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I receive a few emails per week from individuals seeking advice on how to break into freelance copywriting. While there is no simple answer and no answer that applies to everyone, I believe the following tips will help the majority of people transition into freelance copywriting and survive at least the first few months.
1) Spend money on a website
A website is the best starting point for any freelance advertising copywriter or website copywriter. When making cold calls and sending emails to prospects, you will need to direct them to a website that provides additional information. Keep your website simple, include a portfolio page, add any samples of copywriting you've done, discuss the places you've worked and the clients for whom you've written, and include any testimonials. Include your address and contact information so that people do not believe you are a fly-by-night operation. Of course, including a photo is not detrimental. If you have little to say about your experience, say little. Even if you don't say anything, it makes no difference. Remember that writing about yourself, like any other form of advertising copywriting, requires the art of subtlety. If you lack experience but are confident in your ability to do the job, you can be very clever in what you omit, and the majority of people will interpret it as you intended.
2) Don't target agencies
If you have never worked as an advertising copywriter or website copywriter, you should avoid approaching advertising and web design firms. You won't have a chance if you don't have a portfolio since they know precisely what they want. Managing an unskilled copywriter and maintaining quality control is time-consuming and fraught with danger. Even if you're willing to work for free, most agencies are too busy to give inexperienced copywriters a go, even if you're willing to perform the job for free. Concentrate on end-users directly.
3) Cold call, chilly call, cold call
In the beginning, cold-calling prospective end-clients is one of the most effective methods for generating new revenue. It is difficult and time-consuming, but it is possible to create highly qualified leads. Check out divinewrite for further information on cold calling.
4) Use a contacts & jobs database
No of where you are in your career as a freelance copywriter, you MUST maintain a database of connections and assignments. A tool similar to CRM (Customer Relationship Management). Utilize it to document everything! Particularly names, telephone numbers, and communication information (especially phone calls). Using Microsoft Access, I developed my own database. Visit DIVINEWRITE to download a 208KB working copy for FREE. It requires Microsoft Access 2000 to function. It is not a piece of art, since I am not a database specialist. However, it will surely get you started. (Tip: When utilizing the database, input the current date by pressing Ctrl + ;.)
5) Create many examples
If you are targeting certain clientele or sectors, don't be hesitant to send along a few examples. You may provide the parts for free (everyone loves free stuff) or at a discount, or you can use it as an incentive to sign them up for future projects. It depends on the nature of the job and the nature of the customer. Remember that samples are essentially equivalent to a portfolio to the majority of potential customers.
6) Invest in a program for accounting
Do not believe that you can manually manage your accounts (or with Microsoft Excel). Even if you just have a few customers, you MUST have an appropriate accounting solution such as MYOB or Quicken (they both offer small business versions). The first time you file your GST reports or yearly taxes, you will realize why. In reality, you'll comprehend why when you need to pursue past-due bills.
7) Offer excellent service
It may seem apparent, but it is essential to remember that "excellent service" implies various things to different customers. You will work with direct customers (typically startup firms) and agencies the majority of the time. Both parties value exceptional service, but define it in very different ways. Agencies depend on their freelance copywriters to adhere to specific guidelines (do the assignment correctly, on schedule, and within budget). They have demanding clientele, thus dependability is just as crucial as writing quality. End-clients, on the other hand, want an advertising copywriter or website copywriter who sees their company as they do and can effectively communicate this vision. They will likely need a great deal of direction as well, especially if they are just beginning out. If you can, assist them realize that copywriting isn't only about describing the business's goods and services; it's also about communicating the advantages of those products and services. A competent advertising copywriter or website copywriter will be able to assist the client in thinking in terms of advantages rather than items or services.
8) Expect difficult times
The first two years as a freelance advertising or internet copywriter will be challenging. During the time it takes to gain momentum, you will likely question whether or not you've chosen the appropriate professional path. Although it is feasible to make a six-figure income annually, patience is required, making it unsuitable for new or prospective parents or those with substantial mortgage obligations.
9) Do not spend much on training.
In my view, money spent on education is never squandered. However, you must consider the investment's return. I do not know much about the various copywriting classes, but if they are pricey, I would reconsider. In my experience, the majority of customers (whether agencies or end-clients) place a premium on copywriting skill above training.
10) Believe you can succeed
You must be confident in your copywriting skills. If you are not certain that you can achieve the outcomes the customer desires, you will never be able to persuade them. Remember that everyone gets intimidated when beginning a new copywriting position. Copywriting usually involves a high learning curve and a great deal of time-consuming labor. Do not fall into the trap of concentrating on what you do not know and have not accomplished.
Best wishes and happy writing!
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