and Then Some
Many of these copywriters are selling courses. They’re selling workshops and $1,000/hour coaching calls (really?!). They’re bragging about astronomical rates.
And, in at least one case, I’ve seen them selling copy templates (though that’s beyond me how a copywriting template is helpful for clients when one size does not fit all and any email, website, etc. should be designed and written with a specific goal in mind…okay, that’s beside the point 🙂 ).
Above all? They’re personas.
And most copywriters, well, aren’t. They’re working for big-name brands or small businesses alike, coming up with killer concepts and writing effective copy, and collaborating with designers. And they’re having fun, making great money—no bells or whistles necessary.
If you spend a lot of time in the online space, following these copywriters on Instagram, Facebook, or other platforms you’re constantly checking throughout the day, then it may seem like these writers are everywhere and this is what you absolutely must do become as a copywriter in order to achieve “success.”
And you certainly can!
But becoming a persona isn’t something you have to do. And you don’t necessarily want to mirror your portfolio based on what they’re doing.
Remember: We have no idea if what they’re doing is effective. Some may be as wildly successful as they tout. However, I’ve noticed several of these writers making drastic changes to their sites and what they’re selling. Is that an indicator of anything? Maybe.
What Not to Do With Your Website
I’ve also noticed a lot of gorgeous sites with no portfolio.
As a prospective client, that’s a red flag to me. If I’m going to pay a premium for copywriting services, I definitely want proof of the actual work itself!
Some say their clients don’t allow them to share their work. That may be true of some projects. But if you’ve worked on a webpage and it’s in the public domain, why wouldn’t you share it?
All that aside, there’s only one thing you need to ask yourself: How do I define success?
You’re here to work on your copywriting business.
And if you want to work 10 hours a week to have more family time, your path to reach your goals may look different than someone who wants to make six figures a year as a freelancer or someone who wants to be more of an influencer in the space or someone who wants to work at an ad agency full time.
The one thing you need for copywriting success no matter how you define it? Experience writing copy.
Once you gain experience, it may give you more ideas for where you want to take your career or completely change your goal.
You can certainly look to others for inspiration to improve your own website, but the second it takes you down that rabbit hole of, “Why am I not there yet? Will I ever be this good? I need to pay $5,000 for a website and branding stat!” you need to stop.
Comparing ourselves to others is never healthy and that includes copywriting. There’s plenty of work out there for everyone.
Watch More: When Copywriting Inspiration Becomes Copywriting Comparison
There are times when copywriting inspiration turns into copywriting comparison, and it can happen quickly before the person consuming that information even knows what is happening. But it’s important to recognize when your information intake makes you feel bad about yourself or your business or your life and pay attention to the triggers.
In this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Nicki and Kate discuss how this has happened to them (it happens to everyone) and the strategies they use to combat those negative comparisons and how keep them from stealing their energy.
Your Turn
How do you define success when it comes to copywriting? Let us know in the comments below!
Last Updated on October 30, 2024
How ironic! I was reading an email from one of those stellar copywriters who are always banging on dropping emails to sell me whatever: courses, webinars, the last secrets you name it. Today she was telling me she’s paid $1450 an hour for a one to one consultation and I can do the same if I subscribe to her course. Then my Monday email from the Filth Rich, appeared in my box. The only one that matters. Thank you Kate!!!
Hi Laura,
Aw, why thank you! ? Seriously, though, I’m so glad you found this helpful. Comparison is only going to distract us from what we really need to get done.
Thanks for commenting!
Kate
I’ve just got my diploma in copywriting and looking to set up my own freelance business. It’s going to be hard, no doubt about it, especially as I’m still working full time to keep paying the bills.
But yes I agree, comparing yourself to others will just flood you with negative emotions. I’d love to make good money from copywriting but first and foremost it’s about being happy and satisfied with what I’m doing in life. If you’ve got that sussed, then your winning!
Hi Callum,
You’re right, it will take little extra “elbow grease” but it absolutely can be done. Stick with it, do the work, and you’ll get there! ?
Thanks for commenting!
Kate
I’ve been a professional artist, illustrator, graphic designer and independent business owner for more than 30 years. I’ve had a passion for producing creative, business and inspirational copy for many years as well. I’ve written professional e-commerce product descriptions, press releases, blog posts, business plans and even spent some time reporting and writing for a few local community newspapers. I would very much like to explore the prospect of writing professionally for publication and profit.
Hi Art,
It sounds like your background would certainly give you a leg up as you learn copywriting! If you haven’t yet, I’d encourage you to take a look at a free video training we’ve put together – you can find it at http://www.freecopywritingtraining.com. ?
Thanks for commenting!
Kate
Great post, Kate! Thank you.
I was forever comparing myself to others in my field and what they were up to, feeling like I had to replicate what they were doing (they must have it right if they are achieving so much!). It was a toxic attitude to have and often left me feeling resentful, hopeless and guilty that I wasn’t doing ‘enough’.
I’m now learning to take it for what it is — giving the seemingly successful and prolific peeps a virtual pat on the back, and continuing to work on my own business (and what I enjoy and do well – there’s no other ‘you’!).
For me, success in copywriting is learning and practising the craft and building my skills (and portfolio). I aim to work freelance from home so that I can be present and available for my young family, whilst having a professional avenue that utilises my skills and exercises my creative brain power. 🙂
Hi Renee,
It sounds like you’ve got your priorities in line! And those are definitely the things to focus on. It’s so easy for people to make themselves look glamorous and successful online when that’s not *necessarily* always the reality. Better to wish them well and focus on our own goals and actions. ?
Thanks for commenting!
Kate
I define have success as a copywriter on whether the words I have written have resonated with the reader and been impactful – leading to a measurable result, i.e.sales! This is regardless of what payment I have received. Has it engaged the prospect to take action? Simple as.
Hi Benjamin,
That’s a great definition for successful copy and, by extension, success as a copywriter. I would suggest, though, that there’s nothing wrong with being paid well for effectively wielding our copywriting skills and helping our clients find and increase their success! ?
Thanks for commenting!
Kate
Yes! I’ve admittedly gotten sucked into this new trend. Just now realizing that it doesn’t have to be that way (all the bells and whistles of being visible on every social media platform). Thank you for validating my experience ❤ -Jordin
Hi Jordin,
You’re so welcome! It’s so easy to go down an Instagram rabbit hole and emerge feeling like you’ll never measure up, when the “measurements” are all illusions to begin with. 🙂
Thanks for commenting!
Nicki