Dan’s Writing Blog

Anyone with a flair for writing may very well consider whether they can be successful at the business of copywriting. There are many times when it seems like just about anyone can get on board this financial train. Naturally, there are plenty of projects that seem very easy to come up with copy for. Yet, you have to remember that a big part of your job is finding ways to write copy for topics that are just downright mindboggling.

Anyone with any writing skill at all can write some decent copy for topics such as dog treats, relationships, or even the different versions of therapy. Yet try coming up with something more obscure when it comes to topics like used cameras or stemware. Many times you have to be able to pass the 300 word mark and delve into a topic for 500 to 700 words.

You may be able to find clients that live and work locally but you will still need to know how to write for the online market. Offline clients require an online presence and you will need to know exactly how to give that to them. You will need a firm understanding of what works in the marketplace and what doesn’t. Guessing does not work.

Content is vital. How do you think you would developing 700 word content for topics like a hair loss treatment system that doesn’t have good reviews or a relatively ugly laptop messenger bag? Do you think you’d be able to come up with such copy? It’s not always easy. You can’t always sit down in front of the computer and have the right creativity on the spot. Yet this is part of the job if you want to make it financially viable.

If you run across an offer for some work that you don’t think you can handle well it is better to pass on it than to take it on and make a big mess out of your efforts. Without your reputation you will be lost in the business and you will have a hard time recovering from even one job that was poorly done. Remember that you aren’t writing books with all of the creative license in the world.

Additionally, only take on what you can manage well when it comes to your time. Your time investment may very well be minimized on one project but maximized on another. Gauge your time wisely so that you don’t end up missing deadlines. Using deadlines as a ritualistic self imposed motivator is essential in order to deliver the work on time.

Not everyone can be a successful copywriter. There are many who have tried and failed because they do not find themselves all that inspired by the written word. If you do not enjoy the challenge, the expression, or the achievement aspects of the business you will burn out quickly. It’s Okay to try something new, but if it just isn’t working for you then you may want to strongly consider moving onto something else. It’s just not for everyone.