For a lot of new (or would-be) copywriters, one of the most daunting steps in the process is to start finding copywriting clients. “Where are they? Who are they? How do I talk to them? Will they reject me?”
We’ve talked a little bit about why you don’t need to be afraid of finding clients already, and today I want to talk about the simplest way to start finding them.
And when I say simple, I mean it. Ready? Here it is:
Start paying attention.
Now, wait—before you roll your eyes and leave, bear with me.
Consider Websites You Visit Every Day
It’s likely you spend a high percentage of your day online. And, while averages vary for how many sites people visit per day, let’s be conservative and say 20.
So, of the 20 websites you happened across yesterday, how many of them did you read? Not just skim, but read? On how many of them did you actually evaluate the copy to see if it’s any good? And how many of them did you do that for of the 600+ websites you visited last month?
Opportunities are crossing your path every day and you’re missing them.
Start Finding Copywriting Clients on Google Maps
Here’s another example: Let’s say you need a new dentist. You start Googling dentists in your town and visiting their websites. Some are good and some are bad—but when you see the bad websites, do you stop and take note of them. Each one of them is a potential client!
And then you can start looking for bad dentist websites in other towns. And then you can start for looking for bad orthodontist sites…and bad ophthalmologist sites, bad psychotherapist sites, bad podiatrist sites. Do you see where I’m going?
Notice Banner Ads on Sites You Visit
And how many banner ads do you notice every day? Of those banner ads, how many do you stop to read and evaluate? And, of the ones that you evaluate, how many of those are not very good? Each of those is an opportunity!
You come across so many more potential projects and clients every single day than you even begin to realize. There are literally opportunities for work everywhere.
So, it’s one thing to say “start paying attention.” Maybe you will, maybe you won’t. (Though you will if you want to be successful.)
Take Action: Add 10 New Clients to Your List Each Day
But let’s make it a bit more quantifiable to help train you to start paying attention. Here’s your new goal: Make a list of 10 new potential clients every single day. Businesses you randomly come across who need your help. Or businesses like other ones you’ve randomly come across—start going down that rabbit hole.
You’ll find that finding 10 new potential clients each day is EASY once you get started.
Read More: Should You Write for Free?
Some copywriters offer to work for free, but offering your services for free will ultimately hurt your career. Listen to our podcast episode to hear Nicki and Kate share why this is a bad idea. And read our post on why working for free is a cardinal sin for new copywriters.
Your Turn
Who’s with me? Are you up to the challenge? I’m not even asking you to reach out to them yet—just make a list of 10 potential clients each day. If you’re in, post in the comments and let me know!
Last Updated on December 11, 2023
I’m in! like many others who posted, I’ve seen enough webpages and ads that could use some TLC from a copywriter. I am looking forward to this next chapter.
That’s great to hear!
Struggling with this a bit, although I believe I understand the assignment. It is my first day, and although I do not have 10, I will continue to contemplate.
You can do it! It can be uncomfortable at first but it gets easier with time.
I’m in!
Great! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!
I’m in. Just beginning with this entire process. I’m excited, I’m nervous, all the things…but I’m in.
That’s awesome…and totally normal to have all the feelings. Welcome to the CCA!
I am starting this today. Brand new to this field, but I am so excited to start!
We are so excited to have you in the CCA!
Hmm… sounds easy enough! I’m in!!
Great! Let us know if you have any questions!
I’m in! Looking forward, Its true what they say knowledge is power! On so many levels!
We agree! Let us know if you have any questions!
I’m in. This is ‘thinking outside of the box’ at its best!
Let us know if you have any questions!
Game on! I’m so excited to get started!
Woohoo! We are excited for you, too. Let us know if you have any questions.
I’m in!! Excited to get started. Great way to point so many potentials out!!!
Woohoo! Welcome to the CCA!
literally just joined, i am a writer and been looking for ways to get paid fore it, soo excited. i am in
Welcome to the CCA! We are so excited to have you in the CCA. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
I am going to list 10 clients every day as you suggested. I believe this can serve two purposes> First I am learning one method of prospecting clients and scoping their business dynamics. Secondarily I am able to review and critique their advertising (Branding and Direct Response advertising, or lack of such. In short I will be developing necessary skills to be a professional copywriter. Thank you.
It looks like you have a great plan of action! That’s an admirable goal that will pay off in the end!