How to Become a Freelance Copywriter in 2024

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a small commission at no cost for you, if you purchase through these links.

Are you wondering if copywriting can be your career choice in 2024? Do you want to become a freelance copywriter in 2024? Are you seeking insights on the best steps to become the best copywriter?

This guide is for you, and it’s been written with a goal in mind: to give you the tools to understand what a copywriter does, what skills are needed to succeed, how much you can earn, and also what are the biggest challenges in pursuing a copywriting career as a freelancer.

Copywriting is one of the most requested freelancing jobs nowadays, and competition can be fierce. That’s why you need to be ready to study, advance your skills, and be able to offer something unique to your clients.

This article will explain how you can become a skilled and unique copywriter and how you can transform your love for writing into a successful career.

What is a freelance copywriter?

A common question that arises is, what exactly does a copywriter do? It is crucial to recognize that copywriting is a distinct skill set from general writing, and the responsibilities of a copywriter differ significantly from those of a traditional writer. Essentially, a copywriter crafts compelling content for advertising purposes, with the goal of promoting and selling products or services. This involves strategically finding the most effective way to describe a service, sell products, or strengthen brand recognition.

Here are some key tasks that a copywriter may undertake:

1. Composing a catchy jingle for a commercial.
2. Crafting a memorable slogan for a company.
3. Establishing the tone of voice for a new brand and developing content that aligns with this tone.
4. Creating engaging copy for an advertising campaign.
5. Developing content for newsletters.
6. Designing public relations stunts.

Each task is essential in capturing the audience’s attention and persuading them to engage with the brand, ultimately driving sales and building brand loyalty.

What does a freelancer copywriter do?

This entails setting their service rates and actively marketing their services to cultivate a robust client base. The freedom to select assignments empowers them to collaborate with clients in establishing deadlines and setting expectations. A glimpse into their typical responsibilities reveals a multifaceted role:

1. Undertaking Market Research: Delve deep into the subject matter to understand the market landscape.
2. Advising Clients: Offer insightful recommendations on how to target potential consumers effectively.
3. Adherence to Style Guides: Meticulously follows the clients’ style guides to ensure consistency in tone and language.
4. Strategic Keyword Incorporation: Skillfully weave strategic keywords into the copy to optimize search engine visibility.
5. Enhancing Content with Visuals: Select and attach relevant images to augment the impact of the content.
6. Content Publishing: Upload the finalized copy to a content management system (CMS) for publication.
7. Monitoring Content Performance: Keep a close eye on content analytics to gauge its effectiveness.
8. Implementing Client Feedback: Diligently apply the client’s feedback to refine the copy.

Each of these responsibilities is crucial in ensuring not only the quality of the content but also its effectiveness in reaching and engaging the target audience. Ultimately, freelance copywriters play a pivotal role in shaping a brand’s voice and message, contributing significantly to its success in the marketplace.

What doesn’t a freelancer copywriter do?

Freelance copywriters specialize in creating persuasive and compelling copy for advertising and marketing purposes; they are not typically involved in tasks such as academic writing, technical writing, or journalistic reporting. Additionally, while they may offer suggestions on visual elements or layout, they are not graphic designers or web developers. Their primary focus is on the written word, crafting messages that resonate with the target audience and drive them to take a specific action. It is also important to note that freelance copywriters are self-employed and, as such, are not responsible for tasks typically handled by agency staff, such as client relationship management, project management, or media buying. Ultimately, while freelance copywriters wear many hats, there are distinct boundaries to their roles and responsibilities.

The difference between a freelance copywriter and a freelance writer

The main difference between a freelance copywriter and a freelance writer lies in the nature of the work they specialize in.

A freelance copywriter specializes in creating content specifically for advertising and marketing purposes. This includes writing copy for websites, brochures, advertisements, social media posts, email marketing campaigns, and other promotional materials. The primary goal of a copywriter is to persuade the audience to take a specific action, whether it be purchasing a product, signing up for a newsletter, or engaging with a brand in some other way. Copywriters often need to have a deep understanding of marketing principles, consumer psychology, and the ability to craft compelling messages that resonate with a target audience.

