Becoming a freelance copywriter isn’t everyone’s dream but for those that have a way with words and are skilled writers can change the course of their career. There are millions of people that don’t know they can become a successful freelance copywriter with little more equipment in their home than they already have. Those that want to work for themselves, on their own schedule with no limits on how much they can earn can change their career with a little planning.
What is a Freelance Copywriter?
Before anyone can become a freelance copywriter, they need to know and understand what it is. A freelance copywriter is a person that creates, writes or edits written content. This content can be in the form of articles, sales and marketing letters and information, web content and many other things. Many of the things that copywriters write are persuasive but not all. Those that are freelance copywriters are independent contractors. They don’t work for anyone but themselves unless they choose to end that arrangement.
Freelance copywriters can pick and choose the things they want to write. This is one of the biggest lures for people that want to work as a freelance professional. Most freelance copywriters have the freedom to write what they love and turn down things they are not comfortable with doing.
How to Become a Freelance Copywriter?
People that want to become a freelance copywriter should take the time to honestly evaluate their skills and abilities. Not everyone that wants to be a copywriter SHOULD be a copywriter. There are things that are required of a copywriter, especially a copywriter. Those things include:
- Patience (Not everything will fall into place instantly and without patience, the road to success is unpredictable.)
- Love of writing and words (Copywriters write. There is no other way around it. If the passion isn’t there, this is not the best career option.)
- Thick Skin (Everyone will not become an instant fan or become enamored of what is produced by every copywriter. Being able to take rejections and dismissals is a necessary evil.)
- Passion (This is a career based on a love of words and communication skills. If the passion is gone, the days will be long when working against a deadline.)
What Equipment Does a Freelance Copywriter Need?
Those that want to become a freelancer have to understand they have to provide their own equipment and workspace. There are no more company provided essentials. A freelance copywriter becomes the company and has to provide for themselves. A basic list of what’s necessary is as follows:
- Computer with high-speed internet connection
- Dedicated business telephone number with an answering machine/voice mail
- Business cards
- Printer (preferably a printer, scanner and fax)
- A furnished and dedicated workspace (desk, comfortable chair)
- Dedicated email address for potential clients (a PROFESSIONAL email address)
- Website (most businesses start their search for a professional freelancer online and if they don’t see one online, they don’t think to contact them immediately.)
How to Get Started as a Freelance Copywriter?
Every freelance copywriter got started differently. There is no specific formula used to launch a copywriting service. Those that think they are ready should answer these questions:
- What are the services offered?
- What are the rates for these services?
- Do you have a portfolio of written and/or published works to show? Samples of work are wonderful when bidding and applying for work.
- What are your credentials? Why should someone hire you?
- How are you going to network?
- When are you going to work? Those that have a family and want to maintain a work life balance should go into this industry knowing there will be long days and nights but a schedule is necessary.
- How will you get exposure and advertise?
There are millions of tips that can be offered to those that are new to the copywriting industry. It takes time and dedication to become a successful freelance copywriter but it can be done.