There is something very secure about working in a n office, or a workplace where the boss pays you on the dot every month – you often don’t have to go out and scrabble for work – work simply comes in to you. This is true of the in-house copywriter too. Freelance copywriting is very different from in-house writing, but it has various advantages as well some more challenging aspects too.
Copywriting is a great job, as those who write often have a natural ability to do so – and the feeling of being paid to do something you enjoy is always rewarding. But going into the world of freelance copywriting is actually quite a daunting process for some. The major problem is actually finding the work in the first place.
Ideally a copywriter wants to find a client that needs regular work done – or at least a big glut of work to keep them going for a while. Finding work isn’t easy, but once you have a few contacts and you have shown yourself to be reliable, you’ll find that work does actually keep coming back.
Freelance copywriting needs to be backed up by a good CV. People who hire copywriters want to see a good range of written examples from prospective candidates. It is important to show potential clients your very best work, and if you have any high profile past clients it’s a good idea to make a big thing of this. Everyone loves brands, and if you’ve worked with a big brand, people will trust you more. In many cases, those who hire writers are not writers themselves and so arguably do not have a highly trained eye for copy – that is why if you can blind them with a big brand, they are more likely to hire you.
Freelance copywriting isn’t easy, but one good thing is that once you’ve established yourself as a good writer you can command high fees; fees that you would be unlikely to get with an in-house role (unless you’re a senior copywriter, perhaps). With this, though, comes the concern that the work will run out.
There are also many tax issues to take into account, and these need to be taken seriously in order that no harsh fees land on your doormat.
Freelance copywriting is a rewarding way to make a living, and it is likely that only by trying it will you understand if you are cut out for the work. As long as you can drag yourself out of bed with no boss to think about – you should be off to a good start!
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