If you’re looking to start a career in copywriting, there are a variety of methods you can take to ensure you succeed. Whether you choose to pursue online education or venture into unproven waters, you can develop the skills you need to become a competent copywriter.
The following outlines six steps you can follow to make the transition from someone looking for a job to an experienced copywriter ready to take on any challenge.
Step one: Identify your niche
Like any other field, the demand for copywriters far outstrips the available talent. That’s why it’s essential to develop and follow a focused niche. Identifying your niche will help you define the kind of work you’ll produce and the sort of clients you’ll serve. In order to best serve your clients and build credibility, you must first understand their needs and wants. When you narrow your niche, you are restricting your field of work and defining your expertise.
Deciding which niche to enter may be difficult. The temptation is to follow the crowd and try to be the best at everything. However, being the “go to” person in your field will only take you so far. In order to build a sustainable business, you must find a way to stand out from the crowd and become highly specialized in one area. Make a list of the top tasks you perform and the top problems you solve for your clients. Start by identifying what sets you apart from other copywriters and eventually you’ll find a way to solve a niche problem. When you specialize, you can develop a greater impact and raise your earning potential dramatically.
Step two: Find the hidden problems your customers are facing
An experienced copywriter will have the opportunity to solve a variety of problems for various types of clients. That sort of versatility will be invaluable in your quest to find employment. The ability to write for different types of businesses and solve diverse problems will make you a highly sought-after commodity.
However, developing that sort of skill set requires experience. The best way to get that experience is by solving real-world problems. Instead of just sending out applications to potential employers, use your copywriting skills to solve the problems of your existing customers. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Proving yourself through client work pays off more than just your portfolio. It also proves you are capable of doing the job and able to generate results. Ultimately, that’s what will get you hired in the first place. Solving problems for existing customers is a legitimate way to get experience and build your credibility. It also shows initiative and a desire to learn.
The more you can do, the more you’ll be able to offer. The ability to write for different platforms and the range of skills you can bring to the table are all valuable. Make a list of the different kinds of copy you’ve found yourself writing. From SEO and web content to email and social media campaigns, you can develop a versatile skill set and be certain you’ll be able to find a job no matter which platform you decide to specialize in.
Step three: Identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) you’ll use to measure your success
In copywriting, as with any other field, measuring results is incredibly important. The thing is, not all results are created equal. Some methods will produce great results while others may not be up to par. The only way to determine the quality of your work is by repeatedly testing it and analyzing the results. This is why it’s crucial to establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) you’ll use to measure your success. Your KPIs should be specific and measurable, allowing you to track your results and determine which methods produce the best results. For example, do you achieve specific goals in terms of increasing web traffic or securing certain types of leads? Defining and measuring your KPIs will also allow you to establish concrete goals and track your progress towards achieving them. Without measurable goals, it’s difficult to tell how much you’ve improved simply by training or by attempting a more in-depth approach to your studies. Setting specific goals and measuring your progress in achieving them is integral to successfully completing any program of study.
Step four: Decide which courses you’ll need to take to become a competent copywriter
Depending on where you’re located and what sort of accreditation you seek, you may be required to undertake certain courses to obtain a formal education in copywriting. Once you’ve defined your niche and found a way to stand out from the crowd, you can start to look into the kind of credentials you’ll need to obtain to enter the field. Most reputable organizations and companies require their staff to have a formal education. To best serve your clients and ensure you can produce high-quality work, you may want to consider some of the following courses: