In 2004, I took the leap and became a freelance copywriter.

At the time, most copywriting examples revolved around direct mail letters, newspaper and magazine ads, classifieds, and catalogs.

Writing meant a pen and a notebook, and AI-powered copywriting was still science fiction.

I’ll be honest, I’m not the most talented copywriter out there. I’ve struggled with mild dyslexia and nearly failed English in high school.

But over the last 19 years, I’ve still managed to make a decent living as a freelance copywriter, even writing for legendary marketer Jay Abraham and earning up to $7,000 for a single sales letter.

My copy has generated millions of dollars in sales across 153 different industries, and I eventually started and grew my own copywriting agency to a team of 20+ writers and editors.

Now, I want to share with you the truth about becoming a successful freelance copywriter in 2024.

Many articles make it sound easy to make thousands of dollars within a week, but the reality is that it’s not a quick and easy road to success.

Yes, freelance copywriting offers flexible hours, the ability to work from home, and the ability to get paid to write about interesting brands and topics.

But it also comes with its own set of challenges, from potential loneliness and the uncertainty of inconsistent income and client projects. 

In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps to becoming a freelance copywriter, share my own experiences, and give you an honest look at what it takes to turn this career into a successful, full-time income.

What Is A Copywriter?

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve heard the term “copywriter” before. Now, you may be wondering: what is a copywriter, and what do they do?

To put it simply, a copywriter is someone who writes copy that is meant to persuade and sell a product or service. 

They are responsible for creating the words that go into advertising and marketing campaigns, websites, email campaigns, sales letters, landing pages, video scripts, product descriptions, white papers, blog posts, and more.

It’s important, however, not to confuse “copywriting” with “copyrighting,” as these two terms, while sounding similar, refer to entirely different concepts. 

Copyrighting is the legal process of securing the rights to intellectual property, whereas copywriting pertains to the art of creating content that effectively sells products or services.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a copywriter is and their primary responsibilities, let’s dive deeper into the realm of copywriting and explore the various types of content that copywriters create. 

What Do Copywriters Write?

So, you might be wondering, “What exactly do copywriters write?” Well, the answer is pretty diverse! 

Copywriters create a wide range of copy to help businesses and organizations connect with their target audience and persuade them to take some kind of action. Here’s a breakdown of the types of content copywriters work on, along with some examples to give you a better idea:

Advertising and Marketing Campaigns

This is where the magic happens. Copywriters concoct words designed to catch attention, stir emotions, and, most importantly, prompt action. You know those catchy taglines in ads, the compelling radio jingles, or the persuasive billboards you see on your daily commute? Well, those are the works of skilled copywriters.

Think about Nike’s famous “Just Do It” tagline or Apple’s “Think Different” campaign. These concise yet powerful slogans were created by talented copywriters to evoke emotions and inspire action.

Website Copy 

A company’s website is like its digital storefront. Copywriters ensure this “storefront” is inviting, informative, and enticing, writing everything from the home page, about us section, and service descriptions. They weave SEO keywords into the text to improve search engine rankings, helping more people discover the website.

Your-property-your-wealth’s homepage is a great example of effective website copy. It features a compelling headline that instantly communicates the company’s value proposition and invites users to explore further.

Email Marketing Campaigns 

Ever received an email from a brand that just made you want to click “Buy Now“? That’s the power of email copywriting. Copywriters craft subject lines that encourage opens, content that drives engagement, and calls to action that lead to conversions.

Clothing retailer Everlane often sends out emails with subject lines like “For You: It’s 10% Off” or “Dresses That Take The Weekend.” These enticing subject lines, combined with clear and concise copy within the emails, motivate customers to shop their latest products.

Sales Letters 

These are persuasive letters that aim to convince the reader to buy a product or service. A good sales letter can feel like a compelling story, leading the reader down a path that ends with them saying, “Yes, I need this!”

Frank Kern, a contentious figure in the online marketing community who has sold millions of dollars’ worth of online courses and coaching programs, wrote this sales letter. “This is a sales letter written by Frank Kern, a controversial figure in the online marketing world who has sold millions of dollars of online courses and coaching programs.

Landing Pages 

When you click on an online ad, you’re often taken to a landing page. What is the job of this page? to persuade you to take a specific action, like sign up for a newsletter, download an eBook, or buy a product. The copywriter’s job is to make sure that action seems irresistible.

