© 2021 Jennifer Breeze
When I was ten years old, I fell in love with writing poetry. The ability to use a few carefully chosen words to evoke emotion from my readers was a rewarding thrill. Unfortunately, I was told that there was no money to be made as a writer.
Happily, I discovered that copywriting can be a lucrative form of writing, so I started learning all I could about this genre that was all around me yet completely new to me.
What is copywriting?
Copy is any writing designed to make someone take an action. This usually refers to marketing material that compels readers to click, buy, donate, or sign up. You see copy every day in your mailbox and email inbox and on flyers, brochures, billboards, print ads, websites, and digital ads.
Businesses, non-profits, and organizations all over the world need copywriters to help them make their messaging clear, compelling, and written in a way that connects with their audience.
What training do I need?
No degree is required, but serious study and practice are needed. Books, online courses, and YouTube tutorials can help you become a skilled copywriter. I launched my career by taking an online course.
How do I get clients?
You can find clients who are excited to work with you through job boards like Upwork, asking around in your network (local and virtual), or cold pitching via email. Always make your pitches personalized and offer value to the reader.
Is this something I could do?
If you like the challenge of using fewer words, love the idea of connecting people with products and services, and are empathic enough to tune into people’s deeper needs and wants, then yes! Don’t worry about feeling “sales-y.” Great copy is about connecting, rather than selling.
What are some of the basics of good copy that I could start practicing?
- Good copy always leads with the benefits to the consumer (as opposed to the features of a product or service).
- Headlines are critical. Only 20 percent of readers will read past the headline, so pack yours with benefits to coax viewers to read further.
- Every word matters, and less is more.
If you’re intrigued by copywriting, I encourage you to do some research and consider whether this may be a fit for you. New businesses are starting every day, and they need skilled copywriters.
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Jennifer Breeze is a freelance copywriter and copy coach, teaching everything from how to write copy to how to build a copywriting business. As a former teacher, she makes complex ideas easy, fun, and DOABLE. Jen lives in Kentucky with her husband, Pastor Mike, and their two young children. She balances homeschooling and entrepreneurship by leaning on ice cream and the serenity prayer. Connect with Jen on her website or on Facebook.
Click here to get Jen’s free 11 page ebook “7 Ways Your Website is Losing Money (and how to fix it!).”
