When you’re looking at job posts, you may see some that mention content writing. But what’s the difference between copywriting and content writing? Aren’t content and copywriting the same?
Many people outside of the writing industry don’t understand the difference (and, actually, there are some inside who don’t know, either). But it’s important for you to know the difference so you can show the right samples to your prospective client or employer and discuss the right type of experience.
Copywriting, as you know, is writing designed to sell things to people—whether that be selling a product, selling a service, selling people on taking an action or even selling people on having a certain perception of a company or person.
Content writing, though, is writing that offers information or entertainment or some other kind of value to the consumer.
Content is articles, blog entries and social media posts. It’s a very different beast than copywriting. But as a copywriter, you’re bound to find a lot of clients/employers who will offer to pay you to do some content writing. Besides, you’ll see that a lot of what you’ve learned and you’re learning about copywriting will help to make you an even better content writer.
Content writing is about providing value for the reader with information, inspiration or entertainment. The gives the reader a reason to visit the website or company’s Facebook page/Twitter feed/etc. again and again. And, of course, the more they interact with the company in these ways, the more likely they are to turn to the company when they would like to purchase something.
Using your copywriting skills, it will be up to you to create strategic content that furthers the company’s goals and is useful to the reader.
Good luck with the job! Let us know how it all shakes out.
Your turn! Where have you seen great content writing? Is their copywriting just as good? (Why or why not?) Let us know in the comments below!
Last Updated on September 9, 2021 by Nicki Krawczyk
Hi Nicki,
I just wanted to drop you a line. Your website was recommended to me by someone in a facebook group, and in the 10 minutes I’ve been here I have found invaluable information. I am a ” newbie”, and wow is the volume of info out there overwhelming. With a capital O! Already I have found answers to questions that to an experienced writer may seem simple, but to me… just what I wanted to read.
I have some pretty big “why’s” for making this leap into freelance writing, and they are my biggest influence but it can definitely feel overwhelming at times. Thanks for putting out some great info!!
Hi Allison,
Thanks for reaching out – I’m so glad you’re finding our site useful! We work very hard to make everything we put out there actionable and helpful. (And if you haven’t yet, sign up for our email list – we send along a lot of resources there, too.)
Any time you start out doing anything new, it will feel overwhelming (and, likely, also frustrating and scary and daunting). That’s actually a pretty good sign that you’re on the right path. All of the best things in life happen outside of our comfort zone.
In which Facebook group were we recommended, do you remember?
Thanks for commenting!
Nicki