A freelance writer, on the other hand, may work on a broader range of writing projects that are not limited to advertising and marketing. This can include articles, blog posts, essays, reports, books, and other forms of written content. Freelance writers may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or individual clients, and their work may be informative, educational, entertaining, or a combination of these. While freelance writers may occasionally create content for advertising or marketing purposes, it is not their primary focus.

In summary, the key difference between a freelance copywriter and a freelance writer lies in the specialization of their work. A freelance copywriter focuses on creating persuasive content for advertising and marketing, while a freelance writer may work on a broader range of writing projects across various genres and formats.

Is copywriting synonymous with content marketing?

However, in the current digital landscape, copywriters often find themselves wearing the hat of content marketers, and vice versa, leading to a significant overlap between the two professions.

Content marketing involves creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and convert prospects into customers. It encompasses a variety of formats, including blogs, podcasts, and email autoresponders.

On the other hand, copywriting is the art of crafting persuasive text that prompts the reader to take a specific action. This includes creating content for sales pages, advertisements, and email marketing campaigns.

While content marketing focuses on building relationships and providing value to the audience, copywriting aims to drive a specific response, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or clicking on a link.

In reality, content marketing devoid of copywriting techniques is no longer viable in today’s competitive market. Effective content marketing requires the incorporation of persuasive copywriting techniques to encourage the desired action from the audience. Therefore, while they are distinct disciplines, there is a considerable and necessary overlap between copywriting and content marketing in practice. This intersection has led to a blurring of lines between the two professions, with many professionals possessing skills in both areas to maximize their effectiveness in the digital landscape.

How To Become a Successful Copywriter

Looking for guidance on embarking on a copywriting career? Begin your journey with this comprehensive, step-by-step guide.

Define Your Writing Identity

Understanding the role of a copywriter is crucial in determining the type of writer you aspire to be. A common misconception is that copywriting and content writing are interchangeable terms. However, they are distinct specializations. Copywriters are adept at crafting concise, action-driven content aimed at generating leads or driving sales. Conversely, content writers produce creative copy that promotes a company and fosters positive brand associations. This can range from educational blog posts to engaging social media updates.

The evolution of copywriting has been significant. While it originated with print ads in newspapers and magazines, the digital era has expanded its scope to include podcast ad scripts, website pages, and more.

Identify Your Copywriting Specialty

To thrive as a copywriter, it is advisable to select a specific niche and become a subject matter expert. Your niche will influence your responsibilities and the type of copy you create. Reflect on your strengths as a writer to determine your desired niche. The role and daily tasks of a copywriter vary significantly based on the project and client.

Here are some common copywriting specializations:

• Marketing Copywriter: Specializes in crafting copy for marketing and advertising materials, such as digital ads, press releases, email campaigns, promotional materials, and landing pages.
• Social Media Copywriter: Creates engaging captions for social media posts and paid advertisements, including Instagram captions, Tweets, and Facebook ads.
• Brand Copywriter: Ensures consistent brand messaging across all internal and external communications, including brand style guidelines, slogans, product packaging, mission statements, and website content.
• SEO Copywriter: Optimizes content for search engine visibility using optimization techniques, including SEO blogs, keyword research, website content, meta descriptions, and headlines.
• Technical Copywriter: Translates complex technical information into easily digestible content, such as user guides, product packaging, help content, FAQs, and user manuals.

Assess Your Skills and Expertise

Marketing yourself as a niche-specific copywriter involves showcasing your skills, experience, and portfolio. Conduct a self-assessment to identify your current marketable skills and areas for improvement. Successful copywriters are lifelong learners, continuously developing new skills to enhance their profiles, attract new clients, and diversify their service offerings.

Key skills and certifications to highlight always have to include:

• Proficiency with email marketing software, such as Mailchimp, SendinBlue, and Constant Contact.
• Experience creating content for social media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
• Familiarity with various writing styles, such as AP, Chicago, AMA, and MLA.
• Ability to create copy for paid ad platforms, including Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Amazon.
• Proficiency with website builders, such as Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress.
• Acknowledge your weaknesses as opportunities for growth and skill enhancement. Invest in your professional development by taking courses or conducting independent research.

