How to Make Money Copywriting: A guide
If you want to make money copywriting there are a couple ways to do it. Read till the end, because I put a list of a bunch of helpful resources for each category including free ways to learn.
Copywriting – the art of writing words that persuade, influence, and sell – is not just a skill, but a gateway to a lucrative career. With the global rise of digital marketing, the demand for skilled copywriters has soared. If you have a passion for writing and a keen understanding of consumer psychology, copywriting can be one of the most rewarding careers. This guide is for those who want to harness the power of words to craft compelling copy and, more importantly, those who aspire to transform this craft into a profitable venture.
Understanding the Copywriting Craft
Before diving into the strategies to monetize your copywriting skills, one must understand the principles that set great copywriters apart from the average writers.
Effective copywriting involves understanding the target audience, clarifying the benefits, and most importantly, using language that compels the reader to take the desired action. It's not just about writing; it's about understanding what makes people tick – what makes them buy, support, or sign up.
Steps to Crafting Compelling Copy
The universal process of writing persuasive copy involves the following steps:
Research: Know your audience. Research their demographics, psychographics, and motivations. Are they after status, safety, a solution to a problem, or something else? Use this data to inform your writing and tone.
Headline Creation: The headline is the first thing your audience sees. Make it attention-grabbing, clear, and concise. It should subtly hint at the problem your product or service solves or the benefit it brings.
Empathy and Connection: Connect with your audience on an emotional level. Show them you understand their situation.
Benefits Over Features: While features are important, people buy benefits. Clearly articulate what's in it for the consumer.
Addressing Pain Points: By knowing your audience's pain points, you can position your product or service as the perfect solution.
A Call-to-Action (CTA): Clearly tell the reader what to do next. Purchase, sign up, share – make it easy for them to take the next step.
Monetizing Your Copywriting Skills
Now that you're familiar with the intricacies of effective copywriting, let's delve into numerous ways one can monetize these valuable skills.
1. Freelance Copywriting
One of the most common entry points into professional copywriting is through freelancing. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to create a profile, set your rates, and start applying for copywriting gigs. While these platforms offer excellent visibility and quick project turnovers, they can be highly competitive. To stand out, you'll need to craft a compelling profile that showcases your skills and experience.
2. Agency Work
Creative agencies are always on the lookout for talented copywriters to join their team. There, you might work on campaigns for big brands, leveraging the resources and support of the agency to create impactful campaigns. Working in an agency setting provides a dynamic environment where you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with designers, marketers, and account managers, which can be an invaluable learning experience.
3. In-House Copywriter
For those who prefer a more stable income and structured work environment, many companies hire in-house copywriters. This role often includes writing for various departments, from marketing to customer support. The advantage is that you become familiar with one brand and its voice, which can lead to more impactful work over time.
4. Start Your Own Copywriting Business
If you're looking for complete autonomy, consider starting your own copywriting business. This route allows you to set your rates, choose your clients, and build your personal brand. To succeed, you'll need to develop a solid business model, an effective marketing strategy, and a network of loyal clients.
5. Content Marketing
Writing persuasive copy is just one aspect of content marketing, which is an umbrella term for creating and sharing valuable content to attract and convert prospects into customers. As a content marketer, you'll need strong writing skills to craft blog posts, whitepapers, and social media content. You might also find yourself writing email marketing campaigns or managing a brand's content calendar.
6. Copywriting for Email Marketing
Email marketing remains one of the most potent channels for converting customers. Email copywriting focuses on crafting compelling subject lines and body texts that entice readers to open, read, and act on the email's content. With a strong foothold in email marketing, you could become a specialized consultant or even develop your own email marketing course.
7. E-Commerce Product Descriptions
Every product sold online needs a description. This is where e-commerce copywriters come in. Crafting product descriptions that not only detail the features but also the benefits, can drive sales. Whether working for individual sellers or large online retailers, writing product copy allows you to showcase your persuasive writing skills and contribute directly to a product's success.
8. Writing High-Converting Sales Pages
Sales pages are the final stop in the customer's journey before making a purchase. A high-converting sales page requires strong sales psychology combined with a persuasive narrative. As a copywriter specializing in sales pages, you can command high fees for your work, especially if your pages consistently drive sales.
9. Copy for PPC and Social Media Ads
For digital ads to be effective, they must not only be visually appealing but also have compelling copy. You, as a copywriter, can work hand-in-hand with graphic designers and marketing teams to create ad copy that converts. Writing for Pay-Per-Click (PPC) campaigns and social media ads often requires a sharper, punchier style to catch the audience's attention in a crowded space.
10. Publishing an E-Book or Online Course
If you've accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience in copywriting, consider publishing an e-book or creating an online course. This not only establishes you as an expert in the field but also provides a passive income stream. Marketing your digital product can help you reach a wider range of potential clients and students.
By understanding the power of words, mastering the art of copywriting, and determining which avenue best aligns with your strengths and ambitions, you are well on your way to transforming your writing into a revenue-generating powerhouse. Whether you choose to work for others, start your own business, or a combination of both, the world is in constant need of persuasive communicators to weave the narrative of commerce.
Now, armed with the knowledge provided in this guide, take the next step on your journey to become a successful copywriter. Write with fervor, research with acumen, and never stop learning about the evolving world of marketing and the ever-changing desires of the consumer. The path to a prosperous copywriting career is open to those who are willing to put in the hard work and continue to refine their craft. Your words are powerful – let them also be profitable.
Helpful Resources
Understanding the Copywriting Craft
Copy School by Copyhackers: A comprehensive program with over 150 video lessons, workbooks, templates, and checklists covering various aspects of copywriting, from sales pages to funnels and emails.
Steps to Crafting Compelling Copy
Pixar in a Box: The Art of Storytelling by Khan Academy: Learn storytelling skills from Pixar's experts, which can be valuable for creating compelling narratives in your copy.
Monetizing Your Copywriting Skills
The Internet’s Best Copywriting Course by Jacob McMillen: This course helps freelance copywriters learn how to write effective copy and find high-paying clients.
Freelance Copywriting
Laws of Copywriting by Dave Gerhardt: A course teaching marketers how to write better copy for different purposes.
Agency Work
Sales Copywriting & Product Messaging by CXL: Learn how to craft compelling value propositions and optimize sales pages for conversion.
In-House Copywriter
Books on Human Behavior and Psychology: Titles like "Influence" and "Pre-suasion" by Robert Cialdini, which are essential for understanding consumer behavior.
Start Your Own Copywriting Business
Books About Creativity: Explore resources like "The War of Art" to help spark creativity in your writing.
Content Marketing
Everybody Writes by Ann Handley: A guide for creating business copy that attracts and entertains customers.
Copywriting for Email Marketing
YouTube Videos about Copywriting: Channels like Ashlyn Carter and Alex Cattoni offer helpful copywriting videos.