Friday, September 3, 2010

Professional Writing Careers: Copywriting

By Angela Booth

Have you ever thought about a writing career, but weren't sure if you could earn a living at it? Consider copywriting, which pays well, and can be a fun, creative outlet. The best copywriters can earn $100,000 or more annually. In addition, you can get started fairly quickly. These three tips can help you get off on the right foot, and build a solid career.

1. The point of copywriting is to persuade. You will be writing marketing and sales pieces. Projects can range from small space ads to full video or audio scripts. You may occasionally even work on a product manual.

Copywriters often end up specializing in a certain area. Your specialty might be in writing for the internet, or radio scripts, or direct mail. You can make money while you're learning, and your projects and clients will grow along with your experience. Plus, you can increase your fees as long as your copy brings good results.

2. Understanding yourself can help you get into the mind of your audience. A clear knowledge of what makes you take action, and how you get motivated, can help you tap into the emotional triggers of your prospects.

Keep in mind though, although you'll gain a basic understanding of psychology, you must be honest. Just because you may be able to sell a product doesn't mean you should. If you think the product falls short, it's better to turn down the project.

3. Don't forget the classic advertising mantra, "what's in it for me." Your prospective buyer is concerned about his own needs. It's your job as the copywriter to find those hot buttons that will make him take action.

The copy you write has a purpose, and that is to get the prospects to take some kind of action. You want them to click a link, make a phone call, join a list, order a product, or whatever it may be. If they don't respond to your copy, there's no point. You have to create a great offer with a strong call to action in order to get the desired response.

If you put these three tips in your copywriting: write persuasively, understand the psychology of selling, and create strong calls to action, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful copywriter.

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Till the next post...
Brian

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