When it comes to finding clients, the keys are to be systematic, but also to cast your net wide. Facebook makes for a great place to cast some of that net—though not all of it. To mix metaphors, don’t put all of your eggs in one basket! What makes Facebook so great? Well, it’s already a place that billions of people go to seek information, find recommendations, network with … [Read more...]
Beware the Copywriting Influencer Trap (a.k.a. Why You Don’t Need the World’s Most Beautiful Website as a Copywriter)
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 … [Read more...]
Overcoming Copywriter Imposter Syndrome
We’ve talked a bit before about how resistance can pop up and try to derail you whenever you’re moving out of your comfort zone. (Actually, more than a bit. We’ve talked about it as one of the sneaky distractions that will block your copywriting career progress, how "I can't" is a phrase you need to watch out for, why you need to add The War of Art to your reading list, and … [Read more...]
5 Creative Strategies for Copywriters to Land Work
Okay, you already know that one of my favorite ways to get the word out about your impressive skills and even more impressive copywriting service is to directly pitch clients. ‘Nuff said. (Or, if not enuff said, check out this post.) But, honestly, if ALL you do is send pitches and follow-ups you’ll land clients…but you’ll also get bored. There are more ways to get out there … [Read more...]
5 Keys for Getting Valuable Connections on LinkedIn
Wouldn’t it be nice if there were an online social network where people were focused on business? And how about one where you can find just about anyone you want to connect with or maybe even pitch your services? Obviously, I’m talking about LinkedIn. (I’m guessing the post title tipped you off.) But I wanted to start this post that way to remind you just how amazing an … [Read more...]
4 Things Most Copywriters Get Wrong on Their Portfolio Websites
You already know that a portfolio site is essential for copywriters—no ifs, ands, or buts. (And luckily, there are plenty of sites that make creating your own site super easy. No sweat!) But there are several common copywriting portfolio mistakes our team sees time and time again that can mean the difference between landing work and having clients leave your page. Your … [Read more...]
4 Perks of Working in an Office Before Starting Your Own Copywriting Business
Wanting to start your own business is a fantastic (and doable!) goal as a copywriter. It’s a major reason why many of us pursue this career—because we can increase our work-life balance and make a fantastic income. But laying a solid foundation for your copywriting career is crucial, especially when you’re first starting out. One of the best ways to get the foundation … [Read more...]
Can You Become a Copywriter If You’re Not a Grammar and Punctuation Dynamo?
A confession: I can’t diagram a sentence. I mean, I could once. In seventh grade, I was a master. But now…participles, gerunds, modifiers? I’ve got no fricking idea. It’s important to understand the rules of English so that you can intelligently break them. Unless you’re teaching English or writing academic papers, the logistics of gerunds (et al) don’t really come … [Read more...]
Tip for Success: Take a Vacation From Your Business
If you’ve been a part of this community for a while, you might have read that headline with one eyebrow raised. After all, I tell you again and again that the key to your success is taking action consistently and persistently. (And that is still VERY much true. Write it down somewhere you’ll see it every day. Get it tattooed backwards on your forehead so you’ll see it in the … [Read more...]
You Don’t Have to Work With Clients You Hate
First, let me reassure you: There is absolutely NO shortage of copywriting clients out there. In fact, it’s exactly the opposite: There’s a shortage of skilled copywriters. Lots of people who need great copy and too few great copywriters to write it. (Pretty great for us, huh?) I want to be sure to mention this because I think that some people let the idea of who they could … [Read more...]