Copywriting and content writing are not the same. And if you use the terms interchangeably, you risk marking yourself as new to the field (and potentially alienating prospective clients). After all, even if a client wants to hire someone that can write copy and content, they want to know you know the difference! In this episode, Nicki and Kate talk about what makes a piece of … [Read more...]
Keep This in Mind for Your Copywriting Business Name
One of the first things that trip up new copywriters as they’re getting started is naming their business. “How do I name my copywriting business? Should I use my name? Should I get a logo? Do I need to do a trademark search?” Let me make something very clear from the beginning: You do NOT need to name your business. I never have and many copywriters don’t. I, myself, write … [Read more...]
Ep. 1: What is Copywriting?
Some people argue that copywriting has been around since ancient times—back when people were writing compelling copy for "Wanted" posters. I'm not here to enter into that debate, because what matters to you and me is copywriting in the 21st century. But, if anything, that argument proves the staying power of effective copywriting—and the need for trained copywriters. Think … [Read more...]
Ep. 2: Why I Named My Company Filthy Rich Writer
A lot of people have seriously strong feelings about the name of my company. But it's important that "Filthy Rich Writer" makes people think. If you had a "Wait, what?" reaction to the name, it's probably because you didn't know you could make money as a writer. If you're here, you probably now know that's not true. In this episode, we're digging into a bit of company … [Read more...]
How To Write Copy for International Clients
I probably don’t need to say it, but there’s more opportunity than ever to work with remote clients. (I guess that’s one small bright side to a pandemic, though the trend was definitely on the upswing before 2020.) Not only can you write for clients on the other side of your country, you can also write for clients on the other side of the world. This post explains how to do … [Read more...]
Should You Add UX Copywriting to Your Copywriting Services?
There are a lot of “genres” of copywriting that really aren’t genres at all; they’re just buzz-y marketing terms. “Conversion copywriting” is a good example. Any copywriter worth their salt is focused on helping their clients increase conversions. After all, the goal of copywriting is to connect a person who has a specific need with the best possible solution to that need. … [Read more...]
How Can You Know if a Copywriting Deadline is Doable?
Freelancers have a love/hate relationship with deadlines. We love them because there is nothing that will get your rear in a chair and your fingers typing like a looming copywriting deadline. And we also hate them because what gets our rear in the chair are twinges of panic at the idea of not getting the work done in time. Deadlines are essential because they ensure that … [Read more...]
The Huge Benefits of Writing for Clients that Don’t “Wow” You
We all have dream clients: Companies that are so cool or so interesting or so inspiring that it would rock our worlds to write with them. And maybe you can even expand that to a whole group or list of clients that seem interesting or exciting. They certainly don’t need to fall into the same niche (and probably shouldn’t—learn when to break the copywriting niche rule), … [Read more...]
Why Copywriters Need to Think Visually (and How to Do It)
Copywriters aren’t designers. But when it comes to concepting ideas, you do need to come prepared with ideas for the project. For example, if you’re writing a banner ad to get people to book a vacation and want the copy to say something like “Go from ARGH! to Ahhhhhhh” you may envision someone yelling in an office contrasted with someone relaxing in a beach chair. When … [Read more...]
Why Companies Requiring Experience for Copywriting Jobs Is a Good Thing
Every once in a while, I’ll hear a lament from one of our students who is interested in landing an in-house or agency job. They’ll say, “I really want to apply for these, but they all require at least two years of experience! I haven’t got that yet!” And I get it. For someone who’s been studying and working diligently to practice and hone the craft as well as building a … [Read more...]