Recommended courses and certifications to enhance your copywriting skills:

Udemy:

• The Complete Copywriting Course: Write to Sell Like a Pro
• Professional Technical Writing: Advance Your Writing Skills
• The Social Media Marketing & Management Masterclass
• Google Ads For Beginners – Step By Step Process
• Build a Lucrative Copywriting Portfolio from Scratch
• Microcopy & UX Writing: The Complete Course

Build an Impressive Portfolio

Your portfolio is the cornerstone of your copywriting career. It’s the tangible proof of your skills, style, and expertise. Even if you are just starting out in the copywriting world, there’s no need to panic. You can create your own samples to showcase your talent. It’s essential to clarify that any samples not created for clients are mock-ups.

Here are some sample types you should consider creating or including in your portfolio:

• Landing Page: Design a landing page for a local business or your favorite brand using tools like Canva, Squarespace, or Wix. This demonstrates your ability to create compelling and concise copy encouraging action.
• SEO Blog: Craft a brief SEO-optimized blog post. Remember to include a captivating title and meta description to show your understanding of SEO best practices.
• Email Newsletter: Compose an email newsletter for a brand using Mailchimp or Constant Contact. This will showcase your ability to create engaging, informative content encouraging clicks and conversions.
• Social Media Ads: Design social media advertisements using the Influencer Marketing Hub. This will highlight your ability to create eye-catching and persuasive ad copy.
• Social Media Posts: Exhibit your talent for crafting compelling social media content using Media Modifier. This will demonstrate your ability to create content that resonates with a target audience and encourages engagement.

Remember, your portfolio is a living document. As you gain more experience and create more pieces, continuously update your portfolio to reflect your best work. This will ensure you always put your best foot forward when approaching potential clients.

Craft Your Identity as a Freelance Copywriter

Establishing a professional brand is pivotal in promoting your services and expanding your client base. Here are some key steps to carve out your identity as a freelance copywriter:

1. Design an Iconic Logo: Create a visually striking symbol and tagline encapsulating your essence as a copywriter. For instance, consider incorporating your initials and a catchy copywriting slogan. Ensure your logo is prominently featured on your website, business cards, and social media profiles.
2. Develop a Professional Website: Your website is a virtual storefront, showcasing your services and expertise. Maintain a cohesive aesthetic by incorporating the color scheme from your logo and business cards. Additionally, your website should house your portfolio, detailing your range of services and associated rates. Read our guide on the best website builders for freelancers.
3. Leverage Social Media: Cultivating a robust social media presence is crucial in raising awareness about your offerings. Establish business profiles across multiple platforms and share snippets of your work to captivate potential clients.
4. Implement Targeted Advertising: Utilize tools to craft compelling social media advertisements that resonate with your target audience.
5. Showcase Your Skills: Create engaging social media posts that highlight your copywriting prowess.

Remember, your brand is a reflection of your professional identity. By investing in a cohesive and compelling brand, you not only attract potential clients but also establish yourself as a trusted and sought-after freelance copywriter.

Qualifications of a freelance copywriter

Although there is no definitive set of qualifications mandated for a career in copywriting, most professionals in the field possess a Bachelor’s Degree in their preferred language, Business Communications, Journalism, Advertising, or Marketing. Enrolling in specialized courses designed to hone writing skills for specific objectives is highly recommended. Beyond formal education, practical experience is paramount and often holds more weight in this profession. Ultimately, a blend of relevant education and hands-on experience will set you on the path to success in copywriting.

Skills of a freelance copywriter

An exceptional copywriter embodies not only proficient writing skills but also a keen understanding of marketing principles and effective interpersonal communication. A comprehensive understanding of data, its interpretation, and its application in content creation is a valuable asset in today’s fiercely competitive landscape.

Here are the essential skills that a proficient copywriter should possess, regardless of the subject matter:

Mastery of Grammar

A solid foundation in grammar is crucial for a copywriter, regardless of the language – be it English, Spanish, Korean, or any other. This encompasses not only constructing grammatically correct sentences but also the appropriate use of punctuation, adverbs, and a thorough understanding of the rules that render a text accurate and functional.

Ability to Distill Complex Information

Copywriting is the art of crafting clear and concise text without compromising its meaning. This skill involves distilling complex information into credible, persuasive, and focused content that resonates with the target audience.

Proficient Research Skills

Often, a client’s brief is insufficient for developing compelling content. A skilled copywriter knows how to conduct comprehensive research on any topic, analyze competitors, and extract useful data for creating jingles, ads, or any other type of content.

SEO and UX Expertise

A working knowledge of SEO and UX is a significant advantage for a copywriter. While it may not be essential for creating slogans or jingles, it is imperative for crafting marketing content. A proficient copywriter must know how to strategically incorporate keywords and optimize user experience to create content that effectively drives sales.

Comprehension of the Marketing Funnel

Understanding the marketing funnel and its impact on content and purchasing decisions is vital. At each stage of the funnel, the customer’s motivations to engage with your business vary. Therefore, it is essential to tailor the language to the audience’s position in the funnel to encourage a specific action.

Proficiency in Analytics

Successful copywriting is a fusion of creativity and analytical thinking. A skilled copywriter must know how to utilize analytics to assess content performance, email open rates, click-through rates, and more. While mastery of analytics is not required, basic skills are necessary to refine your copywriting strategy and optimize results.

In conclusion, a proficient copywriter must possess a diverse skill set that encompasses grammar, research, SEO, UX, understanding of the marketing funnel, and analytics. These skills are not only desirable but essential for success in the competitive world of copywriting.

Effective Time Management

For freelance copywriters, mastering time management is crucial as they often juggle multiple assignments from different clients simultaneously. They must strategically prioritize their tasks based on deadlines, allocating sufficient time for producing high-quality work and revising their content. Many freelancers also hold full-time positions in other fields, necessitating a delicate balance between copywriting responsibilities and other professional obligations.

Meticulous Editing

Possessing strong editing skills is essential for freelance copywriters to ensure their content is error-free. After completing the initial draft, they meticulously proofread their work for grammatical and spelling errors, as well as adherence to AP style guidelines. Various editing techniques may be employed before delivering the final product to clients. For instance, some copywriters prefer reading their text aloud, while others may read the content in reverse order, from end to beginning.

Research Skills

Comprehensive research skills are indispensable for freelance copywriters for several reasons:

• Determining Market Value: Research provides insights into the rates organizations are willing to pay for copywriting services. Understanding the market value of your skills is crucial for setting fair and competitive rates for your services.
• Analyzing Competitors: Other freelance copywriters may be targeting the same potential clients, making it essential to research competitors and devise a strategy to differentiate your work.
• Identifying Credible Sources: To ensure the accuracy of your writing assignments, it is necessary to conduct thorough research to identify existing articles on your topic and determine what additional information you can provide. Primary research may also be required to gain a deeper understanding of unfamiliar topics before writing.

Innovative Creativity

Creativity is a key asset for freelance copywriters, enabling them to craft engaging copy that resonates with target audiences, potentially increasing website traffic or social media followings for clients. For example, a bank may engage a copywriter to create business-to-consumer (B2C) content about applying for loans and credit cards. A creative approach to the assignment, using language that educates and appeals to readers, could lead to a surge in the bank’s blog readership.

Strategic Business Management

Business management skills are essential for freelance copywriters to:

• Set Service Rates: Freelance copywriters determine the prices for their services based on word count and content type. For example, the rate for a 1000-word article may be higher than that for a social media ad.
• Manage Payments: Organizational skills are necessary for managing customer invoices and receiving payments for services rendered. Detailed records of past collaborations and payments received should be meticulously maintained.
• Promote Their Work: Freelance copywriters are responsible for growing their businesses. This involves regularly updating their websites to reflect their evolving portfolios and actively networking within their industries to identify new clients.

How to get the first copywriting job

Landing the first gig as a copywriter is crucial to boost your morale and start putting your name out there. There are a few things that you can do speed up the process and get a client, and this is just a small list:

Commit to Continuous Writing

The importance of practice cannot be overstated, especially in the realm of copywriting. Maintaining a blog is a strategic move as it not only compels you to write regularly but also serves as a portfolio, showcasing your capabilities and reasons why companies should engage your services. Dive deeper into the advantages of having a professional blog in our detailed article, which provides a wealth of insights on this topic.

Leverage the Power of Networking

Particularly at the onset of your career, networking is vital for establishing your presence in the industry. Word-of-mouth recommendations carry significant weight; professionals often refer their peers, and companies tend to prefer working with individuals recommended by trusted associates rather than engaging someone unknown. Therefore, actively network to uncover new opportunities and, importantly, to enhance your skills.

Master the Art of Cold Pitching

Cold pitches are an effective way to acquire new clients and secure your initial copywriting assignments. Start small by targeting local businesses and offering your services. Gradually expand your outreach to encompass as many companies as you desire, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the positive responses. Once you have honed your skills and gained confidence, shift your focus to larger corporations.

Harness the Potential of Social Media

Social media platforms are invaluable tools for showcasing your work, connecting with individuals and organizations, and establishing yourself as a knowledgeable and respected voice in your desired industry. If you aim to secure copywriting assignments via social media, ensure you are prepared to demonstrate not only your capabilities but also your understanding of potential clients’ needs.

Utilize Online Job Platforms

In addition to leveraging your network and social media, online job platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are excellent resources for finding freelance opportunities. These platforms connect freelancers with clients looking for their services. Create a compelling profile that highlights your skills, past work, and what you can offer to potential clients. Regularly check for new job postings, and don’t hesitate to send proposals for the projects that align with your skills and interests. Remember to start with smaller projects and gradually move to bigger ones as you build your portfolio and gain more experience. These platforms also allow you to receive reviews and ratings from clients, which can help boost your credibility and attract more clients in the future.

Remember, your journey as a copywriter is a marathon, not a sprint. Commit to continuous improvement, actively seek opportunities, and leverage the available resources to build a successful and fulfilling career.

Enhancing Your Skills as a Freelance Copywriter

To bolster your proficiency as a freelance copywriter, consider implementing the following strategies:

Analyze the Work of Fellow Copywriters

Expose yourself to a diverse array of content to understand how to master different writing styles. Subscribe to blogs or magazines and scrutinize how writers craft copy that resonates with their audience. For instance, if you aspire to excel in writing business-to-business (B2B) copy, immerse yourself in articles that employ a B2B writing style.

Collaborate with a Variety of Organizations

As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to undertake assignments from entities across multiple sectors. You could, for example, write product descriptions for a novel mobile application and concurrently author blog posts about maintaining a nutritious diet.

Adapt to Various Writing Styles

Each client may necessitate a unique writing style, such as eschewing idioms or adopting a conversational tone. Cultivate the ability to modify your writing approach to meet the specific needs of your clients, thereby becoming a more versatile writer.

Expand Your Copywriting Portfolio

The more assignments you complete, the more diverse your portfolio will become, enhancing your appeal to prospective clients. For example, incorporating samples that targeted readers from disparate age groups into your portfolio can make you more attractive to organizations with diverse interests. Read our guide on how to expand your portfolio.

Seek Feedback and Constructive Criticism

Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from your clients or fellow copywriters. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights into areas where you can improve and help you become a better writer.

Continuously Learn and Stay Updated

The world of copywriting is always evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging regularly. Make it a habit to stay updated on the latest trends in copywriting and marketing. Participate in webinars, online courses, and read books and articles on copywriting and related topics. Read our guide on upskilling.

By actively seeking opportunities to diversify your experience, adapt to different writing styles, and expand your portfolio, you will be well on your way to becoming a more skilled and versatile freelance copywriter.

