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...]
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...]
How Do I Know If I’m Ready to Pitch Copywriting Clients?
This isn’t going to be a major revelation but in order to be a professional copywriter and have a successful career, you need, well, clients. Paying clients. And in order to get those clients, you need a proven system for finding, pitching, and landing those clients. (All of which we teach in the CCA, so no worries there.) But all of this invariably leads to the question: … [Read more...]
The (Surprisingly Easy) Art of Negotiation for Copywriters
If the idea of quoting prices for their work already makes most new and would-be copywriters nervous, well then, the idea of negotiating those rates can bring up some serious nerves. But here’s the good news: It’s really not that hard at all. In fact, as you’ll see in a moment, the hardest part…is not talking. So let’s just dig in, shall we? You likely already know … [Read more...]
Should I List Prices on My Copywriting Website?
Listing prices on a website makes sense, right? After all, when you go to buy anything else online, there’s a clear price. But it’s a little different with copywriting. As a copywriter, you’re always going to customize the service you’re providing to meet your client’s specific needs. A website for one client may require a lot more work than a website for another—even if … [Read more...]
Find Copywriting Clients on Facebook: 3 Tips and 1 Big Warning
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)
I’m almost reluctant to admit it, but until someone in the CCA Facebook group mentioned well-known and “famous” copywriters, I had no idea famous copywriters were a thing. 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 … [Read more...]
5 Creative Marketing Strategies for Copywriters
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
Gee, 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 of … [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...]