Wednesday, September 10, 2008

How to become a Freelance Copywriter

By Ray Edwards


The Internet has dramatically changed the world of communications. Besides storing a wealth of information, it has opened up a lot of opportunities in the business world.

One of the most lucrative Internet fields is copywriting. Today, more and more copywriters are looking into freelancing because of the freedom it offers.

Freelance copywriters desire to be independent from existing marketing agencies and succeed on their own ground. They mix their own creative energy with proven copywriting techniques in order to have the successful independence they desire. Copywriters are freelancing their services so that they can get more assignments, projects, and work opportunities.

Copywriters create the written content within an advertisement. They write radio commercials, television ads, newspaper cut outs, web content, and Internet sales letters. Freelance copywriters work from project-to-project and offer their services to many clients. They can choose those projects that best suit their skills and customize their schedules around their lives. Freelancing has many benefits.

A successful Internet copywriter needs skill and an Internet connection. Since there are always things to learn about copywriting you need to constantly educate yourself. You can use online tutorials to help you learn more about freelance copywriting or join coaching groups to receive training from a successful copywriter. Writing everyday and reading books from the experts will help improve your expertise dramatically as well.

A copywriter must know how to sell their client's products. In order to do that you need to do some research on your client's product and target audience. Find out what motivates them and the most effective median for reaching them. Doing research and writing creatively are critical to producing successful copy.

Before becoming a freelance copywriter you need to determine what market in which you would like to write. Some copywriters are very broad in their client base and work in a variety of fields. Others specialize into one niche, like writing web content, and gain a high level of expertise in their field. At the same time, you must be able to make your client happy, so you're going to have to be somewhat flexible, no matter how specialized you become. These are a few tips on how to create a strong freelancing career:

1. Network Yourself. Creating a strong network within your field is very important. You can do this by attending seminars and interacting with other freelance copywriters, exhibitors, and guest speakers. Look through your local paper and take note of any new business that may require your services. You can also make connections with other local businesses by joining your chamber of commerce.

2. Build a Portfolio. Your portfolio will give potential clients a chance to see a preview of your work. It also helps build their confidence about hiring you. Include samples of your best work and testimonials from previous clients. Your portfolio needs to be neat and professional in order to be effective.

3. Use Proven Sales Techniques. A freelance copywriter needs to be able to employ a set of developed and proven advertising techniques. This will give you an advantage over other copywriters.

These were just a few ideas on how to become a successful freelance copywriter. Hopefully this article helped you see why freelancing is a good career choice. If freelancing interests you, then you should do some more research on the topic. Freelance copywriting can be a very flexible and lucrative career.

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