How much to charge as a freelance copywriter

Discussing financial matters is often a delicate subject, and determining your rates for copywriting services is influenced by several variables: your level of experience, your skill set, and the profile of your ideal client. We have compiled an extensive guide on how to appropriately price your freelance services, as well as a guide on how to disengage from a toxic client. Both guides are highly relevant and easily adaptable to your copywriting business.

According to Indeed, the average salary for a freelance copywriter is $59,169 per year but before jumping into conclusions, it’s best to assess your experience and skills objectively when setting your rates. Newer copywriters may need to charge less initially to attract clients, but as you gain experience and develop your portfolio, you can gradually increase your rates. Additionally, consider the type of clients you wish to attract. Corporate clients with larger budgets may be willing to pay higher rates for quality work, while smaller businesses or individual entrepreneurs may have more limited budgets.

Remember, your rates should reflect the value you provide to your clients. It is essential to communicate this value clearly and confidently when discussing your rates. Also, be prepared to negotiate, but always have a minimum rate in mind that you are not willing to go below. It is important to value your work and time appropriately.

Lastly, it is equally important to recognize when a client relationship is no longer beneficial and may be causing more harm than good. Our guide on how to get rid of a toxic client provides practical advice on how to handle such situations with professionalism and grace.

Is it hard to become a copywriter?

Embarking on a copywriting career may appear straightforward at first glance – after all, it’s just about knowing how to write, right? However, the reality is far more nuanced. While writing ability is a prerequisite, crafting compelling content is a skill that not everyone possesses.

Moreover, resilience and organization are essential traits for a copywriter. The adage “everyone’s a copywriter” holds a kernel of truth, and your work will likely undergo scrutiny in ways you may not have foreseen. Maintaining a composed, positive, and organized demeanor, coupled with a commitment to continuous learning, is crucial for developing into a proficient and competent copywriter.

The competition in the copywriting field is intense, given the widespread belief that “everyone’s a copywriter.” Therefore, it is imperative to demonstrate your unique value proposition to prospective clients or employers before establishing a foothold in the copywriting world. Highlighting your specialized skills, showcasing your portfolio, and articulating your understanding of the client’s needs are all ways to distinguish yourself in a crowded marketplace. Ultimately, your ability to convey your value will be a determining factor in the trajectory of your copywriting career.

Is it possible to learn copywriting?

While it is true that most skills can be acquired through dedicated learning and practice, certain professions, including copywriting, require a specific mindset and attitude. It is entirely possible to be deeply passionate about copywriting, invest considerable time and effort into learning the craft, and yet struggle to produce impactful content.

Copywriting is a skill that can be developed, but it demands patience, dedication, and humility. Acknowledging and learning from your mistakes, staying abreast of industry trends, and continuously expanding your skill set is crucial. Strive to cultivate a unique style and approach that sets you apart from others and adds value to your client’s projects.

Remember, the journey to becoming a proficient copywriter involves mastering the art of persuasive writing and developing a deep understanding of marketing principles, consumer psychology, and the specific needs and preferences of your target audience. By adopting a growth mindset, actively seeking feedback, and committing to continuous improvement, you can develop into a copywriter whose skills are highly sought after and valued by others.

Final Thoughts on Getting Started as a Freelance Copywriter

Embarking on a freelance copywriting career can be daunting, especially in the initial phases when the assignments may seem mundane and far from glamorous. The path to establishing yourself as a reputable freelance copywriter is often riddled with challenges, from securing your first clients to delivering content that meets their expectations. However, as you gain more experience and spend more time in the industry, the process becomes more streamlined and rewarding.

Continuous learning and growth are paramount to your success as a freelance copywriter. The landscape of copywriting is ever-evolving, with new trends, tools, and techniques emerging regularly. Staying abreast of these developments and actively seeking opportunities to enhance your skills will improve the quality of your work and increase your marketability to potential clients.

While freelance copywriting can undoubtedly be demanding mentally and physically, the satisfaction derived from creating impactful content that resonates with your audience and drives results for your clients makes all the effort worthwhile. Over time, as you build a robust portfolio and develop strong relationships with your clients, you will find that the challenges you face in the early stages of your career serve as valuable learning experiences that contribute to your growth and success as a freelance copywriter.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.