Video Scripts 

From YouTube ads to explainer videos, a well-written script is key to captivating viewers. Copywriters write these scripts, ensuring they’re engaging, clear, and aligned with the brand’s voice.

Dollar Shave Club’s viral video, “Our Blades Are F***ing Great,” showcases the power of an engaging video script. The humorous and straightforward script helped the company gain millions of views and new subscribers.

Product Descriptions 

Ever read a product description that makes the product sound so good, you can almost feel it in your hands? That’s the work of a copywriter—turning a simple object into a must-have item with their words.

The product descriptions on the Apple website, such as the one for the iPhone, highlight the device’s features and benefits with concise, compelling copy that makes potential buyers feel they absolutely need the product.

White Papers 

These are in-depth, authoritative reports or guides about a complex issue. While they’re more formal and factual than some other types of copy, a good white paper still requires a copywriter’s touch to make it readable and engaging.

Atos “Redefining the Future of asset & wealth management” is a perfect example of a well-versed and informative whitepaper.

Blog Posts 

Blogs are a fantastic way for a business to share useful, engaging content with their audience. Copywriters often write these posts, using their skills to make complex topics understandable, entertaining, and valuable to the reader.

It might be an arrogant thing to say, but I’m proud of the blog that you’re ready now. Start Copywriting is a blog , which offers a wealth of engaging content on freelance writing.

And that’s a wrap on what copywriters write! 

You can see they have a pretty big job, right? 

But now that you know what they do, you might be wondering who hires these copywriting superheroes. Well, let’s dive into that next.

Who Hires Copywriters?

From the lone entrepreneur with a revolutionary idea to the multinational corporation seeking to expand its customer base, a wide variety of individuals and organizations find themselves in need of copywriters. 

Let’s dig a little deeper into who these entities are and why they might need a copywriter’s touch.

Businesses of all shapes and sizes

From small local businesses to multinational corporations, companies of every size need copywriters to help them communicate effectively with their target audience. 

Whether it’s crafting engaging website content, writing persuasive sales emails, or creating eye-catching social media posts, copywriters help businesses get their message across in a way that resonates with customers and leads to growth.

For example, a local bakery might hire a copywriter to create mouth-watering product descriptions for their website, while a large technology company may need a copywriter to help them launch a new software product with a compelling marketing campaign.

Organizations

Organizations like professional associations, clubs, and societies also benefit from the services of copywriters. These groups often need assistance in promoting events, creating newsletters, or updating their website content to maintain member engagement and attract new members.

For instance, a photography club may hire a copywriter to write a monthly newsletter showcasing member accomplishments and upcoming events.

Non-profits

Non-profit organizations often rely on the skills of copywriters to help them raise awareness and funds for their cause. Compelling copy can inspire people to donate, volunteer, or participate in events, making a significant difference in the success of the organization.

Take, for example, an animal rescue group that hires a copywriter to create an emotional fundraising campaign that encourages supporters to sponsor a shelter animal.

Entrepreneurs

Whether they’re launching a new business or growing an existing one, entrepreneurs often need help from copywriters to create marketing materials, write blog posts, or even craft a winning pitch for potential investors. 

A skilled copywriter can help an entrepreneur create a consistent and powerful brand message that sets them apart from the competition.

Imagine a new fitness app developer seeking a copywriter’s help to create catchy in-app notifications and blog content that keeps users motivated and engaged.

Marketing agencies

Marketing agencies are always on the lookout for talented copywriters to join their team or work as freelancers on various projects. These agencies provide marketing services to a wide range of clients, and copywriters play a crucial role in creating content that drives results.

For example, a marketing agency working with a luxury car brand may need a copywriter to write a series of high-impact social media ads to promote the latest model.

Public relations firms

Public relations (PR) firms depend on copywriters to create press releases, pitch stories, and develop other communication materials that help their clients maintain a positive public image. A skilled copywriter can turn even the most mundane news into an engaging story that captures the attention of journalists and the public.

Consider a PR firm working with an eco-friendly fashion brand that hires a copywriter to develop an attention-grabbing press release about their sustainable manufacturing practices.

As you’ve just learned, copywriters are highly valued in a variety of settings. However, you may be wondering why these entities chose to hire copywriters in the first place. It’s a great question, and one we’ll address in our next topic: Why do people hire copywriters?

Why Do People Hire Copywriters?

People hire copywriters for a variety of reasons, each unique and compelling in its own right. Let’s break it down and look at each reason in detail.

