No, I'm not talking about "discouragement" or "lethargy"—I'm talking about a real person. "Enemy" might be a bit of a strong word, but this person is the number one factor that can stand in between you and getting an interview for the job of your dreams. Well, obviously, the first and most important thing is to make sure that your resume and your copywriting portfolio are … [Read more...]
The Truth About Copywriting Recruiters
When you’re looking for copywriting work, recruiters can seem like the magic bullet—after all, they’re in business to get you work! But there are a few things you should know before you put your fate in their hands. Recruiters can be great because they might help you to get your foot in the door. If you’re a good candidate for a position and they have a real relationship … [Read more...]
Why Copywriting is Here to Stay—Well Into the Future
Good news first: the future of copywriting is safe. Copywriting—whether, full-time, part-time or freelance—isn't going anywhere. The bad news is there are plenty of sensationalist stories that will make you think otherwise. Downsizing, outsourcing, offshoring, automation: there are certainly a lot of words for economic panic, aren't there? Add to that the biweekly articles … [Read more...]
Your Unique Selling Point: Set Yourself Apart from the Competition
We're all in the business of selling. We're either actually trying to sell products or services, or we're trying to "sell" people on taking some kind of an action. Even nonprofits are trying to sell people on making donations. But with the unemployment rate constantly making the news and articles about "how to get a raise" and "how to brand yourself" across magazines and … [Read more...]
#1 Freelance Tax Mistake and How to Avoid It
It's the time of the year when, whether we like it or not, our thoughts turn to taxes—and those copywriters who have been doing freelance work may start to panic at the thought of their tax bill. Today's post is about how to ensure your freelance copywriting doesn't turn into a major tax nightmare. Now, first, let me preface this by saying that I am not a tax professional … [Read more...]
Changing Your Career to Copywriting While at Your Existing Job
When you get the changing-your-career itch, it fast becomes an itch that you just can't ignore. But even with the greatest urge to do it, changing careers can seem like almost too big a task to accomplish, especially if you currently have a job on rely on that income. After all, we all have bills to pay! Luckily, the first steps to becoming a copywriter aren't as hard as … [Read more...]
1 Easy Step for Networking in the New Year
As 2012 draws to a close, one goal that every copywriter should have for the new year is to network more. Not necessarily "networking" in the sense that makes everyone uncomfortable—going out to industry events and trying to start conversations with strangers—but networking in the sense of getting in touch with those people you could benefit and who could benefit you. Right … [Read more...]
The Best Career Advice I’ve Ever Gotten
I thought I'd offer up a few gifts that, in a way, are a bit re-gifted: the very best business and career advice I've ever gotten. No matter your job, your career, or your goals, these gems should provide at least some wattage of a guiding light. They've served me well and I'm proud to pass them on to you, whether you use them in your copywriting career or … [Read more...]
Copywriting Q&A: How to Plan Your Year
As the year draws to a close, it's a great time to start planning for success in the next one. Copywriters and small business owners, get out your pens! Here are questions for you to answer that will help you get a handle on how to ensure you're about to enter a winning year. Copywriters: Review your portfolio. Which kinds of pieces do you want to have more of? (Direct mail, … [Read more...]
4 Keys to Find Laser-Like Focus To Write Copy
Finding clients or planning a project is one thing, but actually sitting down and writing copy is another thing entirely. Here are four keys to improve your focus to write copy. First of all, keeping your mind on work is rarely an easy task (especially when you work from home)—even when it's something you're excited to do. Luckily, there are a few keys you can incorporate … [Read more...]