An Introduction to Freelance Copywriting
By Ray Edwards
Copywriters are pursuing freelance copywriting more and more these days because of the
great opportunities it offers. If you're interested in freelancing, then here are some
basic pointers to help you get an idea of what is involved.
1. Know when and how to say "no." Freelance copywriters have to know when to say "no."
Sometimes your schedule is overloaded and you can't take on any new projects. Other times
your clients have terrible ideas on how to market their product, so you have to correct
them, gently of course. Remember that you're the professional and they are not, that is
why they are hiring you, so don't be afraid to voice your ideas.
Sometimes though, clients won't budge and either you have to compromise without
surrendering or get out of the project. Managing persistent clients will help ease your
work experience, but sometimes you just have to get out of a situation. Otherwise your job
will be very unpleasant. Some clients just aren't worth the time or trouble.
2. Be polite, persistent, and positive. Always be polite with your client and listen to
their desires intently. You need to be persistent on two accounts: Looking for work, and
sticking by your ideas. This will help your success greatly.
3. Make sure that you are constantly increasing your skill and expertise. Learning is a
never-ending process and the most successful copywriters out there see themselves as
lifelong students. As a freelance copywriter, you must constantly learn new ways to write
better copy. This will keep you sharp and competitive. There is a lot of material out
there, so go ahead and dive headlong into improving the quality of your product.
4. Take time to relax. Getting away from a stressful work environment is one of the
main reasons copywriters switch to freelancing. So make sure not to make your new work
environment equally as stressful! Set aside time to relax, write it into your schedule and
stick to it. Not only will this help you lead a happier life, but consistent relaxation
will also help you write better. So in the end, you'll be more productive, happier and
writing better copy if you take time to rest.
5. Learn to keep a positive attitude. In order to be successful, you have to love your
job, even in the hard times. If you let the stress of your work consume you, then you will
come to hate your job and miss out on all the great opportunities that freelancing has to
offer. So learn to keep a positive attitude now.
6. Actively nurture your personal life. Your life should be well rounded. You need to
take care of your personal health and spend time with your friends and family. Even though
you're working to become more successful, what will it profit you to gain the whole world
but spend your life alone? Your work is an important part of your life, but not the most
important.
7. Practice good work ethics. It is really important to be a person of honesty and
integrity. Only make promises you know you can keep and don't cheat your clients. Let them
know if you're falling behind and won't be able to make good on your end of the agreement.
And never compromise on your morals in order to secure financial gain.
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