They don’t have time to write a copy.

Business owners, in particular, have so many balls to juggle: managing teams, sales, finances, strategies—the list goes on. In such a scenario, hiring a professional copywriter can free up their time, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of their business.

They don’t know how to write persuasively.

Writing is one thing, but writing persuasively? That’s a whole different ballgame. The ability to persuade someone through words is a skill, an art that takes time and experience to perfect. Professional copywriters possess this skill; hence, they’re the go-to for businesses that want to make an impact with their words.

They don’t feel like their writing is “good enough.”

Sometimes, people doubt their own writing skills. Maybe their grammar isn’t perfect, or they feel their vocabulary is limited. In such cases, a professional copywriter can provide assurance of quality, giving them peace of mind that their message will be communicated effectively and professionally.

They want a better ROI from their current advertising or marketing campaigns. They want to make more money.

Advertising and marketing campaigns can be costly, and businesses want to ensure they’re getting the best possible return on their investment. Experienced copywriters understand the nuances of consumer behavior, and they can craft messages that not only grab attention but also drive action, leading to increased profits.

They want a fresh perspective.

Sometimes, when you’re too close to something, it can be hard to see it from a different angle. Hiring a copywriter can bring a fresh pair of eyes and a new perspective, helping to rejuvenate stale messaging and breathe new life into a brand.

Their website content is old and boring and needs to be updated.

The digital world moves at a rapid pace, and what was relevant or engaging a few years ago might now be outdated. Copywriters can help revamp old website content, making it fresh, relevant, and exciting for today’s audience.

Now that we’ve covered why people hire copywriters, it’s important to note that not just anyone can pick up a pen (or keyboard) and become a successful copywriter. It requires a specific set of skills.

What Skills Do You Need To Become A Copywriter?

Alright, so we’ve gone over the reasons why businesses and individuals hire copywriters, and you’re probably curious about what it takes to become one yourself.

Well, as it turns out, being a copywriter involves more than just putting words on a page. It’s a craft that requires a unique blend of talent and expertise.

Now, let’s dive into the essential skills you need to become a successful copywriter:

Excellent writing skills

This one might seem obvious, but a copywriter must have a strong command of language and grammar. Your writing should be engaging, persuasive, and easy to understand for your target audience.

Creativity

A great copywriter can come up with fresh ideas and unique ways to express them. This means being able to think outside the box and find creative solutions to common problems.

Research skills

In order to create compelling content, you need to have a solid understanding of your subject matter. This means you’ll need to be adept at researching and gathering information to support your writing.

Communication

As a copywriter, you’ll need to be able to effectively communicate your ideas to clients, team members, and others involved in the project. This means being a good listener and having the ability to adapt your writing style to fit the needs of your audience.

Marketing knowledge

Copywriters need to be well-versed in marketing principles, as their main job is to persuade readers to take action. This involves understanding consumer behavior, branding, and various marketing strategies.

Attention to detail

In the world of copywriting, even the smallest mistake can have a big impact. That’s why it’s important to have a keen eye for detail and be able to spot any inconsistencies or errors in your work.

Time management

Deadlines are a constant in the life of a copywriter, so you’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively and stay organized in order to meet these deadlines and keep your clients happy.

Collaboration

Copywriters often work with a team of designers, marketers, and other professionals. Being able to collaborate effectively and contribute to a positive work environment is a must.

Now that we’ve discussed the skills needed to become a successful copywriter, you might be wondering, “What’s in it for me?” “How much can I actually make in this profession?” Great question! Let’s take a look at the earning potential in the world of copywriting in our next section: How much do copywriters typically earn?

How Much Do Copywriters Typically Earn?

As you begin your journey in copywriting, it’s important to know the typical earnings in this profession. According to websites like Indeed.com and Salary.com, the hourly and yearly salaries for copywriters can vary greatly based on factors like experience, location, and specialization.

According to Salary.com, the suggested initial rates for novice copywriters range from $26 to $29 per hour. However, freelance writers who possess five or more years of experience in the field have the potential to earn between $75 and $125 per hour.

However, most copywriters are paid per project, which can be a win-win situation for both the copywriter and the client. This method of payment allows copywriters to focus on delivering their best work and ensures clients only pay for the results they’re satisfied with.

Agencies can be an exception to this norm, as they often prefer to pay copywriters per word. This method is more common in large-scale projects where there’s a need to produce a significant amount of content in a short period of time.

