Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Becoming a Freelance Copywriter

By Ray Edwards


Today, professionals are turning to freelancing as a way of generating more income. One such field is copywriting. The world of copywriting is beginning to go through significant changes. In fact, many companies are seeking freelance copywriters in order to increase their businesses success.

Companies are investing in alternative methods to advertise at a growing rate. Since copywriters can provide a variety of options for advertising, the demand for freelance copywriting is growing as well. That means that there is a substantial amount of job security as a freelance copywriter because it is not difficult to find work.

A freelance copywriter can potentially make more money than copywriters at an advertising agency or firm. If you are willing to learn your field and market yourself, then freelance copywriting may be right for you.

Here are some helpful tips that you should consider if you're interested in becoming a freelance copywriter:

1. Set goals. Make sure to establish a set of goals for your freelancing business: how many hours you want to work, how much money you want to make, and what kind of copywriting you want to do. This is very important because it will serve as a foundation guiding your career change.

Not only do you want to establish short-term goals to help your career transition, but you should also make long-term goals in order to help steer your business in the direction that you desire. Developing a business plan based on your strengths and abilities will also help determine the course of your business.

2. Build a Portfolio. Your portfolio will allow potential clients to see the quality and type of work you offer. This is will help you gain their confidence and win more project bids. Your portfolio should include some of your best work and testimonials from past clients. Make sure it is organized, neat, and clear.

3. Build Relationships With Your Clients. Clients like to work with real people, but working on the Internet can make clients feel like they're working with an anonymous person in cyberspace. They will be more pleased with your work, and possibly hire you again, if they feel like they know you. So you must work harder at building good working relationships with your clients. All you need to do is be personable and open up lines of communication. Also, if your client lives near you, then let them know that you can meet with them in person if they like.

4. Market Your Abilities and Services. If nobody knows that you exist, then you wont get any work, despite the quality of your product. Therefore spend the time and money on advertising yourself; it will be worth it. Create a website and network with other copywriters at conferences and seminars. Just find a way to get your name out there.

5. Know How to Run a Business. You need to set up hours in which you work. This way you wont take work home with you and create more stress in your life than taking it away. You also need to manage your money well and be up to date on your rights, new tax reforms, and laws.

Hopefully this article gave you an introduction to freelance copywriting. Freelance copywriting can be very lucrative and rewarding, so if you're interested in pursuing it further, then you should do some more research to see if it is right for you.

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