For some people, the idea of loving your job sounds like a pipe dream. But there are three traits elements that very clearly and demonstrably affect job satisfaction and can, yes, even mean job love. Ready to hear what they are? I’m a big fan of books about scientific studies on happiness, satisfaction, focus, flow, and all those other seemingly elusive elements. But … [Read more...]
How To Minimize (or Avoid) Typos
You've probably seen a typo in one of our posts or one of our emails. I'm human; I'll admit it. (Though the woman who sent: "No offense, but do you actually even read your emails?" got herself promptly deleted from our newsletter list. Again: Only human.) And though my staff can proofread, the timing of posts or emails doesn't always allow for it. So, what do we do instead … [Read more...]
7 Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Portfolio Site
You know that having an online portfolio site is essential to building a career as a copywriter. But if you already have one, how can you be sure yours is up to snuff? There's a tendency for all of us to create our portfolio sites and update the samples when necessary, but just generally ignore the overall design. (I say this having updated my own portfolio site after … [Read more...]
Job Titles for Copywriters’ Coworkers Explained
As a copywriter, you're never working in a vacuum. Your job involves collaborating with lots of people and departments regardless of whether you work in-house or remotely. But when someone says, "Go talk to traffic," do you know what that means? Here we explain some job titles copywriters encounter so you're prepared to collaborate with the best of them. When in Doubt, … [Read more...]
When Stealing Is a Great Idea
One of your challenges as a copywriter is to be as original as possible. But what if I told you that there are some scenarios in which stealing isn’t only a good idea, it’s the best idea? And that your boss will applaud what you’ve done? Find out exactly when and how you should add stealing to your arsenal of tactics. What Is "Creativity?" There’s a theory that there are … [Read more...]
How to Write Humor for Your Copywriting Clients
Some of the most memorable ads are the funniest ones, but how did the writer (and designer/videographer) get to that point? How did they take a creative brief and turn it into something that makes you smile—if not laugh out loud? Well, that’s exactly what we’re delving into today. First, I want to make an important point. Similar to our previous post about creativity, you … [Read more...]
5 Things Creative Directors Wish You Knew
Creative directors will be some of the most important people you’ll work with in your life. (Copywriting mentors are important, too; read more about them here.) They have the power to make you into the best copywriter you can be. But how can you maximize any relationship with a creative director? A great creative director will do their best to build your skills as a copywriter … [Read more...]
Copywriting Success Secrets for Extroverts
If you’re someone who thrives off of interactions with people, how does the “sit alone and write your copy” lifestyle of the copywriter suit you? Good news: By following a few tips, it can suit you quite well. Copywriting makes a great career for extroverts, just as much as it does for introverts. You just have to design your career to fit your personality. At first blush, … [Read more...]
Can You Break Your Copywriting Contract Early?
A contracting gig is a great opportunity for a copywriter to earn some steady income, make new connections, and build your portfolio—all without being stuck on staff. But what happens if you want to break your copywriting contract? Are you trapped? The Difference Between Freelancing & Contracting For those of you who are little hazy on the difference between … [Read more...]
Habits of Wildly Successful Copywriters
What they say is true: Cultivating the right habits can have a major impact on your success. After all, what we do every day determines what we become. So, what are the habits of wildly successful copywriters? As many business and success gurus will tell you, the fastest way to succeed is to study the things successful people do, and then do those same things. So, in the … [Read more...]