Why Getting Paid Per Project is Better Than Per Hour

Working on a per-project basis can be more beneficial for both copywriters and clients. Copywriters can earn more by taking on multiple projects and managing their time efficiently, while clients know exactly what they’re paying for and can budget accordingly.

According to a study by Peak Freelance, 65% of freelancers opt to charge per project. Meanwhile, WeAreIndy.com reports that 27% of writers charge between $250 and $400 for a 1,500-word post.

Furthermore, it is notable that most writers who earn over $100,000 annually set a minimum rate of $1,000 per project post.

Here are some reasons why this payment method is often preferred:

Flexibility

Copywriters can choose projects that match their interests and expertise, leading to better results and increased job satisfaction.

Greater earning potential

Efficient copywriters can earn more by taking on multiple projects and completing them in a timely manner.

Better work-life balance

With a focus on project completion rather than hourly quotas, copywriters have more control over their schedules and can better manage their personal lives.

So, now that you have a better understanding of the earning potential of the copywriting profession, are you ready to dive in and start your journey?

Great! In this section, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps to kickstart your copywriting career, even if you’re starting from scratch.

Discover The 9 Steps Beginners Can Follow To Become A Copywriter

Becoming a copywriter may seem intimidating at first, especially if you have no prior experience. However, with a little guidance and effort, you can start your journey towards becoming a successful copywriter. Here are the nine steps you can follow to become a copywriter:

1. Learn the basic concepts of copywriting from popular copywriting books and courses.

Copywriting is a specialized skill, and it’s important to understand the principles of persuasive writing. There are many great resources out there that can teach you the fundamentals of copywriting, such as “The Copywriter’s Handbook” by Robert Bly and “The Ultimate Sales Letter” by Dan Kennedy. Taking a course on platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or Coursera can also be helpful.

2.Practice writing regularly to gain experience

Writing is a skill that requires practice to improve. By writing regularly, you’ll develop your skills, get a feel for different writing styles, and learn what works and what doesn’t. Start with simple exercises like writing headlines, product descriptions, or social media posts.

3. Build a portfolio of your work

Your portfolio should showcase your best writing samples and demonstrate your skills as a copywriter. You can use platforms like Behance, Clippings.me, or Contently to create a portfolio. Having a strong portfolio is essential when you’re starting out and trying to attract potential clients.

4. Offer your services for free to gain experience

It can be hard to find paying clients when you’re just starting out. Offering your services for free can be a great way to build up your experience, get testimonials, and gain exposure. Look for local businesses or charities that may need copywriting services and offer to help them out.

5. Network with other copywriters

Networking with other professionals in your industry can help you find potential clients, learn new skills, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Join copywriting groups on LinkedIn or Facebook, attend industry events, and connect with other copywriters in your area.

6. Create a website that sells your copywriting services

Your website should showcase your portfolio, services, and contact information. Make sure it’s visually appealing and easy to navigate. Your website is often the first impression potential clients will have of you, so it’s important to make it professional and persuasive.

7. Consider working as an intern or apprentice

Working as an intern or apprentice can be a great way to gain real-world experience, make industry connections, and learn from experienced professionals. Look for opportunities at agencies or businesses that specialize in copywriting or marketing.

8. Write guest blog posts to showcase your expertise

Writing guest posts for popular blogs in your niche can help you build your reputation and attract potential clients. Look for blogs that accept guest posts, and pitch ideas that showcase your expertise and writing skills.

9. Learn SEO

Understanding search engine optimization (SEO) can help you write copy that is optimized for the web and attracts more traffic to your clients’ websites. This is an important skill for any copywriter who wants to work with businesses that have an online presence.

Awesome! So now that you’ve got a good understanding of the steps to becoming a copywriter, you’re probably wondering how to get copywriting clients. It’s not always easy, but with the right strategy, you can build a thriving copywriting business. So, what are the best ways to get copywriting clients? Let’s dive in!

What Are The Best Ways To Get Copywriting Clients?

I’ve seen a lot of copywriters struggle with finding clients. But fear not, because there are plenty of ways to attract new clients and build a successful copywriting business, even if you’re a beginner. Here are some effective strategies:

Build a Portfolio

Your portfolio is your calling card, so it’s essential to have a strong one. Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, and make sure it’s accessible on your website and other social media platforms.

Network

Attend industry events and conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with other writers and marketers in your field. This is a great way to meet potential clients and get your name out there.

Leverage Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for marketing your services. Use platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to showcase your writing skills and engage with potential clients.

Reach Out to Businesses

Don’t be afraid to cold-email or call businesses that you think could benefit from your services. Make sure your pitch is concise, persuasive, and tailored to their specific needs.

Offer Pro Bono Work

Consider offering your services for free to a nonprofit or small business. This can be a great way to build your portfolio and gain experience while also helping a good cause.

By using a combination of these strategies, you can increase your chances of finding new clients and growing your copywriting business.

Tips For Improving Your Copywriting Skills

Now that we have covered all those important topics, let’s talk about some additional tips and tricks that can help you further improve your copywriting skills!

Practice writing regularly.

Writing is a skill that requires practice to improve. Whether it’s writing product descriptions, social media posts, or blog articles, the more you write, the better you become. You can set aside time each day or week to write something, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes. 

You can also try free-writing exercises to get your creative juices flowing. The goal is to get in the habit of writing regularly so that you can improve your skills over time.

Read a great copy.

Reading great copy can help you develop a sense of what works and what doesn’t in copywriting. Look for a copy that resonates with you, whether it’s a product description, a landing page, or an email newsletter. Analyze what makes the copy effective, such as the use of emotional language, storytelling, or social proof. You can also read books on copywriting or marketing to get more insights into the craft.

Know your audience.

To write effective copy, you need to understand your target audience. Who are they? What are their needs, desires, and pain points? What motivates them to take action? You can use tools like customer surveys, market research, or social media analytics to gather information about your audience. 

This will help you write a copy that speaks directly to them, uses their language, and addresses their specific concerns.

Keep it simple.

Simple copy is often the most effective. Avoid using complicated words or jargon that your audience may not understand. Keep your sentences short and to the point, and use formatting techniques like bullet points, headings, and bold text to make your copy scannable. You want your audience to be able to quickly understand what you’re saying and what action you want them to take.

Use persuasive language.

Persuasive language is what convinces your audience to take action. This includes using powerful words and phrases that create a sense of urgency or highlight the benefits of your product or service. 

For example, using words like “limited time,” “exclusive,” or “instant” can create a sense of urgency. Using phrases like “imagine how it would feel to…” or “picture yourself…” can help your audience visualize the benefits of your product or service.

Edit your work.

Editing is an essential part of the writing process. No one’s first draft is perfect. Take the time to read your copy out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or grammatical errors. 

Eliminate any unnecessary words and focus on making your copy as clear and concise as possible. You can also get feedback from others, whether it’s a colleague, friend, or professional editor.

Test your copy.

Testing is crucial to seeing how your copy performs with your audience. You can experiment with different headlines, calls-to-action, and copy lengths to see what works best. Use A/B testing to compare different versions and make data-driven decisions. 

You can also use analytics tools to track metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, or engagement rates to see how your copy is performing over time. The goal is to continuously improve your copy based on real-world feedback.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it! We’ve covered a lot of ground when it comes to the world of copywriting, including what it is, what copywriters write, who hires them, and why. We’ve also talked about the essential skills you need, how much you can earn, and how to get started. And lastly, we shared some tips to help you improve your copywriting skills.

Remember, copywriting is a constantly evolving industry, and there is always something new to learn. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, keep on writing, keep on learning, and most importantly, have fun! Happy writing!

FAQs

Can you start copywriting with no experience?

Yes, of course! Everyone has to start somewhere. While experience is always helpful, the most important thing is to have a good understanding of the basics of copywriting and a willingness to learn and improve. 

Start by reading popular copywriting books and taking online courses, practicing your writing regularly, and building a portfolio. You can also offer your services for free to gain experience and network with other copywriters.

How can a beginner start copywriting?

As a beginner, you can start by learning the basics of copywriting from popular books and online courses and then practicing your writing regularly. You can also build a portfolio by offering your services for free and networking with other copywriters. 

Creating a website to sell your copywriting services, interning or working as an apprentice, writing guest blog posts, and learning about SEO can also help you get started in your copywriting career.

What qualifications do you need to be a copywriter?

There is no specific set of qualifications required to be a copywriter. However, a degree in English, journalism, marketing, or a related field can be helpful. More important than formal qualifications are strong writing abilities and a good understanding of the basics of copywriting. You can develop these skills by reading popular books, taking online courses, practicing your writing regularly, and building a portfolio.