Custom Search

Dec 18, 2008

An Introduction to Freelance Copywriting

By Ray Edwards

The Internet has changed the landscape of communications today. It has provided a seemingly limitless source of information and opened up a lot of opportunities in business.
Copywriting is one business that has found great success on the Internet. Because of the freedom it offers, more and more copywriters are looking into freelance copywriting as a new career.
Freelance copywriters have a strong desire to succeed and steer their own career. They mix their own experience and skill with proven copywriting techniques to create a thriving freelancing business. The Internet offers copywriters this freedom. Freelance Internet copywriters can work on more projects and have more opportunities to generate a greater income than their regularly employed positions.
Copywriters write the written content on most advertisements. They help create most radio commercials, television ads, newspaper cut outs, direct response mail ads, web content, and Internet sales letters. Freelance copywriters work for a variety of different clients. They can handpick their work and structure their schedules around their lives.
In order to be a successful freelance copywriter you will need an Internet connection and skill. There are always new things to learn about marketing, so continue to educate yourself and use online tutorials in order to help you write better copy. You should also write everyday and read books from the experts.
Successful freelance copywriting includes research into your target audience. You need to know what gets their attention and how to reach them. Research is a very important aspect of a successful copywriting business that is often overlooked.
As you enter the copywriting field, you should figure out what market you want to write for. Some copywriters have a wide range of client types, while others specialize into one field like writing web content. But a little flexibility is important no matter how much you specialize. Here are some more helpful pointers that will strengthen your freelancing career:
1. Network. It is very important to get your name out into the market and network with other copywriters. You can create strong networks by attending seminars and interacting with other freelance copywriters, exhibitors, and speakers. Even though you're working on the Internet, it?s important to remember your local market as well. Keep an eye on your local paper and take notice of any new businesses that may need your services. You can also join you local chamber of commerce and make connections with other local businesses.
2. Create Your Portfolio. Your portfolio gives potential clients something to look at while they consider your bid. It builds confidence and helps you win projects. It should include examples of your best work, a sales letter explaining why you're the best copywriter for the job, and testimonials from past clients. Make sure it is organized, professional looking, and neat.
3. Grow Your Own Set of Techniques. It is good to have your own set of copywriting techniques to help set you apart from other copywriters, but they have to be effective. Your ability to sell a product will determine your success, and your ability to do it uniquely will propel you to the top.
This article was supposed to help you see what is involved with freelance copywriting. Hopefully it was helpful. Freelance is a very flexible and rewarding career, go ahead and look into it more to see if it's the right move for you.

About the Author:

For an inside look at the techniques of a top direct response copywriter, visit the site of Copywriter Ray Edwards. There you'll find a daily podcast, video tutorials and free copywriting advice.

0 comments: