A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a piece about my life as a copywriter. In that blog, I offered to guide any wanna-be freelance copywriter with advice, especially on how to get started. As I posted the blog on LinkedIn, I received a few messages to ask for tips, or the best platforms to research. So, I thought this week I’d give you some of my top tips for starting a career as a freelance copywriter, or perhaps you want a side-hustle as a copywriter? Here’s what I’d suggest.
1 Be Honest, Can You Write?
That means checking you’re up to the task! Everyone can write, but if you want to do it for a living you need to love the written word. You need to be creative, know how to research, understand the importance of fact-checking but most importantly, you must have impeccable punctuation, spelling and grammar. Accuracy is crucial. My biggest gripe is when I see simple mistakes in copy. Mistakes such as confusing you’re and your, their and there (and they’re!), night and knight etc. So polish up your grammar/punctuation and spelling.
2 Get a Basic Understanding of SEO
If you’re writing for online use, then you really need to understand search engine optimisation. Any client wanting better visibility on Google or other search engines will need their copy structured in a certain way. They’ll need headers (and there are different types of headers, H1, H2, H3 etc.). They’ll need their top keywords inserted into their copy naturally (I usually advise around 10 keywords per 1,000 words) and they will need short, sharp sentences along with brief paragraphs. Those are the real basics. What’s most important for Google is that content is fresh, updated regularly and not just stuffed with a load of keywords that don’t make much sense. In fact, stuffing copy with keywords can result in a Google penalty.
3 Set Up Social Media
If you can write, either because you’ve been doing it for a while or you think you have talent and want to use it, you need visibility. Start by setting up a LinkedIn profile, another social media account (Instagram, Facebook, a blog or something else) and get a website created. It doesn’t matter if it’s very basic, the first place a potential client will go to research you is a website, LinkedIn or Google so you need to be searchable.
When crafting your profiles/website/personal blog, create your voice and populate your online presence. You can always add to your social media accounts and website at a later date when you’ve built up some momentum. Highlight your best work on your chosen platforms too. Do look at other copywriters on LinkedIn or online and note their style, especially if you need inspiration.
4 Set Yourself Up on Freelancing Platforms
Next, it’s time to get a gig! Set yourself up on a couple of freelancing platforms (don’t overload yourself, one or two to start is sufficient). Don’t rush this step. Get to know the platforms and when you think you’ve found the right one, craft your profile. Always look at other high-performing freelancers on your chosen platform to see how they write about their skills, again, for inspiration. Once you’re setup, showcase your best work by creating a portfolio of different pieces of writing (published or unpublished). Display how you can write in various styles and the topics you are comfortable with. If you have a niche (for example, beauty, tech, SAAS, education etc.) make sure you publicise your preference.
Don’t be afraid of offering your skill for a small amount of money, especially to get started and build your feedback. Feedback is paramount on these platforms as they’re what get you noticed.
I use two platforms, one of which was originally just intended for international clients as it’s great for providing secure a payment method. The bulk of my work is UK based and private (through my website, word of mouth and LinkedIn mainly) but, now both platforms equate to 1/3 of my income. On one, I’ve completed over 860 projects, am top rated plus and have 100% positive feedback from clients. I would suggest checking Fiverr, People Per Hour and Upwork. Remember, as you grow as a freelancer, you can adjust your price accordingly.
5 Sian Meades-Williams & Facebook Groups
Another way to get hired is by joining certain freelancer newsletters that list freelance jobs. This is a good idea for newbies, and I’ve used Sian’s newsletter before successfully. You can subscribe to Sian Meades-Williams here and you’ll receive almost weekly news on exciting freelance writing jobs!
When I first started (many years ago!), I posted on Facebook groups – you can certainly try this, I picked up my first few clients by creating a small flyer and typing up my skills, then posting in relevant groups.
6 Post About Whatever You Write
Whenever you write a piece, post about it (with the client’s permission). Even if you don’t get much engagement, trust me, people see your posts and remember you when they want a copywriter.
Finally, I hope the above information is useful but if you need any extra help, I’m happy to give you some advice. I believe there’s plenty of room for good copywriters!
