The Internet holds a lot of options for a freelance copywriter. If you're currently an employed copywriter and you want to make more money, freelance copywriting is a great option. Besides freeing you from the restrictions of a full-time job, freelance copywriting enables you to determine your own workload.
A copywriter must have certain skills in order to be successful. You must know your audience, what medians are most effective, and you must be able to write something that motivates your reader into buying a product. In order to improve their skills, many copywriters take time to attend workshops, seminars, and conduct research into their respective markets.
Freelance copywriters have a lot more fields in which they can simultaneously work than other copywriters. To name a few: web marketing, publishing houses, online services, advertising companies, direct response ad campaigns, and many others. Companies in all these fields hire freelance copywriters to help them sell their products or services.
HOW TO BECOME A FREELANCE COPYWRITER
Freelance copywriters have the ability to handpick their own work and choose projects that are best suited for their skills and expertise. You're also your own boss, causing many experts to call freelancing one of the best ways to work.
You must give your potential clients what they want in a creative and effective manner. If you're interested in becoming a freelance copywriter then here are some quick tips that can help you become more successful:
1. Set your goals. Before jumping on the freelancing bandwagon, make sure to set some goals so that you know what you really want. Try do develop a business plan and figure out what your skills are.
2. Make a portfolio. This will be the first thing any potential clients see, so make sure to include your best work and any testimonials from past clients you may have. It is important that your portfolio is organized, clear, and professional if it is to impress clients.
3. You should also have a website. A website allows your clients to easily examine your capabilities and your portfolio. It also gives your clients some comfort about hiring you because they can look at your past work when considering your bid. Lastly, a website gives you an edge over your competition. Its surprising to know that many copywriters do not have a website, so a company will be more inclined to hire a copywriter who has a site they can access instead of someone they know nothing about.
4. Try to build good working relationships with your clients. Working online means that you only conduct business virtually and not face-to-face. This can make it difficult to cultivate good working relationships, so you need to work harder at getting to know your clients. The more a company knows you, the more likely they are to hire you again in the future instead of going through a bunch of anonymous bids.
If you're in the same region as your client, make it known that they can meet with you personally if they want. Also, let them know that you are always available to contact if they have any questions or concerns. Make yourself personable, the more you seem like a real person to your client, the greater your success.
5. Educate your clients. Listen to what your clients want, but don't let them dictate your end product. You are an expert in writing copy and they are not. Their ideas may hinder the sales of their product. So teach them about what works, what doesn't work and why. Don't be rude, but gently explain why you think your ideas may sell their product more effectively.
These are just a few pointers to help you become a freelance copywriter. Hopefully you found this article helpful and encouraging. Freelance copywriting allows you to be your own boss and dictate your own workload. In the end it can be a very rewarding and flexible occupation.
About the Author:
For an inside look at the techniques of a top direct response copywriter, check out the membership site of Copywriter Ray Edwards. There you'll find many marketing resources and copywriting advice.
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